Christmas in the Garden

Recently I was looking through my book, An Invitation to the Garden, and was particularly mesmerized by the last chapter, Elegant Christmas Eve Dinner. It’s funny how time has a way of dimming the details of things that were once omni important. Looking through the chapter brought back many memories of that shoot that I had forgotten. Like the deep conversation about how many rock candy trees and what sizes we would need which at the time was critical. 

Now with the holidays once again looming the rock candy trees still looking as good as the day they were shot. It seems like a good time to share some behind the scenes tips and tricks of my own with you for a happy and bright season. Enjoy!

To change out the look of our Bagatelle we rented Ghost chairs which we love but really wouldn’t want own. The walls were tented in my Celeste fabric that was printed in a custom metallic gold on corduroy.

The brilliant red table cloth is inexpensive felt that makes a smart looking table. Best of all the felt only requires light pressing and not a full on ironing like a linen table cloth might. A fun napkin fold, like this tree shape, can make or break a setting. 

An array of small snowmen held court in a field of pine and cyclamen for a crazy cute vignette.

Lumieres lined the path to the bagatelle adding to the festive mood and preventing the guests from falling in the snow after the dinner.

Dessert was a delicious Poached Fig and Pear Beggars’ Purses with vanilla port sauce. The recipe is in the book. 

You can purchase a signed copy of my book, An Invitation to the Garden, here and get free shipping in time for the 25th if you order by the 17th of December. Ho Ho Ho!