The Post-Christmas Decor Blues

So, if you're anything like me, when you decorate for the holidays you move things around, put items in seasonal storage, and even move furniture to other rooms.  Okay, I have a lot of Christmas stuff and the only way I can display it all properly is to change things around.  It looks great but once it's all packed away the rooms look a little dull. After all the sparkle of the season putting your rooms back the way they were can be a little bit of a let down. This is when your creativity should take over.  I'm not talking about completely redecorating, although that's what some people do, but rather reinventing. 

After the boxes have been put away it's a good time to really clean everything.  A fresh, clean start really helps.  Then start looking at what you have in a new light.  Don't automatically place everything back where it was.  If you can, move some furniture around, even if it's only occasional tables.  Change your seating area around.  Make some distinct conversation areas with your furniture.  Grab those really nice throws you have stored in your linen closet and drape them over your chairs or your chesterfield. Think of new groupings for your tables. Sometimes it means exchanging smaller items between rooms.  Regroup your framed, family photos.  Think about how you can use the items you already have in a new way. 

And then (here's where the Dollar store comes in handy) get some new pillow covers for your throw pillows.  Maybe pick up some new, inexpensive frames.  How about some decorative stones in your vases or even coloured rocks to match or compliment your decor.  You may even find some table runners or interesting trays that you can use to break things up.

And don`t forget about your kitchen. Some new plant pots in your window, new dish towels on display, some fresh wooden spoons, or even some chair pads.  You can even buy some interesting glass jars to place on your counter to hold your coffee, tea or sugar.  Minimal expense but they will make things look a lot different.  

Any of these things will make a difference.  I know it helps me to make changes.  It`s a new year so start off with a new outlook, even if it`s only in your living room.