friday favorites : holiday gifts, parties and decor

From editor Rosemary Hallmark: “I love the creative use of a small space in this young couple’s first apartment. And the bright color palette makes the whole space feel large and airy.” {“Young Couple’s First Apartment” from Good Bones Great Pieces}

From managing editor Tiffany Burgess: “Open house get-togethers are one of my favorite things about the holidays. So, naturally I was smitten with this one from Camille Styles and Kate Spade. Who wouldn’t love to kick off their shoes and play scrabble?” {“Style in Spades : Holiday Open House″ from Camille Styles}

From marketing coordinator Tara Johnson: “I love Lewis Lighting’s roundup of alternative Christmas trees. One year my mom let me make a giant Christmas tree with construction paper. To this day, that is still one of my favorite Christmas memories.” {“Simple DIY: 10+ Alternative Christmas Trees” from Edison Avenue}

From account executive Emilie Head: “I think I’ll  be starting my holiday baking early this weekend with these gingerbread cookies! They look delicious!” {“Soft Ginger Cookies” from My Baking Addiction}

From account executive Emilie Head: “These homemade extracts (and the free downloadable labels) are so cute and would make great Christmas gifts for all my foodie friends!” {“Homemade Extract Recipes” from spoon fork bacon}