Christmas Wishes

Luke 2 

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.

4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Whether you're celebrating near or far from home, I'm wishing you and yours the most wonderful Christmas celebration! May you feel the warmth of love from friends and family and the joy that comes from Heaven above. 

Merry Christmas!!

-C

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Merriest Wishes

Wishing you and yours the most wonderful Christmas celebration! Whether you're gathered with family or find yourself far away this year, I hope that you feel the joy and love that comes from this beautiful celebration of Christ's birth. Merry Christmas!

Luke 2

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register.

4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven,

    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

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December Inspiration

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It's officially one week until Christmas and all the presents are being wrapped, cookies are being baked, the tree is laden with beautiful ornaments sparkling among rows of twinkling lights and we dash with gift in hand to the next soiree. It's the most fun and festive time of the year, and I hope you are taking a moment to enjoy the beauty of this season amid the hustle and bustle. I took a bit of time this last weekend to do some reflecting on some goals for the month, a little future planning for the new year and simply savored the happiness of the holiday season. While all may seem rushed and busy around us, it is so important to not let this wonderful time slip by without really enjoying it all or acknowledging the beautiful story behind our celebration. Regardless of the busyness of your calendar this week, I encourage you to take some time to reflect and relish in the wonder that is Christmas. 

As our wise friend the Grinch once said, "Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more!"

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Travel Diaries: Christmas in Quebec

Quebec is a charming city at any time of the year, but it's magical beauty truly shines around the holidays. The old cobblestone streets are lined with twinkling lights, trimmed in garlands of pine, and blanketed by a dusting of fresh snow. Locals and guests, alike, duck into quaint shops and cafes to escape the chilly air, while the melodic French language is heard almost everywhere you go. When it's time to venture into the winter wonderland, dogsleds race through the snowy woods, and the jingle of bells is heard as a team of horses pull a wooden sleigh through the swirling snow. Toboggan runs, skiing, snow tubing, and snowball fights are the only activities on the day's agenda until it's time to warm up inside the chateau with a cup of hot chocolate. Come along and explore this snowy winter wonderland with me!

A trip to the basilica of Sainte Anne de Beaupré is definitely a must-do! The cathedral is over 350 years old and welcomes over 1 million guests every year to it's spectacular halls. With glowing stained glass, twinkling rose windows, beautiful arching ceilings, and columns filled with crutches left behind from miracle healings, this place is absolutely breathtaking. One can't help but be in awe of the lavish detail and reverent beauty. 

Sleigh rides through the snow are quintessentially winter, and it is worth braving the cold for a beautiful journey through the forest. We happened upon a kind, french-speaking farmer who was delighted to take us on a tour through his beautiful snow-covered woodland. There's something about the sound of jingle bells on horses that brings to life all the cheerful carols sung over the years.

A short drive into the mountains brought us to Valcartier. During the rest of the year, this place operates as a water park, but in the winter, it transforms into a snowy playground for skiing, snow tubing, sledding, and more. I highly recommend snow tubing down the multiple runs that provide a generous amount of fun and laughter.

We stayed at the Chateau Frontenac, which, in my opinion, is the absolute best place to stay while enjoying the beauty and charm of Quebec City. With a rich history of 123 years of operation; beautifully appointed rooms and suites; impeccable, personalized service; toboggan runs; splendid views; hallways lined with rows of sparkling Christmas trees; and a collection of delicious restaurants, this place is not to be missed.

The streets of lower Quebec are something straight out of a postcard. Cheerfully decorated shops, German Christmas markets, and cafes provide the perfect atmosphere for a little Christmas shopping and dining. Visit Santa and his elves in the main square, and duck into Cochon Dingue for a quick lunch. Before you head back to the Chateau, pick up a sweet treat or two from Madame Gigi's where the most beautiful confectionary delights are made in house everyday! One thing is for sure, Quebec provides a bountiful collection of culinary treasures. From charming French cafes and traditional Canadian eateries, to upscale and trendy dining establishments, brilliant chefs will provide you with dazzling dishes sure to delight every discerning palate. 

