We know how it is. Every year you swear you’re going to be like the Instagram and Pinterest stars and transform your home into a festive fantasy world. But then there’s gift shopping, work parties, concerts and never-ending nativities … and it all seems like an unachievable goal. Things may be a bit quieter and budgets a little leaner this year, but that doesn’t mean Christmas is cancelled!
This year may have been a little upside down (and money may be a bit tight), but we think that’s a great reason to find new ways to decorate and celebrate. According to VEGMO Accessories in-house stylist and buyer, Brian Futter, you just have to be willing to try something new, rope in your nearest and dearest and follow these trendy ideas …
“Decorating your home for the festive season can be a joyous time and a great opportunity to include everyone and anyone with a free pair of hands and a bit of creative flair! I love Christmas trees, so making we have an array of different trees available is something I thrive on. We also help those who already have a tree, but want to add more embellishments or be more creative with their décor (without going the DIY route).”
START WITH A VISION
“Budget aside, there really is no limit to the number of wreaths and other décor you can spread around your home in a myriad of different places and ways,” says Brian. It all depends on personal taste and how much fun you like to have. Some like to go over the top for that ‘wow’ factor, while others prefer to keep it simple, classy and tasteful.
“For those true lovers of Christmas (all the decorating that goes with it) who are determined to continue their tradition, the most important place to start is with a dream, an idea, a vision. Then set a budget. Determine how much you can afford to spend and then make a list of all your holiday obligations (including presents, travel and decorations). Give a Rand value to each, overestimating slightly. With Covid-19 having an impact on pockets and travelling, perhaps you will stay home this year and can allocate some of what you might have spent on a holiday on your décor instead.”
WORK WITH YOUR STYLE
“Wreath decorating is a wonderful way to include the whole family and let everyone share their ideas. You can make them child-friendly or sophisticated – whatever suits your home, personality or family dynamic. Greenery is an inexpensive way to beautify your dining table and any nooks and crannies you want to fill up to add to the festive spirit this year. If you don’t get in-store, you can find greenery in your garden and bring the fresh bounties of nature indoors!”
Classic and traditional looks can be created with evergreen pine and an abundance of red, green and gold baubles. Elegant touches can be added to this using ribbons, berries and poinsettia flowers. Use twigs, hessian rope and pine cones to decorate candles. For ambient lighting use candles and empty glass bottles (wine bottles work great). You can upcycle paper into Christmas ornaments, use driftwood to make a Christmas tree or use burlap and pinecones to make rustic garlands.
“There are so many ways to make Christmas splendid without spending much. You just need to think out of the box, or Google!”
TRENDING THIS YEAR
“Regardless of whether it is store bought or DIY, the trends this year lean towards festive décor with a modern twist and you can do so using shades of blues with bursts of silver and white. Swirls of glittering birds with feathered tails can enhance the look. Sparkling under-plates complement with a glamorous flash.” For a step back in time, you can create a vintage look with a modern twist.
“Use a soft, warm palette like dusty pink, old gold and deep burgundy with dustings of antique cream. Use a range of silk or fresh flowers in these colours, like roses and peonies, and compliment them with a few shiny and glittery baubles.”
“Find those quirky ornaments, like the crocheted snowman made by your favourite aunt, or any of your favourite hangings that get lost in your tree, then get the kids on board and use these to create a fun burst of colour in a wreath or garland. If you or your family don’t have the time to be creative this year, a range of pre-decorated wreaths are a wonderful choice for the busy family. Don’t forget the nostalgia – find that special ornament that makes you feel nostalgic, warm and fuzzy or just simply smile at the cuteness.”
RE-THINK BIG SPENDING
When it comes to gift ideas and wrapping, Brian says this is a great place to save. Fabric off cuts, newspaper, old music or brown paper that is given a creative or sentimental touch can all work just as well. If money is tight, speak to your loved ones about avoiding a gift exchange or minimizing how much you spend. There are very likely to be family members who have just had a baby or been badly financially affected or retrenched due to the pandemic who might be grateful to take a year off from the craziness and anxiety of gift-giving. If you have a special skill, such as woodworking or landscape design, give that as your present. This will no doubt be more precious to the recipient.
Details: Vegmo Accessories, 20 Anthurium Place, Springfield Park (off Inanda Road). Contact 031 574 7500 or e-mail [email protected]
CREDITS:
Photos: Michigan Behn Photography
Studio and furniture: Functions For Africa
