This country retreat in Quebec’s Eastern Townships is built for crowds. And that works just perfectly for this family of seven, who love to host Christmas for all their relatives. “It’s a great place to entertain. We often have 20-plus people over for the holidays, but it never feels tight,” says the happy hostess. That’s because of the home’s open-concept design: a large eat-in kitchen and multi-purpose living spaces, all made cozy with salvaged barn wood and creamy walls. At the centre of it all is a whimsical tree, dressed with decorations collected from travels abroad. “Last year, while in Austria, I bought five adorable ornaments that I couldn’t wait to put on our tree,” she says. After all the stockings are put away, the country home becomes a relaxing abode once more — at least until next year.
Arrange baubles of various sizes in a simple bowl to make a festive and elegant centrepiece.
Tie sprigs along the rails of your staircase to add outdoorsy accents to your home without going outside. Bonus: your guests will love the light scent of the earthly aroma.
Hanging a hand-crafted ornament to each chair adds a special touch to the dining table. Make seating arrangements easy by using pretty letter adornments.
Tree ornaments will never go out of style but they do need an update. Try making ornaments yourself; it makes for a great family activity and will bring back memories.
No more having to wait for the gravy bowl! Your guests will appreciate these colourful, miniature dipping pots while they eat, drink and reminisce.
The best way to unwind at the end of the day is snuggled with your loved ones on a comfy couch and a cup of hot cocoa.
Get this look: Cushions, throw, Homesense. Ribbons, Masterstroke Canada. Wrapping paper, cards, desk accessories, Pierre Belvédère. Lamp, bowl, table setting, Arthur Quentin. Silver balls, The Bay.
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