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HOME FOR ENTERTAINING WITH SOUTHERN STUDIO INTERIOR DESIGN PRESENTS

HOST + HOME

BRING ON THE HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES!

How can we already be approaching the end of 2025? What a year it has been—ﬁlled with ups and downs, challenges and opportunities, and countless beautiful moments shared with our community and friends.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to pause and reﬂect on what truly matters: family, friends, and the joy of gathering in laughter and cheer. In this issue, we’re sharing thoughtful (and simple!) strategies to help you embrace a season ﬁlled with joy—not exhaustion.

The Southern Studio team has curated tips to help you move through the holidays in style—from your kitchen to your guest room. You’ll also see some of our past projects dressed up for the season, each reﬂecting a unique take on holiday design. We hope you’ll be inspired to discover your own personal style and let it shine throughout your celebrations.

Our Home for Entertaining team is bringing you two festive styling features this issue: Crimson & Evergreen and Frost & Foliage. Each o ers a distinct approach to creating a memorable holiday atmosphere. If you’re hosting this season, don’t miss our guide for planning a fun and festive Game Night. And of course, no celebration is complete without delicious food—so we’re sharing some of our favorite recipes straight from the HFE kitchen!

Meanwhile, our Shop is in full holiday swing! We spend the entire year curating our seasonal collections, and it’s always a thrill when the mountains of boxes ﬁnally arrive. In this issue, our team is sharing their favorite ﬁnds of the season. We invite you to stop by, soak up the holiday spirit, and enjoy a latte or hot chocolate while we wrap your gi s with care.

Wishing you and yours a holiday season ﬁlled with warmth, laughter, and joyful moments to celebrate.

Warmly,

Vicky Serany

LET'S CONNECT

HOLIDAY TIPS FROM SOUTHERN STUDIO

Get Your Home

Holiday-Ready:

Simple Tips for a Festive Season

Every year, the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas can feel like a whirlwind of shopping, baking, and entertaining. But amidst the hustle, it’s important to pause and enjoy the moments with the people we love most. To help you make your home feel warm and welcoming—without adding stress—the Southern Studio team has gathered some of our favorite tips and tricks to get your space holiday-ready.

BED + BATH

Create cozy, inviting spaces for family and guests with a few thoughtful touches.

A simple vase of seasonal ﬂorals by the sink or bedside table instantly brightens the room. Add a touch of nature

Hang a small bundle of greenery tied with a ribbon above the mirror for an elegant, festive accent. Dress up the bathroom

Fresh soaps and lotions add a hint of luxury and comfort for everyone. Stock up on essentials

A bedside water carafe is a small gesture that makes overnight visitors feel right at home. Think of your guests

KITCHEN + DINING

The kitchen is the heart of holiday gatherings— make it sparkle with seasonal style.

Wreaths aren’t just for doors—try a window for a cheerful view. Reimagine the wreath

Add sparkle and color

Gather ornaments in a decorative simple, eye-catching centerpiece.

Whether you’re pulling out cherished mixing and matching your own collection, for a special occasion—use what Use your best tableware

Display festive fruit

A bowl of bright citrus or seasonal fragrance, and a touch of natural

doors—try hanging one on decorative bowl for a centerpiece. cherished family china or collection, don’t wait you love. seasonal pears adds color, natural beauty.

SPECIAL TOUCHES

Bring warmth and personality to every corner of your home with

Whether scene, (or continue) collecting you can Start A quick can turn magnolia statement Add

Start a collection

Whether it’s nutcrackers, a nativity scene, or handcra ed trees, begin continue) a tradition of collecting meaningful décor that can add to each year.

a little shimmer

Bring the outdoors in

Gather fresh greens from your yard—pine, magnolia, or cedar—for arrangements that look and smell like the season.

Send guests home smiling quick coat of gold spray paint turn even the simplest magnolia leaves into stunning statement décor.

When hosting, share a small parting gi —like a bag of seasoned nuts or a loaf of homemade bread—for a thoughtful “morning a er” treat.

This holiday season, embrace the beauty in small details and the joy of gathering. With just a few simple touches, your home can radiate warmth, comfort, and festive cheer for everyone who walks through the door.

SEASONAL STYLING

Crimson & Evergreen

Rooted in tradition yet glowing with modern charm, this holiday table captures the timeless beauty of red and green through a fresh, reﬁned

At the center, a shimmering forest Trees reﬂects the light in all directions, handblown silhouettes creating point that feels both ethereal and accents and polished crystal pieces candlelight, adding subtle sparkle glow of taper candles and winter result is a table that honors the season while embracing the ease contemporary entertaining.

forest of Simon Pearce directions, their creating a sculptural focal and enduring. Silver pieces catch the sparkle to the cozy winter greenery. The nostalgia of the ease of

Styling Notes:

Mix various sizes of Simon Pearce Trees down the center for height and texture, and intersperse taper candles for warmth and contrast. Shop the collection in-store or online using the links.

