This holiday season, Smith & Berg Partners is skipping the obvious drugstore home ornamentation in favor of a more refined and stylish ambiance (think cozy textiles, timeless ceramics, warm candlelight…you get the idea). No matter what holiday you celebrate, we put our oh-so-design-minded heads together to create the ultimate list of not-so-obvious ways to decorate this season — plus where to décor shop on LA’s Westside.
Featured photo: Ellei Home
Set the Table Mood with Tapers
Curate an inviting ambiance even for casual bites at home. Light a few taper candles (secured in sturdy holders, of course), and suddenly, that mid-December takeout pizza feels like a cozy, special occasion holiday feast. The flicker of candlelight is bound to warm up any space.
Photos: Eye Swoon & Maison Margaux
Go Wild With Natural Elements
You know the iconic English cottage in The Holiday? That’s the look we’re going for. This season, turn to nature to up the ante on your holiday decor. Adorn banisters with real cedar garland or wild grapevine and make use of dried hydrangea by placing them in vases for a raw, organic look. Using untamed flora makes even the most refined home feel a little more rustic. 
Tie Stemware with Ribbons
Dress up your glasses by tying thin satin ribbons around the stems in seasonal colors like gold, blue, silver, red and green. This simple yet chic touch instantly enhances place settings for gatherings with friends. Bonus: Display beautiful stemware on your bar cart to continue the festive flair.
Photos: Instagram & Domino
Add Some Shine with Metallic
Gold, silver, copper and other metallic hues instantly add warmth, shine and celebration to your indoor space. Bring out the holiday silver passed down from grandma. Use metallic ribbon to decorate wreaths made of natural elements and florals. Or set out luxe-looking candlesticks and trays in glimmering tones. With just a few pops of metallic here and there, you’ve got a fresh holiday aesthetic without the drastic color.
Photos: Pinterest & Social Kitchen
Primp with Pops of Plaid
Incorporate classic plaid patterns into your holiday decor for a comfortable, cabin-like vibe. Drape plaid throws over couches and chairs, set out plaid dinner napkins and table runners for festive meals with friends and family, hang a plaid stocking over the fireplace, even if it's just decorative. This iconic print exudes seasonal spirit wherever you display it.
Photos: Architectural Digest & House Beautiful
Cozy Up with Chunky Textiles
Nothing says “holidays” more than curling up with soft, fuzzy textures that beckon relaxation and hygge (the Danish concept of coziness). Adorn tables and chairs with chunky knit blankets. Layer shag throw rugs in front of the fireplace. And display decorative pillows in velvets, faux furs or cable knits around your home. You (and your guests) can thank us later.
Photos: Interior Zine & Pinterest
Where to Shop for Holiday Decor in LA
Support small, local businesses this month rather than choosing big-box brands. From north to south, here are our favorite spots to shop for holiday decor on the Westside.
Shoppe Amber Interiors | Pacific Palisades: Stylish, neutral accents from pillows to candle holders to tree skirts that’ll be a staple in your forever holiday collection. SHOP NOW.
Nickey Kehoe | West Hollywood: Beautifully crafted ceramic menorahs, gingham tablecloths, holiday tableware and more that set an idyllic seasonal vibe. SHOP NOW.
Burke Decor | West Hollywood: Festive, rustic-inspired decor like vases, glassware and ornaments that scream quiet holiday luxury. SHOP NOW.
Gum Tree | Manhattan & Hermosa Beach: Elevated home accents including candles, jeweled garland, serving platters, wreaths and more for a subtle holiday look. SHOP NOW.
Photos: Nicky Kehoe, Amber Interiors ℅ All Sorts Of, Burke Decor & Gum Tree
