Take it from the design pros — with a few simple tips, you can easily transform your living space into an inviting holiday sanctuary. MIA STEFANKO
“My advice would be to have beautiful silk holiday florals that you can use every year. A trend in Christmas décor that I’m also really excited about is the use of white, and I like to mix in gold as well.” ~ Corey Sanchez, Bella Castilla (858/794-9003, www.bellacastilla.com)
“Purchase lots of poinsettias, holly, and boughs from pine trees. Put them throughout the house — the boughs and holly in vases, the poinsettias in entries and strategic places. It becomes festive and the pine aroma puts you in a holiday mood.” ~ Connie McNally, The McNally Company Antiques (858/756-1922, www.mcnallycompanyantiques.com)
“With the upcoming holidays, there is a great opportunity to dress your tabletops with festive decor. I like to mix natural florals with colorful accents. I usually overstuff the tabletops for the maximum effect with just the right amount of bling.” ~ Maria Barry, Le Dimora (858/759-2709, www.ledimora.com)
“Consider using a soft, sophisticated palette of color, like creams and greens and yellows. I always do entertaining a little differently and try to use colors in a classic way that keeps with the style of my home. I also love to have lots of beautiful table runners, napkins, and placemats that I can mix and match to use casually or more elegantly.“ ~ Susan Spath, Kern & Co. (858/259-7722, www.kerncodesigns.com)
“It is so easy to become overwhelmed during this busy season, but the Floral Palette can ease the burden. Not just an ordinary flower shop, you will find amazing scented candles, seasonal hand towels and bath soap, a beautiful line of rental linens, fresh wreaths, and, of course, custom floral arrangements. The team is also available on any scale to help decorate your home.” ~ Natalie Maxwell, Floral Palette (858/832-1127, www.floralpalette.com)
