{F.T.H.B} Holiday Decor by Embellishments by SLR

Hello everyone! My name is Shenita of Embellishments by SLR. I absolutely love everything about decorating and entertaining; and doing it all on a budget.  I am so excited to do a guest post here, with Brandy and Sherika, for their "Favorite Things Holiday Bash"! I hope that you will be inspired by what I have to share with you.

When we open our homes to our guests, during the holiday season, we like to make them feel special; and we want to create an atmosphere that says, "We're glad you came!" Today, I'd like to give you some tips for creating a great party setting with style, without breaking the bank.

First, you really don't have to settle for paper goods. Decorative or plain glass plates can be bought for as little as 99¢ each. They are readily available at the dollar stores and Wal-Mart.  I have even seen them in thrift stores recently for as little as 79¢. This small initial investment will pay off for years to come.  You will be able to reuse these plates for many different events, going forward. And, you can always add to your collection.   I have collected enough for about 50 guests!

Also, pull out that crystal you've been saving. Many of us received crystal as wedding gifts; and we never use it. A holiday party is a great opportunity to show it off!  It doesn't have to match. It's ok to mix items of the same medium. It's all about the sparkle!!  

Showcase your crystal stemware, bowls, votive holders, candlesticks, trays, and punch bowls.  The more, the better!

Secondly, you can use floral arrangements that you already have.  It makes holiday decorating easy, when you coordinate your decorations, with your existing decor. Simply add inexpensive holiday floral picks and stems.  The glitter and shimmery colors add just enough 'bling' to say, "It's A Party"!

You can also use tall glittery stems.  I purchased this bag of shimmery gold stems from Hobby Lobby at 50% off, for about $7.  The height takes the centerpiece, right up into the chandelier, and adds, yet, another layer of drama.

Finally, an easy way to make your guests say, "Wow!", is the use of votives and candles. You can purchase an entire bag of votive candles for around $5! Just layer them around the table, for that last bit of magic!

Finally, turn on your holiday music and welcome your guests, in style!!

I wish you all a happy and blessed holiday season!