Guest Picks: Celebrating a Modern Holiday Season
I’ve already pulled down the holiday storage bins from the attic and am planning to change things up this year with less traditional and more creative decorating. Whether you do lots of entertaining or spend nights on the couch with loved ones, these simple, cozy additions are sure to provide a fresh perspective for the most wonderful time of the year. — Jessica from Decor Adventures
I don’t know many people who can resist these luxury blankets sold at Pottery Barn, so I think they’re definite must-haves for the holiday season. Whether on the bed for extra warmth or on the couch for lounging, warm blankets are a necessity. Leave them around so family and guests can help themselves when they feel a bit chilly.
This deer head with gold antlers works perfectly for the winter season. Plus, it’s not too big to hang over already existing art or the mantel. I bet he would look cute with a ribbon around his neck to add a little bit of festive flair.
This white village is on my wish list this season. I’d put it on the mantel and leave it up through January. It’s a perfect holiday decoration, and it makes me think of caroling in a small town on a snowy night.
These wooden trees are perfect for both family homes and single mens’ places. They remind me of the season in a new and interesting way — and you can still dress them up if you want to.
Maybe you can think of a new place to hang this stocking, as it has such a fresh look — perhaps from the bed frame, on the doorknob or on the bookshelf? Its simplicity is charming yet still festive.
Seasonal placemats like these work on Turkey Day and Christmas Eve. Dress them up or down and add some white dishes, and you are sure to have a welcoming table.
Nothing says modern holiday like silver and gold, either on your tree or on a side table. This simple and pretty piece is so affordable and makes a great addition to my winter tree collection.
Holiday decorating is perfectly completed only when you light candles. These glass candlesticks come in different heights and would also make lovely hostess gifts too.
The elegant look of this metallic wreath works on a door, over a mirror or maybe even as a centerpiece on the table. I love how it's a bit outdoorsy and a bit glam.
This table runner has all the elements of a celebration, but in an unexpected print. Don’t forget you can use it on a sideboard, dresser or entry table for some nice layering.
On the very top of my holiday wish list is a white tree! Why not? It’s a break from the pedestrian green and works with so many colors of garlands and lights. Imagine how your ornaments would pop on it! White just might be right for your tree this year.
Holiday garlands don’t have to be green either. I love this snowy white version that can stand alone or complement a string of lights around a doorway. Garlands are an easy festive touch and can adorn windows, stairways and more. I’m already planning to string up a few in the dining room, foyer and kitchen for the season.
“Joy,” “Peace,” “Holly” — what other words would you spell with these large letters? They’re a modern way to express your holiday cheer, and you can change them up for the rest of the year too. My word of choice would be “Hope.”
Do I want a disco ball in my home? Yes. Do I want a tree full of disco ball ornaments? Absolutely! Why not have a little fun this season and string up some of these? I’d actually leave them out all year: on the table, by the windows or just on my bedside table to wake up to some sparkle when it’s still dark in the winter mornings.
I’m into black and white this year. And ribbon is a practical item for holiday decorating. It can go on the tree, around gifts, on a wreath or through the staircase. If you pair this one with either red or green, or maybe hot pink or turquoise, you’ll instantly have a fresh look. And it works year-round too!
How about some icons from around the globe for your tree? These ornaments are perfect for a jet setter or a wannabe world traveler, and they make nice accessories for stockings, homemade advent calendars, New Year’s resolution lists or gifts for your neighbor.
Over the past few years, I have become addicted to feathers! So much so that I’d like to leave my feather wreath up all year long; I just love the simple comfort of it. And if white isn’t your thing, don’t worry — these come in all kinds of colors. Maybe brown will work for Thanksgiving and blue for Hanukkah?
“Sleigh Ride” is by far my favorite holiday tune. My dream is to actually go on one on a snowy day with a team of horses pulling me through the woods as I sip cocoa under the blankets. Until then, this pillow will keep my dreams alive.Next: Handmade Holiday: The Modern Wreath
Winter nights mean flannel sheets, and these forest-inspired ones are perfect for men, women, teens and children. I’ve been looking for a set to last from November to February, and this just might be it. The modern colors and print don’t scream Christmas, which is perfect for getting lots of use.
Q