So the Christmas tree has been dressed, the presents have been wrapped and we’re less than a week away from the big day. For me, Christmas is always more than just one day. It’s all the planning and prepping that goes on before, seeing the twinkling lights in town, the shoppers bustling, ordering festive mochas and putting an extra log on the fire. In fact, I would probably say I enjoy the run-up to Christmas more than the day itself because its that excitement and anticipation that get me through the shorter, darker days of the month.
It’s also a time when I take a break from posting and from social media. I switch off for a few days, my inbox is quiet and I can actually get on with a few things I’ve been meaning to do behind-the-scenes but just never find the time for. There may be a few changes to the blog when you return and I’m also working on a brand new offering which I’m very excited about and hope you will be too.
I wanted to share the rest of my living room decorations with you before signing off. I have already shared how I styled my tree but the rest of the room has had a little lift as well for the season. As I think I’ve said before, I’ve been a little more low-key this year in terms of Christmas decorating.
I often go all out but this year, I just wanted something a little quieter, hinting at the season but not overpowering every room. I have found in years’ past that I felt suffocated by all the decor by the time the big day rolled around and so I wanted to create something just a bit less stressful!
I did manage to get two trees up (you can see the other one in my dining room here) but it was really only the mantle in the living room that I concentrated any effort. So I suppose I’m a maximalist trying to do a ‘minimal-ISH’ Christmas. Okay, it’s not minimalist at all but ya know, my version of low-key (which will likely be too much clutter for some but hey I like a bit of clutter, what can I say!) ;)
Most of this decor I’ve had for years. In fact, I think I purchased those faux fur stockings from Graham and Green at least 5 years ago, if not longer (this is similar)! Also, I realised I probably should have lit the candles for these pictures! The gold palm branches were purchased locally in Shrewsbury but I believe they are from Gisela Graham who make some beautiful Christmas decorations. Having a quick search, you can buy them here (affiliate).
The vintage shelving until just got a bit of a spruce. The white ceramic houses are a favourite that gets pulled out year after year alongside a tiny ‘forest’ of pink brush trees and a white and gold Santa figurine were added but little else has changed.
For the vintage white cabinet, I moved the orange Habitat lamp to this side of the room and added a light-up star and a small metallic Christmas tree.
I love how the mirrored tray reflect the light from the tea light votives and the star – simple but effective I think!
So as it’s the last post of the year, I just wanted to say a huge thank you to all of you who continue to visit me here on Swoon Worthy. 2019 was my 9th year as a blogger and I’m looking forward to a new decade – to think I will have had my blog for ten whole years is kind of mind-boggling but who knows where the next decade will take us?
I know I’m looking forward to sharing even more in 2020. I want to ensure you get the best out of the blog, that you find it entertaining and enjoyable but also informative and helpful in your own journey to creating a home you love. I’m hoping to use my break to create even more content that’s useful to you so stay tuned for that.
Of course, we also have plenty to get on with in our home, new projects both big and small and of course, I’ll be continuing to share all of that here with you. In the meantime, however it is you are celebrating or if you’re simply enjoying a bit of a break, I hope the rest of your year and the next brings you health, happiness and togetherness. Lots of love to you all and see you on the other side!
Well done, a lovely inspiring blog – you deserve a rest! Looking forward to more updates in the New Year.
Very best wishes, CHEERS!!!!
Oh thank you so much Anne! Happy New Year lovely! xxx
Your home looks just lovely! I have those little brush trees also – just love them!
I cannot wait to see what you have for us in 2020…let’s hope it is a great year for all of us, large and small, two-legged and four-legged, swimmers and flyers and that our world return to where we were just a few years ago – and for peace on our precious Earth!
Have a wonderful time and the happiest of holidays!
XO Susan (and treats to Quito!)
I share the same hope lovely! The happiest of holidays to you too and thank you so much for your support this year! xxx
Thank you Kimberley for all the great posts and well done on your award (you have not lost any edge & definitely relevant!!). After several years I still enjoy your blog & super photos and look forward to more in 2020. Happy Christmas in your lovely new home! Tx
Aww you are so sweet Tahira! Thank you so much for your lovely kind words and the happiest Christmas to you!! xx
Your home decor is just amazing. You have an eye for class with glamour like I’ve never seen before. I’m sure your John Lewis people are SO happy you chose them to do your remodel. They will certainly get their money’s worth from using you as an example. Enjoy your down time and we’re all looking forward to your ideas and inspiration in 2020. Best wishes from the U.S.
Aww thank you lovely Pat! JLH have been so wonderfully positive about their experience working with me which I couldn’t be more grateful for – in fact, we may be doing more together in the future (yay!) :D All the best to you and yours and hope you have a fabulous break yourself! Mwah! xx
Merry Christmas Kimberly! I so enjoy your blog. Best of everything to you and Wayne in 2020!
Merry Christmas to you too Anna! Thank you so much and all the best for 2020 lovely :) xxx
Hi Kimberley. Thank you for sharing your new home with us and all the lovely Christmas decorations too. You are my favorite blog and inspiration. Keep on being you :) Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family – two legged and four legged.
Oh what a lovely comment, Shelley!! Thank you so much and a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours too! :) xxx
Love reading your blogs. Quite inspirational and lots of design tips to help. Keep up the good work. Your room looks amazing. Love the Decor. Merry Christmas and wish you a happy New Year
Regards
Robyn
Easternada
Love reading your inspirational and quite informative blog posts. I simply love the style and how you present it in your post. Keep up the good work. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Regards
Karen
easternada.com
Great Job on providing info on much needed topic!