We can all use a leg up during the holidays. That’s why I’ve been keeping track of the little tips I hear from various experts around town. Here are my favorite of this year’s seasonal tips, tricks and hacks.
- Judy at the Rink recommends:
Freeze your candles ahead of an event. This significantly extends the burn time and reduces dripping. A set like these will make any table feel festive.
- Garden specialist at Urban Roots recommends:
Water your poinsettias over the soil only. Drops of water on the leaves create brown spots.
- Martin’s Wine Cellar recommends:
If you love sparkling wine/champagne but hate the hangover, try the Monmousseau L’essential Brut Zero sold at Martin’s. Brut Nature translates to Zero Dosage, which means no sugar.
- Kristie, owner of Standard Topiary suggests creating a foraged wreath:
Purchase an artificial boxwood or eucalyptus wreath as a base. Then wander your neighborhood or a park and forage things like, holly, Eugenia, overgrown ivy, and evergreen clippings from the Christmas tree. Make a bundle, as in the picture. Take two pieces of the artificial foliage and cross them over the bundle and twist tightly, securing to the base. Repeat all the way around. Pass ribbon though the hanger in the back to create a tied bow loop. You can always add faux berries if you have them around as well.
- Amy Sugar, owner of The Sweetest Grace has a few tips:
– Make sure you store your faux wreath properly. Don’t put in the attic as it’s too hot and the glue breaks down. Try resting it on a hanger in a spare closet or covered under a bed.
– For the most realistic faux arrangements ask for “real touch” or “fresh cut” varieties/brands.
– If you have double doors, two wreaths is the only way to go.
– A wreath that can be used all year round is a great gift.
- Master an easy bow technique like this with Erin Schaumberg of Eros
- To stay sane throughout all the wonderful holiday chaos, Lauren Trostorff, owner of Vibrant Market recommends:
Wim Hof Method breathing technique, Box breathing (below) and Lipocalm by Quicksilver.
- My new tree trick:
Soil Moist to keep your Christmas tree fresh. Reduces waterings, spills and mess.
Sales & Event Picks:
Ongoing: Use code HOLIDAY15 For 15% OFF, Sotre
Dec. 7 (6 p.m. – 8 p.m.): JLNO Holly Jolly Market at Sacred Heart
Dec. 8 (12 p.m. – 8 p.m.): Eye Wares Sip & Shop, Featuring: Cartier, Gucci, l.a. Eyeworks, Lite Bites, Cocktails & Year-End Savings, Eye Wares (magazine street)
Dec. 9-10 (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.): Preservation Resource Center’s 48th Annual Holiday Home Tour
