Holiday Decorating

Decorating a beautiful home for the holidays should be fun and not a strain on your budget or time. Here are a few of my favourite holiday quickies.

Dress for success. Break away from tradition. Beaded and jeweled garlands gather and drape, instead of wrapping, around the tree. It's faster and visually stronger.

Cluster balls of different sizes and/or colour on one hook. Takes less time and treats the eye to a bit of variety.

Stuff the gaps in your tree with holiday picks or silk flowers. A quick way for a dramatic change.

Artificial wreaths are not just for doors. Attach to the ceiling above a chandelier as a festive medallion. Decorate with Christmas balls hung at different levels. Stunning.

Bigger is better. Create a huge wreath using garland and #9 wire or a hula-hoop. Simply fold the garlands in half for fullness. Attach to the form with cable ties. Decorate to suit your style. Suitable for inside or out. (Note: If using #9 wire, use three strands of wire for strength when forming the circle.)

Being off balance can be good. Dress your mantel in an asymmetrical design that cascades the boughs, balls and beads to one side. It's a refreshingly festive approach to mantel dressing.

Garland helper. Sometimes garlands that have been used year after year can begin to look a bit anemic. Spruce them up by doubling the garland or adding fresh to the artificial for a natural, full appearance.

Baubles and balls placed in a beautiful bowl can make a simple yet festive statement.

From fridge to table. Spray fresh fruit such as pineapples, grapes, oranges, lemons and nuts with spray lacquer of gold, silver or copper. (Only takes minutes to dry!) Arrange on the table on a bed of natural cedar. Instant wow.