In December, we ready our homes for gatherings of guests, out-of-town family visits and longstanding traditions that summon everyone to one place. As we open our doors to friends, new and familiar, we also anticipate the sights, sounds and scents of Christmas and Hanukkah that are soon to fill our rooms.
These December days feel extra special, thanks to proper preparations.
Ornament-strewn evergreen trees and festive decorations are thoughtfully displayed. A spectacularly set table—layered with flowers, candles and sparkling crystal—awaits a crowd. Various sweets and handcrafted treats have been carefully curated, set to please all who enter. And are our favorite cookies baked? Check! (Santa approves.)
The following pages are filled with inspirational images and articles that we hope you refer back to as you make your own holiday plans. We’ve included decorating and hosting ideas as well as practical how-to advice. These pages also celebrate many talented people; local designers, florists, bakers and shops make entertaining a little less daunting and a little more enjoyable.
A Vintage-Christmas Mood Board
Winter gives us many reasons to cherish the season. This mood board highlights a delightful one: the arrival of Santa Claus.
Keven Calonkey Carl and Cassidy Brunsteter of Mister Robert Fine Furniture and Design collaborated on this wonderfully whimsical display. It overflows with odes to St. Nicholas. Carl pointed out a few highlights from her childhood: a cherished photo of her on Santa’s lap and a familiar book, The Night Before Christmas. She remembers many readings throughout the years.
Holiday Entertaining Tips from SusieCakes’ Susie Sarich
SusieCakes Founder and CEO Susie Sarich uses several of her grandmothers’ tried-and-true recipes for the baked goods offered within her bakery (available at Classen Curve as well as locations throughout California, Texas and Tennessee). Sarich also applies her grandmothers’ knack for hosting as she plans her own gatherings.
Sarich calls her grandmothers “the original tablescapers,” since they were both adept at arranging the perfect table setting, menu and decor. Drawing on her heritage, Sarich recently shared some holiday entertaining advice with us. Of course, beautiful and delicious desserts can enhance any party—but small, thoughtful details sprinkled throughout the scene can also help make the time together extra sweet. >>Read More.
Floral Forward Holiday Home Decor
Special family events—consider weddings, birthdays, funerals and other occasions—are often surrounded by flowers. The Christmas season also ushers in botanical traditions: selecting and decorating an evergreen tree (or two), hanging fresh garland and wreaths and arranging seasonal centerpieces. Flowers make family gatherings feel even more meaningful—and for all of it, Kathy Brown turns to Genea Vallion and Trochta’s Flowers and Garden Center. In fact, Brown and Vallion have been collaborating for decades to make life’s various seasons a little more beautiful. >>Read More.
A Winter Tablescape of Heirlooms, Florals and Holiday Desserts
This wintertime table layers seasonal delights to prompt meaningful conversations and provide for a memorable evening. To create such an inviting scene, Keven Calonkey Carl and Cassidy Brunsteter of Mister Robert Fine Furniture and Design combined family heirlooms and personal collections with classic and modern design touches. Bountiful florals from The Flower Truck and gourmet desserts by L’Arc Patisserie complete the party. >> Read More.
