Tuesday Tip: Holiday decorations for the modern home

Decorating for the holidays is one of those rare occasions I look forward to every year. Typically my restraint won't last past the day after Thanksgiving, when the decorfest begins. Sometimes shopping for holiday decorations can be overwhelming, strolling down aisles overstuffed with frilly wire-edged ribbons, scary Santas, and Victorian carol singer figurines. So, if you are wondering what would work with a more modern, sleek, or just toned-down interior, here are a few budget-friendly ideas.

Show off the flowers of the season- white poinsettias. Say goodbye to dusty fake flowers and hello to thriving, living plants indoors.

I have never been big on the traditional red poinsettias, but the white variety lend an understated elegance to a modern interior. I procured mine at a local home improvement store for $1. For a holiday party, buy a poinsettia for each entry stair step to create a dramatic entrance. Bonus: Their neutral color makes them perfect indoor plants all winter long!

Use what you already have. For a dramatic mantel scape, pull everyday items together in a cohesive arrangement.

Unfortunately mantel-less, I use my floating Ikea shelves as a stand-in. For festive sparkle I've pulled the silver (in dire need of a polish) out of the dining buffet and filled it with extra Christmas decorations that would otherwise sit in a box. You could use glass or antiqued brass bowls, or fill each bowl with seasonal fruits: pomegranates, oranges, clementines, and lemons would make a colorful and fragrant arrangement.

Don't be afraid to combine old and new. A mercury glass Christmas tree brings both patina and polish to your everyday accessories. Although the overall aesthetics of the tree aren't necessarily modern, its bold form and unique finish make it right at home.

I hope these ideas inspire you with ways to bring the holidays into your home!