Merry Christmas! A big thank you to all of my followers and readers who have enjoyed my blog in 2015. I hope you’ve enjoyed my tips, and have had fun decorating, updating, and transforming your space. Look forward to more inspiration and ideas in the coming year!
Monthly Archives: December 2015
Framing Windows with Wreaths
Last year after Christmas my Mom spotted a pile of wreaths on clearance at a big box store. I wasn’t sure I wanted them, but my mom insisted “You’ll find something to do with them.” And you know what? I did! While last year I used traditional wreaths, this year I opted for the shiny red and green ones my Mom found. I couldn’t decide which ones to use, so I used both (there’s a set on each side of the window)! I then added bows to give them extra dimension. Want to do something similar? Try combining decorations to create something unique and memorable. It’ll give you a chance to show off your great taste and unique style!
Simple Christmas Window Decor
When it comes to window decorations, there are so many choices! It’s easy to get in over your head with elaborate displays full of colors and unique ornaments. However, this year I decided to go with a ‘less is more’ theme for my dining room window. As seen above, I used a combination of bulbs and bows. The bulbs were ones I didn’t use on the Christmas tree, and then I used bows that typically go on presents and stuck them to the wall. With only two items I managed to bring both color and interest to my window! A little goes a long way, so no matter how few items you have to work with, you can create something fanciful and unique.
Dressing Up Your Office Door
Around this time of year we’re so busy we often forget to decorate a place we spend the majority of our day: the office! This year, I decided to inject a bit of holiday spirit by adding red bows to my door frame. I also added two large, gold snowflakes to my door and a red bow on the handle. If you don’t have an office with a door, you can dress up your cubicle with holiday decor or small ornaments. If you work in an open office, try adding a small Christmas tree or tape snowflakes around the edge of your desk. Remember, it only takes a little bit of holiday spirit to bring a smile to someone’s face!
The Big and Bold Ornament
When you look at displays of Christmas trees, you often see ones that feature either large ornaments or small ones. I say, “why not mix the two?” That’s exactly what I decided to do this year! I used two large gold flowers (one pictured right) along with several red Reindeer and added them to my tree. Mixing large and small ornaments is a great way to bring extra texture and depth to your tree. No matter what type of large ornament you choose, you can create a mix-and-match look that will make your tree both chic and gorgeous!
The Illuminated Bulb
Every year I choose a different theme for my Christmas tree. This year’s theme was two-toned: each bulb had to have two (or more) colors on it. The picture on the right, a silver bulb with glittery purple stripes, perfectly embodies this year’s theme. Instead of just taking a picture of the ornament, I decided to wait until it was dark. This allowed me to get a shot of it illuminated by the lights on the Christmas tree. Do you have a theme for your tree? No matter what style you choose, you can create a beautiful and unique tree that will shine brightly into the new year!
It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas
For my first Christmas related post, I’ll be showcasing the Christmas tree at my state capitol. I love how every year they put a big tree in the rotunda and decorate it! This year the tree is decorated with various Disney princesses, snowflakes, candy canes, and various stuffed animals. Public displays are the perfect place to get ideas for decorating. When you have time, check out the displays at your local malls, downtowns, or offices. You’re sure to find inspiration to add an extra touch to your own holiday decor!
The Mighty Columbia
On the same trip mentioned in my previous post, I had some down time and was able to take a stroll along a riverfront park. While there, I noticed the entrance to a dock that led down to the river. From this dock, I was able to get a great view of the Columbia River, along with the surrounding landscape. I love the rolling hills, green trees, and swirling water captured in this photograph! Additionally, the morning light provides the perfect amount of illumination for the shot. A similar photo would be the perfect addition to a bedroom. The serene landscape and soft colors are the perfect addition to your space. If you have the chance, try to get a shot of a body of water in the morning light. You’ll have a great photo that can be used to bring the beauty of nature into your home!
The Other Side of the Mountains
It’s amazing how much a landscape can change when you cross geologic features. Whether it’s an ocean, river, or mountain range, you will inevitably see a change in geography. This became quite noticeable on one of my recent travels (business related) where I took this great landscape photo (right). I love the sparseness of the landscape and the various shades of orange and green that are the epitome of Fall foliage. These types of photos are great for showcasing the wide variety of landscapes in your area. Whether you travel near or far, you’ll be sure to find a great landscape that is worthy of display in your space.
Inspiration In A Photo 