American Farmhouse Style November 2018
American Farmhouse Style November 2018
American Farmhouse Style November 2018
FESTIVE STYLE
Christmas
in
the Country
COZY RUSTIC HOMES
FULL OF BURLAP
AND PLAID
Amazing
Finds
Easy for Everyone
Ideas on Your List
for Holiday
Entertaining
Winter 2018 | Display until 1/8/2019
Engaged Entertainment Plus • $9.99 US
77
0 09281 01943 5
Engaged Media Inc.
KING OF CHRISTMAS WISHES
YOU HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
OFFERING A LARGE VARIETY OF
BEAUTIFUL CHRISTMAS TREES
Shop KingOfChristmas.com
12 CHRISTMAS COUNTDOWN
DIY an Advent wreath that will help your family
serve others this season.
Made in America
14 HANDMADE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Shop American made this year for your
Christmas stockings.
Farmhouse Favorites
16 CLUB CULTURE
Learn how the club chair went from a French
invention to an American staple.
Barn Finds
18 MAKE IT MERRY
Transform every corner of your home into a
holiday haven with these Christmas finds.
20 GIFT GUIDE
Cross names off your gift list this year with
these amazing finds.
Essentials
24 GORGEOUS GIFT WRAP
Take your gift wrap to a new level this year.
28 FESTIVE FARMHOUSE
Create your own holiday haven with these
seasonal decorating tips for every space in
the house.
Style
38 TENNESSEE CHRISTMAS
A dining room gets a cozy makeover in time
for the holidays.
42 WINTER LIGHT
Exposed beams and glass walls make
this New York home light and airy for a
country Christmas.
72
WINTER 2018 • 3
38 Do It Yourself
Projects
HOT CHOCOLATE THREE WAYS 8
TEA TOWEL 10
ADVENT WREATH 12
FARMHOUSE GIFT WRAP 24
HOT CHOCOLATE BAR 41
GIFT WRAPPING STATION 63
GINGERBREAD ORNAMENTS 71
CRAFTED SNOWBALLS 76
REUSABLE GINGERBREAD HOUSE 79
GINGERBREAD MEN WREATH 85
RUSTIC STOCKING HOLDER 99
STAMPED WRAPPING PAPER 109
LIVE GARLAND WREATH 116
NATURAL CHRISTMAS DÉCOR 119
FRESH WINTER GARLAND 123
20
64 GINGERBREAD FARMHOUSE
This Utah home is cozy at Christmastime with
natural décor and gingerbread accents.
Visit PrayerBowls.com
to purchase one of
these heartfelt gifts.
Christmas
WINTER 2018
EDITORIAL
Editor: Victoria Van Vlear
Managing Editor: Kristin Dowding
DESIGN
is here
Art Director: Justin Goode
Design Director: Gabby Oh
CONTRIBUTORS
Autumn Krause, Caitlin Ragan, Elizabeth Falkenberg, Emily
EDITOR’S LETTER Irby, Jessie Yount, Jillian Chapman, Lauren Hofer, Madison
Nauta, Rimal Haq, Stephanie Agnes-Crockett
ADVERTISING
Toby Childs - National Advertising Director (503) 387-5099
The first Christmas I was married, I was under the false impression that I needed Sherrie Norris - West Coast Account Executive (714) 421-1517
Julie Hale - East Coast Account Executive (770) 377-0072
to have a complete collection of Christmas décor for my home. My parents’ house was Nadia Koepke - Midwest Account Executive (507) 581-1712
filled to the brim with holiday décor, and decorating for Christmas had been one of my Eric Gomez - Advertising Traffic Coordinator
OPERATIONS
favorite traditions growing up. But when I moved out, I was starting from scratch, and my Manish Kumar Mishra: Operations Specialist
single garland and few handmade ornaments felt puny next to the volume I was used to. Surajpal Singh Bisht: Prepress Manager
Devendor Hasija: Newsstand and Circulation Analyst
I’m a few years into my marriage now, and our Christmas décor has grown—from Shailesh Khandelwal: Subscriptions Manager
Alex Mendoza: Administrative Assistant
handmade stockings and a collection of vintage ornaments to a Nativity set we picked
Victoria Van Vlear: Intern Program Manager
up in Europe. And I’ve realized that my parents’ home was full of Christmas décor for a EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE
reason—they’d acquired it over the years, piece by piece. 17900 Sky Park Circle, Suite 210
Irvine, CA 92614
Any good collection takes time and effort to accumulate, and Christmas décor is no (714) 939-9991
Fax (800) 249-7761
different. The challenge is to collect the right kind of decorations—the ones that work www.engagedlifestyle.com
with your everyday décor, bring you joy and call to mind precious memories. www.americanfarmhousestyle.com
close and remind each other how much you care. Letters to the Editor, New Products or to
Contribute a Story or Photo
Victoria Van Vlear: [email protected]
With the help of the postal service, you can ensure that TRY IT TRY IT SPICED: TRY IT SPIKED:
your children or grandchildren receive replies from their STRIPED: Add ½ teaspoon Add 1-2 teaspoons
letters to Santa Claus! This involves writing your own Add ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice and Kahlúa or Baileys
Santa response and including an extra envelope with peppermint simple use a cinnamon Irish Cream liqueur.
PHOTOS BY ISTOCK
Important Dates: Thanksgiving: November 22 • First Sunday of Advent: December 2 • Hanukkah: December 2-10
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• WORKBENCH •
KITCHEN
COZY
Have you collected our DIY kitchen tea towel designs
this year? This Christmas design takes the cake.
For the full instructions and ready-to-print graphic,
visit AmericanFarmhouseStyle.com.
FREE SHIPPING
www.AmishBaskets.com
Amish Baskets_1_4v 1 8/29/2018 9:25:10 PM
Christmas
DIY an Advent wreath that
will help your family serve
others this season.
