I grew up in the Midwest where evergreens like these are in abundance. Every year, Dad and I would head out into the yard and not return until we’d snipped armfuls of fresh evergreen branches that we’d use to adorn everything in sight. Then, we’d while away the hours dressing the mantel, doorways, tables and more while Mom baked cookies. Now years later, decorating with fresh evergreens is still a must but devoting hours to the task isn’t. Given the busy times in which we live, I’m guessing it’s probably the same for you, so here’s some tricks-of-the-trade that’ll make it quick to get your evergreen fix.
For a classic country look, tuck small evergreen plants into pitchers and containers you have on hand. It takes about 10 minutes to re-pot them (the best way to water and keep evergreens fresh). Then finish the look with craft paper tags tied on with ribbon. These evergreens add a festive touch to the staircase but they’d also look terrific paired with the Console Table with Patterned Iron.
Evergreen, iron and wood are an exquisite combination
This table’s metal framework reminds me of a garden gate and aren’t its wood shelves just calling out for some pretty potted evergreens?
Designers often say that the most simple approach is best. That’s why I like these sparkly pinecone place cards.
To make them, whitewash pinecones with craft paint, then adorn with beads, colorful ribbon and a single snippet of evergreen. This table setting is lovely and perfect for the Miramonte dining table.
Aspire to dine fine even in small spaces.
Miramonte is one of my favorite dining groups because it has casual chic down pat. This furniture looks best with accessories that don’t try to steal the spotlight, so keep it simple.
Fresh evergreen garlands are something every home deserves. / Claire Richardson, HouseToHome.co.uk
Despite the urge to let my inner Martha emerge and transform my holidays into a sleep-deprived marathon craft session, I’ve neither the time nor patience to construct garland with evergreen clippings and wire. But it’s easy to make like Martha with a quick trip to the nearby nursery for a pre-made evergreen garland. Tuck in sprigs of eucalyptus and beaded berries, then pile on some sparkly ornaments with metal Christmas tree hooks or some florist wire. A garland like this would look great in several places other than a staircase. Afix it to the mantel. Swag it over the dining room hutch or dining room buffets, or be a bit more daring. Wrap it around the top of your four poster bed.
Evergreens look particularly elegant when paired with white.
A festive garland festooned around the top of the Melange Quatrefoil four poster bed would create the illusion of evergreens floating overhead; and each night, nodding off to dreamland would be a sensory experience akin to sleeping in a fairy tale forest. After days filled with work, mall crawls and late night gift-wrapping, don’t we all deserve that?
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