Product + Inspiration: Decor Meets Christmas Tree

November 15, 2016

When I teach a holiday decorating workshop, the question always comes up about whether your tree decor needs to match your room decor. My response is NO but for a truly cohesive look its best if your everyday decor inspires your tree decor.

Take a cue from the tips you use to decorate a room in your home. You start with one or two key elements (art, rug, curtains) and use those as the building blocks to create the overall design. When it comes to decorating your Christmas tree, find inspiration within your decor and use that to build the theme for your tree.

Here are 3 holiday tree designs and the accessory and furniture pieces that could have inspired them…

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This is the Christmas tree I’d create if my inspiration was colorful and bohemian inspired space. The gold accents play off of the gold finish on the furniture and the bold mix of colors tie back to the textiles within the room. During the holidays, sparkly details are a must and a grouping of beautiful mercury glass candle holders would inspired the ornaments, ribbon and giftwrap I’d use.

Shop these items: Embroidered Floral Bouquet Throw Pillow // Gold Cole 3-Tier Rolling Bar Cart

Sabyasachi Print Round Tray // Mercury Glass Candle Holders //Tufted Ottoman

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If I were decorating a Christmas tree based on decor that included classic holiday colors like red, white and green, it would look like this. The varying shades green found in the jars and artwork, along with whimsical details like the fur pillow would inspire the ornaments and ribbon used on the tree.

Shop these items: Charlotte 3-Drawer Campaign Chest // Red Rhododendron Framed Prints // Oversized Wine Bottle

Reese Velvet Ottoman // Mongolian Faux Fur Pillow

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A neutral color palette relies on texture, a variety of finishes and a subtle graduation of color to bring it to life. This elegant and glam Christmas tree would be inspired by a mix of gold and silver decorative elements, antique surfaces, lots of visual texture and shimmery finishes.

Shop these items: Carys Hurricane Table Lamp // Diana Accent Table // Moravia Wall Mirror

Holston Area Rug // Baylee Aluminum Accent Table

So the question still remains–which comes first, the chicken or the egg. In the case of holiday decor, take a look around your home and let the pieces you live with everyday inspire you!

Preparing For The Holidays (and reducing holiday stress)

November 14, 2016

Can you believe that there are only 41 days until Christmas? This weekend the magnitude of my holiday to-do list set in and I began to panic about everything I need to get done. When that panic set in I knew I need to sit down and strategize my holiday season. With pen and paper in hand, I outlined a strategy to take the stress out of the holidays and put the joy back in.

I know many of you can relate so today I’m sharing my tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Season.

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PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

Planning is key to getting things done this holiday and finding time to enjoy the season. The first thing to do is pull out your calendar and jot down all the activities you want and need to participate in. Plan time to enjoy holiday traditions with family and friends and block out time to just relax.

tip: pull out your favorite board games and put them in a basket where they are accessible and will encourage play time.

CREATE A DETAILED GIFT LIST

If you haven’t started your gift list yet , it’s time to sit down and create one. Spend time online looking for the perfect gift and do some price comparisons. Plan to shop on Small Business Saturday (Sat., Nov. 26th) to support your favorite local businesses. When planning your gift lists, gather store coupons so they will be handy when you head out to shop.

tip: many stores have already started offering Black Friday Deals so shopping early can reduce stress and save you some money.

And to make things even easier, I created a fun Gift List printable below for you to use.

Download Christmas Gift List

GET THE GUEST ROOM READY

Hosting guests during the holidays doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you plan ahead. Stock up on petite size toiletries and snack food for your guest to use and enjoy. Wash sheets and towels and placed them in a linen closet or accessible storage area. Create an essential list for your guest including phone numbers, house alarm code, wi-fi password and local points of interest.

tip: place a basket in your guest bedroom to hold extra blankets and pillows so guest don’t have to come asking for them.

STOCK UP ON NECESSARY COOKING SUPPLIES/FOOD ITEMS

Don’t take the chance that your grocery store will have everything you need days before Thanksgiving and Christmas. Plan your holiday menus and shop now for all the necessary supplies. Stock up on items like beverages, frozen food and spices so you have enough to last through the season.

