“Our home has always been decorated with beautiful red and green décor. Every year we usually have three trees that are about eight-to-ten feet high,” she said. “This year I’ll be lucky if I can find trees that are five feet high.”
A dearth of holiday décor lends itself to a minimalist theme and non-traditional colors, say some local designers. “If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the past year, it’s to simplify,” said Anne Walker of Anne Walker Design and Farm & Feast in Potomac, Maryland.
Begin with the entryway, which sets the tone for the entire house, said Sallie Lord of Grey Hunt Interiors in Chantilly. “Decorating the space at the front of your home starts and keeps the spirit flowing,” she said. “Pair whites, blacks and golds for a glamorous, yet modern look and feel. Who said Christmas can’t be chic?”
Even though they might be hard to find this year, “the Tannenbaum is still the star of the holiday show,” continued Lord. "A Christmas tree is the focal point of every living room during the holiday season,” she said. “You can achieve a sophisticated and elegant tree by wrapping it with delicate ribbon or gorgeous lights.”
From an elaborate dinner or simple lunch, hosting guests is often a part of seasonal festivities. A tablespace that incorporates natural elements can be both understated and elegant, advises Walker. “Whether candles are made from [materials like] reindeer antler and laser cut wood Christmas trees in soft shades of beige, the lack of embellishment allows each element to have a huge impact. Guests will want to linger in this peaceful, elegant space.”
“Make your table feel inviting by adding small touches of luxury like a velvet ribbon to serve as napkin rings,” added Lord. “Coziness should envelop the entire space. Have your guests feel right at home as soon as they sit down. They’ll be embracing the holiday spirit.”