Simplifying Christmas Decor

I've been into simplifying decorations lately and ditching some of the high maintenance "traditions" I've had in the past.  For example, for the last few years I've had to polish my silver plated stocking holders before putting them up.  They would tarnish after being stored in a box all year and really needed to be cleaned up before being displayed but it took forever to clean them.  Last year, I was just over it.  There are so many other things I would rather spend time doing... like baking Christmas cookies, spending time with family or even sleeping.  I sold them on ebay.

Now don't get me wrong, I love a well decorated house for the holidays but it shouldn't take weeks to put up and weeks to take down.  My motto this year is to continue the things that have the most impact and that I enjoy doing.  With that said, I thought it would be fun to share two of my quick and easy decorating ideas.


Chandelier Decor
I'm sure you've seen napkin rings like this in craft stores.  Did you know they fit perfectly over chandelier candles?  Inexpensive AND festive.  You can't beat it.

Mantel Decor

Now don't laugh... these stocking holders DON'T require polishing which is why they are up!  Besides our tree, the mantel is probably the second thing people notice when they come to our home.  To achieve this look, all you need is:

• strand of holiday garland
• 30 bulb strand of white lights
• Pottery Barn Pepperberry garland (or other clear, glass looking garland)
• stocking holders
• stockings
• candy canes 
• cling on snowflakes (check party supply stores)

Happy Christmas decorating!  :)