I know it’s still a little early to get out the Christmas decorations. (Or is it?? I saw an entire neighborhood decorated on my way home last night. . . ) But, I do like to start prepping now by studying some of my favorite holiday homes and making mental notes of new ideas I want to include in our decor. These are three of my current favorites, chosen for their simple, classic and cozy approach to Christmas.
Home #1: Benjamin and Gen Sohr, founders of Pencil and Paper Co., featured in Southern Living.
Details to note: A strong red, white and blue mix throughout; touches of boxwood in garlands, wreaths and topiaries; pattern on pattern; classic Christmas decor (i.e., nutcrackers and striped ribbon) add a touch of nostalgia.
Home #2: Michelle Adams, former Domino editor-in-chief and Maryn founder, featured on The EveryGirl
Details to note: Lush magnolia garland; plaid on plaid; twinkling lights and bare trees (that’s allowed!); adding oranges to my grocery list.
Home #3: Debbie Propst, president of One Kings Lane
Details to note: A single wreath and simple topiaries make for a classic porch; layers of greenery for full garlands (mix faux with real); wreaths above mirrors; a traditional tree always works.
Rebecca G. says
November 9, 2018 at 11:16 amI don’t put a single Christmas decoration up until Thanksgiving is over, but as I get older, I realize that a lot of the pleasure of decorating for the holidays lies in the late October and November planning and happy anticipation of what our home will look like when we are all decked out for December. I love this early inspiration Emily! Keep it coming!
Sarah says
November 9, 2018 at 1:40 pmLOVE – I too am getting my thoughts together for my Christmas decorating. I LOVE the three bells hanging on the red velvet (?) on the front door. Any idea of where I can look for those? Those are probably vintage…. but I love to find myself some!
Thank you!!
Emily Clark says
November 9, 2018 at 2:00 pmWell, I found it but it’s not cheap…. http://bit.ly/2Pjcvtd
I guess the technical term is “door hanger bells” :)
Beth christoff says
November 9, 2018 at 4:31 pmI have so many “emotional baggage” Christmas decorations. Wish I could just dump them and have one of these simple but festive vibes instead! I’ll live vicariously through your post! Thanks!
Teresa says
November 9, 2018 at 9:52 pmLove all the Christmas inspiration and ideas! For those who like to decorate early, I read an article out on MSN last week that said early decorators are happier people! Well, I kinda knew that already even though I resist the temptation to deck the halls until after Thanksgiving is over.
Emily Clark says
November 9, 2018 at 10:11 pmThen I’m going to to feel better about that garland I hung on our stairs today :)
CHERYL JOHNSON says
November 10, 2018 at 10:13 amThought I haven’t started decorating yet, I do have my Christmas table decor figured out, tablecloths and napkins ironed, etc. I have made the little favors for each place setting and advent gifts for my grandchild’s advent calendar are done. There is just too much to do betw Thanksgiving and Christmas so I am spreading it out and enjoying it so much more! only took me a lifetime to learn this. I may even have the tree up by Thanksgiving! My daughter’s family who are coming would love that–all cozy and hygge like.
Mary says
November 10, 2018 at 1:18 pmI don’t like to put up Christmas decor until Dec 1st. Any sooner & it would have to be dusted. 😉
Emily Clark says
November 10, 2018 at 1:35 pmI’m on board with this theory. ;)
Stephanie says
November 11, 2018 at 6:24 amthe link for house 1 is incorrect, should be
https://www.southernliving.com/christmas/decor/colorful-christmas-pencil-paper-creative?slide=419119#419119
Emily Clark says
November 11, 2018 at 6:37 amThanks so much!
Mosie says
November 11, 2018 at 7:57 pmPeople who do Yuletide decorating early might be happier about Christmas, but I fear they miss Thanksgiving completely! I feel the best compromise is to PLAN early and make all the necessary purchases, but don’t decorate until after Thanksgiving. This is also safer for those of us who use fresh greenery — less time to dry out. And finally, the masses of bittersweet I use around the house during Autumn get worked into my Christmas decorations. They look beautiful mixed with pine branches and dusted with “snow”. Happy holidays, all.
Tracy says
November 13, 2018 at 10:17 amThose alligator statues are just amazing. I need those in my life.