Writer Lara Piu
Photographers Rod Works, Norterra and Gilbert,
and Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market

[dropcap]I[/dropcap]f your holiday decor has lost its luster, home stylists Eileen Salmon, owner of Rod Works Norterra and Gilbert, and Lindsey Holt, co-founder of Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market, say it’s easy to spruce things up. Here’s how they do it.

1. The Look
Take a cue from the non-holiday decor trends, says Eileen. For example, right now there’s a newfound love of all things gold and silver, but make sure the holiday decor goes with the existing style of your home. If you have a farmhouse look, for example, go for a more rustic tree. “Your choice of Christmas decor should match what you have going on with your regular home decor,” advises Eileen.

2. Trays
Tiered trays are easily transformed
into a non-conventional Christmas centerpiece, says Eileen. Same with lanterns and flat trays. “I don’t know if a lot of people think to use them in their Christmas decor,” she says.

3. Quirky
“Don’t just use ornaments on your tree; think out of the box,” says Eileen. Signs, a clock, a grater and other everyday items add a touch of originality to a tree. “Last year, our tree had a huge fork and spoon in it.”

4. Handmade Signs
Signs that say “Cut Your Own Tree,” “Believe” and “All is Calm” say it all. With basic wood frames, these handmade creations are trendy all year round, with different phrases based on the occasion.

5. Gnomes
A fun new way to liven things up with a sense of style and whimsy is by adding gnomes to your decor. “So many people love them — who knew!” says Eileen. “They have been flying out of the store.”

6. Crates
For a more vintage vibe, Lindsey incorporates old Coke crates to bring in the holiday colors. “Rusty bins with greenery also add a festive flair,” she says.

7. Grandma’s China
When it’s time to entertain, dust off grandma’s china. “Vintage holiday dishes and grandma’s gold flatware make even the most casual holiday dinner festive,” says Lindsey.

8. Mix it Up
Experiment with color combinations to bring depth and texture to a look. “Mixing wood tones and gold is a great way to add the holiday sparkle,” Lindsey says.

9. Skirt Style
Think outside the skirt for your tree base. “Don’t get stuck in a rut with the traditional holiday colors,” says Lindsey. “Neutral Christmas decor is just as pretty, and you are less likely to get sick of it. We love using large crates, baskets and galvanized bins for our Christmas trees.”

rodworks.com | junkinthetrunkvintagemarket.com