December at Acorn Cottage: Living Room

 Step through the front door, and you’re immediately welcomed into the living room, the heart of our Christmas decor this season. This space is always special to me, but at Christmastime it truly shines.

The living room holds many treasured pieces that make the season feel magical. The Christmas tree in this room is dressed in a palette of rich reds, shimmering golds, and sparkling silvers. It’s a more formal tree compared to the one in the sunroom—don’t worry, I’ll share that tree with you in a later post—but this one sets a tone of classic, timeless elegance from the moment you enter.

Blue and white ceramic ginger jars stand tall on tables and shelves, filled to the brim with vibrant red berries and glossy red orbs. Their crisp patterns against the bold holiday colors create such a striking contrast that I look forward to each year. Scattered around the room, vintage-style Santas bring a sense of nostalgia. You’ll find them perched on the desk and coffee table, keeping watch over a bold arrangement of red berries and glittery pomegranates—one of my favorite combinations this season.

To add even more festive warmth, gold-gilded pine cone garlands are draped gracefully along the secretary and the hutch. Their soft shimmer ties the room together, casting a gentle glow that pulls your eyes from one vignette to the next. And even the metal crown chandelier gets dressed up for the season, it's adorned with glittery orbs that make it sparkle just a little brighter.

There’s an unmistakable elegance in the living room this time of year—a blend of tradition, sparkle, and the simple joy of decorating a space you love. Thanks for stopping by Acorn Cottage today. I can’t wait to show you the sunroom tree next!

Christmas in The Living Room, y'all!

December at Acorn Cottage: The Front Yard {Daytime}

 I’ve loved Christmas décor for as long as I can remember. From decorating alongside my Me-Me to wandering through well-adorned shops of years past like the beloved Moss Picker, I’ve always been in awe of beautiful holiday trimmings. There’s just something magical about transforming a home for the season—layering memories, traditions, and a little sparkle.

It’s no secret that I like to take my own Christmas décor to the next level while still keeping true to my personal, classic Christmas style. This year, the Acorn Cottage is dressed in what might be its most festive look yet.

The newest addition—and perhaps the most dramatic—is the large red bow that now hangs over the entrance to the porch. Truly massive in size, it sets the tone before guests even step inside. Beneath it, my front door came to life thanks to the incredible handiwork of local artist Claire of @vintageshinybrites. She created the most stunning ornament wreath, its deep red tones pairing beautifully with the rest of the holiday décor.

From the porch ceiling, large red balls hang as if floating in midair, and strands of red ball garland drape gracefully across the greenery around the exterior. Even the gas lantern got her own little seasonal “dress-up,” adding a touch of whimsy to the glow she gives each evening.

In the yard and nestled within the cast iron urns, Holiballs in a vintage red shine brightly, tying everything together. And of course, no Christmas at the Acorn Cottage would be complete without the two gold-gilded soldiers that stand at attention year after year—faithful guardians of the season’s spirit.

Everywhere you look, reds and greens dominate the scene. It’s traditional, timeless, and just the way I love the Acorn Cottage to feel at Christmas: warm, welcoming, and wonderfully classic.

Christmas at the Cottage, y'all!

December: Chateau Lapeyre

 One of the true joys of Thanksgiving break back home on the bayou is spending time with family—and helping decorate their homes for the holidays. My sister and brother-in-law’s home near Houma, Louisiana is a quintessential Southern residence, filled with a beautiful blend of antique charm and modern touches. Its style is unmistakably Southern, and at Christmas, it transforms into a picture of timeless elegance.

Around the front door, lush garlands of magnolia and cedar intertwined with shimmering white lights set the perfect holiday tone. Standing guard are a pair of 6-foot twin toy soldiers, discovered years ago in a holiday shop in Baton Rouge. Along the porch, wreaths and garland toppers accent the French doors, adding even more festive charm.

Stepping into the foyer, one of the first sights to greet you is the living room’s stunning 12-foot noble fir. Dressed in layers of ribbons and ornaments in gold, turquoise, and silver, the tree is nothing short of a visual feast. The mantel and staircase continue the same classic theme, creating a cohesive and sophisticated holiday look throughout the home. Peacock feathers and berries add to the woodland experience.

A bayou Christmas is truly something special—an experience I’ve cherished for many years, and one that always feels like coming home.

Chateau Lapeyre, y'all!