Monday 9 November 2009

T'is The Season










It's usually around early to mid November each year that I start to get my thinking cap on with regards to my plans and ideas for Christmas. All the inspiring Christmas ideas are out in the Magazines by this time each year and most stores have their Christmas decorations up and the season is in full swing.

My planning for this year's Christmas started over the weekend with my purchase of the December issue of Inside Out magazine whose Christmas spread each year is one of my absolute favourites. Not only did I scour through this year's issue, I pulled out issues from previous years which were so beautiful and thought provoking!!

One thing I read in the December 2008 issue which I absolutely loved was a quote by Stylist Lynsey Fryers;


"Don't be put off by thinking you must do things in a certain way, because Christmas is so personal."


I for one am a person who does do Christmas a little more on the abstract side when it comes to the colours/patterns/papers/decorations I use. I tend to love a touch of pink, yellow, lime green, aqua and orange. I find that even though these colours aren't really traditional Christmas colours, to me they are festive and bright and happy.

Over the weekend I went back through the photos of what I created last year to get myself motivated. Harry and I also cooked up a batch of star shaped short bread as a practice run for the 14 batches we will be cooking the week of Christmas to give to our family & friends.

So, in the coming weeks I thought I would talk and post all things Christmas. From entertaining ideas, gift wrapping ideas, decorations and gifts. I hope in some way I can inspire you to create something wonderful of your own this Christmas. Let's join together and celebrate the spirit of this wonderful season!!

xo
Anna


Image 1 - wreath by Saskia Havekes of Grandiflora, Image 2 - Lynsey Fryers home & quote via Inside Out magazine December 2008, Image 3 - Cover of Inside Out December 2009 Christmas issue, Image 4 - My 2008 Christmas Tree creation.

21 comments:

Simply Mel {Reverie} said...

I love this idea! And truly hope one of the posts will be sharing the cookie recipe mentioned above! :)

Unknown said...

I love the idea of using a touch of yellow, lime green or orange in Christmas decoration.
I am looking forward to reading your next post and get some inspiration on gift wrapping and entertaining ideas. I would be nice to get advice from the designer herself! Thank you so much for sharing!

Janell @ House of Fifty said...

I do believe that is the most stunning wreath I have ever seen.
Janell

material girl said...

yay! what a great idea Anna, I've been thinking Christmas too. I baked practice coconut macaroons on the weekend (partner didn't help but he ate lots!) Also congratulations on the shop and post on decor8, looks amazing!

Sharon said...

Does this mean you'll be starting Christmas Decor over at Black and Spiro? Can't wait to see the amazing thins you come up with:)

Brooke said...

Anna, I am so glad to see everyone starting to get into the swing of Christmas. I love Christmas and it can never come soon enough as far as I am concerned. I bought a Christmas CD last week and spent the weekend listening to carols... a bit early I know but what better inspiration to get you in Christmas spirit!

Marina Mott said...

Anna: hello from Brazil. I just love your blog and your ideas! I'll be back over and over...

Travessuras da TĂȘ said...

Hello .....

Your blog is beuatiful !!!!
I loved !!!!!
Forgive me for the english....
Give a Ned a big Kiss ........
Maria Tereza, from Brasil.
www.travessurasdate.blogspot.com.

Flotsam Friends said...

Can't wait to follow your blog! I too love Christmas. I adore this issue of Inside Out. How beautiful are all the angels throughout the magazine. I've included them in my blog. Px

Mahala said...

I am so envious of your design magazines in Australia! They look so beautiful, fresh and current! You have some amazing designers there, not the least of which is you!

Leah Mei said...

I have learned so much from this blog and I am so looking forward to reading during the holiday season for gift wrapping and decorating ideas.

Runspud said...

REally? Weeks of Christmas decorating---THANK YOU!! I'll be checking back often.

Ethel Edith said...

I love that wreath! I also can't wait for Christmas! I've been planning in my head for weeks what I'll be doing. I have a white Christmas tree that isn't very traditional, but it's beautiful & it makes me happy! It's my way of making Christmas unique to my home! Can't wait to see what you come up with!

pixelimpress said...

oh, good to hear someone else doing non-traditional colors. our tree ornaments are in shades of aqua/turquoise and orange. and in my stationery shop i had a really hard time designing holiday goods with red and green, therefore i didn't!pam

HAMPTON HOSTESS said...

I have been following your site for quite some time-great design aesthetic!
Love the wreath and thanks for the Christmas inspiration--I better shake a leg!
Recently began my own blog, Hampton Hostess hope you'll take a peak soon!

Unknown said...

This sounds wonderful!
Enjoy the season as it comes along!

XX
Victoria

Kathysue said...

I love the use of bright and unusual colors at Christmas and you of all people will do a fabulous job. I use pink and red in my green and white striped breakfast room. Fun and cheerful. I also use black and white striped wrapping paper as my signature wrap with bows of pink, red, lime and even a little leopard thrown in.Just talking about it makes me excited. Looking forward to more of your post. Kathysue

Mariam Badidu said...

love the last picture!

Karena said...

Anna, I love the third wreath. Fun to see the cultural differences. very unique.

Anna White said...

what a beautiful variety of xmas wreaths..thanks so much for sharing Anna..I really enjoy viewing your blog.

many thanks,
Anna

MaroDe said...

I love the idea of personal expression. This year I fell changing things too, and you inspired me.