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DECORATE YOUR OWN WAY

Decorating during the holidays can sometimes feel like a challenge–who can make their home the merriest. One way to take the stress out of the season is to decorate your way. Decorate as little or as much as you want and don’t feel bad if you don’t get it all done. This is the time of year when the focus should be on spending time with family and friends and remembering all that we have to be grateful for.

tip: if the idea of decorating a tree has you cringing, don’t do it. Hang a few garlands and wreaths, put out a few Christmas pillows and call it a day.

PLAY MUSIC

Music is proven to have a calming effect so during the busy holiday season turn on some tunes and enjoy the season through music. Create a holiday playlist in iTunes that includes your favorite Christmas songs and make it a point to enjoy at least 30 minutes of music each day.

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KEEP YOU HOME CLUTTER FREE AND ORGANIZED

It’s easy to let clutter and chaos take over during the holidays. Create storage areas of holiday wrapping paper, supplies and cards so you have a designated place to store things. And spend 10 minutes every day walking through the house so that task of doing major cleaning is more manageable.

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Preparing For The Holidays…RELAX & ENJOY

The most important tip I can share for reducing stress this holiday is to relax and enjoy the season.

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Winter Scarves From Nordstrom (budget friendly finds)

November 9, 2016

I woke up yesterday morning and it was down right frigid outside. The warm weather trend is definitely over and the cool, crisp air of fall is here to stay. One of my go-to fashion accessories when the weather turns cool is a scarf. I am always cold and a scarf adds just the right layer of warmth around my neck and shoulders.

When I was cleaning out my closet in early spring, I tossed a few of my scarves that had seen better days. Now I’m in the market for a couple of new scarves that will work as transitional pieces from fall to winter.

Nordstrom always has a great selection of scarves and I always find what I’m looking for. A recent search of their website served up some great options, most of which are priced between $25.00 and $50.00. And here’s a great tip if you’re looking for fashion scarves on a budget–shop the Brass Plum department. Brass Plum is a shop aimed primarily for juniors but their accessory items are perfect for any fashionista, regardless of your age.

Let’s go scarf shopping shall we…

No. 1 — This Abstract Print Cashmere & Silk Scarf is the most expensive scarf ($99) in my group but I just love the blue and white marble swirl pattern. It’s the perfect scarf to wear with jeans and sweaters.

No. 2 — Navajo prints are a hot trend right now and the Atlas Scarf is a classic take on the design style. This will look great with a chunky sweater, slim jean and ankle boots.

No. 3 — The Fantasy Brushstroke Scarf is another abstract pattern that looks like a piece of artwork. I adore the pink and red color combo and would style this with a denim dress and tights.

No. 4 — If you love graphic patterns, you’ll love this Geo Pattern Woven Square Scarf . This is the perfect piece to pair with a wool coat or quilted vest.

No.5 — I love the grey, ivory and yellow in this Stripe Plaid Scarf and the $29 price makes it even more attractive. I’m definitely going picking this one up.

No.6 — I own this Reversible Scarf and love the two patterns because it like two scarves in one. The scarf is oversized and a little thicker than the others so it works as a great outer layer when a coat is too much.

No. 7 — Have you noticed all the navy clothing in stores for fall and winter? This navy and grey Colorblock Woven Scarf has a classic design and the lightweight fabric makes it really versatile for layering.

No. 8 — I’m all about scarves with all-over patterns and love this Vintage Garden Scarf. This is another one I’ll be adding to my wardrobe.

With an ever-growing scarf collection, I’m on the hunt for a new way to organize and store them while reducing wrinkles and keeping them visible. Here are a few ideas from Pinterest that I’m inspired by.

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purchase swing arm hanger here

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purchase similar over-the-door rack here

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purchase similar swing arm door rack here

I hope you’ve found one or two new scarves to add to your wardrobe. Happy shopping!

*Some affiliate links are used in this post which help support this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting ConfettiStyle!

