Happy New Year!

Starting to take down the tree and other Christmas decorations? Why not sift through all your

stuff and create a wreath like the one above. You will have a statement piece for next year! I found this

one at the Lamington General Store and it goes for $130.00! I thought that I could take the same

idea and make one just like it out of things I already have, for next to nothing. I do recommend a sturdy

fake wreath, a glue gun and good wire to attach all of your goodies. If you take a close look at

the wreath above, it even has a Santa mug attached to it...too fun! Get crafting, and just think, if you can make one really well the going rate could pay for Christmas presents next year!

I couldn't resist this New Years display. What a creative way to decorate for any New Years party! I am going to do this at my house. I'll post pictures of mine when I complete it!

House Tour: No. 2 The O'Gwen's

Sean plays in the Family room where the stockings are hung with care and the "kids tree" resides with big colorful bulbs.

Christmas cards are attached to a swag of fresh pine around the large doorway from the kitchen into the dining room.

The dining room, always read to seat 12 has a simple bowl of red ornaments and beautiful pillar candles with festive greens around the bottom.

The living room has a larger tree with a classic train set underneath. The beautiful picture window frames the tree from the street!







Christmas House Tours: No. 1

Stop back and take a peek every other day or so to see new photos of beautiful Christmas decorations for the home!

Stacked Wood: The element of natural sophistication

I've seen a lot photos in decorating books, window displays and online that show the simple use of stacked wood can create a punch to any room in your home. It just makes me smile...take a look at the photos below for some inspiration:)

Create a fantastic bar for your Christmas party!

No matter the space you have, you can create an amazing bar area for you guests at your Christmas or New Year's party. Above is a bar cart from potterybarn that packs a fantastic punch. Guests can mosey over and help themselves to a variety of drinks.
I use a small chest in my family room to create my bar. I start with a round mirror to set my ice bucket and shaker on and build from there. I set out a mix of glasses, old and new and an array of red and white wine, bourbon, whiskey, vodka, rum...to the side I bring out my vintage metal tub that is on legs, fill it with ice and add club soda, mixers, beer and champagne.
After I have the basic set-up done I add fun details. Fun tags for wine glasses, tags for the wine bottles, a fun vintage poster or banner to hang above the bar, tea lights etc. The possibilities are endless and adding your own flare is what makes it great. A party drink for the occasion is great too, like pomegranate or peppermint martinis are too fun to pass up!
Need some inspiration to get you going? Google vintage barware and look through some of the pictures.
Eat, DRINK and be Merry!

Hosting a Christmas Bash? Try these paper goods!

Hosting a party this Christmas season and don't want to use predictable paper goods? I found these great alternatives that deliver style and whimsy.
Above: Paper napkins from Anthropologie

Shatterproof cups from http://www.paperhouseonline.com/ tons of designs and custom orders as well...you can put initials or a fun Christmas message.

Faux birch 10" plates from http://platesandnapkins.com/

Fabulous fake plastic silverware from http://www.windycitynovelties.com/