Real Living magazine editor Elle Lovelock certainly knows a thing or two about design and styling and to celebrate the launch of her magazine’s bumper Christmas issue here she shares her top decorating tips for the silly season.
Colour palette
“Pick a colour palette or a theme for your tree. You can either choose something that works with the rest of your home or something completely different to contrast. Should you prefer to change things up from season to season, go for impact with large baubles and thick garlands and tinsel – it’s a more cost effective way of filling a tree, rather than using many smaller ornaments,” says Elle.
Soft furnishings
“Extend your Christmas decorating to your soft furnishings. Swap out cushion covers and throws – and even bed linen – for festive variations on your sofa and beds,” says Elle.
Plants & foliage
“Bring a festive touch to greenery around the house. Wrap trees and larger pot plants with fairy lights, fill a vase with silvery green olive branches or eucalyptus and spray the tips with metallic spray paint. If you love a classic look, go for a beautiful red poinsettia,” says Elle.
Dining table styling
“The dining table is the focal point of every celebration, so give yours some special attention. Start with the centrepiece. Flowers and foliage are always lovely to decorate with, but you could also fill bowls and vases with piles of baubles, tinsel, shells or fruit. The key to an attractive centrepiece is to create dimension. Use a mix of footed bowls and cake stands, or tall and short vases and candles to create height,” says Elle.
Continue your theme
“Carry your colour palette or theme through to your gift wrap. For example, if you have flowers on your table, attach a few to the tops of your presents. Or, use the same ribbon on your gifts to tie around napkins or as a garland in your tree,” says Elle.
Styling: Ashley Pratt | Photography: Maree Homer
Real Living’s annual Christmas issue is out now | Shaynna Blaze’s Christmas table styling guide
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