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Holiday Decorating

the chill in the air was undeniable and when I ducked into one of my favorite shopping spots to look for a light jacket this October, I couldn't believe the scene that greeted me — Christmas! Wait a minute, how could it be? At the store, the halls were decked and stockings were hung, but I had not yet pulled out my Halloween decorations, and certainly had not given a thought to Thanksgiving preparations. I want to savor all that is fall — the colors of foliage, the aroma of campfires, the sound of birds as they make their journey southward. Then, gently, I can welcome Christmas decorating with as much ease and joy as possible.

What if each holiday complemented the one before by simply adding decor to the preexisting design palette. This begs the question: Rather than stripping down a home of decor we love and creating a completely new look for each holiday, can we add components as the seasons change? Seems like an excellent theory to avoid unnecessary stress and hard work during a time of year that should be joy filled and people centered.

As with all interior design, let's look at the core elements as the mainstay and then begin the transition to holiday festivity. The color palette of this home is neutral, thus lending itself to a variety of accent choices. The warm burnt orange accessories (pillows, candles, fall holiday decor) create a tasteful pop of color that draws the attention throughout the rooms, tying the vignettes together with a common colorful thread. The color was chosen as it highlights the color tones in the kitchen backsplash and the fireplace tile.

As Christmas creeps ever closer, only a small number of fall holiday decorations need to be removed. Instead, much loved Christmas decorations can be added to the overall design. Most holiday decorations can be easily inserted into the former layout. Neutral tones are still the mainstay, but more texture and sparkle can be added. The shag area rug is a combination of ribbons with sheen and heavy texture wool loops. Add a couple plush fur pillows and a matching fur throw blanket? Yes, please! Just the warmth needed during a cold north Christmas.

The Christmas tree is adorned with trimmings reflecting nature and glamour — pinecones, twigs and succulents all embellished with metallic sparkle. Painted holiday phrases were simply layered on previously hung tied-rope wall art. A variety of reindeer and Christmas trees bedazzled with sequins and bells add holiday glitz to the scene.

How about using items that can transcend a season? The over-sized “Joy” was created with cast off sweaters applied to wooden letters, again adding texture and interest. Don't be in a rush to remove this one. It is always the season to promote joy!

The foyer mirror was cleverly transformed by mounting a Christmas picture to the frame. How simple to return this piece to its pre-holiday look. Nature, with a glitzy twist, is again represented in the topiary added to the entry table.

So, by all means, enjoy decorating for the melancholy days of fall and then gently transition into the Christmas season.

TIPS to TRAVERSE holiday decorating

1. As with most things in life, less is more. Don't overburden yourself or your decor. Choose pieces you love.

2. Texture and sparkle always work to create a festive look. It may take some restraint when you get out the can of metallic spray paint (see first tip: less is more)

3. Good news: Christmas does not have to be red and green. Use the color palette you love and you will find nontraditional colors of holiday decor.

4. Adding bold ribbon or a sprig of greenery (yes, with sparkle) to any accessory (art, chair back, vases or mirror) dresses the piece up for the holidays.

5. Don't forget to address the senses. Festive music, a citrus cinnamon fragrance, a hot beverage or two, along with a couple helpers will make the project an experience to treasure.