insideKENT Magazine Issue 93 - December 2019 | Page 144

INTERIORS SETTING THE SCENE CREATE A COSY AND INVITING HOME THIS CHRISTMAS, PERFECT FOR WELCOMING A MULTITUDE OF FESTIVE VISITORS AND STAYING SEASONAL GUESTS. Ahh Christmas, the time for giving, time together and most importantly time at home. It is also the time for hosting a variety of guests; be it neighbours delivering cards, regular friends for pre-Christmas drinks or family not seen since last year descending en-masse for this year’s festivities; the season is full of hosting. From drop in visitors to make-your-self-at-home guests, here are some top tips for creating a cosy, inviting Christmas haven, that extends a warm welcome and an opulent Christmas atmosphere throughout your home. The statement welcome A Christmas wreath is your first demonstration of Christmas, seen by visitors and guests (and the myriad of delivery people!) before they have even crossed the threshold. Wreaths have been a decorative sign of Christmas for hundreds and hundreds of years. Its circular shape represents eternity; the never-ending circle of life, and is also meant to demonstrate growth, and bring warmth into the home and into the heart of its guests. Whether you find the perfect shop-bought option, or get creative making your own at home, or at one of the many inspiring wreath-making events across the county, let your wreath be the first sign of Christmas welcome, and of your festive spirit. Neptune Eucalyptus Wreath, £75, www.neptune.com/canterbury A comfortable start There is nothing more welcoming than feeling as if you are in a home away from home. Create your own ‘mi casa es su casa’ by greeting guests with cosy slippers on arrival. Not only doing away with the clunky winter boots in the house awkwardness, but also instantly allowing guests to relax into your home. What’s even better is choosing a special pair such as one from Ugg’s selection of cult loved slippers. Ideal for yourself or someone special, the new W Scuffette II Cosmos in Quartz, Silver and Black are decked out with chunky glitter for a sparkly statement. The luxury must-have house slipper also features a luxurious plush sheepskin lining, and creates a thoughtful, alternative open-on-arrival present for your guests. Ugg W Scuffette II Cosmos in Quartz, £175, & Ugg M Scuff Slipper in Chestnut, £80, www.ugg.com/uk Make it a cracker! The best scene-setting at Christmas has to be the Christmas dining table. Adjourned with must-have tableware, set off with beautiful glassware, colour coordinated to your decor theme and, of course, heaving with a lovinging made and taste-bud tempting feast. But don’t forget to choose a show- stopping cracker too. Discover some of the best Christmas crackers courtesy of Nancy & Betty Studio. The crackers are eco friendly - they’re recyclable and contain plastic free gifts, beautifully designed and are sure to add the perfect wow factor for your guests! And best of all? They are all handmade right here in Kent! Brussel Sprout Luxury Crackers, £35, www.nancyandbetty.com 144 The cosy haven Nothing screams cosy comfort more than a warm, soft, blanket-style throw. Whether used as decor piece on a sofa, chair or bed; or as a blanket to cocoon resting guests; it is the perfect choice to encourage rest and relaxation, and up your interior style game this Christmas. The Neptune Eira Winter Throw, is a traditional Welsh blanket. Made with British wool, with a thicker and hardier t exture, its palette of muted greys and creams can be used all winter long. Eira Winter Throw in Grey, £200, www.neptune.com/canterbury