By Lauren Clement, Owner and Interior Designer, Lauren Nicole Designs
The holidays are officially here and that means the decorating has begun! This time of year is always fun for me since I get to spread holiday cheer to not only my own home, but to many of my clients homes as well. I thought you might enjoy some of my favorite holiday decorating tips.
Where do I start — the Front Door!
The entrance to your home is the first impression everyone gets of you and your home. It sets the tone for what they’ll find inside. Wreaths are always appropriate at the holidays — but just make sure your wreath is the right size. 28″ wreaths are great for most doors, but if you have an oversized door use a 32″ one. And don’t stop at your front door with a wreath — use one on a pantry door, on the inside of your front door so you can enjoy it too or even flat on a table as a centerpiece.
Trim the Tree:
Large – Medium – Small is the key. If all of your ornaments are the same size your tree will become a little boring. Mix the sizes and start with the biggest ones. Tuck them into the bigger holes in between your branches, then finish out the tree with the medium and smaller ornaments. Add some bling — mercury glass, glass and crystals will reflect the lights and add more twinkle and shine. Lastly, consider using something different for your tree skirt — a planters wood box, some burlap fabric (especially if your decor is more rustic) or even a faux fur throw puddled under the tree would be an awesome finishing touch.
Company Is Coming:
If you’re like most of us, you may have guests coming in for the holidays. Welcome them by creating a resort-like getaway in the guest room. I love to place a basket of goodies in their bedroom with bottled water, sea-salt chocolates, gourmet nuts, hand lotion, a favorite magazine and maybe even a pair of fuzzy socks. And don’t forget the guest bath and powder room. They need a touch of holiday as well, with holiday hand towels and a holiday scented candle.
Your Centerpiece:
Creating a WOW centerpiece in your dining room or kitchen is the perfect place to make a statement. Repurpose older ornaments by putting them into a bowl or glass hurricane. Layer greenery and candles and remember to build some height — don’t keep everything flat on the table or buffet — use taller statement pieces in both places.
Festive Scents:
Scents make such an impact in a room and I immediately get the Christmas spirit as soon as I smell the Balsam & Cedar. There are so many beautiful candles, diffusers, and room sprays that not only smell great but also add to your holiday decor. One of my new favorites are the candles by Graybill and Downs. They’re also a great gifting idea since they are already wrapped — YAY, one less thing to do.
Finally, when it some time to put everything away, plan to store each decorated space in it’s own bin so when holiday season 2017 comes around you are organized and ready to go.
You can find Lauren Nicole Designs at:
Lauren Nicole Designs
Toringdon Circle Shopping Center
12206 Copper Way
Suite 128
Charlotte, NC 28277
(877) 583-0355
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