Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Before you were inspired by – ‘Christmas Party Theme Ideas‘ from Shelley Harcar. Today, I feature Connie Parker who is a member of the the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room group and she gives you the Christmas classic poem – ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’. Perfect to reminisce to your childhood or read it tonight to your kids before waiting for Santa to come!

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

Olioboard Inspiration #59

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas ’ – Connie Parker

Twas the Night before Christmas Poem

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there.

The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And mamma in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,

Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap.

When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash,

Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below. When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature sleigh, and eight tinny reindeer.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

“Now Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! on, on Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall!

Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all!”

As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky. So up to the house-top the coursers they flew,

With the sleigh full of Toys, and St Nicholas too.

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And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around,

Down the chimney St Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot. A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,

And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath. He had a broad face and a little round belly,

That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly!

He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself! A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,

Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk. And laying his finger aside of his nose,

And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!

He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,

“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!”

About Connie Parker

I live in on the great west coast of Canada in British Comumbia. I grew up moving across Canada, and to Germany and France with my family. My father being in the Air Force gave me many opportunities to see and enjoy different places and cultures. Today I enjoy living in one place.

I am an artist at heart. My best times are discovering new works of art by artists I am not familiar with. I spend a great deal of time in the Olioboard Fan Room. There I can create designs and be among those who love to experience and share design ideas and tips, and their own creations.

For more Christmas ideas on Stagetecture, click here

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Before you were inspired by – ‘Creative Kids’ Room Organization Ideas‘  from Tonya Wright. Today, I feature Kimberly Latimer who is a member of the the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room group and she has a gorgeous way of helping you choose inspiring winter colors for your interiors. See her tips for finding the right winter colors that inspire your personality!

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

Olioboard Inspiration #64

‘Choosing Inspiring Winter Colors for your Interiors – Kimberly Latimer

Where I live, winter color is scarce – shades of gray, brown, dried gold and muted reds comprise a monochrome color palette relieved only by snow, and an occasional glimpse of blue sky. So where do you look for inspiration to spin the color of winter straw into design gold for living or bedrooms? Adjust your color lens and take a closer look outside! Bringing the outdoors into your winter design inspiration just takes some extra imagination, and a little color know-how.

Winter color is all about monochromes. In the strictest terms, monochromatic color is based on a single base color that is diluted by adding black and white to create an extended range of grayed shades, tones and tints from dark to light. It is gray that sets monochromatic color apart from other seasonal hues making them easy on the eye, ode to their lack of contrast. But like winter color, a monochromatic color scheme can emphasize limitations. “Chalk” colors take that soothing color palette up a notch. By adding more variety in shades of color and replacing a bit of that missing contrast, chalk tones add interest to a wintery color mix. Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paints are amongst the best known chalk colors:

Olioboard Inspiration: Choosing Inspiring Winter Colors

Olioboard and a chalk-inspired color palette derived from the colors inspired by my frozen back yard transform this bedroom design, which lacks for nothing in warmth, color or interest!

5 Tips that make color work:

1. Murals are budget-friendly art – Arguably, impressionist painter Claude Monet best illuminated the value of chalky color in his later paintings. I have included a wall mural of his famous water lilies in a bow to his color mastery.
2. Use Feel-Good Color – That welcome relief I mentioned from the occasional blue winter sky dominates my bedroom’s color palette. Using a range of blues optimizes a monochromatic approach to my winter color mix.
3. Ceilings love color, too – Ceilings are frequently ignored color opportunities. Treating the ceiling as an extension of my winter palette reinforces the overall muted color scheme.
4. Vary shades to create depth – Peppering the design with black and charcoal gray adds just enough visual weight to create depth and interest.
5. Add sparkle to Color – Mirrors, metallic surfaces are the jewelry of your design – lighting shows off those sparkling finishes.

The real magic of this winter palette is that chalky grayed color scheme, and its seamless ability to transform into spring, summer or fall color. Switching up the bedding, pillows, throws and lamp shades to create the next season’s mix will take this winter inspired chalk palette easily through all four seasons of color!

About Kimberly Latimer:

My background is in fine arts with an emphasis on oil painting and Tromp Loi’el . I have been a student of color for almost three decades, and I still find it has more to teach me. I have designed both product and packaging for Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Natural History Museums in the US and Canada, but my passion is for Interior and Lighting Design. My style tends to be colorful and eclectic, favoring the best of all worlds with a hint of the artistic and unexpected!

For more Olioboard ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Before you were inspired by – ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas‘ from Connie Parker. Today, I feature Tameka Brice who is a member of the the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room group and she gives us insight into Kwanzaa and it’s wonderful cultural holiday celebration rituals. See how she explains the 7 Kwanzaa Principles to instill in your family this holiday season.