BY V I C TO R I A VA N V L E A R
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRE T GUM
COUNTDOWN
12 • AMERICAN FARMHOUSE STYLE
While live wreaths give off a lovely
scent, we chose a faux wreath from
King of Christmas for this project
because you’ll be touching the wreath
throughout the season as you read the
tags, and that will cause live wreaths
to lose their needles.
WINTER 2018 • 13
HANDMADE
FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Shop American made this year
for your Christmas stockings.
BY V I C TO R I A VA N V L E A R
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF T WENT Y EIGHT 12
For designers and moms Leia Liwag and Kim Marx, starting a small
business was an act of both faith and friendship. “We went back to
school for interior design and became really great friends,” Kim says.
“The economy was rough, and we wanted to do something on
our own, so we started the shop in 2012.” Taking the leap together
paid off. “In 2015, we both quit our jobs and went full time with our
business,” Kim says.
Their shop, Twenty Eight 12, produces handmade décor items,
from pillow covers and felt ball garlands to wedding accents and
Christmas stockings. “The Christmas items are the most popular for
us,” Leia says.
While they love what they do, running a small American-made
business can be a challenge. “Sometimes customers don’t realize
the time and cost that comes with doing everything here,” Leia
says. “Because there’s so much online ordering now, there’s a
conception that everything should come right away.” But for Leia,
Kim and their small team of makers, each item is an act of love, and
it takes time to get it right. “We don’t produce massive amounts of
items, so quality insurance is important to us,” Kim says. “We iron
"Knowing that you're supporting a every single piece ourselves before we mail it.”
So why should you shop American made when the pieces take
longer to arrive on your doorstep? “Knowing that you’re supporting
local business holds a lot of value.” a local business holds a lot of value,” Leia says. “We do have families,
HOLLY JOLLY
HOLIDAY
Keep your sanity
while you prep for
holiday entertaining
this year.
BY V I C TO R I A VA N V L E A R
PHOTO BY TI MEDIA
WINTER 2018 • 15
• FARMHOUSE FAVORITES •
CLUB CHAIRS ARE COMFORTABLE AND ROOMY ARMCHAIRS but gained the name “club chair” when an abundance of
that have extra deep seats, perfect for dozing off or curling up gentlemen’s clubs began to use them during the 20th century.
with your favorite book. These armchairs are reminiscent of Despite the original French design of a square back, scroll
French décor and have been a classic feature in the interior of arms and a thick cushion, contemporary construction of these
French homes since they were invented in the 19th century. chairs has broadened the look, and club chairs have invariably
They were originally referred to as “fauteuil confortable,” become an American classic.
PROS CONS
• Variety of color • Highly flammable
and pattern • Fades when
options exposed to direct
• Easy to care for sunlight
Charlize occasional
LEATHER: A common upholstery
chair in Emerald green,
material, you can get either faux “bonded”
$880. (469) 620-1420 leather or real leather.
or southfirsthome.com.
PROS: CONS
• Extremely durable • Requires
• Resistant to specific cleaning
fading and materials
ages well • Expensive
Make it
Merry
BY L AU R E N H O F E R
2.
3.
2
1
4. Rustic Christmas sign,
$39.72. Visit foresthilldesigns.ca.
5. Holiday berry arrangement,
$19.99. (877) 541-4855 or kirklands.com.
4 5
10
WINTER 2018 • 19
• BARN
• BARN FINDS
FINDS• •
Gift
Guide
Cross names off your gift list this
year with these amazing finds.
BY R I M A L H AQ
1
3
k 2
4
Her 6
1. Amish market and everyday tote bag,
$48.95. (515) 344-4213 or amishbaskets.com.
2. Hampshire copper firewood holder,
$177.95. (866) 855-2284 or
signaturehardware.com.
5 3. Metal and wood hunter wall clock,
$129.99. (877) 541-4855 or kirklands.com.
4. Bath salts trio set,
$27. Visit etsy.com/shop/BEINGapothecary.
5. Farm sweet farmhouse rustic sign,
$56. (888) 682-4402 or marmalademercantile.com.
6. The Noah bowl,
20 • AMERICAN FARMHOUSE STYLE $58. Visit prayerbowls.com.
1
Him
k
1. Jumpstart hygiene kit,
$34.95. Visit samsnatural.com.
2
2. Beer cap states,
$35. (888) 365-0056 or uncommongoods.com.
3. Personalized men’s waxed canvas apron,
$52.95. Visit beau-coup.com.
4. 2019 National parks calendar,
$34.95. (888) 727-3711 or papersource.com.
5. Ringtool emergency multi-tool,
starting at $26. Visit thegrommet.com.
6. Monogrammed forged steak brand,
$49.95. (800) 840-2843 or williams-sanoma.com. 6
WINTER 2018 • 21
• BARN FINDS •
WINTER 2018 • 23
• ESSENTIALS •
1. SAVE AND WRAP BOXES. Oddly-shaped gifts are hard to wrap. One easy
solution is to use gift bags, but gift bags often take away from the charm of your
Christmas tree (and they’re not as fun to unwrap). Instead, start saving boxes—
everything from shipping boxes to shoes boxes. Then you can place your
oddly-shaped gifts into the boxes for a coordinated look.
2. MIX AND MATCH WRAPPING PAPER. Be strategic when you choose your
wrapping paper. Pick a couple solid colors, then one or two patterns as a
complement. We used three papers here: solid blue, brown parcel paper and
blue checked paper. The checked paper helps balance the two solids.
(right) For large wired ribbon, tie a separate bow, then use a length of wire to attach it to the package.
This will help your bow look perfect and will also allow you to reuse it in the future.
3. DON’T USE PLASTIC BOWS. Instead of the usual and gingerbread men (see page 71 for DIY gingerbread
plastic gift bows, use ribbon and twine. We’ve used ornaments). If you’re a vintage enthusiast, find a packet
three different types here: large sparkly silver ribbon, of vintage Christmas cards at your local flea market to
silky blue ribbon and, of course, farmhouse-friendly add to the fronts of the packages.
twine. Mix and match them so they maintain a
coordinated look while remaining varied as well. Then 5. KEEP THE TAGS SIMPLE. While you want to use
on Christmas morning, save the ribbon and twine to variety in your paper, tying materials and package
reuse next year. adornments, too much variety can become disjointed.
