My Classic Christmas Tablescape | 2019

December 19, 2019

I love creating tablescapes, especially at the holidays. There is just something special about gathering family around a beautifully set table and celebrating Christmas.

This year my table decor is classic and traditional and includes a fun mix of dinnerware. Let’s gather around the table and celebrate the season!

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS TABLESCAPE

One of my favorite details at the table are the small evergreen wreaths that hang on the back of each chair. The vibrant green wreath paired with a red satin ribbon really pops.

Because I have a lot of blue and white ceramic decor in my living room, I decided to use a mix of red and blue on the table. I draped the table in a blue and white tablecloth and added a red runner down the center.

Then I created the centerpiece.

Since my place settings have a traditional vibe, I wanted the centerpiece to be a bit more whimsical. I placed a grouping of glass and ceramic Christmas trees down the center of the table and tucked greenery and berry sprigs at the base.

A few red ornaments and mini white ceramic trees add more visual interest.

ENTERTAINING TIP: Scented candles can interfere with the flavors of the food being served. Instead of candles, mix fresh evergreen sprigs in with faux stems to add a festive scent to the table.

Glass and Ceramic Christmas Tree from HomeGoods

I used faux evergreen placemats as the base of each place and mixed different dinnerware pieces for an eclectic look. The red tartan plaid melamine plates look great with my formal white, red and blue willow plates.

At top of each place setting I folded red napkins in the shape of a bow with my thrifted green beaded napkin rings as the center.

Placemats from Pier (no longer available) // Plaid Dinner Plates

TABLESCAPE TIP: Layers help to create a table that is appealing from every angle. Consider each layer, from the tablecloth up to the top of the centerpiece. Use items with different textures and finishes to make the tablescape come to life.

Gold Flatware–vintage (similar here)

My sideboard and tiered bar table got a festive touch with greenery and red ornaments.

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE TABLE

Now that I have the table all set, I’m working on my dinner and dessert menu. Wish me luck as I tackle Costco and the grocery store tomorrow.

Cheers!

For more tablescape inspiration check out these posts:

2018 Christmas Tablescape

2017 Christmas Tablescape

Oh Christmas Tree | Holiday Home Tour 2019

December 18, 2019

Hi there friends! In case you’ve been wondering, I’m still alive. This year has been all kinds of crazy at our house so my blog posts have been sporadic at best. However, I’m determined to end the year on a high note and am finally sharing my holiday decor with you.

To kick things off, today I’m sharing my Christmas tree decor and tomorrow I’ll be back to share my Christmas tablescape. The holiday season is my favorite time of the year so I’m thrilled I was able to pull things together and get my home decorated. Yea for taking life one day at a time and getting things done!

If you’ve followed me during the last few holiday seasons, you know that I typically host a holiday blog hop called The Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour. The tour has been going strong for 5 years but given all the shenanigans life has thrown my way, I decided not to host the tour this year. Don’t fret, I’m planning to host the tour again in 2020 to bring you lost of holiday decor and magic.

So…with only 7 days until Santa arrives, I’m here to share my holiday home! Enjoy & Merry Christmas!

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Easter Tablescape | A Colorful Twist On Tradition

April 5, 2019

Happy Friday friends! Today’s the day that I’m sharing my fun and colorful Easter tablescape with you. I had so much fun creating this table decor and this just might be one of my favorites of all times.

The inspiration for my table started when I was organizing my table linens. First I pulled out the table runner that Boho Luxe Home made for me for the 2017 Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour. You can see how I styled the runner for Christmas here. Then I pulled out a navy and white plaid tablecloth I got from HomeGoods. I put the two patterns together and that’s when the full vision of my table came to life.

Here’s my 2018 Easter tablescape…

Easter and spring tablescapes traditionally use pastels and soft colors, but my table puts a brighter and more colorful twist on Easter tradition.

For the place settings, I combined white plates, vintage Blue Willow plates and small blue & white bread plaid plates. I used woven placemats and bamboo silverware to add a more casual element to the table. The texture and darker tones are a nice contrast against to all the formal elements on the table.

p.s. this bamboo silverware is my absolute favorite and is such a great deal. You can snag a set or two of your own here.

white charger plate // blue willow dinnerware // white china //navy & white plaid plates (similar here)

Ashes Of Roses Table Runner // Blue & White Ginger Jars

rabbit with basket (similar here)

I created a really fun and unusual centerpiece using this adorable resin rabbit I found at HomeGoods. When I saw him, I knew he needed to come home with me.