Inspiration Notebook–November 2016

November 1, 2016

I took a different approach when I was creating the November insert for my Inspiration Notebook and decides to sum up the month with a bucket list.

November is a really busy time of year for me as I’m prepping to decorate client homes for the holidays and working to finish up design projects. Then you throw in managing my role as President of a non-profit board, blog projects and getting myself ready for the holidays. By creating a bucket list, I’m hoping it keeps me focused on making time to relax and enjoy life.

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My November Bucket List

Purge My Closet. I feel like I just transitioned my closet for summer. And despite having temps in the 80’s, I know it’s time to get my closet winter ready. While I’m organizing things, I also plan to purge pieces I don’t wear anymore and donate them. Right before the holidays, the need in charity stores rises so it’s a perfect time give to a good cause.
Visit Biltmore Estates. I’ve always wanted to visit Biltmore this time of year to see the holiday decor. A weekend drive will also give us the opportunity to enjoy the mountains and see the leaves in their full fall glory.
Plant Paperwhites. This is another thing I’ve always wanted to do at the holidays. I love the smell of paper whites and want to give forcing bulbs a try. I found this easy to follow guide that I’m sure I’ll be referencing a lot.
Bake Cookies–I’m in somewhat a nesting mood and have the urge to bake cookies. I’m going to start with classic chocolate chip cookies and may try something fancy as we get closer to Christmas.
Enjoy Hot Chocolate & Apple Cider. I’m not a coffee drinker so hot beverages during fall and winter are my thing. You can find my favorite spiked cider recipe here.
Make Handmade Christmas Cards. For years I made my Christmas cards by hand and really loved doing it. Last year I managed to make a handful but this year I’m determined to make all my holiday cards by hand. I’ll be sure to share the design once I have it nailed down.
Buy the Southern Living Christmas Book. I’m a sucker for the annual Southern Living Christmas Book and this years looks really good. Do any of you collect the SL books? (affiliate link)
Get My Christmas Shopping Done. Usually by November I have most of my Christmas shopping completed. Not this year! The only thing I have so far this year is a mental list of items to buy. In the next week or two I’m going to put pencil to paper and create a detailed list so I can start shopping.
Give An Unexpected Gift. I’ve got a fun gift basket idea that I’m working on this month. Once it’s all done I’m going to give the basket to someone who won’t expect it. I love a good surprise, especially during the holiday season.
Watch My Favorite Christmas Movie. I’m a bit addicted to Christmas movies and have watched a couple last weekend on the Hallmark channel. I can’t wait to pull out my favorite movie (The HomeComing) and snuggle up with some popcorn to watch on Thanksgiving night.
Buy Poinsettia At Home Depot. If you don’t know about the Black Friday Poinsettia sale at Home Depot on Black Friday, you can thank me later. If you already know about it, then I might see you in the check out lane. All day, the day after Thanksgiving, Home Depot sells their poinsettia for $.99 cents. It’s a great time to snag a few (or a lot) and even think about giving some as gifts.
Be Thankful. Probably the most important thing on my bucket list is to be thankful for everything I have in my life. Sometimes we get so busy living life that we forget to stop and remember all the good we have. I hope you’ll join me and take a moment out of each day to stop and give thanks.

Who else loves this time of year and what’s got you inspired in November?

ConfettiStyle Christmas Decor Theme–2016

October 31, 2016

Every year I develop a design plan for my Christmas decor and share it with you here on the blog. I create an inspiration board that gives a visual overview of the colors, patterns and tree decor that will make up my holiday decor. Today’s the day that I’m sharing my 2016 Christmas decor theme with you before the elves (me) get to work decorating.

I also wanted to let you know that I am again hosting the Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour blog hop with Kellie from Design Asylum. This is the 2nd year for the blog tour and it’s exciting because we have even more fabulous bloggers participating and two great brand sponsors for 2016.

So, without further a-due, here’s a look at my Merry & Bright Holiday Home Design Plan for 2016…

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The inspiration for my theme started when I spotted this Poinsettia wrapping paper from Paper Mart. I fell in love with the design and bold but classic color combination.