Tie the look together with one type of tag. Brown paper
4. DECORATE YOUR PACKAGES. Besides using ribbon, tags are perfect for farmhouse style. Add a stamped
decorations will add that special touch to the package. “Merry Christmas” greeting to the front to continue the
Go natural with a few sprigs of greenery and cinnamon coordinated look, then add the recipient’s name to the
sticks, or give into your sweet tooth with candy canes back where it will be hidden away.
WINTER 2018 • 27
28 • AMERICAN FARMHOUSE STYLE
• ESSENTIALS •
FARMHOUSE
Festive
Create your own holiday haven with
these seasonal decorating tips for
every space in the house.
BY J E S S I E YO U N T
W
hen revamping your home this Christmas, deck every
hallway, nook and cranny to celebrate the season
throughout your home. Stick with what you know about
farmhouse style; you can never go wrong when you aim for
warmth and simplicity. Consider balance and color above all
else, and seek to achieve an inviting environment to entertain and play.
Porch Statement
Decorate your front porch to make a lasting impression on your guests, neighbors and passersby. Dress up year-
round furniture with complementary accessories, such as seasonal pillows and throws and personal mementos,
like ice skates or a tray filled with candles and mugs. Surround your front steps with vibrant poinsettias and adorn
PHOTO BY BRET GUM
your trim with garlands to bring an al fresco touch to the entrance of your home. Finally, add a hint of farmhouse
style into the mix by using wood textures and plaid patterns to play off the colorful décor.
WINTER 2018 • 29
Christmas Corner
PHOTO BY BRET GUM
Balance is key to decorating every space in your house, and in smaller spaces,
a delicate touch does just the trick. In this reading nook, a wreath hung in
the center of the window honors the time of year and acts as the focal point.
Meanwhile, seasonal pillows blend in with patterned ones against a pastel
red-and-green palette. What’s the takeaway? Rather than overwhelm every
surface, simply sprinkle a few key pieces of décor in your less-used nooks
and crannies.
WINTER 2018 • 31
Curb Appeal
During the winter season, houses are
strewn with Christmas lights, and lawns
are scattered with nativity scenes. Yet, a
quintessential farmhouse style calls for
rusticity and natural charm. This front gate
was decorated with two wreaths made of
twigs. They both bear sprigs of pine, and
they were hung with soft cream-colored
ribbon. The wreaths blend seamlessly with
PHOTO BY BRET GUM
WINTER 2018 • 33
Deck the Halls
On Christmas morning, thousands of kids race to open their stockings, hoping for candy canes, chocolate truffles,
tiny trinkets and toys. But up until that special moment, stockings hang above the fireplace or against the wall,
just waiting to be opened. Thoughtfully stuff your stockings to create a beautiful display in the meantime. In this
hallway, pine needles, wrapped gifts and even stuffed animals peek out from the top of each stocking. Notice that
labels and vintage photos appear above the stockings, adding a personal touch to finalize the look.
a setting that feels too feminine, simply use darker colors like
the navy blue and black tones in this bedroom to achieve a
gender-neutral, yet homey appeal.
WINTER 2018 • 35
Decadent Dining
Before setting your table, take stock of
your dining linens, dishware and utensils,
along with your seasonal tabletop décor.
Now, mix and mingle to your heart’s
PHOTO BY KEVIN AND LAYLA PALMER
Mantel Magic
If there’s any spot in the home that deserves an extra dose of holiday décor, it’s the mantel. In the
living room, families come together to sing jingles by the fire, drink hot cocoa and take pictures.
Make your mantel picture-worthy with garlands and banners, which help to create a layered and
sophisticated look. If your kids have a favorite Christmas picture book, prop it up at the base of the
fireplace or set out a tray with holiday mugs and utensils, if you like to have coffee and cocoa while
opening presents. Think outside of the box, and consider what fits your family.
WINTER 2018 • 37
Katie Toomb’s dining room is
just off the entryway, so it’s
a focal point of the house as
guests come inside.
W
hen it comes to Christmas decorating, the
dining room is a focal point in your home. It’s the
room where you’ll host your holiday parties and
Christmas dinner. When sisters Amy Mobley and
Katie Norrid of City Hill Design came on board
to help artist Katie Toombs design her dining room, they created a cozy
space, perfect for Christmas cheer.
DESIGN INSPIRATION
For farmhouse style, there’s nothing better than a little reclaimed wood.
Amy and Katie’s specialty is newer construction homes, so they often try
to find ways to add older elements and give the homes more character.
“This home is new construction from five years ago,” Katie says. Rather
than a wall siding, they decided to add a rustic element to the ceiling. “It’s
called Wall Concept,” Amy says. “It comes pre-finished, which was what sold
us, because we had a hard time hunting down reclaimed wood that was
consistent and affordable.” Once the ceiling was up, they could move on to
the rest of the details.
WINTER 2018 • 39
"Weher artwant e d t o f
in the space.”
e at u re
TO COLOR OR NOT TO COLOR
When Katie Toombs hired Amy and Katie, she told them
she wanted a blue dining room. “She’s an artist, so she loves
color,” Katie says. “But she has a neutral palette. In the end,
she decided to go with a lighter gray, but still wanted blue in
the room.” So the sisters decided to add color back into the
room through smaller accents. “We wanted to feature her
art in the space,” Katie says. “We had her paint something for
Christmas,” Amy says. “When her husband walked in after it
was decorated, he loved the painting and immediately told
her that she shouldn’t sell that one.”
From the painting, Amy and Katie added other blue
details on the Christmas tree, dining table and hot chocolate
bar. They also continued the farmhouse vibes by bringing
in metal accents. “We wanted to mix the warm wood tones
with black iron on the chairs and candlesticks for warmth
and a farmhouse feel,” Amy says. The combination is both
cozy country and winter wonderland.
