A Vintage Christmas 

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Vintage décor can transport us to a slower, simpler time when ornaments were handcrafted with care and passed lovingly from generation to generation.  Remembering another era in your celebration can bring warmth and whimsy to a modern home. 

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Even if you haven't collected rooms full of antique ornaments, you can achieve an old fashioned look with a little creativity.  There are plenty of online resources for vintage items, but start by hitting those flea markets and thrift shops and breaking into Grandma's attic.  Even everyday items and materials from your backyard can be transformed with some ingenuity.  These are some themes that anyone can recreate in their home. 

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Victorian Christmas 
Don't be a Scrooge!  Victorian style is over the top.  Pull out all the ribbons, lace, silver, and angels you can find.  A home lit with candles and smelling of plum pudding will help immerse your guests in the 19^th century.

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Christmas on the Prairie 
The pioneers didn't have a lot of modern conveniences, but they were surrounded by nature.  Bring the outdoors in by adding greenery, fruits and berries, pinecones and animals to your décor.  Stick to handstitched or wooden ornaments, keeping lights to a minimum, for a true homespun holiday.

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Retro (mid-century modern)  
For many people this time period represents childhood and treasured memories.  It can be a really fun way to entertain today as well, and you don't need to redo your home in chrome and vinyl to be successful.  Do keep things streamlined, with a simple white or silver tree and use retro postcards and toys to add bold pops of color to your space.  Music is a huge part of what makes this era popular, so be sure your guests are able to rock around the Christmas tree when they enter your home.

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A Tribute to the Smith family 
A friend's enthusiastic toddler once toppled their Christmas tree, shattering glass ornaments that were irreplaceable family heirlooms.  Undaunted, she adopted a new style:  "Cheap and Unbreakable".  Gathering toys, photos, award ribbons, and other favorite treasures, she created a tree that showcased her precious family, without spending a dime.

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Remember, the most important source of history in your home is the unique memories you share with your family.  Using personal photos and mementos during the holidays brings back the past and honors your heritage.  So, why not try passing by that inflatable snowman this year and enjoying a vintage Christmas?

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Be sure to visit these great sites:

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Retro Holiday

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EBAY vintage ornaments

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32 Degrees North  handcrafted decor  

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