In the Kitchen

Story & photos by Lisa Marie Blair

During the holiday season, the kitchen and dining room become the heart of the ho-hohome. Memory-making moments are spent there baking goodies, and gathering with loved ones, making these rooms the perfect places to spread holiday cheer. Just because kitchens are designed to be useful and practical, it doesn’t mean they can’t also be as festive as the rest of the home.

One of the easiest, on-trend holiday looks to incorporate in your kitchen or dining area is dried fruit slices. You can easily transition this decor from fall into winter, and beyond. First off, they’re easy to make as you simply cut oranges, lemons, and/or limes into thin slices, place them on a lined baking tray, and bake at 250 degrees for approximately 3 hours. These little slices are so easy to add to the décor you may already have. You can sprinkle or attach these into a variety of fresh or faux greenery, including your tablescape, or in a garland draped over your kitchen window. Dried fruit slices mixed with cinnamon sticks and pinecones can also be beautifully displayed in a bowl or a lantern. Clear vases and hobnail milk glass containers are timeless pieces. They’re handy when decorating because simply changing out the flowers or greenery is all you need to do to transition from one holiday to another. No one can ever go wrong with fresh flowers as a dining table or kitchen island centerpiece. During the holiday season, insert pinecones or tree ornaments into your floral display, bringing a sense of charm and elegance to the table. Try tucking candlesticks into fresh or faux greenery. Candlesticks abound in a multitude of colors and materials, making them easy to swap out for the current season or holiday. Red candlesticks at Christmas will pop and instantly bring holiday cheer to any dining setting.

It’s wonderful to be able to deck the halls (and dining areas) affordably without sacrificing style. Transitioning from one holiday to another by using a little imagination, being creative, and adding your personal touches, can save dollars and gain you gorgeous holiday decorations and ambiance.n