(top) A hot chocolate bar is both fun and personal. “When a guest walks in,
they’ll spend a lot of time eating and drinking,” Amy says. “We wanted them
to remember the hot chocolate bar.”
(bottom) For the table’s centerpiece, Amy and Katie chose a garland. “We
wanted something that would be natural, but last over time once it dried,”
Amy says. “[Our florist] came up with eucalyptus and cypress and wove a big
garland down the middle of the table.”
THE TOPPINGS:
� Candy canes or peppermint sticks
� Cinnamon sticks
� Whipped cream
� Chocolate sprinkles
� Mini marshmallows
THE TREATS:
� Chocolate cookies, such as Oreos
� Caramel melts
� Wafer cookies, such as Piroulines
THE ACCENTS:
� Trays
� Cake stands
� Glass jars
� Wood scoops
� Tags
TIPS:
� Use clear glass jars for your various accoutrements
so guests can easily see what’s inside.
� If you offer simple syrups or any other kind of
liquid, place the bottles on a tray or paper towel in
the back so drips don’t get on your table or fabric.
� Add a few sprigs of greenery around the table
for a full look.
� Don’t forget to leave space at the front of the table
where guests can put their mug as they mix their
hot chocolate.
WINTER 2018 • 41
"affInordingwintaerbetter
, the viewmatofurethemaples drop their leaves,
house, while the icy pond is
clearly visible from the great room windows.”
WINTER
42 • AMERICAN FARMHOUSE STYLE
Light
Architect Daniel Contelmo struck the balance
between farm cottage and traditional
architecture by using stones around the home’s
base and adding swooping and pointed roofs to
contrast the cottage look.
BY M A D I S O N N AU TA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL CONTELMO, JR.
L
Exposed beams and eaves have drifted off the trees, the chilled air is beginning to
blow and you’re patiently waiting for that first snowfall. You
glass walls make want a front row seat to the show, and a home built to enjoy
this New York home the surrounding scenery is the perfect place to watch those
flurries come down. Architect Daniel Contelmo of Daniel
light and airy for a Contelmo Architects let the changing weather of the Northeast guide the
WINTER 2018 • 43
LET THERE BE LIGHT
Natural light for any home—especially a home with farmhouse
style—is critical. With its corner windows and glass wall in the great
room, this house is adept at capturing light. When designing homes,
Daniel considers “the approach to the house, possible views and sun
orientation.” Without the shade of trees and an icy reflection off the
pond, there are so many sources of natural light in the winter. “The
depth of the home is never more than two rooms deep, so light
either travels or is visible from any point,” he says.
SEASONED SCENERY
This home takes advantage of light just as much as it depends on
nature in its design. In the Northeast, seasons have distinct looks,
and the changes themselves are worth watching. “In the spring,
one can appreciate the new growth of the trees and wild flowers
in the meadow,” Daniel says. “In summer, you can sit on the covered
screen-in-porch, away from the bugs and sun. Fall is magnificent
due to the backdrop of deciduous trees and shrubs and their
multi-colored leaves. In winter, the mature maples drop their leaves,
affording a better view of the house, while the icy pond is clearly
visible from the great room windows.” When designing a home like
this, Daniel analyzes how these parts of nature create a backdrop
for the building. “I capture the ‘essence’ of the project,” he says.
“The architecture should reflect the essence, and the décor should
complement it.”
WINTER 2018 • 45
This is an award winning bathroom. “The character of the bathroom is continued from the rest of the house,
Daniel says. “Our main goal was to keep it open since it’s not large and to capture the view of the pond from the
corner windows.”
YOU’RE BEAMING
Designing a 2,600-square-foot home for Christmas is all about highlighting the
architecture and natural character. From shiplap to large beams, intricate wood details and,
of course, an open floor plan, this home is a farmhouse lover’s dream. “We manipulated
ceiling heights to create a sense of scale and comfort,” Daniel says. Areas where the family
spends more time have the most interesting ceiling details. The main goal of this farm
cottage was to allow the outdoors to shine through, and Daniel did just that.
4 WAYS
TO MAXIMIZE
YOUR FARMHOUSE
ARCHITECTURE
FOR CHRISTMAS
• ROOFING. Daniel suggests
using steep roof lines to make a
silhouette that will look charming
when you add lights during the
Christmas season.
"Theshouldarchireflteectctuthere
on the windows to draw the eye to
the detailing.
WINTER 2018 • 47
48 • AMERICAN FARMHOUSE STYLE
Hanging outside their 160-year-old barn
home is a Christmas wreath made by
homeowner Theresa Halverson’s husband,
Ross. The oversized red bow beckons
visitors into their holiday home.
BARN
HOUSE
Christmas
BY E L I Z A B E T H FA L K E N B E R G
S T Y L E D B Y T H E R E S A H A LV E R S O N
A
cozy interior is the best welcoming
escape from the chilly outdoors.
Instagrammer Theresa Halverson of
@AtHomeWithTMarie and her husband
Ross renovated this Wisconsin grain mill
from 1856 and turned it into an open home perfect for the
holidays. The warm spaces beautifully contrast the snow-
covered yard just outside their windows.
PHOTO BY THERESA HALVERSON
WINTER 2018 • 49
50 • AMERICAN FARMHOUSE STYLE
Because the house is so open, the kitchen butts up against the
dining area, and the Christmas tree seems part of both spaces.
Butcher-block countertops add warmth in the kitchen, while white
cabinets balance the wood and provide a neutral background for
the kitchen garlands and tree .
(top) In the mudroom, Theresa adds simple Christmas touches with a plaid blanket
and a beach bag full of fresh pine boughs.
Theresa introduces pops of color to add elements of textual and visual interest. On
the dining room table, she uses fur placemats to add country flair to her mostly-
neutral home.
LIVING HISTORY
After moving onto their lot of land, the 160-year-old structure
underwent a full transformation from derelict barn to cozy home.
