Dec 14, 201110:45 AM

Host with Most

Gift of Tradition … With an Eye Towards Design

 

For me, the holidays are about that warm feeling that sweeps over us around mid-November in anticipation of good things just around the corner.  There are so many ways to give to those around us. I start with traditions-old and new.  Here are a few simple ways to get in good with friends, family and even Mother Earth this holiday season.

The Gift of Tradition

No matter what kind of table you set, display pieces from years past. For me it’s my very traditional Christmas Spode and mismatched sterling place settings. They go with any table I set, year in and year out.

Spode Christmas Tree is available at Macy’s Manhattan Village Mall

Family collections are another way to connect to the memory and warm feelings of past holidays. A setting of Menorahs collected over time embellishes an entry table. A sea of gold organza creates a flow of elegance, and risers add dimension and depth.

The Tradition of Family Togetherness

Okay, I’m just going to say it. Family PJs are a fun, annual tradition that can take you from Thanksgiving through the Christmas morning picture around the tree. Your family will thank you for the memories someday!

PJs available online at thecompanystore.com

The Gift of the Homemade

Delight family and friends with something simple and homemade. A beautiful French ceramic loaf dish adds holiday cheer and warmth to any kitchen, especially when delivered with warm cranberry bread, wrapped in a fanciful tea towel.

Loaf pan and tea towel available at Sur LaTable, Plaza El Segundo

The Gift of Going Green

There’s a guy in town who goes by the name of Scotty Claus this time of year. His Living Christmas Tree Company is not only green, but regenerative. He delivers beautiful potted Christmas trees in all shapes, sizes and varieties from San Diego to the Palisades in a truck that runs on biodiesel fuel.  After the holiday, he picks up the trees and returns them to a six-acre facility in Carson where adults with disabilities are hired to care for the trees in the off-season. This year, like last, his trees will line the Manhattan Beach Pier all season long.

This other Mr. Claus also offers recycled ornaments including glass balls made from old bottles—beautiful on a tree or in a bowl as a centerpiece.

Trees and ornaments can be ordered at www.livingchristmas.com

 

Valerie Sartini is the owner of Treasures Interior Design in Manhattan Beach