Home For The Holidays By Tamara Bradshaw

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HOLIDAYS for the

by TAMARA BRADSHAW

My favorite time of year is here! Three big holidays back to back. In October we have Halloween. In November we have Thanksgiving. And in December, we get to completely show off at Christmas, my absolute favorite. With that said, I’ll focus on Christmas and invite you to join me.

Over the years, it seems we prep for Christmas earlier and earlier. I felt so behind last year, putting my Christmas trees up in November. Being an influencer yet watching everyone get such a head start was a big wake up call. By the time my home was f illed with Christmas decor, it was almost time to take everything down. My piece of advice is to start early so you get your money’s worth and time to enjoy all your Christmas trees and holiday decor. Definitely have everything done by Thanksgiving so you can soak it all in for two holidays.

The trends this year are big and bold ornaments. Large gem bling ornaments. I also see nothing wrong with a beautiful tree lightly decorated for more of a minimalist look. But if you know me, you know it’s glam glam always … LOL. So let’s get back to the glitz. Gorgeous ribbon, all textures and styles.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start, here’s a little help. First, decide on your color scheme. Red and green for a traditional look is always beautiful. Add in silver or gold to jazz it up. Pink and blush colors have become a big favorite the last few years. I did pink and gold two years ago, and added black for a bolder look. Last year I used green and champagne on one tree, and gold and champagne on the other. Royal blue is also a beautiful color you can consider. For one of my trees this year I’m getting very adventurous!! A mix of royal blue, emerald green, red, purple, fuchsia, and gold. I know it sounds crazy. But trust me, it’s gonna be litt! Remember, there are no rules to this!

Use your color scheme on your tree and throughout your home to bring the full look together. I love decorating my console tables, coffee tables, and kitchen island. Vases with poinsettias are gorgeous. You can pour Epsom salt in a clear vase, which looks

like snow, and add beautiful glam picks. Try table settings with bling napkin rings and placemats. I love adding a touch of Christmas to my bedroom, too. A reindeer propped on my TV console and Merry Christmas throw pillows. Or even a smaller tree! Falling asleep gazing at a glowing tree makes me feel so peaceful. The main thing is to have fun with it and remember, this is the one time of year it’s never too much GLITTER.

I will leave you with this: Do Not Stress … LOL. Remember the true meaning of Christmas: God Is Faithful. It’s all about being thankful — thankful for life and loved ones. Spending time with the people you love is what it’s all about.

It’s also a time of giving. That can mean offering your time or donating to the less fortunate. The holidays are a wonderful time for many, but also a less happy time for others. So, before we do anything, let’s all try to do at least one good deed for the holidays in 2022. I will be donating directly to a few families this year. Open your heart this Christmas. Let’s make that a theme!