The holidays are a very special time of year, and one thing I love to do during this season (other than eat) is decorate!  I try to keep it simple, using lush greenery and natural decor to make each room look cozy and inviting.  By using wreaths, evergreen garlands, and pretty white flowers, your home will be on its way to looking festive and ready for entertaining!

This year I’m switching things up a little, starting with a flocked tree.  Did you know that when a live tree is flocked, it becomes preserved and no longer needs water?  And it’s surprisingly light, which is exactly why I came home with one after assuring everyone I was just going to look.  Adding a couple of decorations each year gives new life to our years of acquired ornaments and heirlooms.  Since my favorite stores are ALL HAVING SALES, now is the perfect time to purchase.  Here are 5 simple ways to get your house holiday ready.

#1 wreaths, holiday greens and flowers

Wreaths, holiday greens and flowers like paper whites and amaryllis are the perfect starting point to holiday decorating. I often use pine, cedar and spruce garland for the mantles and around the front door. (spritz daily with water to keep them from drying out.)  Use wire to weave in limes and other fruit, or flowers, a few days before throwing a party. Wreaths are also a simple touch that can be placed anywhere.  Last year I hung one in our bedroom, and a few others in unexpected places.  And lastly Kalanchoe’s are my favorite white flower, and I keep them in pots all around the house, all year long.  They’re one of the only potted flowers that can survive my lack of watering!

#2 table settings

Mix and match different plates and glassware depending on the season.  (I secretly have a plate obsession!!)  This year I’m adding this classic blue and white pattern by Mottahedeh, which I recently discovered is sold here. Add a sprig of rosemary or Christmas greens and you instantly have a festive table.  Here is what l will be using this year, along with a few things from my wishlist!

#3 cozy pillows and throws

Fluffy pillows and cozy throws are probably the easiest way to freshen up a room.  I love finding designer pillows on Etsy — one of my favorite resources is Spark Modern.  I decided this year to add these navy linen pillows to my living room.  These throws are so reasonably priced, and are perfect for cozying up on cool mornings with a cup of coffee.

#4 Candles, candles and more candles!

From votives to your favorite seasonals, there is something about beautiful candles that makes a house feel warm and luxurious.  These limited edition holiday sets make the perfect hostess gifts!  My personal picks are the cult favorite Le Labo Santal 26 candles, which I wrote about here, or the French Diptyque Baies.  And lastly don’t forget this candle wick trimmer.  I thought it was a gimmick until I tried this one myself!! 

5. Setting up a proper bar

This is the key to gracious entertaining.  In Ina Garten’s new cookbook, she recommends setting up a self service bar.  I learned a few great tips, including arranging glasses in a triangle, and having one cocktail, pre-made in a pitcher. I have had my eye on this Serena & lily rattan bar cart for the last year, and it would be the perfect addition to display a fully stocked bar!