Entry #3130, December 20, 2013

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Before you were inspired by – ‘International Holiday Celebrations‘ from Nora Noorsirrat. Today, I feature Shelley Harcar who is a member of the the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room group and she gives you three creative ways to decorate for your Christmas parties this season. See her great ideas for Christmas Party Theme Ideas.

To see all the past Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration members on Pinterest click here.

Olioboard Inspiration #58

‘Christmas Party Theme Ideas’ – Shelley Harcar

Creating a Christmas party theme may seem a little daunting, but it can be much simpler than you imagine. Of all the times of the year, Christmastime seems to come with the most readily “built in” themes. A very simple way to choose a theme is to take your inspiration from one of the many Christmas Carols which are heard in abundance this time of year. It could be a favorite of yours with a special meaning (I always think of my Mother when I hear “Silver Bells”) or something fun & catchy that fits personality (some folks really do embody “Holly Jolly Christmas). Another great way to choose a theme is to take your cues from the guest list. Entertaining business associates at a formal dinner party would have a totally different feel to it than hosting a casual gathering of friends and their children.

 Christmas Party Theme Ideas

3 Christmas themes to give you versatility

I have designed three different party themes, all in the same room, to show how much of an impact a theme can have on the décor of the room. My “White Christmas” design is set for a more formal party. I chose a refined color palette that gave a sparkle to the gathering place. Simple accessories like silver wreathes and garland, work well with white Christmas trees and sparkling stick trees with all white lights. Whites with metallic colors can look a little cold, so I added a large glowing tree by a cozy fireplace.

Home for the Holidays Party Theme

My “Home for the Holidays” setting takes its cues from a traditional family Christmas. A large tree with simple decorations grabs attention immediately. The traditional red and green of Christmas plays into this theme very well. The decorations are simple and comfortable, creating a warm and inviting location for family and friends to gather.

Candy Cane Lane Christmas Party Theme

The “Candy Cane Lane” design is a place for children’s party dreams to come true.  A whimsical tree overflowing with candy anchors a room filled with peppermint delights. Red and white peppermints easily create a festive wreath and garlands. A gingerbread village and train will delight children of all ages. Guests to this party immediately know they are here for fun.

Most importantly, remember that guests will take their cues from you. So be relaxed and cheerful. (Hide the breakables and scotch guard the sofa if necessary) The season will pass by quickly, so focus on making memories that will last long after the last bit of tinsel has been swept away.

About Shelley Harcar

I am a lifelong Ohioan and presently live in Stow with my family. I am a graduate of Youngstown State University, where I studied Social Work and Psychology. I am currently employed as a substitute teacher within my local school district. I also do freelance writing. My designing interest began over 20 years ago when I became a floral designer. In addition to making floral designs, we were invited into customer’s homes to assist with holiday and seasonal decorating.

I discovered Olioboard through a friend, and I quickly became caught up in the fun of the Olioboard Fan Room. It is a great escape from everyday life and I find a great deal of satisfaction in taking a blank screen and turning it into something lovely. When I’m not designing, I enjoy watching sports with my son, shopping, writing, and spending time with friends & family. You can read Shelley’s writing here.

For more Christmas ideas on Stagetecture, click here