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Decorating for the Senses

For Bennett, decorating for the holidays isn’ t just about what guests see. Layering decor, scent, sound and warmth help to pull the entire look and feel of the season together.

“ Think of all the senses,” she explains.“ On your stovetop, simmer a large pot of water, cinnamon, orange peel and cloves. That aromatic sense becomes part of the holiday table. Add candles or fairy lights, play music that sets the tone – it all works together to create that warm, fall-like mood.”

Honoring Family Traditions

The holidays are a time to invite loved ones to the table for a time of food and fellowship. It’ s also a time for remembrance, honoring family traditions and those who are absent from the table.

At her own holiday table, Bennett brings heirloom pieces into her decor. She includes her greatgrandmother’ s porcelain jar, her husbands’ greatgrandmother’ s china, her grandmother’ s water glasses and crocheted napkins made by her mother and grandmother.

“ They don’ t all match, but that’ s the beauty,” she says.“ Mixing and matching is a way of weaving family history into the celebration.”

Even small keepsakes can be added throughout your decor. A locket nestled among leaves in the centerpiece or framed family photos on the mantle ensures every family member is thought of, remembered and honored during the holiday.

Other ways to honor family traditions include:

• Leave a place at the table as an“ empty chair tribute” for loved ones who are no longer with you. Add a place setting, light a candle, a framed photo and a small floral arrangement from the garden.

• Include Grandma’ s favorite recipe in the meal. Consider adding the handwritten recipe card to the table’ s centerpiece.

• Keep it simple by lighting a memory candle in the center of the table in honor of absent loved ones. Invite guests to share stories as a form of remembrance.

Holiday Decorating Made Simple

If holiday decorating feels overwhelming or uncertain, Bennett says to take it one step at a time, starting with the table. The smallest touches are what guests remember the most, such as placing name cards and gratitude cards at each setting.

“ Instead of a menu, the card asks,‘ What am I thankful for?’ Everyone writes their answer down and talks about it at dinner. It always opens eyes and sparks meaningful conversation.”

She also encourages homesteaders and homeowners to keep it simple:“ Less is more. Start simple. All you really need is a runner, a couple of hurricanes and a candle. Layer from there.”

To learn more about Colleen Bennett and CBB Design Firm, visit www. cbbdesignfirm. com.

22 AcreageLife November 2025 AcreageLife. com

AcreageLife. com November 2025 AcreageLife 23