A dash through the snow with your own team of highly trained and thoroughly excited huskies is an experience of a lifetime! As the sunlight sparkles through the snowy trees, hold on tight to the sled while you are whisked off on a magical, high-speed adventure, and yes, you get to drive. Be sure to take time after to play with your sweet and talented canine team to say thanks for the fun! I also recommend strapping on some snowshoes and heading out on one of the nearby trails.

Au revoir, Quebec! You are truly something out of a fairytale. 

Have you visited before? 

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Merriest of Wishes

Hooray! It's one of the merriest weeks of the year! Wishing you and yours the most wonderful, fun, and joy-filled Christmas celebration! Among the presents, hot chocolate, twinkling lights, and parties with family and friends, may we never forget the reason we're celebrating this beautiful time of the year.

"That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep.  Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.”

 Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in highest heaven,
    and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
 When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger.  After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child.  All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them."
Luke 2:8-20

Wishing you the merriest Christmas, and best wishes for a fabulous new year ahead!
xo,
Candice

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5 Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining

This time of the year often provides many opportunities to host family and friends for the holidays, and it can be overwhelming if you're not prepared. When it comes to entertaining, here's my five tried and true tips that will help you prepare for and actually enjoy the season's many celebrations. 

1. Create a gift closet/stash. 

You never know when you're going to need that last minute gift for an unexpected guest, late invitation, or surprise event. I like to keep a couple of things on hand like a set of nice notecards, candles, and even a few Starbucks gift cards. No matter what pops up on your calendar or who arrives at your family gathering (Oh hi, Aunt Martha...nice to see you again!), you'll be prepared with gift in hand! 

2. Pick up fresh flowers for the home.

Never underestimate the power of a vase of fresh blooms to spruce up your home! Even if it's a last minute get-together, keeping some flowers on your table is a great way to brighten up the room and provides an 'I was expecting you' kind of vibe for your guests! There's no need to heavily invest into a super expensive arrangement every week. Instead, swing by your local grocery store or even Trader Joe's to pick up a beautiful bunch at a great price. 

3. Light a candle. 

I love candles. There's something so cozy about a big three-wick candle flickering and creating a delightful and festive scent to the home. Guests on the way? I usually will light them about 15-20 min ahead of time to allow the smell to fill the house without being too strong. 

4. Know when to make and when to buy. 

This is a busy time for all of us, and sometimes there's just not enough time to invest an entire day in the kitchen preparing food. One of my go-to's is a gourmet market in town that makes some of the best soups, quiches, and treats. If I'm pressed for time, I'll swing by to pick up a side dish or two, throw together a big toss salad with seasonal fruits and veggies, and pick up a few desserts that can be served in addition to whatever gelato flavors are in the freezer. If you have a favorite recipe that you can whip together in record time, do that and pick up the rest. As long as it's served beautifully, no one will know the difference. It will be our little secret ;) 

5. Enjoy the moment. 

Amidst the hustle and bustle, the hunt for the perfect gifts for family and friends, and the many parties that this season brings, don't forget to enjoy the celebration! One of my favorite things to do around this time of year is to take a moment and reflect on the reason we celebrate this season, and many things I'm grateful for. It is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind or even the stress of the season, but when you're with friends and family, be present. Don't worry if the food is perfect or if so-and-so loves your gift, just enjoy the laughter, listen to the stories, and experience the beauty and joy that comes from being together. 

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Rustic Holiday: Lydia Magazine Winter Issue

I recently styled a Rustic-inspired Christmas party for Lydia Magazine's Winter issue! Obviously not everything can make it into the glossy pages, so here's a few of my favorites from the cutting room floor and a little behind the scenes video! From a hot chocolate bar to blissful appetizer bites, and sips of french sparkling raspberry punch, we toasted to friendship, fun, and holiday cheer! Be sure to pick up a copy of the newest issue to see the full feature and to find all my tips and tricks for hosting a fabulous, fun, and festive holiday soiree! Cheers!

