As a designer, I never overlook an opportunity to create. With that being said, you could imagine why I adore the Holidays. This Christmas, my Hubby and I will be taking our travels yet again to the English Countryside, which I'm certain will make for an experience nothing short of enchanted. Being with my daughter, Ashleigh, her husband Oliver, and my too-cute-for-words grandson, Morgan, will be absolutely priceless, but no Holiday is truly complete without setting the proper ambiance. You didn't think I would spare the details just because I'll be overseas, did you? As it turns out, the gracious owner of the Stables, where I'll be staying in West Meon, has already offered to set up our very own tree at the cottage! So far my Holiday is already off to a jingling start; Now I'd like to share some of my insights to creating a Holiday filled with cheer, no matter where you are. 

Dress the Steps & Mantle

For those who celebrate Christmas (and did not grow up on a ranch), the stairs are likely quite nostalgic. Gathering here with your siblings in eager anticipation of the magic that would await you downstairs. Still today, the staircase is the perfect focal point to evoke that feeling of excitement. Many like to dress up the banister with garland, some hang their stockings down the railing. If you don't have young children, candles can be a beautiful accent to incorporate on the steps. If you do have little ones, hopefully you have a fireplace to dress up instead! Candles never fail to create a warm and sensual vibe. 

Bundles of Branches

Nothing says Christmas like the sight of snow covered tree branches. I love to admire bundles of simple pine trees, whether in natural form with nothing but pine cones, or dressed in a minimal decor for the interior. Dare to go BIG if your home has high ceilings, or double it up to achieve symmetry and elegance if the space allows for it.

Fruitfully Festive

Contrary to the traditional tree skirt, this year I'll be filling up an urn full of lemons, oranges, and pine branches, tied together with a big satin bow for the base of my tree. Fruits also serve as a festive and timeless way to warm up a Holiday table!

A Taste of Sweetness

No Holiday is complete without a sweet treat. One of my all time favorites includes a Pumpkin Spice cake (pictured left), but this year we'll be serving a home-made Holiday Ginger Mousse topped with stars of shortbread at our countryside table! What is your home made specialty?? We'd love to hear about your Holiday traditions in the comment section!

Happy Holidays!!