January 2025
Words by Cameron Renfrow
The holidays may be over, but that doesn't mean the magic has to go away. We're sharing the perfect way to hang on to that merry moment, even after the season comes to an end. Our live trees are gone, and other seasonal decorations may be heading into the basement for their long hibernation, but we aren't quite ready to let the cozy feeling of winter go.
Today, we are sharing how small wintery moments can still bring us joy, even if they do leave a mess once we remove them in the dusk of spring.

Gathered Arrangements After Gathering With Loved Ones
Fresh greenery will always give life to a cold space. Our foraged citrus garland was one of our favorites to make. It also takes a lot of craft and time putting these arrangments together. And, with the holidays being so fast pace, it's hard to enjoy what you've created in the moment. Leave the garlands and dried wreaths up as long as you can. Take in what may have flown past you just a few weeks ago.

Lights That Warm Us
We think it's perfectly fine to leave your lights and greenery outside through winter, just in hopes that it'll soon glisten in the snow. White lights draped around garlands, bushes or trees help create a timeless look that we're sure no one will complain to see after Christmas passes. Joy is sometimes hard to embody these days, and if you're doing it for other's approval then you're missing out on the fun, so keep those lights up as long as it brings you joy.
Let Nature Inspire

A great way to add to your leftover arrangements is to add natural elements, like pinecones, vines, twigs and other foraged materials. It's a soft nod to the holidays, while also embracing the nature around us. The first of the year is the perfect time to let your surroundings inspire you. Go for walks and take a basket or bag with you and see what you can gather to create. Our favorite arrangements are the ones that bring life around us. Our pinecone garland is perfect for nearby birds to pull from and add to their nest to keep warm during winter. Maybe in this case, we're making for their approvals.
Not All of The Ornaments Have To Get Packed Away

We find ourselves to move a little slower in the winter and that's okay. If you're not ready to flip your space back to everyday decor, then use your ornaments in a new way. Hang them from window seals, doorways or mantles on a string of twine, like the one we sourced from Martha Stewart Living. If you want a subtle way to hang on to those light-catching baubles, simply place a pile in a large bowl for a centerpiece on a table. We love the way candles bounce off of them at night.

There's not set schedule that dictates when you have to remove the warmth of Christmas decorations, so do it on your time and when you're ready to let it go. For some, that was the day after Christmas, and for others, like us, it may be late February until they all come down. Whatever you decide, make it bring joy to you.
If you'd like to see our Christmas Home Tour from last year, follow along on our channel 'Art of Making' on Youtube. For more maker stories and inspiration be sure to follow us on Instagram at @artofmaking_.
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Words and Home of Cameron Renfrow
Merry Springmas!
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