Holiday Inspiration

This year I lazed(past tense of lazy? no? go with it anyway) out on decoration for Thanksgiving since we weren't celebrating it here. It was nice at first, but after only completing one project in a month I am slightly overexcited to get started on Christmas projects. These are the things I am looking forward to trying in my house this year-

magnolia wreath- this one is from PB and rings in on sale at 79 bills. I have my eye on an over grown magnolia tree at my in  laws house that will hopefully save me some major cash. The question is- do I make one or two of these beauts and how large do I go?

source- potterybarn

Eclectic candlesticks. Those that know me in real life will quickly tell you that I am not one for eclectic design. I am obsessed with symmetry and uniformity, and have been known to rearrange furniture in hotel rooms while staying the night. Something about a lack of symmetry is unsettling to me. However, this year I want to try something different in the middle of the table and this picture with a variety of candlesticks is gorgeous. It is a departure for me in that all the bases aren't the same, but is something I think I can handle since the finish is the same throughout.

I am going to try and recreate it in my house using some handed down candlesticks and a pair I recently found at Goodwill. All I am missing is the pillar holders. Well actually, I have some but the finish isn't the same and I-just-can't-handle-that! Goodwill will hopefully provide.

source- martha stewart

Paper evergreens. Oh Martha- why do you always do this to me? These look simple and inexpensive to make. I can imagine a grouping of them on my mantle amid some (more) candlesticks and greenery. Or would that be too much green? We shall see.

source- country living

Ribbon on my Christmas tree. I have always liked this look, but never remember to try it. I probably won't go with red, I am thinking green, but you never know.

I have a little something up my sleeve for the front porch but I am saving that little tid bit until I see how it works out. All I will say is a tomato cage is involved. Let's hope our local garden center still has 'em.

Anyone tried these before and can lend their expertise?

up next- It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas,  or at least I hope so.