In addition to this renovation, Theresa and Ross have also taken
on other major renovation projects: turning an old railroad depot
into a vacation rental, and a dilapidated farmhouse into a bed
and breakfast. Seeing the potential in historic structures comes
naturally to these two.
With their new home, Theresa combined her personal history of
PHOTO BY DAVID BADER
decorating with the potential of this historic grain mill. “As a little
girl, I would take sticks to the backyard and arrange them into a
floor plan to play house,” Theresa says.
WINTER 2018 • 53
Create a cozy atmosphere by
focusing on texture. Start
with vintage plaid throws, knit
(top) Theresa keeps her Christmas tree front and center to
wool stockings, fur placemats
announce the holiday season. For those who love decorating
and a fury pillow.
a tree, having two trees is a great way to add more seasonal
flavor to your home.
"change
Neutrcolorals schemes
make iwitht easitheerdifferent
to decorate and
seasons.”
Even the staircase becomes cozy for Christmas with a beautiful gray runner and
several potted pine trees.
WINTER 2018 • 55
Utilizing storage hooks around your home can be a skillful
way to introduce more holiday décor. Theresa hangs white
WINTER 2018 • 57
PHOTO BY THERESA HALVERSON
WINTER 2018 • 59
PHOTO BY THERESA HALVERSON
GIFT WRAPPING
DIY
WORK AREA. Whether it’s a built-in
STATION
Set up a gift wrapping station with these helpful essentials to make your
present preparations simple and fun.
GIFT WRAP BASKET. Fill a basket with CONTAINERS FOR TRIMMINGS. You
counter in your craft room or a fold-up your rolls of Christmas gift wrap. This can use Mason jars for ribbons, brown
table in your garage, set aside a work has two benefits: it will contain your lunch bags for tape and scissors and larger
space for gift wrapping that you can leave rolls, keeping them from literally rolling jars for bows and tissue paper. Keeping
up for a few weeks as you and your family all over the place, and it will help create these items in separate containers will
wrap gifts for each other. a cohesive-looking tree, because other help with your organization and focus
members of your family will use these your gift wrapping style. (For more on
same rolls when they wrap their own gifts. cohesive gift wrapping, see page 24.)
WINTER 2018 • 63
Paired with white walls, the striking
plaid tablecloth is the focal point for
the dining space. A second, smaller
Christmas tree sits in the corner next
to a handmade Advent calendar
on the hanging chalkboard. The
scene looks darling set against the
background of the black-and-white
checkered ceiling detail.
T
he holiday season is often full of hustle and bustle, last minute gifts,
decorations and rushing from one holiday soirée to the next. Located
in beautiful central Utah, the home of blogger Stacy Risenmay of
Not Just a Housewife is a great reminder to slow down and enjoy the
simple moments during the busy holiday season.
COZY BACKDROP
Stacy’s 1938 brick cottage is a picturesque home on a large plot of land. Inside, Stacy
matches the traditional farm cottage style of her home with tasteful Christmas décor
that maximizes the festive spirit in a small amount of space. “I like to keep things a little
traditional,” Stacy says. She keeps in mind the modesty of her brick cottage, as well as
her desire to revamp and reuse staple décor pieces while preparing her home for this
special time of year.
WINTER 2018 • 65
66 • AMERICAN FARMHOUSE STYLE
GINGERBREAD INTERIORS
Every year, Stacy and her family enjoy
making gingerbread men together.
This year, the Risenmay family put
a twist on their tradition by not just
making gingerbread to eat, but also for
decorations, using them as inspiration for
their entire home. “Every year we make
gingerbread men,” Stacy says. “When we
made them this year, I decided to poke
holes in them and use them as ornaments,
and I was shocked by how they made
my house smell good for the whole
holiday season.” The sweet-smelling treats
complement the natural elements of
the home, from rustic wooden benches
and a wood-lined chalkboard to a barrel
of firewood and generous amounts of
greenery in each room. The gingerbread
smell permeates the entire home, bringing
the Christmas spirit alive with every whiff.
"made
[The myginhouse
gerbread men ]
picturesque Christmas space, complete with stockings
by the fire and a stash of freshly chopped wood. Stacy
hung a fresh garland from the archway leading into the
room for an extra natural touch.
(above, right) This seasonal gallery wall changes four times smell good for
the whole holiday season.”
per year and adds to the décor with simple Christmas
images like snowflakes and trees. The wood frames and
greenery mix rustic and natural elements.
WINTER 2018 • 67
Wood slices serve as unique placemats
and match the rustic theme of the
Risenmay cottage. Each place has a special
gingerbread man with a family member’s
name. These personal touches make the
scene special for this holiday family dinner.
WINTER 2018 • 69
A classic cloche captures a
snowy gingerbread house,
adding a touch of timeless
elegance to this end table.
Sentimental pieces are instrumental to invoking the holiday spirit. This nativity scene was
a set Stacy fell in love with, and when her husband found it later, he purchased it for her as
a gift. Now it holds a special place in their hearts, and they display it in a prime location.
COLOR SAVVY
As a blogger, Stacy shares her home with many readers, and each not overwhelming the small space. They also pair well with her
year she comes up with new and affordable décor ideas. “I don’t existing rural décor.
want to spend a fortune on all new décor, so I’m always looking To optimize cost efficiency, Stacy turned to Amazon and
for budget-friendly ways to change it up,” she says. This Christmas purchased navy and green plaid blanket scarves. She used
season, Stacy decided to get creative with her non-traditional color them to create throw pillows, a table cloth and hangers for her
scheme of navy blue and green. Stacy chose these colors to make wreath. Using modest touches and thrifty finds, Stacy was able
the seasonal change simple, as they go with the preexisting color to successfully bring the Christmas spirit to life in her home. Her
scheme of her home. The blue and green arrangements strike simple and charming décor is a true fit for her quaint farm cottage
a nice balance between representing the Christmas season, yet and sets the tone for a slower and more meaningful holiday season.
