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holiday decorating made simple, inexpensive and oh so elegant
We all have a mantle, buffet or some place in our home that just needs that little extra sparkle at the holidays, but time and expense always seems to get in the way. Gathering things from around the house that shine, reflect and catch the light can be put together in a most spectacular way.
This year, I thought it would be fun to show just how far your budget can take you when you use a little imagination, magic and of course Amphora.
I have used a buffet for this demonstration, but this could be anywhere in your home.
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tart with Lighting
Lighting is so important and carries such an impact as well as can be an inexpensive addition to your display. These lamps are antique gold with cream shades and carry out our theme of gold, silver and red. I have used ordinary table lamps, but buffet lamps would work just as well. If your lamps are shorter, try raising them on a sturdy box that will be covered.
To add an additional sparkle with lighting, I've used a strand of white Christmas lights laid across the top of our buffet. White always adds such an elegant touch, but any color will have the same effect. You are sure to have an extra strand or two in with your decorations.
abric
Over the Christmas lights, I draped 3 yards of see through fabric. The fabric is a quick and easy way to soften your display and add a dramatic look as well. Your fabric should be sheer enough to see the lights and any unhemmed edges can be easily tucked under. Gather and make soft folds allowing it to drape over the sides.
Fabric also works well when you tuck it in a Christmas tree or garland. Letting the soft folds drape as it allows the lights to shine through gives the tree or garland a beautiful one of a kind look. Use fabric with coordinating colors and patterns, from toile to silks or perhaps burlap for a Country Christmas.
andles, glass jars, ornaments and mirrors
Next, go looking around your home for anything that would hold ornaments, candles, beautiful clear glass bowls and mirrors. I've used three glass dome covered silver candle holders for our display. Using odd numbers for groupings always looks great. Ornaments are another beautiful addition that cost very little. They reflect light, sparkle and add deep color to your display. Mix and match colors and styles to add verity and interest. Last, using mirrors can make your display simply shine. A candle flame, shiny ornaments, lamps and tiny lights all reflect and look wonderful when a mirror is set in the background. Small mirror tiles also add a beautiful addition when they reflect up using them as a base.
he final touches
I love wrapping small boxes with beautiful papers and ribbon. Placing these packages around your room can be the final touch. Use these little jeweled gifts next to a sofa, on a coffee table, on your mantle or tucked in a wreath or garland. Another fun way to add inexpensive holiday décor to your room is wrap your pillows with a ribbon and bow. A couple of pillows tied up with ribbon look like whimsical gifts and add fun to your room.
So the next time you are looking for inspiration, you might just find it in your own home. Look around in every room and pull things that will work together. If you are still needing additional items and ideas, Amphora is always here to help.
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