Holiday entertaining dos and don'ts
DO use evergreens abundantly. Besides the traditional touches (wreaths on doors, and garlands on banisters), encircle a painting, frame a window, embellish a chandelier or enrich a tabletop display. Double the impact by placing greens over mirrors.
DO warm up interiors with cosy layers. A vibrant throw or patterned pillow cheers up a room. Enhance the hearth with a wicker or leather basket filled with fire-lighting essentials like long matchsticks, kindling and newspaper.
DO surprise guests with personal touches. Display a printed menu or handwritten place card holders.
DO camouflage an ordinary tree stand. A cosy plaid blanket, a luxurious length of fabric in velvet, taffeta or satin, or even a fashionable shawl will do the job.
DON'T discount a party rental service. Rather than squeezing guests into the dining room, why not rent folding chairs and tables and place them in the living room? Rental services can also provide dishes, flatware, stemware and serving platters. What's more, rented dishes and tablecloths can be returned without cleaning.
DON'T refuse help. Let those closest to you contribute to the day's success by providing food, drinks and flowers.
Read more in Decorating & Design and Design Lesson
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