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Stage your table for holiday celebrations It's that time of year when per-of year when per-of year when per mission is grant-mission is grant-mission is grant ed to pull out all the stops. Even the most mini- malist among us are tempted to add some spar-add some spar-add some spar kle and light and seasonal trim- mings. Whether you are planning for a large holiday feast day or prefer more intimate get-togeth- ers, free up your imagination and make the most of this joyous time of year. Plan your table setting ahead of time so that you can arrange what you have on hand and shop for any extras that will make your scene pop. And yes, think of the table decor as a scene such as a winter wonderland. Build up from the table top, compose a cen- terpiece, then individual place settings. Here are a few tips. Traditional white tablecloths are easy and practical, but for rustic appeal why not switch it up with a cozy, colourful blanket - it will feel like an indoor picnic. Choosing a colour scheme of white, green and red offers lots of options. There is always an abundance of place mats and napkins that will fit your mood. If you are a crafty person, make your own by stenciling a design onto white napkins using fabric paint. Design your centerpiece with a combination of greenery and lights. Choose glass receptacles that will show off seasonal offerings such as fruit or nuts mixed with flowers and sprigs of green. The Alpine table shown here has grapes and rosemary layered in footed hurricane lamps. Space non-scented candles along the table. Battery-operated mini-lights en- twined around a central setting are a sparkly delight. Bring your table to life with ornaments and figures. You don't need a menagerie just place a few reindeer prancing or grazing, a skater or skier, mini-sleds, snowshoes or any other characters that personify your idea of winter fun. You know how special you feel when your place at the table has a treat or two meant just for you! Personalize each place setting with a name, a surprise rolled into the napkin, a homemade cracker (groaner jokes are ex-a homemade cracker (groaner jokes are ex-a homemade cracker (groaner jokes are ex pected), and a sweet treat. A side table or buffet offers space to con- tinue your theme and does not have to dis- appear after the meal. In fact, a fanciful sce- nario will brighten your home for the weeks that surround the holidays right into the new year. A trio of green art glass candlesticks surround graphic wooden Christmas trees in a vignette from William Yeoward's book Blue & White and other stories, which I reviewed last month. A simple selection of colours, in this case green, white and red, reflect the rus- tic atmosphere of an Alpine holiday. For those with a flair for glitter and glamour, Yeoward sets his table with beautiful crystal and glass, shimmry silver trees and rose tint-and glass, shimmry silver trees and rose tint-and glass, shimmry silver trees and rose tint ed goblets. Gorgeous crystal comports are laden with grapes and greenery. Pure white birds complete the idyllic scene. I find myself torn between the practicality of artificial boughs and seasonal florals and the desire to spread around fresh greenery and blooms that fill room/s with their glorious out-blooms that fill room/s with their glorious out-blooms that fill room/s with their glorious out door scents. All faux is not equal; artistic ren- derings of pine and cedar, holly and berries allow you many days of carefree decorations, and fresh boughs and plants can be added at party time. Same with candles; I send out this warning every year, especially after our Christ-warning every year, especially after our Christ-warning every year, especially after our Christ mas fire. Battery operated candle displays set a romantic glow, and if you are lighting real candles, never leave them unattended. Have a safe and happy holiday season. Written by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email decorating questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. Follow Debbie at instagram.com/debbie_travis, facebook.com/ thedebbietravis, debbietravis.com. DEBBIE TRAVIS House to Home in si de ha lto n. co m O ak vi lle B ea ve r | T hu rs da y, N ov em be r 21 ,2 01 9 | 36 HomeOF THE WEEK Welcome to 2170 Marine Drive in beautiful Bronte Village. This lake front condominium complex has been a long time favorite of its residents who enjoy large, well designed suites with incredible views, 24 hour security and resort like amenities including an indoor pool, spa, gym, party room, lounge, golf simulator, guest suites and much more! This lake front suite sits in the southwest corner of the building and has panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the Bronte Outer Harbour Marina from all rooms and the large, private Balcony. Great layout with over 1,800 sq ft including formal Living and Dining Rooms plus an open concept Kitchen-Family Room. 2 large Bedrooms and 2 marble Bathrooms. Hardwood Floors through-out. Balcony access from the Family Room and both Bedrooms. Ensuite Laundry Room. Ample storage space and a separate locker. 2 side by side parking spaces. Maintenance fees include all utilities and cable TV. Additional photos and information at www.jeffmahannah.com Condominiums like this are seldom available, so please contact Jeff Mahannah at 905-845-4267 or 416-80406460 today. Jeff Mahannah, sales representative OffiCe: 905-845-4267 MObile: 416-804-6460 rOyal lepage re serviCes ltd, brOkerage www.JeffMahannah.COM EnnisclarE on thE lakE - spacious cornEr suitE. $1,180,000