I sat the rabbit in the center of a pedestal bowl that I had and added flower stems to fill the bowl and the bunnies basket.

faux flowers from Amazon

I added two blue & white ginger jars to the table along with a couple of small ceramic rabbits. And to make my tablescape even more “Eastery”, I filled tea cups with Easter grass and foil-wrapped chocolate eggs.

Instead of using a single color dinner napkin, I layered two colors together and added a brass napkin rings. You can check out the creative way I store my linen napkins here.

I just love the way my tablescape turned out. It’s so colorful and whimsical and of course has a little touch of chinoiserie which I love.

Now that my Easter table is done I’m going to start working on making Easter baskets. I’ll be sure to share them with you when I’m all done.

If you’re looking for creative Easter basket ideas I have two really fun and easy ideas for you. My DIY Easter Candy Jars perfect for kids of all ages and budget-friendly. And for the adults in your life, my Ice Bucket Easter Basket is fun to create.

To see my black, white and red Easter tablescape head here.

After Christmas Sales: FIVE Things You Should Shop For

December 26, 2018

On the day after Christmas I’m usually up and out the door headed to after-Christmas sales. It’s actually one of the things I look forward to after the hustle and bustle of the days leading up to Christmas.

In addition to holiday decor being discounted, stores will also have big discounts on winter clothing and there will be lots of everyday items on clearance too. The week after Christmas is really a great time to shop if you love a deal and want to get a jump-start on next Christmas.

In today’s post, I’ve outlined the FIVE items that should be at the top of your shopping list in the days after Christmas.

Wrapping Paper

After-Christmas is the best time to buy wrapping paper, gift bags and decorative boxes. It’s also a good time to replenish gift tags, tape and other gift wrap supplies. Along with holiday themed wrapping paper, be on the look out for deals on generic gift wrap designs that you can use throughout the year. A red and pink striped paper can be used for Valentine’s Day and solid colors can be use for any gift occasion.

I’ll be stopping by Hobby Lobby to stock up on tissue paper and gift card boxes and will also be looking for holiday embellishments I can use to wrap gifts. This gold and white striped wrapping paper is a great deal and usable year round.

My Favorite Stores To Shop For Wrapping Paper:

HomeGoods // Container Store // Target // Ikea

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Holiday Tabletop

For those of you that love to entertain, after-Christmas sales are the perfect time to buy holiday dinnerware and table linens. Shop early for the best choice but be open to mixing and matching tabletop patterns if you can’t find enough pieces in a design you love. An eclectic holiday table can be really fun to pull together.

It’s also a great time to shop for holiday paper goods that you can use for casual parties. Create and Barrel is one of my favorite stores to shop for tabletop items. I just bought these adorable holiday cocktails napkins which will also make a great hostess gift.

tip: did you know you can make a Christmas pillow from a holiday themed placemat? My friend Meg has a great tutorial that shows you how easy it is to make. Keep this tip in mind when your shopping for discounted linens.

My Favorite Stores To Shop For Tabletop Items:

HomeGoods and Marshalls // Williams Sonoma // Pier 1 // Pottery Barn

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Holiday Gift Baskets {and gift sets}

Gift baskets might not be the first thing you think about when you’re shopping after Christmas but they should be. Instead of using the basket as it is, pull the items out and create a new basket or use the items as individual gifts.

I like to buy beauty, food or entertaining themed baskets because many of the items and the container are aren’t season specific and can be used for other gift occasions.

tip: when you’re shopping, think about birthdays, weddings and other events you have coming up during the new year. You just might find the perfect components for a great gift.

My Favorite Stores To Shop For Gift Baskets:

World Market // HomeGoods // Target // Bath & Body Works // Bed Bath Beyond

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Candles

Shop after Christmas sales for winter scents like pine or cinnamon. These fragrances are classified as Christmas but they are wonderful to burn throughout the cold winter months. You can also buy a few candles to stash in your gift closet for gift-giving next year.

tip: many candles on the market have removable paper labels so the look of the jar becomes universal. Remove the label and create your own decorative wrap to fit any gift occasion.

