Winter wonderland | Christmas 2019
“I’mmmm dreaminggg of a wwwhite Christmas” was the song going through my head when planning out this years holiday color scheme! I wanted the feeling of snow everywhere- a true winter wonderland ❄️
One of the very first items I purchased this year was the “Fa La La” banner from Pottery Barn Kids. I’m so in love with the font, the sparkly finish, and how much of an impact it makes. From there, I started filling in with greenery and other white decor items. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options at Michaels and Hobby Lobby (trust me, I know) but it’s important to only purchase pieces that fit within your chosen color scheme to pull off a cohesive look throughout your decorating.
It’s all in the details! Beside decor, you’ll want to keep additional items like your gift wrapping within the same colors as well- this will take your holiday decorating over the top!
We were due for a new Christmas tree this year (I made a $40 one from Target work for six years, so I think I deserve an upgrade 😉 I’ve never had a flocked tree before, but I knew I just had to have one to complete my vision! I searched high and low, looking for that perfect mix of good quality for a great price. I ended up finding this beauty at Walmart! I’m super happy with the fullness of the branches and how realistic it looks. Oh, and it’s pre-lit! This was huge for me as my previous tree was not and I’ve spent about two hours each year just putting the lights on! I’m very happy that those days are over. 😄
Spread the cheer! I like to inject Christmas spirit into every inch of my house and love to include areas that people may not think about decorating. My bar cart is one of my absolute favorite things to style so I had to include it in the festivities. Think about a shelf or nook in your home that could use a little holiday spirit and keep that theme going!
Don’t forget the snacks! Cookies are never a bad idea for a holiday treat, but I wanted to change it up a little this year and try something new- Christmas cupcakes! These little babies are gingerbread cupcakes with cinnamon cream cheese frosting…my mouth is watering just typing that out!! I bought some brown fondant from Michaels and pressed out little gingerbread men as cute toppers. Served with milk and all ready for Santa 😊
I hope you enjoyed this little tour of how I decked my halls with an all white Christmas this year and feel inspired by at least one of these ideas. I’m off to sip some cocoa next to a crackling fire with my family. Wishing you all a very merry Christmas!
Introduction
It all begins with an idea.
Do you remember in high school when it seemed like all everyone ever asked you was want you wanted to do with your life? Like you were supposed to have it all figured out by Junior year?! Most people had no clue what their calling was. But I was lucky enough to find my passion in life at the age of only 17! A passion that is still very alive today- I love all things decor, events, celebrations, cake, champagne, confetti...I think you get the picture ;)
The beginning
It all started when I took on my first job of working at a snack shack by the pool of a local country club in Milwaukee, Wi. I served up French fries and milkshakes via white sneakers and a black apron- nothing glamorous. By the time fall came, I was working inside, waiting on tables for dinner service and large events. The club hosted a ton of weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, and bridal showers. This is where I really shined. I looooved setting up the tables, the linens, the flowers, making sure the silverware was perfectly straight (if it isn't obvious by now, I'm completely type A 😆) and making sure the event looked as perfect as possible. I remember my coworkers actually making fun of me for taking extra time (sometimes into my lunch break) to put out 20 more votive candles. I treated every party as if it was my own.
Getting to Chicago
That desire to perfect every little detail made me realize that I might just be cut out for a life of an event planner. So I just ran with it... I looked up colleges with great hospitality programs and stumbled upon DePaul University in Chicago, IL. I remember the thought of living in such a big city terrified me (I was convinced I'd never learn the train system), but the school just seemed to be the perfect fit and I had to go for it!
Needless to say, I made the right decision. Taking classes for something I already loved, by professors who had just as much passion but also years of experience in the field was amazing! It completely confirmed the career path I was headed down.
Since moving to Chicago, I have met the most amazing people, worked my way up from a steakhouse hostess to a Director of Events for multiple venues, became "mom" to the cutest mini Australian Shepherd, purchased a condo, found a passion for home decor, and also met the love of my life (we're getting married next August, ahhh!!!).
What's Next
Things are looking a little different at the moment as I am not currently working out in the hospitality field. I'm still organizing small events, but mostly taking this time to plan my wedding, and (if I'm being honest), give this blogging thing a shot! Between my years of experience and my love for what I do, I'm hoping to create a space that will inspire you! Here's a snippet of what you can expect to see:
Party set ups & decor inspiration
At-home hosting ideas
Food & drink recipes
Decorating for the holidays
DIY's & a lot more!
If you are still reading this, WOW thank you! I hope you stick around to follow in my journey!!
