Christmas in July is a real thing—it’s like this blissful burst of Christmas spirit that provides just enough oomph to push through until the real deal. Some might choose to ignore it altogether, and that’s perfectly understandable. Some, on the other hand, may or may not have spent the past few weeknights watching Hallmark Christmas movies. Whether you could take or leave this mid-year celebration, you’ll find beautiful decorating ideas from the twinkling trees and rustic wreaths in these cheerful holiday homes.
Photography by Robert Radifera, Styling by Charlotte Safavi
Country Cottage Christmas, a first-time special edition as of last year, provides inspiration to create the rustic holiday haven of your dreams. Country style shines with heirloom and vintage pieces, and this issue has no shortage of that charm.From a rustic farmhouse nestled in the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee, to a quaint French country-style cottage with halls decked in silver and gold, this issue is full of cozy charm that’ll keep you warm all season long.
Though picturesque year-round, the crisp white cottage is especially idyllic when festooned with natural greenery and berries around Christmas. “When trimming the tree and decorating for the season, I like to forage our land, sourcing fresh, natural elements,” says homeowner Anne Marie.
The Yeagers designed the house around their travels to reflect the places they’d been while abroad. The home’s French Country architecture adds a uniquely European flair that the homeowners marry with modern elements to create a space that feels both fresh and casual.
As former condo dwellers, Sharon O’Connell and Tracy Gammell loved their new home’s instant curb appeal.Their coastal cottage is two stories high, with both front and side porches and dozens of cozy nooks awaiting holiday charm. “The door is even red!It really lends itself to a coastal Christmas,” says Sharon.
When it comes to decorating for Christmas, Monica Lavin of the lifestyle blogLavin Labelknows that her approach isn’t typical of others in her field. “I’m probably a little different than the average blogger who is probably planning their Christmas décor in July,” she admits. “Sometimes I think, especially being in the blogging world, that there are these really high expectations for Christmas.And so, I thought this year I would take a simple approach and really just focus on adding some natural elements.”
Photography by Marcy Black Simpson, Styling by Yukie McLean
From our list of 7 Holiday Kitchens to Inspire You While You Cook, this one might be our favorite. A skylight and wall of windows illuminate this cozy space!And with festive pops of color this kitchen transforms into the cutest spot for holiday baking.
We love this homeowner’s straightforward approach.Her mantra is simply to begin the decorating process by standing back and visualizing what she wants.And last year, the visualization was an exterior draped with pine garland and an interior with a color palette of serene blue and shimmering silver and gold influenced by her cherished china collection.