My Favorite Stores To Shop For Candles:

Bath & Body Works // Local Boutiques // TJ Maxx and HomeGoods // William Sonoma

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Winter Accessories

Retailers will be marking down cold-weather accessories to make room for warm-weather fashions that will begin hitting stores in just a few weeks. Now is a great time to buy gloves, knit hats and scarves and find amazing deals on cashmere accessories.

The Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sales is going on thru January 2nd and there are some fabulous items on sale. I just ordered the leopard print shawl above (under $20) and this cute knit hat with fur Pom Pom (under $12).

tip: before you gift your bargain accessories next year, take them to a monogram shop to have them personalized with a monogram. A simple monogram will give your clearance find a designer look.

My Favorite Stores To Shop For Winter Accessories:

Nordstroms // Macy’s // Mark & Graham // Dillards

I’ve already started thinking about a Christmas theme ideas for next year and who knows, the theme just might find me while I’m out shopping.

Do you shop after-Christmas sales? What’s on your shopping list?

I’ll be back on Saturday to share tips for shopping the Dillard’s New Years Day Sale. This sale is pretty legendary and my tips will help you navigate it like pro.

Christmas Cocktails To Make You Merry

December 21, 2018

There are only 4 days until Christmas and I don’t know about you but I need a drink. I still have some shopping to do, a grocery store run to make and presents to wrap. The next few days are going to be a blur. To help me (and you) ease into Christmas day, I rounded-up 10 holiday cocktails that are guaranteed to make the countdown to Christmas Merry & Bright!

MY FAVORITE CHRISTMAS COCKTAILS

Jingle Juice Holiday Punch: This recipe calls for just three ingredients and looks so refreshing. (via Inspired By Charm)

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Candy Cane Martini: Candy canes and Christmas go hand-in-hand and this classic drink (with a twist) is perfect for a last-minute holiday party. (via Mix That Drink)

Christmas Sangria: Festive & fruit with a kick of brandy makes this a great cocktail to serve for Christmas movie night. (via Tablespoon)

Kahlua Hot Chocolate: When the temperature is cold outside this yummy beverage will definitely keep you cozy inside. (via Damn Delicious)

Raspberry Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail: Refreshing and fruity, the prefect cocktail combination for Christmas Eve dinner. (via Heather Christo)

Mistletoe Margaritas: I’m a big fan of margaritas so this Christmas version definitely peaked my interest. The perfect drink for brunch or a late-night taco dinner. (via How Sweets Eats)

Spicy Gingerbread Man: Vanilla, Hazelnut and Butterscotch flavors combine to make this savory and spicy cocktail. (via Single Minded Mom)

Dirty Snowmen: Another spiked hot chocolate cocktail that’s sure to keep you warm and cozy right through New Years! (via Delish)

Ginger Apple Cooler: A classic whiskey cocktail with a holiday spin and a touch of tradition. (via Brooklyn Crafted)

Rosemary Grapefruit Cocktail: The combination of rosemary and grapefruit makes this drink light and refreshing. (via Orchid Island Juice)

Gingerbread Bellini: Nothing says the holidays like a Gingerbread cocktail. (via BBC Good Food)

Christmas Cheers!

BOTTLE BRUSH TREES–Vintage Inspired Christmas

December 18, 2018

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The other night I finally had time to catch up on some blog reading. Boy oh boy have people really gone all out with their Christmas decor this year. From trees and mantel decor to holiday tablescapes, I found so many beautiful images to pin to my Merry, Merry and Entertaining Pinterest boards. If you’re needing some last minute decorating or entertaining inspiration, hop over and follow me on Pinterest.

One of my favorite holiday decor themes this year is bottle brush trees. These cute, whimsical trees have been around decades and have regained popularity over the last few years. I actually wanted to learn more about the history of bottle brush trees and had a hard time finding any information. What I did learn was that in post-war times, the Addi’s Bottle Brush Company began to dye their toilet bowl brushes and assembled them into Christmas trees and wreaths. I never would have guessed that this was how these cute trees got their start.

There are so many ways you can decorated with bottle brush trees. I rounded up some of my favorite bottle brush tree Christmas decor and thought it would be fun to share with you today. Enjoy!

