The holidays are quickly approaching.  Now you can shine.  You can add sparkle to your home and let your creative side go wild. If you have boxes and boxes of decorations now is the time to haul them out and look for themes in those boxes.  Many times we use what we have without much thought to a coordinated look.  There is probably a place for everything (maybe not everything) just not all on the tree. For 2009 seasonal trends there are endless options.

BLACK is in the spotlight this year.  Red is trendy when used with black instead of the traditional green.  It can be shiny or matte finish.  Look through your treasures for red ornaments, vases, bowls, ribbons and mix with high gloss silver or black.  Graphics on ornaments  in black make black and red very hot for 2009.  Remember that a little spray paint can make nearly anything red or black.

BROWN. If black is not your choice, try a yummy chocolate brown.  Brown mixes well with red, gold, amber, copper and taupe.  A very classy look for those who love chocolates, cocoa and coffee.  Look for satin ribbon in browns, reds, almonds and soft golds for wrapping those packages of decadent chocolates.  The stores selves are filled with absolutely beautiful  items from tablecloths to ribbons to the ornament meant for that special person.

WHITE is making an appearance this year paired with red and green.  You probably have a great collection of reds and greens in those boxes already.  Adding white accents to the red and green gives the designs a crisp and clean  look.  While shopping pay attention to those 3 colors to maintain that put together look for your  home.  Look for things that make you smile, remind you of days gone by that you can share with your family.  Peppermint candy, vases, ribbon, fresh and silk flowers , icey accents all can make your home special in 2009.  Don’t forget the twinkling white lights.

SILVER create shimmer with light and sparkle. The holidays come at the darkest time of the year and adding candles,reflective glass and plastics shed light through out the house.  Anything crystal can be used to decorate.  Sparkle comes from reflection of light off the surface of the bevels of the crystal.  This theme can incorporate sheer and silver ribbons and fabrics.  Its all about shimmer and light.  Bring out the silver trays and glass ornaments.  Use those treasured bowls for interesting centerpieces.  Fill the bowl with greens using floral foam and top with an assortment of ornaments and sparkly snowflakes. Remember to use a liner to protect the interior of the bowl from the water and foam.  Foam is available at craft stores.

NATURE’S BOUNTY, use it for Christmas.  The organic theme is here to stay.  With all the attention turning to the environment many homeowners are looking for nature inspired decorations.  Fall is a great time to walk through your yard to forage for items that can be used as “outside in” decorations .Like nature in December these gifts from nature are simple and unadorned and  are easily brought in during late fall.  Use these for Thanksgiving and transitioned to Christmas designs by adding touches of  holiday.  Look for branches, magnolia leaves, berries, acorns, pinecones, birch bark, beautiful leathery oak leaves, anything that has that outdoor look.  Add items made of ceramic, resin and papier mache as well as iron and stainless steel  adorned  with holiday sparkle complements these earthly and simple decorations.    Fruits and nuts can be replaced with ornaments for the Christmas holiday.  Candles scented with a woodsy smell with make it a perfect holiday with nature.  Use boughs from the tree on the mantel and over the doors to spread the wonderful scent through the house.

The themes are endless from juvenile to elegant and frilly Victorian.  Choose your theme using the things that you love and already own.  Use a color scheme that fills you with hope and joy and don’t forget the lights, lights, lights. Happy Holidays!

**This is Maureen’s first contribution to Parent Trend.  She has joined team Parent Trend and will be providing us with great projects, tips and ideas we can use in our own home!  Welcome, Maureen!