From wow moment place settings to decor touches of dreams , set the ultimate scene this festive season
TABLESCAPING
AFTER SPENDING SO MUCH OF THIS YEAR AT HOME , MANY OF US HAVE DISCOVERED A NEWFOUND APPRECIATION FOR OUR HOUSES – AND THE SANCTUARY THEY OFFER US . IT ’ S NOW THAT WE GET TO GIVE OURSELVES A WELL-DESERVED CHANGE OF SCENE – WHILST STILL STAYING SAFE AT HOME – THROUGH THE WONDER OF CHRISTMAS DÉCOR ! WHETHER WE ’ RE ABLE TO SEE EXTENDED FAMILY AND FRIENDS , OR CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN SMALLER HOUSEHOLD GROUPS , WE CAN MAKE THINGS FEEL EXTRA-SPECIAL THROUGH A LITTLE TABLESCAPING .
NEPTUNE ’ S NATURAL WONDER
One of the themes of Neptune ’ s AW20 collections has been a natural , organic feel . Primarily through the seasonal colour , Olive , but also in the textures of wood , wool and linen of the new and updated collections .
Awaken the senses
Centrepieces don ’ t need to be huge to have impact , and actually stimulating the senses of touch and smell can be just as effective . A platter or tray with a collection of candles , a diffuser and pinecones gives a very natural – but still very festive – look , and you ’ ll really notice the scent as it is so different to what is usually in the house . Visually , items work well in odd numbers – three vessels ( such as Neptune ’ s Winterberry diffusers & candle ) look well-balanced , and in the evening will give a beautiful warm glow .
Dried fruit is synonymous with Christmas ( whether decorating a wreath or part of a delicious Christmas pudding !), so extending this from your larder into your décor will instantly increase the festive feel in your home . Cinnamon sticks and dried orange wheels are a beautiful combination – not just visually , but also in terms of their aroma . Filling a tall-sided glass bowl – such as our Piccadilly trifle bowl – with dried delights is so quick and easy to do !
These simple but effective displays would work equally well on a console or coffee table – so tablescaping doesn ’ t need to be limited to just the main dining table . Spread the festive feel throughout your home !
Forage for foliage
Something that so many of us have done this year is embrace the countryside where we live . Local walks have become an important part of life , and noticing things we ’ d usually whizz past has made us appreciate what we have on our doorstep ! Although it can be more difficult to get out as much during the winter months , taking advantage of a dry December day can become part of the tradition of decorating your home for the season .
Pine cones , evergreen stems and holly are textural , and instantly inject the traditional reds and greens of Christmas into your home . Head out on a walk with a pair of secateurs and a basket , and see what you can find ! You don ’ t need to be a florist to turn these pieces into an award-winning display ; simply weave the holly between candlesticks , lay a fir stem across a platter , and gather pine cones into a bowl to bring the outdoors in . This is a perfect activity for the whole family – especially those little helpers who relish an activity in the run-up to the big day .
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