Ashley Wadhwani
Nicole Taylor, owner of Nicole Taylor Design in Langley, begins decorating her house for the holiday season around the first week of November.
“I like to take my time and have everything complete before November is over,” Taylor said.
For the designer and mom of two, an eye for colour and creative design is a passion.
“I love being asked to design and decorate a space for someone,” Taylor said.
With the holidays approaching, she shares her advice for decorating.
• The front door
For Taylor, subtle front door décor is important. “I love making a great first impression before people enter my home.
This year I went with a rustic glam, simple and earthy theme. I have been noticing a lot of that trend this year, less is more,” Taylor said.
• Decorating on a budget
According to Taylor, the most affordable décor can be found around the house or backyard, such as branches and cedar bows.
“Get out the spray paint and spray those sticks white, or tuck cedar into everything and anything [like] vases, centrepieces or wreaths.
“Add a bit of holly for a pop of colour and all of a sudden you have created something gorgeous that didn’t cost a fortune,” Taylor said.
For Taylor, finding natural pieces can also bring a unique quality.
“I don’t like to have the same decor everyone has,” Taylor said.
• Decor for small rooms
“Keep it simple, swap out your year round decor for your holiday decorations,” Taylor said.
Similarly, Taylor suggested downsizing the Christmas tree.
“There are some great smaller artificial trees out right now for small spaces,” Taylor said.
• Avoid the tinsel
According to Taylor “rustic glam is trending this year,” and suggested mixing and matching older pieces with new decor.
“Don’t use tinsel, ever, please,” Taylor said. “And don’t limit yourself to the traditional red and green decorations.”
But when is it time to put decorations back in storage until the next year?
“By the time all the entertaining for the holidays and Christmas is over, I’ll admit I’m ready to take everything down right after Boxing Day,” Taylor said.