simple gift wrap inspiration

Don't you love these simple, calm, minimalist images of gift wrap?  No fancy paper or bows needed.....just simple kraft paper, some string, and maybe some greenery.  Peaceful

simple xmas trees

I am also really loving the pared down Xmas tree.  There's something nice about not going overboard with decorations.  The tree itself is so beautiful on it's own.

If you are behind on everything this season, don't stress!  You can just buy a small tree, not stress out about ornaments, and call yourself a minimalist.

no ornaments:

minimal ornaments:

non-traditional trees:

holiday shelfie

How cute is this idea.  A holiday shelfie!

Take everything off those shelves.  Grab some holiday decor.  Now mix it all together and create a cohesive look on your shelves, and take a photo.  Shelves are another area to add some spirit!  Send us a pic of your holiday shelfie.

holiday punch

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I make this holiday punch every year at my holiday party.  It is always a hit!  Recipe and links below for a punch bowl.  If you know someone who would love this recipe, the punch bowl could make a cute gift!  Thank you to Ms. Lilien for this fabulous recipe!

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Ingredients

1 cup St Germain
3 bottles Brut Champagne; one for ice ring
2 cups Vodka
3/4 cup Lemon Juice; fresh
4 cups Pom Juice, 2 for ice ring
Fresh rosemary springs
Pomegranate Seeds; fresh
Cranberries
Edible Glitter Stars (I have never actually used these, but could be cute!)

preparation:

6+ hours before the party, make the ice ring.  (I make this the day before).
Fill bundt pan 1/2 full with equal parts champagne & pom juice.  Add a handful of fresh cranberries & hefty pinches of edible glitter.

Day of: add alcohol, lemon, & pom juice to a punch bowl and mix.  Garnish with 2 handfuls of pomegranate seeds & sprigs of fresh rosemary.  Add ice ring and enjoy!

holiday dishes

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Holiday dishes are also a fun purchase, either for yourself or for someone else as a gift.  Some of the ideas below would work beyond the holidays for any festive occasion: birthday party, NYE, baby shower, etc.

dishes:

napkins:

more:

the reason for the season

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December is such a fun month.  Parties, decorating, shopping, Christmas carols, the Nutcracker, etc.

It is very easy to get wrapped up in the presents & running around and lose sight of what it's all about.  Thank you, Sharon, for reminding me of this.

So today, no photos about gift ideas or holiday dishes.  Today I am making space to pause & reflect.  I challenge you to take 10 minutes to do one of the following activities:

1. 10 minute meditation (Headspace is a great app).
2. Gratitude list - write it down.  Set a timer or try to fill up an entire page.
3. Write a letter - someone who means something to you.  Let them know.
4. Call your Mom.
5. Find a place to volunteer & schedule it in the next 4 weeks.
6. Plan a trip to visit someone special.

The holidays are really about love and being loved.  So, take today to do just that!

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ornaments

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Time to decorate the tree!  Looking for a few new ornaments?  Headed to an ornament exchange?  Not sure what to buy a neighbor or co-worker?  Some tree decorating ideas for you below.  Send us a photo of your tree!  Would love to show a collection of real world stylish trees.

ivory with texture:

garland:

metallic:

tree toppers:

mantle inspiration

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Working on your mantle?  Here is some inspiration.

I prefer the looks that are not too busy.  Don't go overboard.  Sticking with a selection of colors can help the look to feel calm and cohesive.  Edit; don't put every single thing you own on there.  Simplicity can be really beautiful.  Which one is your favorite?

Stay tuned for suggestions on stockings and stocking holders later this week.

holiday decor

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Looking for a few new pieces of holiday decor?  How about a modern tree?  Or a cute mistletoe sign?  A Disco Ball Nutcracker?

Ideas below.  Share any photos of your holiday decor.  Would love some inspiration!

holiday candle

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It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!  

This is my favorite holiday candle.  It smells just like a Xmas tree.  A must have if you get an artificial tree.  Makes a great hostess gift, co-worker gift, in-law gift, anyone gift!

I get mine out every year the day after Thanksgiving when I start playing the Christmas carols.

xmas tree skirt

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Time for a new Christmas tree skirt?  Some ideas below:

holiday wreath

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Yes, I know that Thanksgiving just happened......but it's already time to start ordering things for Xmas!  

How old is your wreath?  Time for a new one?  Ideas below.

How to choose?  What color is your front door?  What style is your home?  I would choose a different style for a Tahoe cabin than I would for a modern loft.  Wreaths can also go other places beyond the front door!

thanksgiving tabletop

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I was asked by my sweet friend, Maria, for some Thanksgiving tabletop help.  I am not hosting TG this year....but I still had fun with this project.

Some inspiration photos for you below!  I prefer modern, simple, white, soft neutral colors with lots of greenery, wood, and something metallic.