The gingerbread
generously floured surface. If you want to keep some
2. Working with one piece cookies to eat, you can
of dough at a time, use bake those for less time for
cookie cutters to cut out a softer texture.
your shapes, whether 5. Let the cookies cool, then
WINTER 2018 • 71
North Pole
FESTIVITIES
This Utah farmhouse
embraces all the magic of
Christmas with a rustic twist.
BY S T E P H A N I E AG N E S - C RO C K E T T
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA WHITE
ST YLING BY TONI ROBERTS
WINTER 2018 • 73
W
hen you hear the phrase, “Santa’s workshop,” a
Utah farmhouse probably isn’t the first image
that comes to mind. But tour this festive Utah
abode, and you may begin to re-envision
Saint Nick’s headquarters. Thanks to abundant
snowballs, a “North Pole” welcome sign and even a couple Mrs. Claus
cookbooks, the home overflows with the warmth and magic of the season.
Blogger Toni Roberts of Design Dazzle has always loved decorating, and
Christmas décor holds a special place in her heart. “I got this passion from
my mom,” Toni says. “She loves decorating for Christmas, too.”
(above) For the front porch, Toni decided on a less effusive color
palette. In contrast with the interior, the exterior features
“a classic black-and-white Christmas look with no red.” Toni
also styled the area with chic black ice skates, a “large metal
galvanized snow plate” and a robust Christmas tree.
SOFT BACKDROPS
In accordance with the farmhouse aesthetic, Toni opted for
muted tones on the walls and floors throughout her home.
“I have a very neutral palette,” Toni says. “The walls are a soft
gray, and the floors are a warm gray-brown, which is kind
of a farmhouse look to begin with.” These shades, which are
perfect for the American farmhouse, also prove wonderfully
versatile. “I change certain areas of the home up throughout
the year,” she says. For this reason, she purposefully designed
her home to accommodate different accessories for the
changing seasons. “I probably decorate the kitchen three
times a year,” she says. Typically, Toni displays autumn
accents between October and November, then ushers in the
Christmas spirit the weekend after Thanksgiving.
(left) Toni owns a one-of-a-kind nativity set. “I wanted an off-white color and
couldn't find any,” she says. So she and her husband purchased the set “at a
ceramic shop as green ware,” during their first Christmas as a married couple.
“We had to paint it and get it fired,” Toni says. “This year will be our 29th
Christmas together.”
WINTER 2018 • 77
St. Nick’s wife was here, and her recipes are here to stay.
Toni’s kitchen boasts an adorable “Mrs. Claus’ Bake Shop”
sign, as well as cookbooks that may very well have come
straight from the North Pole. She also keeps a fresh tray
full of Santa’s favorite snacks on a cake plate, lovingly
preserved beneath a cloche lid.
DAZZLING DIYS
Toni’s setup wouldn’t be complete without her cheerful
printable signs and homemade snowballs, designs which
she sells on her website. The homemade pieces infuse
the atmosphere with rich Christmas warmth. For the
snowballs, Toni takes simple Styrofoam balls and wraps
batting and iridescent Buffalo Snow around them.
Toni also creates her garlands by hand.
WINTER 2018 • 79
To infuse style into her Christmas table setting, Toni
selected a white matellase (embossed textile). “It's
lightweight, perfect to use on my table,” she says. For the
backs of the chairs, she “found these cute little gingerbread
men in little stockings,” then pinned them to the slipcovers
with “very thick quilting pins.”
WINTER 2018 • 81
Toni's Michael's Maker tree
this year is festive for her
farmhouse, with plenty of
plaid and rustic burlap.
(right) Toni introduced a crib mattress spring as a backdrop for her large clock,
crafting a “vignette look.” The geometric lines create visual interest, contrasting
with the roundness of the time piece. “I love how that came together,” Toni says.
Adding a dish of cranberries, several Christmas trees and a cheerful gingham bow,
she infuses the scene with Christmas cheer.
WINTER 2018 • 85
"thatI lookyou fwouldn't
or things
necessarily put
on a tree."
SANTA SACK
Want to create your own
Santa sack? Check out Toni’s EXTRAVAGANZA
tutorial on her website at
designdazzle.com. The gingham bag under Toni’s Christmas tree
represents more than just a gift. It’s a symbol
of a multi-generational tradition—a Santa
sack. You can add this tradition to your seasonal
celebrations, too.
HISTORY
For Toni and her family, the Santa sack traces back to
Australia, where Toni’s mother grew up. Because the
family couldn’t afford a Christmas tree, Toni’s mother
and her siblings would position pillow cases, “Santa
sacks,” at the foot of their beds on December 24th. In
the morning, each child would awaken to a present in
the pillowcase. This is a tradition that continues in parts
of Europe and Australia.
WINTER 2018 • 87
Homeowner Jo Shetley uses signs throughout her
home—the sweet sentiments capture the beauty
of life. This Timber and Gray sign calls to mind old
carols, while its delicate script interplays against
the symmetrical shiplap wall treatment.
White Christmas
This Missouri home shows the beauty of a
light and bright Christmas palette.
BY AU T U M N K R AU S E
P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y K A R E N PA L M E R
STYLING BY JO SHETLEY
T
he iconic phrase ‘White Christmas’ gets a modern farmhouse redo in
this Missouri home, where hair dresser-turned-interior designer Jo
Shetley eschews the usual red-and-green holiday color scheme in
favor of a neutral palette. Jo, who styles and posts about her home
on her Instagram account @the_simple_farmhouse, is known for
embracing a serene colorscape year-round. “You’ll find out pretty quickly that I love
shades of black and white wood,” she says. “They make a clean starting point that can
be enhanced with texture, and I carry this through right into my Christmas décor.”
During the Yuletide season, Jo turns her interiors into winter-themed wonderlands
that enchant her Instagram followers and, more importantly, her three children. Jo
says, “It’s so wondrous to see everything through our kiddos’ eyes.”
WINTER 2018 • 89
(top) It’s only fitting that the paint for Jo’s front door is called “Extra
White” by Sherwin Williams. It sets the tone for the neutrals that
await guests inside. The entire area is dressed for the holidays
with greenery, including two carriage lights, which Jo adorns with
wreaths. “Fresh evergreen embodies Christmas,” she says.
