Over the years many people have asked me how I keep dreaming up ideas for Christmas. I have decided that, as the year progresses, Christmas is felt through all the senses, rather than just something that is viewed for a short time of the year.

Christmas is something to be treasured, and many people simply feel better at this time of the year, hence the song… The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year. It quite simply is a state of mind, where we can all indulge our senses like children and give ourselves permission to overdo everything. Never complain to anyone that it’s a season of ’too much’ or that you ‘can’t be bothered’ - there is a word for that, that I am sure many of you are familiar with...humbug…and yes, look how that turned out!

Why not get swept away and notice your heightened senses. The exotic flavours of warm fruit cakes and a spiked hot chocolate or two, or the irresistible pine trees with extravagantly wrapped gifts bound with lavish ribbons. The playlists that transport us back in time to family gatherings, with all your favourite people, some of whom may have since passed. Christmas keeps memories alive, and like a well-worn scrapbook, it also welcomes new additions…

I encourage you to make notes about all the things that touched your soul during these times. If you are a little low on content, now is the best time to start creating some new memories...make this Christmas extra special. Add layers to the experiences you already have...and keep going.

Many of my ideas come from scarves, blankets, fabric and flowers, and I continue to layer from there. Glassware is like the jewellery of the table...and don’t start me on how important it is that it shimmers magically in the candlelight! It is then time to select your plates with care. A finishing touch, which I always love to incorporate, is to ensure there is a lovely little surprise for your guest at each place setting, thoughtfully placed upon the napkin. I like to avoid using paper napkins - elevate your table with cotton or linen instead. Decorating is much the same, make sure everything doesn't overwhelm your interior decor, as always it should transport you to a better place.

In Dreaming In Petals you will see much of my Christmas decorating was inspired by tartan, and this year is much the same. There is something grounding and traditional about this.

So…chill the champagne, pull out your fairy lights, relax, and turn the pages of my book for more inspiration. If you are quick to order a copy of Dreaming In Petals, you will receive a set of six Christmas postcards for every book ordered (NZ orders only).

Now is the time to start your Christmas planning and dreaming…we all need a little more of the magic that comes with dreaming. Enjoy!

With love,

Sandra

As mentioned, I am commencing the Christmas cheer with my new Christmas postcards. New Zealand based customers who are quick to order a copy of Dreaming In Petals will receive a complimentary set of six Christmas postcards for every book ordered. This is a limited time offer while stock lasts, for NZ orders only. You can pre-order your copy of Dreaming In Petals here.

I just adore these postcards! As you can see in the image below, they look perfect nestled amongst a collection of my favourite Christmas trinkets. I have many wonderful ideas for use of these postcards…they will, without doubt, be incorporated in many of my Christmas table settings for years to come, and I’m also planing to use them as invitations!

Dreaming In Petals At Christmas Time