SEASONAL STYLING

Frost & Foliage

So hues and simple elegance deﬁne this cozy winter tablescape—perfect for a leisurely brunch or casual holiday gathering. A palette of warm whites, so blues, and muted greens creates an atmosphere that feels calm and collected, while subtle textures and organic touches bring warmth to the table. The look invites guests to slow down and savor the moment, whether over a plate of buttery croissants or a sparkling glass of champagne.

At the heart of the design, the Berry & Thread North Pole dinnerware sets the tone with its delicate woodland details and wintry charm. Layered with pieces from the classic Berry & Thread collection, the look balances whimsy with timeless sophistication. Fresh greenery and antler-inspired candleholders add an understated nod to the season, complemented by twisted green tapers that echo the subtle tones of the linens.

Styling Notes:

For an e ortlessly elegant winter brunch, start with a patterned table runner in so greens and blues, then layer coordinating

leisurely greens organic the champagne.

HOSTING GUIDE:

Holiday Game Night with Friends

There’s something undeniably special about winter evenings spent gathered around the table—cards in hand, laughter spilling over the sound of shu ing decks, and the simple joy of being together. Game night has a way of slowing time, inviting us to trade screens for shared stories, friendly competition, and a little sparkle of nostalgia. Whether you’re piecing together a cheerful holiday puzzle, challenging your favorite rival in a round of Rummikub, or dealing a winning hand, these moments remind us that connection is the heart of every celebration.

THE FUN THE DÉCOR

Home for the Holidays

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1INZ0mFpCoNbISYVP7OiF5

La Redonda Cards https://homeforentertaining.com/products/la-redonda?_pos=1&_sid=65613b3e5&_ss

El Rumi Rummikube

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https://homeforentertaining.com/products/hampton-chiller?_pos=6&_sid=6b17836 &_ss=r

Simon Pearce Hampton Chiller

THE FOOD

https://homeforentertaining.com/products/berry-thread-north-pole-mug?_pos=2&_sid= 1adfda1&_ss=r

Juliska Berry + Thread North Pole Mug

https://homeforentertaining.com/products/berry-thread-north-pole-mug?_pos=2&_sid= 1adfda1&_ss=r Spiked Cider or Peppermint

Town Square Puzzle

https://homeforentertaining.com/products/town-square-1000-piece-puzzle?_pos=1&_sid=f8b905ad3&_ss=r

CHEF STEFANIE’S HASSELBACK MINI POTATOES + GARLIC AIOLI

GARLIC AIOLI

Ingredients:

¾ cup mayonnaise

2 tsp Dijon mustard

2 tbsp roasted garlic cloves

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp minced garlic

1 tsp smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a large baking

Place the potatos on a cutting board and slice 1/8 inch slices lengthwise across the potato, not quite going all the way through

Place all potatoes cut-side up in the greased baking dish and brush potatoes with butter/oil mixture. Make sure to coat between

In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture on the

Place the baking dish in the middle of the hot oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Use a spoon to coat the potatoes from time to time with the melted butter mixture from

A er they have cooked, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

½ tsp anchovy paste, optional

Few dashes of favorite hot sauce

2 tsp fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients into a food processor; process until smooth. Chill to serve

THE HOST'S TABLE: INDULGENT HOLIDAY TREATS

From slow, cozy mornings to candlelit evenings, these recipes bring e ortless comfort and holiday cheer to every moment of the day.

CHEF KIM’S BREAKFAST CREPES

1 cup ﬂour

1 cup skim milk –room temp

2 large eggs

2 tbsp melted butter

2 tbsp + 2 tsp molasses

1 tsp vanilla

1 tbsp cocoa

¼ cup sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp ginger

¼ tsp nutmeg

¼ tsp cloves

¼ tsp salt

Place all ingredients in the pitcherof a blender and blend until smooth.

Let the mixture rest for at least 30 minutes.

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat. When the pan is heated, pour ¼ cup of the batter in the center of the pan. Pick up the pan and tilt it so the batter swirls around to cover in a thin layer.

Place back on heat and let it sit until the edges begin to dry and slightly pull away from the pan.

Slide a thin spatula under the crepe and ﬂip over. Let it cook for about 15 seconds and then slide out onto a parchment lined baking sheet.

Repeat until all the batter is used.