A WINTER WELCOME
At the Shetley home, holiday styling begins at the
entryway, where even passersby can enjoy a taste of the
Christmas spirit and carry it with them into their day. “I
like to keep it simple and inviting,” Jo says. She drapes the
front door in an evergreen garland that smells as fragrant
and fresh as it looks. She even puts extra branches to
good use. “I used some of the leftover garland to create
a wreath,” she says. The wreath hangs on the front door,
creating an iconic image that’s full of handmade heart.
Fireplace logs double as décor and lean up against the
door, immediately invoking images of cuddling up by a
fire during the cold night.
WINTER 2018 • 91
"WeEvenienjoyngshotarecupsmagi c al around here.
of cocoa by the crackling fire.”
FESTIVE FOREST
With walls covered in shiplap and a pine mantel to add
dimension, the living room embodies Jo’s principles of
clean farmhouse design, and she enlivens it with texture.
“It’s such a great space to style,” she says. She transforms
it into an enchanting forest during the winter months
by bringing in several small flocked trees and layering in
fur throws and pillows. By leaving the trees unadorned
and wrapping them in simple white lights, she captures
the wondrous nature of a Christmas forest lit by starlight.
“Evenings are magical around here,” Jo says. “We enjoy
hot cups of cocoa by the crackling fire.”
(left) Hickory wood floors and a rug are the foundation for Jo’s styling,
which includes elevating some of her small trees so they have varying
heights and give the natural appearance of a snowy wood.
WINTER 2018 • 93
If you want multiple trees in your
home, use a mixture of real and faux
trees to keep the number of pine
needles down, but still enjoy the
fresh fragrance of pine in the house.
WINTER 2018 • 95
Stenciled tiles give the laundry room a stylish twist.
“Stenciling my floors felt like doing 10,000 squats,” Jo says.
She used primer, Valspar Boot Black paint and Rustoleum
Chalked Linen paint, along with a stencil from Etsy, to
create this textured floor.
WINTER 2018 • 97
Black eucalyptus wood rocking chairs add a
homespun touch to Jo’s porch and provide a place to
enjoy the holiday décor surrounding the door.
DIY
farmhouse element,” she says.
RUSTIC
STOCKING
HOLDER
Hang your stockings from any surface
with this stocking holder.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
WINTER 2018 • 99
Plaid stockings hang from the fireplace mantel,
adding texture to the room. A small village
is safely tucked under a side table, while
Christmas trees, reindeer forms and a garland
proudly sit on the mantel.
I
f you have a small home, it can seem clausterphobic
to add Christmas décor during the holidays. But
homeowner and blogger Rachel Bousquet of
Hygge Home brings Christmas cheer to her home
with small touches and an organized theme. “You
don’t need much to get a cozy Christmas feel,” she says.
“Simple things go a long way.”
MOUNTAIN RETREAT
Rachel’s 1,100-square-foot home transforms into a winter
retreat during the holidays. Despite sunny skies and
warmer temperatures, she manages to make her home
feel like it’s located on top of a snowy mountain. “This year,
I went with a cozy cottage cabin vibe,” she says. “I used
pops of red and lots of plaid to achieve this look.”
(left) The living room Christmas tree has a cottage cabin vibe with natural
accents and pops of gold ornaments and ribbon. Rachel used a fresh
garland on the curtains for its fragrance and texture.
"plaid
I usedto achieve
pops ofaredcozyandcabinlotsvibe.
of
”
WINTER 2018 • 103
The dining room cabinet is filled with Rachel’s Rae Dunn pottery
collection, which she’s been building for the past five years. The white
pieces complement the neutral color scheme in the room.
Not only do the tree trimmings matter, but what’s under the
tree makes a statement as well. “For wrapping gifts, I went with
the same feel. Most of our gifts are for the kids, so I kept it simple
and playful,” Rachel says. Stamped parcel paper with red labels
pop under the tree to showcase the presents.
While some of her greenery is faux, Rachel likes to include
fresh greenery to bring the scent of Christmas indoors. The
garland on the curtains next to the tree, for example, brings
a magical smell to the space, allowing her to decorate a faux
tree without the sacrifice. “I use lots of real and faux garlands
throughout my home. The real garland smells amazing,” she says.
Even if the temperature doesn’t drop below 50 degrees,
the Bousquet family will be nice and snug in their winter
farmhouse cabin.
W
ith all the hustle and bustle that NATURALLY FESTIVE
accompanies the Christmas The key to Jamie’s earthy holiday decorations is simple: step
season, decorating your home outside. “My favorite Christmas décor is free,” Jamie says. “I search
can seem like a daunting task. the woods for clippings, birch branches and tiny little evergreen
But Instagrammer Jamie Druke trees.” Taking your home from autumn to winter doesn’t have to
of @BluestoneHill proves that sometimes the simplest be a dramatic change. Jamie drapes garlands over her mantel,
of details can make the biggest impact in your home. wraps them around her porch beams and uses them to frame
Her farmhouse style manages to blend the elegance of her paintings. This is an affordable alternative to going out and
a carefully curated design with the cozy comfort of a spending money on new décor each year. “I think less is more,”
dream holiday home. Jamie says. “You don’t want to overwhelm guests with Christmas
clutter the minute they enter your house.”
POPS OF PATTERN
Nothing says elegant and chic like clean neutrals.
However, the holidays are a great time to experiment
with color and pattern. Jamie does this by displaying
plaid throws blankets, a wicker basket full of festive
wrapping paper and touches of the ever classic
Christmas red. But she never strays too far from her
home’s country roots and incorporates a few rustic
pieces. “I use a simple ruffled burlap tree skirt, neutral
plaids and antler pillows to add subtle farmhouse
touches in the living room,” she says.
In fact, many of Jamie’s decorations aren’t Christmas-
specific, and she can keep them up for the rest of
winter, even after Christmas is technically over. Her
mounted snow shoes and red rain boots are two such
examples. “I don’t go overly cutesy with holiday décor,
because I like to buy things that will last a long time,”
she says.