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BOTTLE BRUSH TREE DECOR

I love this colorful tabletop vignette showing bottle brush trees in a forest like setting.

Martha Stewart

Vintage crocks with cute snow flocked trees.

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Diane at In My Own Style pulled together this sleek and modern mantel decor using candles and trees. The combination of white candles and green trees creates a winter wonderland feel.

fyi–I spotted shaped bottle brush trees at West Elm but unfortunately they are no longer available.

In My Own Style

Bottle brush trees looks great in a small grouping or massed out like this display on a vintage hutch.

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You can find bottle brush trees in just about every color in the rainbow. This combination of white, black and ivory trees creates a nordic feel.

Life Is A Party

A grouping of three trees can add a holiday touch just about anywhere in your home. This grouping on a cake pedestal, surrounded by free cedar branches is perfection.

Jones Design Company

Here’s even more inspiration for you…

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Now that I’ve fallen in love with bottle brush trees, I hoping to score a few at after-Christmas sales. I also found a great source online with an amazing assortment of trees in every color and size you’d want.

Merry, Merry!

Stocking Stuffers For Everyone On Your List

December 14, 2018

With only 11 days until Christmas, now’s the time to hunker down and get that shopping down. Hopefully you’ve got all your big purchases checked off the list and are now focusing on stocking stuffers.

Stocking Stuffers are my favorite gifts to buy because the gift can be something unique and unexpected. Today’s gift guide includes 32 items everyone on your shopping list will love. And they’ve all been Santa approved.

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STOCKING STUFFERS FOR HER

Monogram Drink Stirs–These monogram stir sticks are the perfect accent for a stylish bar cart.

Chloe Hoop Earrings–Simple and chic hoop earrings that you can wear with anything.

Lucky Token Keychain–A little good luck charm to carry with you wherever you go.

Christmas Mini Ribbon Candy Gift Bag–Old fashion ribbon candy is one of my favorite childhood memories during the holidays. This is a great gift for kids or adults.

Pilot Finepoint Rollerball Pens–These are my favorite pens. I love the smooth roll and the extra-fine tip point.

Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Rollerball–I’ve been wearing this fragrance for years and always get compliments on how it smells. The rollerball is perfect to keep in a handbag or for traveling.

Mac Mini Lipstick Kit–Mac makes great lipsticks and this set is perfect for the fashionista on your list.

Jewelry Cleaner–A great gift that will make it easy to keep your baubles bright and shiny.

Birthstone Wine Bottle Stopper–A beautiful, handcrafted gift for someone who loves to entertain or enjoy a glass of wine at the end of a long day.

Jade Facial Roller–If you’ve been following beauty trends then you know these facial rollers are all the rage right now.

Leopard Print Scarf–This classic scarf will go with every outfit. And because its light weight, you can wear it just about year round.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Socks–These socks are so soft and warm and perfect for cold nights in front of a fire.

Smith & Cult Nailed Lacquer-I tried this brand of nail polish recently and it is fabulous. This glossy finish is just stunning.

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STOCKING STUFFERS FOR HIM

On The Go Men’s Kit–Features a stylish tie-inspired pouch on a two-sided brush. The kit also includes shoe horn, nail clipper, and 6 pairs of collar stays.

Collapsible Popcorn Popper–Perfect for parties or family night, or when he wants a snack just for himself.

Sweater De-Fuzzer–A gift that he won’t realize he needed until he uses it.

Knot Cuff Links–For the guy that loves a traditional fashion statement but with a modern twist. And there are so many fun colors to choose from.

White Chocolate Peppermint Hot Cocoa Sticks–A little something to sweeten his cup of cocoa or hot toddy.

Jack Black Hand Healer–A hand lotion that will help him keep his hand soft and smooth.

Leather Pen/Pencil Case–This classic leather case is a keepsake that he’ll have for years. A great gift for a recent college graduate.

Marion Wool Colorful Sock Set–For the guy who likes to add a little personality to his outfit.

Wrinkle Release Spray—Time-saving ironing alternative that removes most wrinkles. Great for someone who travels a lot.

Plaid Stitch Leather Gloves–Because of the stitching detail, these leather gloves have more style than most. And the price is incredible.

