Here’s How to support local and cozy up this holiday season

Written by: Jo Alcorn

We all know the holidays are going to look and feel a little bit different this year. No large gatherings, no parties, and no dinners with friends and extended family. This year more than ever, we all need a little extra holiday joy. Instead of finding it in larger groups, outside the home, or at parades and social gatherings, why not create it in the safety of your own home.

I’ve noticed that people are decorating early this year and I’m no exception! As soon as November 1st hit, I started craving Christmas cheer. I wanted to support local and make sure that what I was using was affordable, so I popped into my local Home Hardware store and found the most beautiful holiday décor.

As most of you know, I am a huge advocate for shopping local and supporting Canadian companies. Each Home Hardware store is independently owned and operated, which means by shopping there you are supporting your own community! You can also check with your local store for curbside pickup and delivery options.

This year, I kept my holiday décor simple with ideas inspired by Scandinavian design. Here are my four tips for creating a cozy Christmas:

Green Christmas

The holidays are iconic for having some of the most beautiful greeneries of the year. Cue the fresh scent of pine and luscious magnolia. This holiday I incorporated lots of greenery – displaying it on our table scape, along our banister, and throughout the different vignettes. These beautiful window wreaths were designed with metallic ornaments, live greens, and natural textures. I also used trimmings of garland to decorate my candle holders and vases for added holiday flare.

Holiday Trees

One of the best childhood memories I have is growing up with a Christmas tree in every room. For our main tree, I needed a slim profile as I don’t have much floor space to give up. It was also important for me to have a tree that looks natural. On the tree, you can see that I used shiny metallic ornaments and contrasted them with natural textiles such as burlap and wood accents, which fits perfectly with my Scandinavian theme. I finished the look off with magnolia leaves. For the girls’ room, I wanted this year to feel extra special, and a cute little pink tree was just the trick!

small pink christmas tree in living room

Fun and Games

Since we’ll all be cozied up at home this holiday season, I wanted to create “fun zones”. Why not consider bringing back a good old-fashioned game night with the family? It’s a great way to connect and be present with those you love. Another fun idea is hosting a movie night! I set up a popcorn maker, cute hockey-themed glasses, and all the fixings – making another night at home feel more exciting. It’s all about the special moments these days, and I can’t wait for each and every one of them this holiday season!

Merry Christmas to you and yours!