Calm and Bright in Green and White

When a color is calm, texture becomes more important. For example, add glittering glass and shiny Christmas ball ornaments to play off the natural tones and create small, intriguing scenes that catch the eye all through the house.

Look for the opportunity to present common items in unexpected ways to create interest in a room. Windows with deep sills offer the perfect opportunity.

The window here perfectly frames a vignette of embossed bowls stacked and brimming with ball ornaments. A swag of holly tucked in the corner and an array of candles complete the scene.

Guests are put at ease when the table is set with casual style and inviting elements. Wood crates filled with grass serve as both a centerpiece and accents around the room. Grow your own grass by sowing seeds in a plastic-lined crate several weeks before the festivities. If you're running a bit behind schedule, simply purchase already growing grass from a florist.

To decorate each place setting, tie a plaid napkin with ribbon, tuck in a sprig of holly, and place the napkin across the open space on the salad plate. For safety, you can substitute artificial holly berries for real ones or simply use silk holly.