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

Olioboard Inspiration #60

‘Celebrating 7 Inspiring Kwanzaa Principles ’ – Tameka Brice

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. At least that is what Ronald Karenga, the founder of Kwanzaa, hoped for the people of African descent. Founded in 1966, Karenga’s purpose was to provide a holiday that inspired people of African descent to celebrate their heritage and culture. The original plan was for Africans and African Americans to celebrate the holiday instead of Christmas. It is widely-known the founder believed too many people of African descent were taking up the culture, history and identity of the dominant society in America instead of learning their own culture fully. As Kwanzaa became more popular, Karenga believed it was necessary for many Christians to celebrate the holiday along with Christmas. From December 26-January 1, Kwanzaa spans an entire week where each day has a specific meaning focusing on seven principles.

The seven Kwanzaa principles include the following:

1. Umoja (Unity): To aspire to have unity in the family, community, nation, and race

2. Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): This principle is an attempt to define who we are as a people.

3. Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): Am I my brother’s keeper? This principle means to build up our community, help those who cannot help themselves, and guide those who have the potential to achieve greatness.

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4. Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): To create our own businesses and support businesses within the community.

5. Nia (Purpose): To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to greatness

6. Kuumba (Creativity): To build up and keep our community strong, wealthy, and aesthetically beautifully for those generations who come behind us.

7. Imani: (Faith): To believe in our leaders and the purpose of our struggle for the benefit of achieving generational success.

Kwanzaa symbols: These symbols are used to set the table in African festive décor.

1. Decorative mat (Mkeka) that is placed on a table.

2. Corn (Muhindi)

3. Candle holder (Kinara)with seven candles (Mishumaa Saba)

4. Communal cup

5. Gifts (Zawadi)

6. A poster of the Seven Principles

7. An African flag with the colors of red, green, and black.

Although Kwanzaa may not be for every person of African descent, the goal for all is to embrace where we came from and who we are for the purpose of leading generations to follow down a path of ever-lasting knowledge.

About Tameka:

Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Tameka Brice now resides in Dallas, Texas with her husband, child and dog. She is a Customs Brokerage Representative at a large brokerage firm. In addition, Tameka is currently finishing her dissertation. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, shopping, and experimenting with Pesco-vegetarian meals. The future aspirations of Tameka includes learning Spanish, traveling to Paris, writing a book, and just enjoying family time. This is a special time of the year. For those in the holiday spirit, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Kwanzaa.

For more Olioboard Inspiration on Stagetecture, click here.

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.

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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

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Before you were inspired by – ‘Decorating for a Hanukkah Celebration’ from Cari Murphy. Today, I feature Ashlee (Heather Lee) who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room group and she helps you get ready for the busy holiday with simple organization ideas. The holidays can be stressful! Use her ideas to enjoy the season and your family.

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

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

Olioboard Inspiration #54

‘Getting Organized for the Holidays’ – Ashlee (Heather Lee)

The Holidays can be a very stressful time of year. Halloween is just behind us Thanksgiving will soon be upon us. Then, after Thanksgiving is Christmas.

So now is the time to get organized, plan ahead and think about sending out cards to  your family and friends. Time to organize recipes and dinnerware. Do you have enough for the holiday? Have you already bought cards and stamps, gift wrap and decorations? If this sounds overwhelming, then it is time to sit down in a quiet spot and think about everything that needs to be done. Remember, you don’t have to do it all yourself, don’t be afraid to ask for help or delegate some tasks to members of your household!

Ensure you are organized for the holidays

Use a notebook or computer to put everything down in a special holiday list. Be sure to include “to do by” dates for added incentive.

Decide how you are going to do your cards this season. Will you hand sign all your cards or send a standard letter with the card? Or do you feel emailing cards will be the best for you?

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Organizing your decorations

It is also time to organize the decor for the holiday. Do you need to put some of the daily accessories away so there is enough space to bring out your festive decorations? Do you need to buy new accessories to complete the atmosphere you would like to create? When you start decorating, don’t forget to check all the string lights to make sure they are working, and get that tree and its bulbs dusted off.

Do you have enough wrapping paper and holiday bags leftover from last year or do you need more? Don’t forget the ribbon for the gifts. You can use old Christmas cards and cut the front scenes from them and write on the back of them to use as gift tags. It gives lots of room to write those personal messages. It is also a great time of year to get storage  bins and bags to safely hold your wrapping paper and all your other holiday items and  it keeps your gift closet nice and tidy. Label your bins so you can easily find what you need for next year.

