A Timeless Christmas with Coastal Accents

About mid-September, I find myself thinking that I have Christmas all figured out. And, in my head, I really do. But then, when November hits and I start pulling out all of our decorations, inspiration strikes again. Because, when it comes to the holidays, mostly old always wins out. Of course, sprinkling in some new is always a must too. That is exactly how it all played out this year for our Timeless Christmas with Coastal Accents.

We visited Hilton Head in South Carolina over the holiday break. We had a wonderful time and were so impressed with all of the holiday decorations. I didn’t think it could feel like Christmas without a dusting of snow. But actually… it felt pretty magical even without the white stuff. But back to the holiday house tour…

The Dining Room: A Coastal Christmas

Let’s start in the dining room, since this is the spot that saw the most coastal inspiration. Blues and reds are mixed together to give that coastal feel while the velvet ribbon keeps things cozy. The silver chargers and metallic ornaments jazz the place up a bit. Blue striped plates and a red striped table runner are a nod to the coast. The white tree shaped candles alternating with the cranberry taper candles add nice interest. Nothing says fancy quite like draped garland and 007 with a cocktail. (Just outside the dining room, red striped ribbon bows help keep a faux cedar garland in line.)

The Kitchen: A European Christmas

I am so happy with the new additions in the kitchen. The white paper mache houses remind me of a trip our families took to Marbella, Spain, over the Christmas holiday. We drove up through the white villages on the hills. I still remember eating lunch on one of the hills with Norah Jones playing in the background. My grandmother’s Danish plates are back where they belong. The swan toothpick holder highlights the swans in one of the Christmas scenes. The hanging paper snowflakes add to the whimsy of it all. A bell garland is held in place on the hood by thumbtacks and adds just the right amount of holiday spirit. The wreath is often placed over the window. A green striped bow that matches the one on the largest white house ties it all together.

The Living Room: A Timeless Christmas

Admittedly, this is the room with the least (if any) coastal influence. (Maybeee the green striped wrapping paper?) Burgundy bows tie the living room to the dining room across the hallway and a paper snowflake garland and orange slice garland reference the kitchen styling. Per usual, this room contains the most timeless items. A cluster of bells, burgundy velvet ribbon, green garland, children’s photos, nativities, and glass ornaments always stand the test of time. A few Christmas pillows thrown into the mix are also a good idea. Our kids are too old for our large bin of children’s Christmas books but I pull out their favorites every year just as a reminder. (And also not-so-secretly hope that maybe they will read them to their younger cousins over the holiday.)