As the holiday season approaches, we begin to think about family and friends visiting our homes to enjoy food and fellowship. We want our homes to be inviting and decorative, but sometimes finding the time and money can be a challenge. First, start early and with each decorative stage you set, think about how it can be easily changed from one season to the next. Here are a few tips and things you can do without breaking the bank.

Walkway – Black iron flag stand and decorative flags can be found at most discount and home stores. Flags for every season can be placed at your door to welcome your guest. Flag sizes are approximately 12” x 18”.

Front Door – Nothing welcomes guest like a colorful wreath. Create your own wreath to customize and depict the main color and theme of decorations inside your home. Choose a green Styrofoam base wreath and wrap long continuous vines around the base. With the exception of Christmas, a grape vine background is one that easily fits many seasons. Craft stores carry a wide variety of picks in colors and themes to attach to your wreath. Large and small bows can be attached with floral wire.

Foyer – Your foyer is most inviting when softly lit with accent lighting and the aromatic smells of the season. Find a small bowl which will compliment your lamp and artwork. Fill with your favorite potpourri scent. To keep the aroma fresh, fragrant oils are available to drop into existing potpourri.

Family Room Coffee Tables - Give your home the warmth and aroma of candles to fit the mood. Candles holders come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Try placing a trio of multiple height candles on a charger plate and sprinkle tray with clear or colorful rocks. Try a Pumpkin Pie flavor for Thanksgiving and a Holiday Bayberry for Christmas.

Dining Room Table – Treat yourself and guest to fresh flowers. Your local grocery stores have made it so easy and fresh flowers are no longer pricy. Don’t limit yourself to a single vase for your bouquet, but be creative and arrange a trio of three small clear cylinders to cover the length of your table.

Happy Holidays!

Becky Bywater

Affordable Decorating & Staging

863 838-1079

www.affordabledecorating-staging.com