JACKIE’S “SANTA’S TRASH COOKIES”

Ingredients:

2 ¼ cups all-purpose ﬂour

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp kosher salt

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp Cranberry sauce

2 oz gin

2 oz Cointreau

2 cups club soda

Fresh rosemary

Instructions:

1 large egg

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup crushed potato chips (I like Ru es)

1 cup crushed pretzels (I like snaps or shapes)

1 cup M&M’s

1 cup sprinkles

Combine cranberry sauce, gin, Cointreau, and ice into a cocktail shaker

Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds

Fill 2 cocktail glasses with ice

Pour cranberry mixture over ice

Fill the rest of the glass with club soda

Garnish with fresh rosemary and cranberries

Sugared rim optional

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper

In a medium bowl si together ﬂour, baking soda, and salt

In a large bowl using a mixer, beat butter and sugars until light and ﬂu y

Add egg and vanilla and mix until incorporated

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined

Gently fold in ¾ c of potato chips, pretzels, M&M’s, and sprinkles

Using a medium cookie scoop, scoop balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 3 inches apart

Gently press down dough to slightly ﬂatten, then top with additional mix-in ingredients

Bake approximately 14 minutes, or until edges are turning golden and center is almost set

CRANBERRY FIZ COCKTAIL

GIFT GUIDE

There’s something extra special about giving a gi you truly love. This season, our team is sharing the pieces we can’t wait to wrap and give—treasures that tell a story, spark joy, and make the holidays feel a little more personal. From heirloom-worthy keepsakes to playful festive ﬁnds, each pick is chosen with love and meant to inspire thoughtful giving from our home to yours.

https://homeforentertaining.com/products/claude-dozorme-box-of-4-laguiole-knives?_pos=1&_sid=b21f177f3&_ss=r

4 LAGUIOLE KNIVES

I always look for gi s that feel both practical and meaningful. These knives check every box—they’re beautifully made, feel special, and make any dinner feel like an occasion.

- Vic��

ACRYLIC NUTCRACKER https://homeforentertaining.com/products/acrylic-nutcrackers?_pos=9&_sid=d9523a960&_ss=r

These nutcrackers make me smile every time I see them! They’re the perfect gi for my sister or girlfriends—something fun, unexpected, and instantly festive without being over the top.

- Kay��

https://homeforentertaining.com/products/ﬁvesidedevergreen?_pos=2&_sid=b8d188069&_ss=r

SIMON PEARCE FIVE-SIDED EVERGREEN

I love how this ﬁve-sided evergreen tree makes such a beautiful statement anywhere you place it—on a dining table, bookshelf, or mantel. It’s one of those pieces that feels festive during the holidays yet timeless enough to enjoy all winter long.

- Pa��g��

CHRISTMAS TREE COOKIE JAR

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I’m gi ing this cookie jar because it’s more than just a beautiful piece—it holds the sweet memories we build together every holiday. I love imagining it ﬁlled with treats we share with family and friends, becoming part of both tradition and celebration,

- Kri��n

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GOURMET PUZZLE - NEW YORK

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I’m so excited to gi my best friend in New York the Gourmet New York Puzzle this Christmas. It’s such a thoughtful twist on a classic gi —the illustrated map features so many places we’ve explored together around the city! There’s something so special about reliving those memories piece by piece.

- Jac��

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ADDISON ROSS WHITE + GOLD ENAMEL STUDIO FRAME

I’m excited to gi this frame along with a photo of my mom and me on my wedding day. It’s such a meaningful way to celebrate that moment and give her something she can treasure for years to come.

- Meg��

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OUR HOLIDAYS BOOK

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I’m gi ing this holiday memory book to my sister as she prepares to marry the love of her life this spring. As she begins this beautiful new chapter, I wanted to give her something that encourages quiet reﬂection and captures the warmth of holiday moments as they unfold over the years.

- He��t��

ARTS AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT

https://www.dallasmarketcenter.com/artsawards/

The ARTS Awards is the premier awards program in the home and design industry, celebrating innovation, creativity, and outstanding achievement. Recognized as the highest honor in the ﬁeld, the ARTS Awards spotlight top manufacturers, retailers, designers, and sales representatives from across North America who continually elevate and redeﬁne the standards of home décor.

This makes it an incredible honor to announce that Home for Entertaining has been selected as a finalist in the home accents retail category. To be recognized among the top retailers in our industry is both humbling and deeply meaningful, reflecting the heart, hospitality, and creativity that shape every corner of our shop. From the moment guests walk through our door in Downtown Cary, our mission has always been clear: to make retail feel like stepping into a beautifully lived-in home. With thoughtfully styled vignettes, heirloom-quality tabletop collections, immersive workshops, and an atmosphere rooted in Southern hospitality, we’ve created a space where guests are not just shoppers, but welcomed friends. This nomination celebrates the countless moments of connection, inspiration, and community that fill our home each day.