By Taylor Cunningham
As the holiday reverie begins, it’s time to break out the decorations and create your very own winter wonderland.
Whether you’re decking the halls indoors or out, Eagle Magazine offers a glimpse into the must-have design trends this holiday season.
With the help of Michelle Anderson, owner of My Masterpiece Paintings and self-described “creative-type,” we’ll look at the East meets West approach to holiday decor and hopefully offer a little inspiration to fuel your festive flare.
The opulence inspired by the bold colors and rich textures of Eastern Europe are slated to be all the rage this holiday season. According to Anderson, this trend is characterized by the bold hues of eggplant, emerald, pewter, gold, and crimson.
Opt for rich, jewel-toned tablecloths or napkins accented by gold and pewter napkin rings. A profusion of candles, Moroccan-style candleholders, and brightly colored baubles can add depth and color to your centerpiece or hearth. Or, simply add velvet throws and plush pillows to your couch and chairs for an instant touch of Eastern sophistication.
According to Anderson, many Idahoans seem to be embracing their geography and bringing Western-themed holiday pieces into their homes this year. Whether you’re swapping stockings for cowboy boots or mistletoe for horseshoes, or simply putting a bird on it, the variations on the Western holiday theme are endless.
Another ever-popular trend this season is bringing the outdoors in. Painted items such as pinecones, dried berries and boughs of pine and holly can be coordinated to match your decor, or work to create contrast for an eclectic approach.
For many of us, the holidays just wouldn’t be complete without a profusion of twinkling lights filling the night sky. Of course, your Home Owner’s Association may limit just how Griswald you can get, but that may not deter you from bringing your backyard to life.
Andy Eveland, Relations Manager of Idaho Patio, predicts that this year’s lighting trends w
ill be simple and elegant this year.
Classic white lights add a timeless touch to the lines of your home and landscaping, while brighter lights can be used to accent the open space of your yard and provide a festive feel to outdoor gatherings.
MY MASTERPIECE PARTIES
My Masterpiece Parties offers painting classes in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Head into the studio with friends and refreshments, and leave with an original work of art on canvas – painted by you! My Masterpiece Parties hosts painting parties every night, and the instructor takes you through the step-by-step process of how to create your own masterpiece.
According to Anderson, this is “fun art, not fine art,” and the only expectation of the class is that you have a good time. My Masterpiece Parties opened in July 2013, and has already become a popular place for members of the community to gather and relax.
My Masterpiece Paintings runs several classes a week, and adult classes cost approximately $39 a person, which includes all supplies and instruction, while kids classes cost approximately $24. My Masterpiece Paintings offers both private and public classes, depending on the size of your party. Bring wine and friends, and prepare to unwind from the stress of the holiday season.