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Let The Christmas Spirit Shine by Bonnie P Carrier
When it comes to decorating you home I’m sure you’ve heard the term “less is more”. Well, that may be true in some instances, however not at Christmas time. This is a home decorating
occasion when doing a little or going completely over the top is just fine.
You may have traditions your family follows every year, or maybe you’re in the mood to try something new. What ever the case, as long as it puts everyone in the Christmas spirit and puts a smile on faces, go for it.
The following are a few ideas to help prepare for the arrival of that jolly man in the red suit.
Small Home or Apartment: Make use of all available space – Corners, bookcases, cabinets, TV and countertops. No need to remove everyday accessories, incorporate your holiday decorations in amongst what you already have.
Remember Every Room: Living room, Kitchen and Bedrooms and Bathrooms, this way no matter where you are in your home it says Christmas.
Tabletop Trees: These are perfect for small spaces when there is just not any room for a standard size tree. They are also great for other areas in the home. You can find them in many different sizes; some even come with lights already on them.
Garland: Wrap banisters with garland – short banister – buy one long garland, cut to fit then use left over pieces to decorate tops of cabinets, bookcases, table even the TV.
Tip: Buy plain garland and add your own adornments. The choices are endless – Bows, Tree Ornaments, Pinecones, Flowers or the pre-made picks you’ll find in the craft department of most stores. You’ll not only have a custom look, but will be saving money.
Christmas Cactus: Lined up on a windowsill, or grouped together with tea lights they make a pretty arrangement. They come in a variety of colors and can be purchased inexpensively at any grocery store.
Tea lights: These are an inexpensive way to add candle light to any surface. If you’re looking to save a little money, buy the large bags that are unscented. Also, look around your home for containers to put them it, how about a juice glass tied with a pretty holiday ribbon
Pinecones: Here’s another simple additions to holiday decorating. Bags of scented cones can be purchased at discount stores and any craft store. If you happen to live near a state forest take a walk with the family and gather them for free.
Decorating Pinecones: Once home use the pinecones any way you like. Leave natural and place some in a bowl with some pine boughs and berry sprays or jazz them up with spray on snow. Another option is to brush just the tips of the cones with gold paint, this adds just a bit of glitter to them. Besides placing the pinecones in a bowl, tuck them into the garland on the banister, under tabletop tress, into a wreath or use them as ornaments on the tree.
Tip: If you have left over pinecones here’s a simple project for the kids. Spread peanut butter into the cones then roll in birdseed. Wrap a piece of twine around the top and tie to the branches of a tree in your yard. Your feathered friends will thank you for it. To save on this project buy the store brand peanut butter also it’s best if the pinecones are not scented.
Try A New Color Scheme: Instead of the traditional reds and greens how about trying a new color scheme this year. The easiest way to do this is by playing off the existing colors in your room.
Setting The Table: Festive dinnerware can add a special touch to meals. Just some thing simple like snowmen mugs for hot chocolate might be all that’s needed.
Tip: When purchasing seasonal plates look for a neutral theme like snowmen or snowflakes. This way you’re able to continue using them right through the winter months.
As with all home decorating, the important thing to remember is do what you like. If it brings a smile to your face and the faces of your loved ones then you’ve done it right.
From my family here at Savvy Home Decorating to you and your family “Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays”
About the author: Bonnie P. Carrier is the creator of Savvy Home Decorating - The Information Center. She is the mother to two grown daughters and two very spoiled Shelties - Sebastian & Oliver. www.savvy-home-decorating.com
This is a share ware article. Give this article away fro free on your site, or include it as part of any paid package as long as the entire article is left intact including this notice. Copyright © 2010 bonnie carrier
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