Decorating for the holidays shouldn’t be stressful. But let’s be real, with family members catching flights to HPN and the inevitable last-minute Christmas gifts piling up, it can turn into a daunting task. Allow us to lend a hand with expert tips on transforming your home for the season and recommended products to keep the jolly spirits high.
“In early December, the window boxes are filled with a mix of fresh evergreens, many just from the yard. Garlands and lights twinkle on the railing and, if company is coming and I have time, I light candles in the lanterns on the sides of our door to welcome them.” —Lisa McTernan, Lifestyles and Interiors by Lisa McTernan
First impressions matter. That’s why your front porch should be decorated with easily placed, festive pieces, including: Berry Vine Lights, Artificial Garland, and a Flurry Doormat.
“I always change the flowers I bring in, including red berries and olive branches, and the scents of candles, to include woodsy, smoke embers or red currant or fig; I also like playing music in the house. I like to light candles, too, to add more light as the days get shorter and darker.” —Tami Wassong, Tami Wassong Interiors
Here are our favorite winter scents: Nest Holiday Candle and LA JOLIE MUSE Pine Candle. Head to your local floral shop to pick up fresh garland, flowers, and wreaths.
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“The holiday season is a great time to up your guest-room game. Crisp linens with a fluffy comforter invite a great night’s sleep or perhaps a new throw in a cozy fabric. New bedside lamps or wall-mounted sconces give the room an updated look. Decorating for the holiday season does not have to mean transforming your home in holiday colors. It can mean something more spiritual about welcoming the important people in your life with inviting, thoughtful changes that make them feel like you tried to make them comfortable and happy!” —Debra Funt, Debra Funt Interiors
Let’s make some guest-room upgrades before the family comes into town. Our picks: Linen Duvet Cover, Wintry Embroidered Pillow, and a Chunky Knit Blanket.
Setting the Table for the Holidays
Juliette D’errico, owner of Scarsdale-based tablescape company Suburban Picnic (914.646.4618), knows how to take an often-overlooked space and make it magical. During the holidays, the dining room table transforms from storage, shelving, and even an office space for some, into a place of gathering and gratitude for the people around us. It’s only fitting, then, that the table setting and design signify that time of refresh and refinement. When sourcing tableware and decor, D’errico notes that one doesn’t have to tumble into a luxury big-box store for a sense of elegance. “A great place to source items, especially if you’re just beginning to design your space, is in thrift stores and outlets. Giving preloved items a new life not only creates a space for special pieces to be attainable but is also sustainability-minded.” – Cristiana Caruso
With the holidays revolving around delicious eats, it’s only right to get your hands on these dining table necessities: Festive Bistro Tile Dessert Plate, Linen Tablecloth, Smokey Pine Garland, and Christmas Table Runner.
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Related: Hosting Tips for This Holiday Season in Westchester