Holiday Hosting

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Written By Molly Solich

Image credits from left to right: Williams Sonoma, Wells Abbott, Nine and Sixteen, Pinterest, Wilson Vick, Aerin, New England Home, Fashion Magazine

Seasons have changed quickly here in Colorado - we had our first big snow storm last week. This welcome change in nature brings the anticipation & excitement of holiday hosting indoors, decorating & planning. Soft chocolate browns, faded sage greens and floral motifs reminiscent of the wildflowers in our garden inspired my table setting this season, shown below. A spur of the moment touch was adding a paper white bulb to each place setting, something guests can take home with them and plant in their garden or have indoors during winter.

In my own home, I am drawn to natural materials for my holiday decor. Rosemary wreaths hung on interior windows with antique ribbon, paper white & amaryllis bulbs planted in terracotta or silver vessels, and a real evergreen garland on the mantle are the consistent decorations that I turn to year after year. Last year was the first year we had a real tree, and it is now our tradition to pick one out the day after Thanksgiving. 

Setting the table in my studio space

Mixing old with new, as I have here, is a lovely way to curate a unique table. The monogramed flatware is an antique Christofle pattern, which a designer friend of mine pointed out is similar to the Vendome pattern. The brighter whites paired alongside the browns and sage remind me of the snow covered landscape outdoors. I've mixed my favorite Astier de Villate pitcher with Aerin Lauder x Casa Lopez plates that I recently added to my collection. They coordinate with the Parterre placemats I have, all atop a 19th century French oak dining table with iron base, available from Molly Solich Studio. 

A well stocked bar is a holiday entertaining essential. Interior designer Bunny Williams, who is endlessly inspiring, has a bar right when her guests walk into the guest barn at her thoughtfully considered Connecticut home. In my studio space, the 19th c French Patisserie Table similarly serves as the perfect spot to welcome guests & clients.

This 19th c French Patisserie Table similarly serves as the perfect bar

Personalizing your table with colorful taper candles, place cards, seasonal greenery (I love Trader Joe's) and interesting vases and glassware does not need to be intimidating. Below are some of my favorite selections this year - browns, greens and silvers reign supreme. How lovely would the owl ornament be as a hostess gift to a family member or friend?

Molly Solich
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