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STOCKING STUFFERS FOR ANYONE

Stainless Steel Straws–Practical, reusable and environmentally friendly! These are on my wish list.

iPhone Tripod–For that tech savvy person that love to take selfies, create videos or make Instagram stories. And the wireless remote makes it all so easy.

Bistro Monogram Coaster–I love the retro modern design of this coaster.

Tarion Camera Strap–This classic camera strap is under $10.00 and has great reviews.

Echo Dot--We have a DOT in just about every room in our house. The DOT makes it so easy to control the lights, thermostat and get the latest news update with a simple voice command.

Prism Glasses–These nifty glasses allow you to read or watch t.v. in bed while laying completely flat. Perfect for kids or those times when you’re stuck in bed with a bad back or the flu.

Milk Chocolate Grahams–Made by a family owned company in Illinois, everyone will be asking for more of this yummy treat. You might as well pick up a box for yourself.

LED Light-Up USB Charger–For the techie who has everything!

Aerolatte Milk Frother--I bought this several years ago it love using it this time of year to mix hot cocoa. It also works great to sauces and dressings.

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Happy shopping!

Christmas stocking available from Boho Luxe Home

For more gift ideas, check out my Christmas Gift Guides…

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Let’s Mingle & Jingle–Holiday Progressive Dinner Blog Hop

December 13, 2018

Don’t you just love entertaining during the holidays? I sure do! Today I’m joining a few of my blogging friends for the final installment of our Virtual Progressive Dinner Blog Hop. Throughout the year we’ve shared easy recipes, tabelscape inspiration and fun party ideas with you. Today we’re celebrating the holiday season with the Holiday Mingle & Jingle Blog Hop.

If you missed any of this entertaining series, you can find the other seasonal posts by clicking these links…Spring Floral Fiesta, Summer Backyard Bash and Flavors Of Fall.

If you’re coming over from Positively Southern, welcome. Tamrya’s main course pork tenderloin looks so good and is the perfect hardy dish for a holiday gathering.

fyi–If you need to join the Mingle & Jingle party from the beginning, you’ll find all the stops on the blog hop below and at the end of this post.

Now, who’s ready for dessert?

When I was picked to host the dessert portion of the Mingle & Jingle dinner, I panicked for a minute. You see, me and kitchens are not the best of friends. As a designer, I love to design and decorate kitchens but I’m not a fan of cooking in them. So what’s a designer to do when it’s time to whip up a yummy holiday dessert? Get creative and decorate her dessert!

Crazy Confetti Christmas Cake

My Crazy Confetti Christmas Cake was super easy to make and would be a fun activity to share with kids.

The first thing I did was pick up a plain frosted white cake from Publix. Then I popped into Target and bought candy canes, honeycomb ball cake topper and old-fashioned Christmas candy. I already had the mini bottle brush trees on hand.

Once home, I unwrapped 6 candy canes, put them in a zip lock bag and crushed them into small pieces to make confetti candy cane mix. Next I sprinkled the confetti candy canes around the top edge of the cake.

And then I decorated the top of the cake with candy canes and other holiday pieces. I wanted my cake to be fun and crazy so all the pieces are a bit off-center.

Once I had the cake decorated, I knew I wanted to dress up the cake stand. I cut strips of ribbon and taped them to the top of the stand to make it more festive. This is such a simple and easy trick you could use anytime you’re serving cake at a party.

After the cake stand was decorated and I had the cake in place, I decided to take my crazy cake over the top. I sprinkled old-fashioned Christmas candy around the base of the cake and called it done.

I think my cake is ready for a holiday party!

Now that I’ve tantalized your sweet tooth, it’s time to bring this party to a close. Head over to Atta Girl Says to check out the fun hostess gifts and party favors Amy created. She really knows how to end a party on a high note. And be sure to hop over to each of the participating blogs and Mingle & Jingle with them.

MINGLE & JINGLE PROGRESSIVE DINNER BLOG HOP

Cocktail Hour—Viva La Vintage For Your Home

Appetizer—M. Jones Style

Tablescape-–Home On Poplar Creek

Main Course—Positively Southern

Dessert–ConfettiStyle (yours truly)

Hostess Gifts & Party Favors—Atta Girl Says

Thanks for stopping by the blog today. I’ve got more holiday inspiration posts planned for you as we count down to Christmas so be sure to check in each day. Or better yet, subscribe to the blog so you don’t miss a post!