Image Source | The Lily Pad College
Big family dinners, shopping for gifts, decorating the house… like, seriously, who doesn’t love Christmas! Heaven knows we’re all in need of something to look forward to this year. Whether you’re gearing up for Christmas in July, or counting down the days to a traditional December Christmas, here’s my guide on how to prepare for the holidays.
O Christmas Tree
Image Source: Chrissy Marie Serrano
One thing I really love when it comes to Christmas decor is pairing traditional greens with creamy whites. Remember, not everything has to be candy-cane red or crazy red-green alternated. As an American living in Australia, I love layering white rugs and throws around the house during Christmas to remind me of the snow back home.
Image Source: Brick and Moss Designs
Another trend I absolutely love is huge leafy runners. Whether they’re lain over a mantle piece, threaded through a banister, or used as a table runner, there’s something so magical about having a natural feature in the house - and if you opt for real foliage, the smell is amazing! I adore the traditional look of pine runners, but if you’re living Down Under you can also use natives like eucalypts and bottlebrush for an Aussie feel.
Image Source: Liz Marie
My final piece of advice when it comes to decor is… wreaths! A good wreath never goes out of fashion, and to me is a Christmas staple. Whether you opt for a traditional brushy pine wreath, or a modern ring half-filled with natives, a Christmas Wreath can add a point of interest to bland spaces such as the front door or above the mantel piece.
Image Source: Eothen
Treat Yo-Self!
Image Source: Tuft and Trim
While we may not be able to go window shopping or browsing through shops like we used to, there’s still plenty of ways to purchase gifts online. Sourcing items from a reputable gift guide means you’re purchasing products that are tried-and-tested by those you follow online - you can view our super-chic holiday gift guide from last Christmas here, or if you’re after a last minute gift then our 2018 gift guide has you covered.
Image Source: Style Me Pretty | Photography: Lindsay Salazar
Keep in mind that due to COVID-19, many delivery services are slower than usual, so you want to order with plenty of time for your presents to get to you. If you’re buying local, I suggest shopping online 2-3 weeks before you need your gifts, or better yet consider click-and-collect options. Purchasing overseas is fraught with danger at the moment, but if you really must, allow at least 8 weeks for delivery.
Image Source: Pinterest
The other great thing about Christmas in July? Sales! With so many people shopping from home, Christmas in July sales are destined to be better than ever. Remember that plenty of stores are still hosting End of Financial Year Sales, and that the next Click Frenzy is just around the corner! Click Frenzy’s “53 hour mega sale”, featuring a host of Aussie sellers, starts 7pm 21st July. Make sure to pick something out for yourself, as well as your loved ones - you deserve it!
Bake It Till You Make It
Image Source: The Future Kept
One of the best things about Christmas is the food. I love a traditional Christmas lunch complete with roast lamb and turkey, fresh ham and plenty of steaming-hot veggies. But (not so) secretly, the best part for me is dessert! From eggnog to spiced cookies, plum pudding to trifle, I always end up two sizes bigger - and much happier - during the holidays. Take time to bake your favourites this July, and even get the kids to help during the school holidays.
Image Source: Style Me Pretty | Photography: Lindsay Salazar
If you’re after something a little more naughty for once the kids go to bed, you can’t go past mulled wine or a naughty hot chocolate. These holidays, take some time out for yourself to celebrate the little things and relax - the year may not have gone as planned but we can still enjoy life!
Will you be celebrating Christmas in July? Share your ideas for a magical holiday season below!
Want to get a head start on your Christmas decorating? From tablescapes to mantlescapes, we've got you covered!