Holiday Decorating on a Shoestring Budget

My friend Norma and I recently ventured to Battle Creek, MI to attend the Southern Exposure Herb Farm “Holiday Decorating on a Shoestring Budget” workshop. I only recently learned about this amazing place from my lovely coworker, Daiva. It is truly a hidden gem in southwest Michigan – a gorgeous herb farm/wedding site/specialty dining/crafters’ paradise. If you have an opportunity to visit, I highly recommend it.

When I first looked into this particular workshop in September, every single one of the 17 dates was filled up. However, we were put on a waiting list and some openings became available. We didn’t know what to expect, but were so glad we went. The hosts were delightful, the food was delicious, and the decorating ideas were fabulous – and more importantly, do-able.

They provided handouts and I took copious notes – however, like an idiot, I left them behind. Luckily Norma kept her copy – here are just a few of the ideas we brought home:

• Don’t be afraid to mix faux greens (“permanent botanicals”) with real. A great example of this is mixing real and artificial gourds. They blend well and people are less inclined to notice the artificial pieces.
• St. Vincent’s, Salvation Army, and consignment shops are treasure troves for pieces to repurpose. Try to look beyond an outdated finish or color combination – components such as artificial fruit or veggies can be pulled out and spray painted for a new look.
• If you’re painting delicate items such as dried hydrangeas, use floral spray (Design Master floral dye is a recommended brand) rather than regular spray paint for a softer finish.
• Hit garden centers at the end of the summer to get good deals on hanging wall planters, etc. They can serve as wonderful fall displays too. And don’t forget November 1 – the day after Halloween – for great deals on fall décor that can still work well right through Thanksgiving.
• Mix old and new – short and tall – for interesting vignettes that please the eye.
• Carve out gourds and fill with glass containers to use as interesting vases.
• Rather than remove your art and other wall hangings during the holidays, leave them in place and dress them up with simple garlands and embellishments.
• “Lock-Tight” adhesive works way more effectively than a hot glue gun – and it won’t burn your fingers!
• Pineapples are a traditional New England symbol for hospitality.

Southern Exposure has oodles of amazing hands-on workshops, theme dinners, bus tours and other events. To learn more, visit www.southernmoon.com.

 

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