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Holiday Favorite

(Dress: Lilly Pulitzer// similar here, here, here) 

One of my favorite things about the holiday season is the many occasions to dress up! I love any reason to throw on a party dress and a pair of heels. This one-shouldered dress is so whimsical, playful, and the perfect silhouette for a night out on the town or hosting a stylish soiree. I'm always drawn to bold colors around this time of year, and there's something so elegant about a cool blue flecked with gold. It just might become my holiday favorite this year! As social calendars begin to fill up, do you have a go-to outfit? What are your favorite trends this season?

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A Christmas Wish

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Wishing you all the most wonderful of holiday celebrations, full of happy memories, much joy and happiness, and time with those you love. As we enjoy the time with family and friends, gifts exchanged, twinkling lights and stockings stuffed with care, let us not forget that beautiful night; the reason for the happiness we share. 

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Luke 2:10-14

Merry Christmas, friends!

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Crimson & Gold Christmas Party

I hosted this crimson and gold Christmas soiree two years ago, and never shared it on the blog! With all the festivities of the season in full swing, I thought it would be fun to bring it out of the archives to enjoy once again! For many years it's been a tradition to have a bunch of my friends over for a fun evening of good food, lots of catching up, a gift exchange, and a little glitz and glam. For this party, a little shimmer and hand-lettered touches were just the thing to pull all the colors together. The menu was quite simple, and guests got to enjoy some divine chocolate hazelnut truffles and mini vanilla bean cupcakes from my dear friend Leigh. We had such fun toasting with sparkling cider to happiness, friendship, and many adventures ahead. I just love this season...it's the most wonderful time of the year! 

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Reflections

Happy Monday, friends! Hope you have had a wonderful weekend! Things have been bustling and busy 'round here! I'm close to finishing up classes for a little bit, so I can understand the intensity that is felt by all students facing exam week. (We can do this!) One of my favorite things to do this holiday season is to take a minute, amidst the Christmas hustle and bustle, and simply reflect on all the wonderful moments and memories from throughout the year. I've got to admit that I was reminded again to do this kind of thing when I started looking back through the photos saved on my computer, and the things shared on my Instagram account. There's a lot of happy memories in life, and it can be easy to simply forget them in the middle of the busy seasons. It is refreshing for the soul to reflect and remind ourselves of the many blessings we've been given. Being a person that constantly has multiple projects underway at once, it is beneficial for my creative process to be willing to simply think, enjoy and create. I hope that you, too, challenge yourself to take a moment to reflect...maybe even jot down a list of 5 things you're grateful for, some happy memories or a few of your accomplishments from the year. It's amazing to see how something so simple can totally change your perspective. Let's reflect on the good things, shall we?

Have a great week ahead!

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December Details

(skirt: ShopKonfetti)

Happy December, friends! Can you believe we're into the holiday season? I have to admit that this is one of my very favorite times of year, as everyone is decorating, hosting parties, giving gifts and in a cheerful spirit. This past weekend was spent decorating the house, finding and trimming the perfect tree, picking up a few presents for friends and family, and listening to an abundance of Christmas music. I should also mention that amidst all this festivity, a good friend and I are hard at work, putting the finishing touches on a SUPER exciting project that will be debuting here SO soon! I'm really, really excited to share it with you, and wish that I could divulge more details, but rest assured, it's worth the wait!! Hope you had a fabulous holiday weekend, and here's to a wonderful, new month!

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The Perfect Holiday Outfit

(Top & Belt: Lilly Pulitzer, Skirt: Shop Konfetti c/o)

I love hosting parties. It is so much fun to celebrate with friends and family. With the holidays right around the corner, there's a lot of events and parties that fill our calendars. Between the office parties, get-togethers with friends, and your own celebrations, finding something fun to wear can sometimes be a challenge. What helps me is to put together a little 'go-to outfit' that will always look and feel great. When I'm hosting parties, the last thing I want to be doing is fussing with my outfit, or worrying about being uncomfortable. This year, I've chosen this adorable plaid skirt and silk top pairing to be my stylish and comfortable ensemble. Party skirts are a real closet staple. Here's a few more ways I plan to wear it this season. 

(click image to view all looks)

Which look is your favorite?

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