As the aromas of Grandma’s sweet potato casserole, the beauty of the decorative cornucopia, and the season’s warmth return, we find ourselves reflecting on how to bring that same sense of delight into our homes. With Thanksgiving approaching and Christmas and Hanukkah close behind, opportunities abound to create inviting porches, mantles, and table scapes for the perfect backdrop that lasting family memories are made of.
Start at the front porch, where festive décor greets friends and passersby. A traditional fall look might include large urns brimming with gourds, acorns, and twinkling lights spilling down the steps. For a modern twist, arrange pampas or wheat grass with bright leaves and berry sprigs. When the season shifts, swap in evergreens with eucalyptus, frosted pinecones, and subtle shimmer. Porches can be playful with bold orange and purple lights or understated with pumpkins and mums. For Southern charm, drape magnolia leaves across bannisters or eaves, accented with sunflowers or pumpkins, then transition to bows and festive bulbs. Even fading magnolia leaves can be revived with a coat of gold spray, carrying holiday cheer into the new year.
Inside, the hearth becomes a natural focal point for your guests. In autumn, adorn the mantle with fall leaves, eucalyptus, pinecones, acorns, or dried corn husks. By December, trade these for evergreens, red berries, silver pinecones, soft lights, and a touch of faux snow to bring the outdoors inside. Add candles or heirloom trinkets for nostalgia, and place a mirror above the hearth to double the glow of your display.
The dining table completes the scene. For 2025, navy and gold dominate trends, pairing beautifully with Thanksgiving and Hanukkah while providing a rich backdrop for fall accents. December calls for subtle elegance. Incorporate a velvet runner, votives filled with pearls and rhinestones, and candles nestled into fresh greenery with fairy lights. Families with children may prefer a playful Kitschmas theme, where sugar-plum colors, iridescent finishes, and whimsical decorations make the table sparkle. Whether elegant or fanciful, the table scape sets the tone for gathering with loved ones.
Mary Holm, Founder and Owner of Glory Haus in Marietta, knows how holiday adornments can uplift and inspire. She and her co-founders have spent over fifteen years creating distinctive, faith-based art and home accents crafted from both new and repurposed materials. Their work not only beautifies homes but also supports marginalized communities in Marietta and abroad by providing meaningful employment. Glory Haus now offers more than 2,000 unique items in its warehouse, and its seasonal Warehaus Sales are a favorite destination for finding that perfect piece to complete your holiday home.
This season, let your décor reflect your personality, style, and spirit, bringing joy and beauty indoors for all to share.
This season, let your décor reflect your personality, style, and spirit, bringing joy and beauty indoors for all to share.