Creating an enchanted holiday dinner for guests

This photo is from Veranda Magazine

Enchanted Entertaining 

By Linda Smith Davis

The guests have arrived, and as they cross the threshold they are greeted by the soft, sweet sound of holiday music and the beauty of the seasonal decoration.  The family evergreen, recently adorned with treasures from holidays past, fills the room with a calming scent that brings back wonderful memories.  As guests make their way down the hall to see the holiday table, they are awestruck my what they see.  

At each seat are small gifts wrapped in silver and gold which contain a gleaming keepsake ornament, napkins have been folded and adorned with ribbons and bells.   The wax dripping from the flickering flame of white candles creates lace patterns as it trickles down the side, and the fresh flowers of the centerpiece add another incredible scent to the room. Visitors feel like children again as they wonder what is inside the little packages.  Better yet, they feel the warmth of knowing that you took the time to welcome each and every one of them into your home.  Little do they know that you were able to achieve this look with just a few stolen moments, and while you were relaxing.    Read More....

A Few Christmas Decorating Ideas From New England Fine Living.

A Few Decorating Tips From New England Fine Living

Strapped for time and you need some quick Christmas decorating ideas?  Have the time, but you want a few fun ideas?  Here are a few tips I have used myself that would make an elf proud!

Tie beautiful french ribbons around pillows to make them look like Christmas packages.

Tie candy canes around a short vase and fill with greenery and red berries or more candy canes.

Make luminaries out of paper bags, sand, and votives then line your front stairs for holiday guests

Tie red ribbons the ends of pine cones, spread peanut butter on them, then roll in bird seed, hang them outside for  the birds to enjoy.

Place a large candle in an empty half gallon milk carton (you might need to tape it in), fill the carton with water (do not cover your candle) and cranberries... freeze... and use outside as luminaries or in your holiday buffet.

Using a large decorative bowl, fill with beautiful red apples and glass ornaments for a quick holiday display.

Tuck fresh greens into artificial greens to add volume, scent, and beauty.  Add baubles, ornaments, berries, and miniature wrapped boxes for a festive holiday garland or wreath.

Let children freeze water and food coloring in small or medium sized paper and wax drinking cups... add festive ribbon to the top.... freeze... then remove them from the cups and hang outside on trees for temporary ornaments.

Make a snowman kit.  Gather with the children items for the face and buttons, clothes, and a hat.  Put aside some hot cocoa and wait for the weather man to promise a beautiful snow fall.

Christmas Decorating By New England Fine Living

Here is a little video of some Christmas decorating that has been done over the years by New England Fine Living.  Enjoy and I hope it inspires you for your holiday decorating.

The Lazy Christmas Decorator

Lazy?  I think not!  I think these neighbors have got the right idea!  LOL  

 This poor holiday elf gave up just a little too soon.

Napkin Folding With A Twist (No Pun Intended)

Recently, for an open house at my studio, I showed a few different napkin folding techniques.  Below are a few photos. I am slowly working on adding the directions to my web site, but thought I would start here first.

Table Display and Setting By New England Fine Living's Design Studio
 Custom Napkin By The Write Expression - Middleton, Located In New England Fine Living's Building

A Cute Napkin Jacket.  You can slip a faux shirt inside, place cards, or a menu! 

These Napkin Roses are so easy to make!