Then I spotted Cassie’s Christmas tree on Pinterest which was decorated in all of the colors used in the wrapping paper design. From there my plan really came together.

My Christmas tree will bold and bright and will include a mix of classic colors and pops of pink and gold. And I’ll be throwing some black and white into the mix as well.

I’m planning to pair the poinsettia wrap with other patterns like stripes and dots and will be using a variety of ribbons to tie the colors together.

Another fun element I’ll be using are touches of boxwood. I’ll be hanging a boxwood wreath from Silk Plants Direct and I’m also planning to use boxwood elements in my gift wrap and in my holiday tablescape.

I’ve ordered some pretty tags and stickers from Zazzle and have my eyes on a couple of new Christmas pillows like this one and this one.

Christmas is definitely my favorite time of the year and I can’t wait to share my decor with you. I also have some great gift guides, entertaining posts and easy DIY projects planned.

Mark your calendars for the 2016 Merry & Bright Holiday Home Tour. Like last year, all of the participating bloggers will be sharing their holiday home tours over a 3 week period starting November 30th.

Merry & Bright image via Dribble

Favorite Posts, Pins and Products (of the week)!

October 29, 2016

Hi friends, just popping in to share my favorites posts, pins and products of the week. Enjoy and have a fantastic weekend!

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FAVORITE POSTS

You’d never know this was a dentist office. The entire space is gorgeous.

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These might be the cutest DIY pumpkins I’ve ever seen. And they look easy to make.

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10 Interior Design Quotes to Live By including this one…

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You have to check out this stars NY loft. And that dining room♥♥

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FAVORITE PINS

I’m loving this blue and white fall tablescape.

Everything about this feminine office space is just perfect. And I especially adore that desk.

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

If you love vintage furniture and decor but don’t like sifting through a flea market or thrift store, check out this Etsy shop.

I’m loving this Christmas Tree Tea Towel. It would be a great way to wrap a cookbook or kitchen accessory. And this plate is pretty cute too.

H and M Home has some great Christmas decor and I’m kinda in love with these black and white stripe ornaments.

Handcrafted Home–A Creative DIY Blog Hop

October 27, 2016

Today I’m joining a few bloggers for the Handcrafted Home DIY Blog Hop hosted by Jamala from Viva LaVintage For Your Home. And because this is a creative + diy themed blog hop, Jamala tasked each of us to transform an item using gold leaf.

Well, what’s a girl to do when the only craft projects on my mind are holiday related? Transform Christmas ornaments of course.

I dove into my holiday stash and found these two unfinished wood ornaments that I purchased from Hobby Lobby last year. They were the perfect candidates for a little DIY UpStyle.

After applying my gold leaf and adding a few vintage ornaments to the top of each wood piece, my ornaments went from plain to pizzazz!

This was a quick an easy DIY project and I love the way my ornaments turned out.

Tips for working with Gold Leaf:

Gold Leaf is easier to work with on surfaced that don’t have a lot of nooks and crannies. If you’re working with ornaments similar to mine, you’ll have to spend a little time smoothing the gold leaf on all the edges.
Wear latex gloves or put a few drops of talcum powder on your hands to make handling the gold leaf easier. This stuff is really clingy.
Use a soft bristle brush to smooth the gold leaf down. Smooth bristle will ensure you don’t tear the gold leaf.
Buy a high quality gold leaf paper and adhesive. I used the Gold Leaf Kit below (affiliate link) and think its one of the best out there.

Now it’s time to see the other fabulous DIY projects. Hop over and see how creative they got with their Gold Leaf.

Viva LaVintage For Your Home

M. Jones Style

Linda G. Loving Home

Fox and Finch Antiques

Kitchen Keeping and My Favorite Fall Cocktail

October 19, 2016

Kitchen Keeping With M. Jones Style

Now that fall is here, have you made the transition from a cocktail on ice to something warm and soothing? I sure have.

Today I’m over on the M. Jones Style blog sitting down with Marsha for a virtual chat and sharing my love for entertaining along with one of my favorite fall cocktails.

Hop on over to Marsha’s blog and join us for a cocktail.