[photo credit: http://traceryinteriors.com/portfolio/at-hom/]

It is the time of year when we are all well into our holiday festivities. Shopping, parties, wrapping, and traveling are all going on as we speak. We decided to dedicate this post to the last minute details that can help take your holiday gathering to the next level. Easy recipes, tablescapes, and last minute decor all really help to make for an unforgettable event. 

We all spend so much time and effort decorating our homes for the Holiday Season, and everyone has his or her own unique take on decor. Here at Providence Design one of our favorite touches is incorporating fresh greens into the decor. We usually start with a faux base and decorate it to completion with ribbon, ornaments–the whole nine yards. Then just before the event we plug in some fresh stems to take it over the top. Nothing beats the smell of fresh Christmas greens. 

The arrangement in the above picture was done with real poinsettias and dried moss, mixed with faux red kalanchoes from our store. How nice all you have to worry about is the poinsettias! In the next photo we started with faux christmas greenery and berries mixed with the sugarcones. Then we added a few fresh stems in and what a statement without fear of it all being dried out in a day or two!

Our next tip is for your table. You may be having a sit down dinner or a buffet setting, but you always want your table to be a statement. Let’s start with a buffet setting. Try to find some serve ware that have varying shapes and sizes, even heights. Varying the pieces will add visual interest to your tablescape. 

The above photo shows many different serving pieces, as well as some placed on stands. Once you add a fabulous centerpiece (here we went back to our fresh greens) you are well ahead of the pack in having a gorgeous tablescape. 

[photo credit: http://beechtreephotography.com/2011/12/28/christmas-tablescape/]

Its important to try to make each placesetting special if you are having a sit down dinner. We love using the stockings made from antique fabric, each one being different really makes each setting special. You could even use them as the placecard holders, or place a small gift inside for your guests to take with them.

Another tip! Candles, Candles, Candles! If you ask us, you can never have too many candles. Right before the guests arrive light the candles. It might seem small but candles automatically set the tone for a lovely event. 

[photo credit: http://boards.weddingbee.com/topic/show-me-your-reception-table-settings/]

[photo credit: http://www.diynetwork.com/decorating/10-unique-ways-to-decorate-your-front-door-for-the-holidays/pictures/index.html]

[photo credit: http://www.houzz.com/photos/products/holiday-floral-centerpieces]

Lastly, what is a great party without great food? You certainly don’t have to spend a fortune or all your time dedicated to cooking, however making some special dishes really makes the event personal. Pictured below our some quick and easy dishes that really are delicious and will have your guests talking. For more yummy dishes and the recipes, head over to our blog. 

[photo credit: http://slimpaley.com/entertaining/seeds-berries/]

[photo credit: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/anne-burrell/excellent-meatballs-recipe.html]

[photo credit: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ellie-krieger/pork-tenderloin-with-seasoned-rub-recipe.html]

Hope these little tips will help take your party to the next level. 

Have a wonderful holiday and Merry Christmas from Providence Design!

[photo credit: http://hative.com/fun-creative-christmas-card-photo-ideas/]

Providence Design is Mona Thompson and Talena Ray, a sister duo who are antiques dealers and interior designers. Learn more about them on their website, providenceltddesign.com.