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that is always fun for the holidays as well.” One of Lauren’s favorite ways to add a special touch to holiday decor is through the use of fresh greenery, “There is nothing more beautiful than a fresh wreath or hand made garland.” Since live greenery will not last forever, it’s important to plan your decorating around any events you might be hosting. “Your greenery will not last more than a couple of weeks if your heater is running in the home. The only trick to making it last longer is to keep your heater off — which usually can’t happen in late De- cember. I don’t mind greenery turning brown as long as it isn’t shedding everywhere.” Since so many holiday festivities re- volve around having a meal together, do not neglect the dining room table when decorating. “Tables need to be inviting,” Lauren re- minds us. “Whatever the look, decorations should run down the table or fill the center of a round table. Mix textures and sizes for interest. For example, if I use magnolia branches, I like to add a different shape and texture like a round metallic ornament. Fresh flowers in a few vases add yet another texture and color. Chargers, napkins and beautiful place settings will complete your tablescape.” If you don’t have the time, budget or energy for extensive holiday decorating, Lauren suggests focusing on the mantle and tree which, for her, are the most important elements to holiday decorating. “If you can’t get a tree, and you have a mantle, you can always cut greenery and put strands of Christmas lights in it — the more lights the better.” Lights are one of the most important elements in decorating for the holidays, “My favorite Christmas trees have a ton of lights worked into the trunk of the tree to the tip of the limb.” Once the tree is beautifully lit you will need to add the finishing touches, “Personal, handmade ornaments are so sweet and a great conversation starter. If you like a theme tree, you can add ribbon and a tree skirt to match whatever ornaments you choose.” No matter your decorating style — minimalist or all-out — the details matter. “If you add Christmas lights, cut off all of the tags and hide the cords. If you add ribbon, cut the ends so the don’t look frayed.” “Remember,” Lauren adds, “it’s in your house so pick whatever brings a smile to your face and gets you in the Christmas spirit!” Lauren Ladner is a local floral designer. Follow her on Instagram @laurenladnerdesign and find her on Facebook at Lauren Lad- ner-Floral Designer. n Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020 23 ....................................................................................................................................................................