We all like to bring that festive holiday feeling into the home…
…and if you’re like us, it’s a chance to make the every day more special. While bright lights and radio tunes may evoke the feeling of Christmas for some, we like to make things a little simpler, a bit more quiet and natural. Our world is very fast-paced and can get crazy at this time of year, but we at the Hornsby House Inn love the chance to slow down and savor the season. And if you’ve ever visited us during the holidays, you know that our choice of seasonal decor reflects just that. Today we’re sharing 5 ways to welcome the winter holidays, from our home to yours.
1. Bring in the Great Outdoors: While the beauty of autumn is in the rich oranges and reds of falling leaves, winter is blessed with soft evergreens. Why not take advantage of the surroundings by decorating with natural elements like fresh boughs, holly berries, dried citrus, even pinecones! A tree or mantle decorated with local plant life is truly special, and the smell is truly delightful!
2. Add a Little Sparkle: Even with your natural greenery, the holidays call for a little something special. Instead of tinsel, we opt to add some shine through metallic elements like copper fixtures, globe ornaments, and wide gold ribbon. Have a unique tea kettle or candelabra? Start there and make something one-of-a-kind! It’s understated while still adding that glint of holiday magic.
3. Let the Light In: The days are short and the nights are long, so enjoy the hours of sunshine while you have them! We love drawing back the curtains in the morning to let all that natural light fill the Inn. You can also adorn the windows with festive wreaths or candles to celebrate that space even more. Sunlight does so much for the mood too, it makes the evenings all the more enjoyable later.
4. Strike a Match: By the same token, since the days are darker at this time of year, it’s time to light the holiday flame. Here at the Inn we have several gorgeous fireplaces, and they definitely pull their weight during Christmastime! Fires not only provide warmth, but also an unmatched glow that changes the mood of any room. If you have a fireplace in your home, why not decorate the mantle and make use of it all season long? And if you don’t, it’s time to break out the candles. Since we all naturally spend more time indoors during the colder months, we try to make the environment as cozy and inviting as can be.
5. Keep It Simple: With so much on our plates during this season, we at the Inn find that the most welcoming space is one that allows for some room to breathe. To that end, make your home one that is carefully adorned for the season, but isn’t overwhelming upon entry. Choose a few focal points or create one lovely vignette in each room: the dining room table, a Christmas village or nativity display that is meaningful to you, or perhaps the tree itself, and let the rest of the room make way for it. Simple decor, when curated for your home and taste, can make just as much impact as all the shiny bells and whistles.
We think you’ll find that not only are these decor ideas less stressful, but they make for beautiful traditions that you can return to year after year. Your home should reflect you and your loved ones, and if you enjoy a cozy atmosphere that celebrates the season and the natural environment around it, try one (or all) of these guidelines this year. Send us a picture! And above all, let this time be enjoyed. Things don’t have to be perfect, including the Christmas decorations, if you share it with beloved family or new friends. May this holiday season bring you great joy and merriment!
A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Hornsby House Inn!
