Holiday style swap

The holidays are a fun and wonderful time of the year! It is so great to get together with friends and family but it can be expensive...but it doesn't have to be.

why not try some of these fun ways to save over the holidays and still have a fun and fabulous holiday

- try a cookie exchange. it's easier and most cost effective to bake multiples of one cookie plus it's a great way to try some new baking goodies. but choose your cookie exchange members carefully, reliable friends are best!

- if you know someone maybe even a family member who does not decorate the house anymore (maybe they travel or don't host anymore) ask if you can buy or have their old decor items

- get the kids involved in homemade decorations. popcorn strings, hand painted wood or over baked dough ornaments, paper chains etc...it's fun to do too!

- make wrapping paper and cards too

- share the duties: if you are great at wrapping and a friend is fabulous at decorating why not exchange duties? you'll both end up with fantastic results and less frustration too

- do a gift exchange (a great idea for the gown-ups) we don't really need anything and it helps every one's bank accounts

- what to do with all of your leftovers after those big holiday meals? do a left over party on the 26 th. my family started doing this a number of years ago and it's fun and so easy plus no more leftovers filling up the fridge. invite anyone you want - family, friends, neighbours and they are to bring their leftovers. have a table with all of the food for everyone to pick at, let the kids play, watch movies whatever and just have a relaxing day!

It's doesn't matter how you and your loved ones celebrate - the number of gifts, what you eat and how to decorate what matters is who you are with and the fun you have together!

'Tis the season to be stylish...

Yes, it is almost that time of year again...the holiday season is upon us! I just love this time of year when everything is decorated and everywhere looks so festive. So have you started your holiday decorating?

Not sure where to begin?

Start with a colour palette and if you don't think there is much of a choice beyond the traditional red, green and white, think again....

Holiday decor of the season has really changed. You can opt for the traditional colours but why not go metallic? Silver and gold look so elegant and timeless and paired with white or red, very sophisticated. Or maybe you prefer something fun and funky, try splashes of turquoise, fuchsia and orange - brighter is better! Or maybe a more natural and organic look is more your style, try natural tones and decor pieces straight from nature with edible elements such as cranberries. Are you more Hollywood chic? Even glamourous high heel stockings and animal print ornaments are readily available.

Check out your favourite stores, they always have something special for this time fo year.

Whatever your taste and style be sure to celebrate with decor it can really put anyone in the mood for the holidays....