Holiday craft ideas

Do you enjoy Christmas Crackers/Poppers during the festivities? Decide if you wish to just buy them or make them yourself. They are very easy to make. Use a toilet paper roll and purchase your own personalized trinkets to put in the cracker. You can use tissue or wrapping paper and even fabric in the colors associated with this time of year to decorate your crackers. You can purchase the actual snap from any craft store. There are also guides on the internet for those who would like to have a special holiday craft and it is fun to work on them with family or friends.

It is good to plan ahead and, if possible, get most of the gift shopping finished early, leaving plenty of time for baking and wrapping. Battling waves of holiday shoppers can be very tiring and time consuming. By writing a list, making plans and giving yourself time for all that is needed to be done, you can possibly have a little time to relax and feel confident that you made the right decisions concerning gifts, decor and holiday cards. Knowing all these things help make the holiday run more smoothly. We wish you a very Merry Holiday Season!

My name is Heather Lee but I go by Ashlee on Facebook. I am the daughter of a Canadian Army Veteran. I spent much of my life traveling with my family all over Canada and the North and South of Germany. I was very lucky to be able to travel so much and learn other languages. I lived a mile from the border of France and the family traveled there often. I think I have seen every castle in Europe. I now live on my own in Toronto, Ontario. I am a huge animal lover and I volunteer with the Annex Cat Rescue that helps feral cats. I also foster cats. I enjoy creating different rooms on Olioboard and talking with other members of the Olioboard community.

How will you be getting organized for the holidays?

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Before you were inspired by – ‘Inviting Holiday Guest Bathroom’ from Adele Baumann Healey. Today, I feature Cari Murphy who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room group and she gets us ready for Hanukkah this year. Did you know it’s early this year? Look at these wonderful ways to celebrate the festive holiday.

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

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

Olioboard Inspiration #53

‘Decorating for a Hanukkah Celebration’ – Cari Murphy

A Time of Celebration

Hanukkah is an eight day Jewish Festival also referred to as “The Festival of Lights” or “The Feast of Dedication.” This is a time for celebrating religious liberty and remembering the miracle of the oil and the re-dedication of the Temple. There are different levels of observation within the Jewish community from orthodox and reform, to secular observances. Some common fundamentals are celebrating with food, family and friends. A Menorah, or Hanukkiah, a type of candelabra, is lit each night during the Holiday in remembrance of the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. This is a joyous time for exchanging small gifts, eating fried foods and dairy, playing games like the Dreidel Game, prayers and enjoying festive music. This year Hanukkah will be observed from sundown on November 27, 2013 until sundown on December 5, 2013.

Decorating for Hanukkah

A big part of decorating for Hanukkah will be all about the food. A nicely dressed table for serving your meal ,whether it be  sit down or just a place to set out the goodies, is a good place to start. Traditionally, colors like white, blues, gold and silver are used, but you can always reflect your own style and personality. There is a lot of serving ware, dinnerware, tableware and tablecloths that are specifically made for Hanukkah. These are wonderful to purchase if possible and give it that extra special touch in using things that are only brought out during this time. If you are on a budget, party supply stores sell Hanukkah paper products or you can always mix and match between your everyday tableware and a few special pieces. A beautiful tablecloth, floral arrangement, Menorah and some gold and silver covered chocolate gelt make a beautiful and festive centerpiece. Hanging some banners and bunting make your room even more festive. Some beautiful Stars of David or Dreidels hanging from your lighting fixture can add that extra touch that adds to the ambiance of the celebration.

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Decorating ideas for your Hanukkah celebration

Your decorating does not have to be confined to the limits of your dining area. This is a great time to get your children involved in the decorating process with making handmade crafts. There are a multitude of great tutorials on the internet to find the perfect ideas for your family and children depending on their ages. Children love being involved in the process and helps add to their excitement. Hang banners or signs and put your holiday cards on display for all to view. This is the festival of lights so use candles or the led candles, which are a great and safe alternative for homes with children and pets. Decorating according to your senses always creates a warm and ambient environment. Let your friends and family smell, taste, see and perceive all this joyous time has to offer. Don’t forget to play some Hanukkah music as well! In the words and wisdom of Nachum Braverman, “We light candles in testament that faith makes miracles possible.” Happy Hanukkah , Chag Hanukkah Sameach!

About Cari:

I am a forty-something mother of three young men who has had a lifelong passion for interior design. I am currently studying Interior Design through the Interior Design Institute. I discovered Olioboard during this past year and spend time daily there between the site itself and the fan room. I currently sell gift baskets via www.carimurphy.labellabaskets.com and you can also find me on Facebook.