CHRISTMAS home styling essentials must include a tree – big or small – lighting, a centrepiece on the dining table and family and friends, says Veranda Home & Garden design consultant, Melody McNuff.
Once these fundamentals are in place, you can’t go too wrong at this time of year.
“We all love a Christmas wonderland so just make sure the home looks festive,” Mrs McNuff said.
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READ NOW“Begin with deciding on a theme and pick a colour scheme that best suits your surroundings.
“Also, keep in mind friends and family that might be visiting over the season; think about how much space you will need to entertain and whether some items may be too fragile for younger children. You may need to rearrange some furniture to suit your pieces.”
Rather than choosing the customary red mixed with green and gold for the tree, Mrs McNuff suggests people try more elegant tones such as blue with white and silver, mauve with purple, pink and white, or teal with silver, blue and green.
“Golds are also a little more subtle this year with rose gold and champagne colours featuring to compliment the softer colour palette,” she said.
“Traditional wreaths and garlands are popular once again and I love a wreath for the front door or as a centrepiece with a candle on your table.
“I’m also loving decorations such as lanterns, squirrels, bears and seals this season.”
In keeping with tradition, Mrs McNuff enjoys bringing out her children’s Santa stockings each year, which they have had since they were babies, and a matching Christmas bauble for her tree.
“Christmas has always been about the spirit of giving and of course it is always about family,” she said.
“We usually celebrate the special day not once but twice as my hubby works FIFO and Christmas would always fall on the day he was away in the mines.
“But we are especially grateful this year as we get to spend the actual day with him as he’ll be home for once – so it will be an extra special time for us.”
Veranda can assist with furnishing ideas, plus general styling and Christmas home decorating.
Mrs McNuff uses a Hamptons Christmas theme in her pictured home look with all items featured available from Veranda Home & Garden.