For subtle
TRIMMING THE TREE
One item that screams Christmas in Jamie’s home is her tree. The house is a
neutral heaven, and her tree is no exception. She keeps it simple with plenty of
glowing warm lights, antique mercury glass ornaments and ribbon. However,
hints of
with two young daughters who have design ideas of their own, she makes
sure they have their very own miniature tree they can decorate with all the
bright, glittery ornaments their hearts desire.
DIY
MINIMALIST
RINGING
WREATH
Create your own simple and lightweight wreath
with just a few items.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• Large embroidery hoop
• Artificial garland
• Wire cutters
• Floral wire
• Hot glue gun and glue
• Two large bells
• Red velvet ribbon
4 WOODSY DECORATIONS
Take a lesson from Jamie and add these earthy (and free) pieces to your holiday décor.
• Pinecones. These are a classic country favorite. Strategically intersperse them throughout your home, such as on your coffee table,
mantel or a bookcase. You can also decorate them with a metallic silver spray paint and dash of glitter for an extra pop of glamour.
• Greenery. Sprigs are a great tool to use if you want to frame a decoration. In fact, a few pinecones on a bed of spruce sprigs is an
easy centerpiece to create for your dining room table.
• Winterberries. These will add a festive pop of color. Keep them on the branch and twine them through a wreath or put them in a
vase for a twist on the usual choice of poinsettias.
• Mistletoe. Cliché though it may be, mistletoe adds an undeniably charming element to Christmas décor. Hang a sprig of it in your
doorway as a classic and cheeky way to invite your guests into your home. Plus, it gives you an excuse to spread the love, which is
what the holidays are all about.
PRETTY
IN PLAID
Host a cozy, casual Christmas dinner with a few
simple treats and a handmade garland.
BY M A D I S O N N AU TA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TORREY FOX
STYLING BY CHRISSY MCDONALD
The holidays are about sharing love and spending time with family and friends, but they’re
also the best excuse to throw a party and whip out your favorite Christmas décor. For farmhouse fanatics, that means plaid patterns and
greenery galore. Chrissy McDonald, designer and lifestyle blogger at Harlowe James, shares some of her tips and tricks to host the season’s
best cozy, yet casual Christmas dinner.
DÉCOR DRINKS
Use your dinning table as a centerpiece for your décor and the “Pretty glasses go a really long way,” Chrissy says. Look for vintage
theme for your gathering. “I approach any empty table with flowers glasses with gold trim, or even add a few charms to your wine
first,” Chrissy says. From this focal point, she layers linens and, of glasses to elevate your cocktail hour and give your guests a
course, the place settings. Seasonal plates can be fun, but often conversation starter. While champagne, eggnog and cider are
expensive and space consuming. Chrissy suggests buying neutral necessary holiday drinks, Chrissy loves to start with a simple Saint
dinner plates and accenting the setting with themed salad plates. Germaine. You can even top off your cocktails with a few juniper
These can be inexpensive and easy to store. berries or a fresh rosemary sprig.
Fresh Garland
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
• Measuring tape • Heavy-duty scissors or
• 3-4 types of evergreen pruning shears
branches (eucalyptus, pine, • Floral wire
olive, cedar, etc.) • Wired or floral twine
Having a party is about enjoying
yourself with your guests. The WHAT YOU’LL DO:
more you can prepare ahead of 1. Measure your surface area. Whether you want your garland
time, the more relaxed you'll be to cascade over the ends of your table or have a smaller swag
during the event. in the table’s center, you’ll want to figure out exactly how
much greenery you need.
2. With this measurement, make a vine using several lengths of
the wired twine as your base.
3. On a large work surface, assemble bunches of greenery.
Gather several small pieces of each greenery and wrap the
floral wire around it to create a bunch. Set these aside as
you work.
4. Once you’ve made a pile of bunches, start attaching them
to your vine with more of the floral wire. Continue to gather
your greens and attach the bundles to the vine until you’ve
reached your desired length.
TIDINGS
OF JOY
the story of Christmas. of Christmas and its origins. In The Little Book of the Nativity,
author Dominique Foufelle shares the history of the beloved
BY L AU R E N H O F E R holiday and the spiritual traditions that continue to influence
IMAGES COURTESY OF CHRONICLE BOOKS
celebrations around the world.
accompanied Christmas
fifth,” Foufelle writes.
The nativity scene became a popular image. The scene takes place
beginning.”
find room at a local inn. The baby Jesus lies in a feeding trough
surrounded by Mary, Joseph, the resident farm animals and the local
shepherds who came to worship the newborn savior. “Later, the
Nativity became a preferred theme in art,” Foufelle writes.
ADVENT: COMING
Advent is the four weeks leading up to
Christmas, a season for preparing the heart
and mind to celebrate the coming of Jesus.
Often, four candles are lit on each of the four
Sundays with a fifth on Christmas morning.
“Children enjoyed making the wreath with fir
boughs, decorating it with four candles and
lighting a candle on each Sunday,” Foufelle
writes. The weeks of Advent are also a time to
prepare and display the nativity. Historically,
families kept baby Jesus hidden until midnight
on Christmas Eve.
During the season of Advent, families and
communities also enjoy traditional music.
“Songs and dances accompanied Christmas
ceremonies since the beginning,” writes
Foufelle. “The songs are joyful and full of hope
to celebrate a happy event.”
ADVENT
TRADITIONS
Tap into the traditions of
Christmas around the world with
these fun activities.
� ADVENT CANDLE. Similar to an
Advent calendar, an Advent candle
helps mark down the days until the
25th, and is popular in the UK. You
can buy an Advent candle, which
is a taper candle with descending
dates—each day, you burn the
candle to the next date.
Pg. 109 | The Magi, or wise men, are often part of the traditional creche scene, though historians
think they would have arrived several years later when Jesus was a toddler.
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• ROUND UP •
Wonderful
WINTER