By Holly Hamilton
Jill Ward and myself, Holly Hamilton, are native “Franklinites” and we first began our many adventures, as roommates in college, at David Lipscomb University, in the early ’90s. After graduating, we took different paths, lived in different cities, married and had families of our own…but always remained dear, close friends throughout the years. We had a common interest in decorating for the seasons and would share our colorful concepts. I always would comment how adding winter berry to a tall, cylinder container paired with evergreens, cut fresh from the branch, had such a warm appeal and delightful aroma to bring inside the home. Jill, in return, appreciated my lush, plaid ribbons paired with a solid to embellish my mailbox. This is what began the, now sixteenth year, journey of Deck Your Halls with Jill & Holly.
While we do not always ‘see eye to eye’ on our work in progress - we do aim to please and complement each other while pulling from the other’s tasteful insight, along with what our clients’ hearts desire in preparing their home for a holiday that is merry and bright… And that is exactly what we are here to help YOU do this holiday season!
The first step is to decide what your budget is for the season. Try to set an amount and then stick to it. Purchasing one major big item every year adds to your existing collection and can make for memorable years to come.
If you have a mantle or several mantles, purchasing garland is a treat for all to enjoy, especially when lit with twinkle lights and additional ribbons and berries that can truly make a party festive and contagiously conversational. While artificial is trending because of such realistic features, there is no substitute for live, cut fresh Leyland Cypresses or Frasier Firs. The scents are magnificent and truly make your home’s aroma undeniably Christmas! Clean up is something to keep in mind… And we will help with more tips next month!
If you have a banister or stairwell, get ready! That is a major thrill to decorate and, to say the least, a feeding frenzy to those that enter your front door in awe and wonder of how the season will begin within your walls! Your eyes cannot help but gaze upon the banisters while the lights swag to parallel the majestic garlands hanging with delight.
Do you have a theme? Toy soldiers, or perhaps a collection of Santa’s, angels, nutcrackers or a nativity scene? They can line a staircase, dress up the top of cabinetry or make a statement on a dining room table. Up lights are all the rage for the baby Jesus prominently laying in the manger.
Start with your front entrance. You can stretch your garland over the front doors, marry in the lights, add your favorite ribbon for color and plugin with a timer set to turn on at dusk. Such an inviting, easy-to-do creation that entertains your neighbors while carolers sing along!
The tree no longer is a branch loaded with popcorn strings - although, fancy enough for heirlooms does make for an enchanting and whimsical appeal in a child’s room or dad’s study, flanked by his wing chair. With Deck Your Halls, you can have whatever flare, style or appeal to impress. From a pheasant feathered tree topper to a five-point star glittering, whatever suits. We can bring it! In the end, we are here to serve and create spectacular memories…adding charm to the most wonderful time of the year!
