design. simplified.
If you hate to show up to a party empty handed or just want to do a little something special for someone this Christmas, I’ve put together some easy hostess gift ideas. Everything on my list is under $15 and could be gifted on their own or as a set, if you wanted to put a few of them together. (Also–to make it extra simple, everything on this list is linked and can be ordered online from Target.)
See the rest of this year’s gift guides here:
This year’s Christmas tree strategy is simple: red, red and more red. We put up one family tree downstairs; it’s a Martha Stewart one from Home Depot that we’ve had for several years. The kids start by putting on any and every ornament they’ve ever made–paper, pipe cleaners, glitter, marshmallows, it doesn’t matter! (This is also the time each year I realize that I still owe the twins a baby ornament of their own. . . )
When they’re finished, I go behind them and hang the “decorative” ornaments. Sticking to one, heavily layered, color scheme pulls it all together.
To create a similar look: use shades of all one color for effect, vary the sizes (mine are a mix of 2.75″ and 4″), and place them both on the tips and tucked into branches for a really layered look. I finished with this inexpensive throw blanket as a tree skirt that works great if your tree is tucked in a corner like ours.
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This post is sponsored by eBay.
We are officially calling “the office” the dining room again. It’s always a good overflow spot when we have friends over during the holidays, not to mention it’s the first room you see when you walk through the front door. I dressed it up for the holidays by setting a red and green table, inspired by some pieces I found on eBay.
I was doing a late night search when I came across these red and white scalloped plates. Everything else fell into place from there. I love a mix and match table, and eBay is perfect because you can find vintage, name brand, new, you name it. It’s also easier than ever to score what you want because over 80% of listings are available with a “buy it now” option.
The red and white runner is discontinued from Pottery Barn. (Another reason to love eBay! You never know when those impossible-to-find items will pop up.)
gold flatware, blue glassware, linen tablecloths, toile napkins, red and white table runner, blue and white plates, green and white plates, blue and white candle sticks, bamboo dining chairs, rattan serving tray, blue and white vase, blue and white temple jar
In the corner, I used the antique chest to set up a small drink station. I always think it’s fun to spread the cheer around the house instead of putting everything in the kitchen. (Those pretty red and white toile napkins were also a recent eBay find.)
A few more not-to-miss eBay listings for a festive holiday table: