The Cottage Journal Christmas 2017

Warm greetings to you as we welcome the Christmas season! ’Tis the time to give gifts and spread joy to others. We have assembled an issue that we think will make your days merry, and also provide you with holiday decorating ideas for your home. “Tidewater Traditions,” on page 47, shares a view of the Chesapeake Bay for a charitable cause with a seasonal home tour. Decorated with nautical touches, the homeowners say, “It was a great way to give back while enjoying one of our favorite holidays.” In “Country Christmas,” page 37, a modern farmhouse becomes a hub of activity once the annual Christmas parade is celebrated in Middleburg, Virginia. The homeowners foraged dried hydrangeas and magnolia seedpods from their property to trim the tree, making memories for their…

SEASON OF RED For a contemporary twist on a Christmas classic, deck your evergreen in a coat of solid red. Add ribbons and bows of varying widths, patterns, and textures, then fill in the gaps with berries, balls, and ornaments of your choosing—all in a palette of red. The result is a striking statement that sings with Christmas charm. SERENE NEUTRALS For an understated yet elegant approach to the season, a selection of white string lights and neutral hues give an air of sophistication. Soft metallics and cream-colored ornamenation can easily blend with most cottage décor while creating a festive holiday focal point. GOING GREEN Don’t forget the table! A holiday tabletop doesn’t have to be laden with Santas and snow. With a handful of fresh or faux greenery, pinecones,…

Most families have a special treasure box of magical ornaments resting in the basement or attic, waiting for Christmas to arrive. Once opened, the baubles inside will be used to decorate a beautiful holiday tree from top to bottom. Some ornaments may be childhood projects from school days while others may be shiny store-bought gifts from loved ones. No matter the source, each ornament represents a holiday memory. Vintage ornament collectors Jim and Donna Cox were particularly drawn to the German pieces, especially those crafted before World War II. “It’s brought great joy to us,” says Donna, who notes that they collect festive examples from other countries as well. But it was the German glassmakers of the mid-19th century who were the first to create glass balls that were meant…

The holiday season begins in the fall and ends with the promise of a new year. With multiple months of celebrations, you don’t have to break the bank to create a home that feels reflective of the seaon. With a little scoop of creativity, you can easily transition your autumn wares to Christmas delights. Check out these quick tips to help ease the stress as you prepare your home for the holidays. One thing I like to keep in mind is that if you are building new traditions or pulling old collections from the attic, remember that tradition is a choice, so choose how you really want to celebrate. Add to or edit existing traditions to fit your time and budget. Use festive elements that transition from one celebration…

In Connecticut, the spirit of Christmas runs deep through each of the state’s towns and villages. In 1845, Connecticut declared Christmas a legal holiday, and ever since, when the wintery season fast approaches, Connecticut “Nutmeggers” begin preparing for their favorite season. Photographer Caryn B. Davis brings readers on a magical Christmas journey through the streets and homes of Connecticut in her book, A Connecticut Christmas (Globe Pequot Press, 2017). This gorgeous hardbound book takes readers across the state to show off Connecticut’s uniquely charming Christmas traditions. Readers will become mesmerized by the New England style and holiday stories within. Whether you are attracted to holiday homes, events, dining, or light shows, this book will give you the full insider’s guide and more. Explore the Mark Twain House with its late…

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