Every year, as the holidays draw near, homes begin to sparkle with anticipation and creativity, and for designer Megan Gensky, that magic starts long before the first ornament is hung. Megan and her team offer a complete holiday design experience that takes the stress out of seasonal decorating so that clients can simply sit back and enjoy the beauty of the season.
“We offer full set up and take down of holiday décor,” Megan explains warmly. “We plan out the design, purchase all the décor, prep it for installation, and then after the first of the year, we begin take down services.” Her goal is to make the entire process effortless, from concept to cleanup, allowing each client to fully embrace the festive season.
The holiday season may seem far away in midsummer, but for Megan, that’s exactly when the magic begins. “We like to have clients booked by mid-summer and start planning new décor ideas soon after,” she says. “That way we can get approval to order everything. The earlier the better.”
When approaching a new client’s home, Megan takes a thoughtful, personalized approach. “It all depends on variables like budget, what they already have, or if they’re in a new home and want all new décor,” she says. “The big areas most clients focus on the first year are their main tree, mantel, and possibly a bannister. From there, we add fun touches throughout the home like bookcases, tabletops, and even little kitchen and bathroom embellishments.”
For Megan, one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is incorporating family heirlooms or sentimental pieces into a fresh holiday design. “We come across this a lot and it actually adds such a fun personal touch,” she says. “A lot of times, that’s where we start, and it gives us inspiration for the overall design. I have clients who collect silver bells or needlepoint ornaments, and that personal element gives me so much to build from.”
When it comes to style, Megan’s aesthetic is both versatile and timeless. “It can vary so much, but current trends definitely influence the styles we end up doing,” she says. “Right now, people are loving the classic natural look, so we’re using a lot of wireless ribbon, natural garlands, and timeless ornaments.”
Every holiday home presents its own challenges, but Megan embraces them with grace and creativity. “There are so many potential hurdles,” she admits. “Lighting can be tricky, scale can feel overwhelming, or maybe the challenge is creating an exciting new element like the mantel and making sure it’s secure. But the excitement always outweighs the nerves, and there’s always a way to fix every problem.”
For those decorating on a budget, Megan offers a simple yet transformative suggestion. “Just change up your ribbon,” she says with a smile. “It makes a huge difference. Layered ribbons are really popular right now, so even if you already have ribbon on your tree, add a second or third in a different size or style. It instantly elevates the whole look.”
One area Megan believes deserves more attention is the mantel. “I think mantels often get overlooked because they can intimidate people,” she says. “But they’re such natural focal points and have so much potential to be a beautiful wow feature.”
This year, Megan is also seeing some fresh, stylish trends taking over the holiday scene. “Everyone is talking about ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas,’” she says enthusiastically. “It’s interesting to see how people interpret it online. I love classic and timeless looks, but this year I’m also bringing in some bright, playful colors for my little one to enjoy.”
Her top tip for creating a cohesive look throughout the home comes down to one simple element. “The ribbon really ties everything together,” she says. “Even if one area doesn’t have the same ornaments or garlands as another, repeating the same ribbon helps everything feel connected without looking too matched.”
At the heart of it all, Megan believes holiday decorating should be joyful and deeply personal. “Always have fun with your holiday décor and don’t worry about the trends,” she says warmly. “Decorate in a way that you love. That’s what will bring you the most joy.”
To learn more or schedule a consultation with Megan Gensky Interiors, contact info@megangenskyinteriors.com or call 979-209-4238.