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Holiday Style and Ambiance

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Q. I’d like new holiday table décor. Where do I begin?
A:
It’s important to have an idea of whether you would like to be formal or more casual before dressing your table. Deciding your colors and theme comes next. You can play up the table with traditional green and red, or go glitzier with silver and gold. Then, choose whether you would like to use placemats or a festive tablecloth. Glassware is your next step. You should always use a wine glass and water glass, regardless of whether you’re going casual or formal. If you only have white dinner plates, use placemats, chargers, salad plates and napkins to make the colors pop. Delight your friends and family by using something that’s not normally used, such as a snowman ornament or twigs of holly, to create a fun napkin ring. Think outside the box with napkin holders, place cards and other party accoutrements. Finish your table off with a festive centerpiece that ties the colors together. Centerpieces should be either very tall or low to ensure your guests can see each other across the table. Flickering candles are a must near your centerpiece or at each end of the table to complete the look.

Q. How do I update my home décor for the holidays?
A:
Holiday decorating doesn’t need to feel daunting. Have fun and think outside the box. Start by changing out your pillows for fun, holiday throws. Create a fun family room centerpiece by placing colored balls in a clear bowl on your coffee table. Don’t forget to dress up your staircase! Wrap the banisters with festive garland; then tuck holly, ribbon, berries and frosted pinecones into the greenery. Finish it off with twinkling white lights woven in. Wrap your chandelier with garland, ribbon and floral twigs to create a wow factor to your room. Spray twigs from your yard a fun silver or gold color and arrange them above the mantel, dressed with greenery, ornaments, lights and bells to enhance the room. Don’t forget to swap out your wall décor with seasonal prints with a holiday motif. Spruce up restrooms with festive hand towels, greenery and candles. Remote-control flickering candles are a hot item this season. Use various colored candles throughout your home to create a warm ambiance. Don’t be afraid to use nontraditional colors such as blue, orange and purple for a stunning atmosphere. ■


Written by: 
Brenda Aylward

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Brenda Aylward, founder of Posh Party, started her career path by studying interior design at the University of Illinois, after which she owned and operated Brenda’s Gift Cupboard in Mission, Kansas, for three years. Subsequently, she built, owned and managed duplex and multiplex rental properties in Johnson County. After several years devoted to raising her children, she launched into the world of floral and interior design. Brenda learned all facets of the competitive industry by working in several prestigious Kansas City-area firms, including Ranchview Floral and Traditions Furniture. Brenda has remodeled two spec homes and she’s now specializing in party design with themed tablescapes and dish rentals. Brenda would love to design your next posh party for you!