Pheasant feathers, magnolia and grape vine sticks add interest to the chandelier.
A holiday basket filled with Sago Palm, holly, magnolia and lemon welcomes guests at the front door.
“Absolutely anyone can do this,” says Anne Jolley. “All it takes is a little time and patience, but it is well worth a bit of foraging to bring the beauty of nature inside to share with friends and loved ones.” Once you’ve gathered the elements, trim and prep the branches, freeing the stems of growth before placing in the oasis or other structure. Carefully inspect leaves for blemishes and dirt. Leaves can be wiped with a damp cloth or polished with special products available at craft stores. After choosing the venues you wish to decorate around your home, get your creativity on and start building your arrangements. “Many people have a tendency to not put enough fullness in their arrangements. The container should look lush with no bare spots,” says Anne Jolley. Remember mirrors can be a focal point. Wired together pine cuttings, smilax, pyracantha and willow branches frame the mirror in a festive drape of greenery and berries. For dining tables, arrangements should be kept low so as not to obstruct conversation among diners.
Molly Thornal, Ginger Proctor and Nella Schomburger enjoy a festive glass of champagne with their cookies. t a l l a h a s s e e wo m a n
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