Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Etceteras: birch branches and boxwood

The Christmas décor is slowly coming down and getting tucked away until next year. I still want some winter décor around the house and after a season of glitter, I’m craving some natural elements.




I still have piles of branches left from our poor white birch that died last year. I gathered up several of the branches and cut them down to fit into this glass vase.


I really struggled with this project because after going crazy with glitter, sparkles, ribbon and garlands for the past few months, my first instinct was to add ribbon and embellishments around the vase. I tried several combinations and in the end opted to leave it plain and let the beautiful natural birch take center stage.


Since the vase was stark and unadorned, I added a few items to soften up the look. This glass deer was hanging on our tree but now he’s prancing around the birch.


Sprigs of boxwood add a holiday touch without screaming Christmas


It was fun playing with glitter and sparkles for Christmas but I’m happy to get back to simpler décor for awhile.


And one more shot of the deer peaking through the boxwood.



 P.S.
I wanted to share these beautiful finds from Layla Grayce. Sparkle, shine, and glow this year with jewelry from Waxing Poetic. Waxing Poetic creates unique and inspiring accessories for women of all ages and best of all, during the month of January, Layla Grayce is offering 20% of Waxing Poetic with promo code WP20. Below are a few of my absolute favorite pieces.

I love the Write Your Own Way Bracelet ! This bracelet reminds you that the script of life is always moving forward and you have the power to guide its direction. Add dimension to an outfit with the delicate and lovely Empire chain. Designed with faceted resin and pearl beads, this versatile brass chain looks perfect with a casual ensemble or dressy evening wear.


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12 comments :

  1. Hi Carolyn! I agree with you that some sparse-ness after Christmas is welcome. I love the way you displayed the birch branches of your "now gone but not forgotten" tree. I am thinking about doing something similar but on a larger scale for my son's after rehearsal party later this year.

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  2. such a lovely and fresh winter arrangement - I always love to see what others do with pretty birch branches since we don't have those trees here. happy new year!! xo, diane

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  3. only you carolyn can make something so simple look so beautiful. love it. happy 2013!

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  5. I love these! They are so beautiful on their own. Thanks for the prettiness, as always!

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  6. Lovely! So fresh looking. Happy new year!

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  7. Love the textures and colors Carolyn!

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  8. So pretty Carolyn! Perfect like it is :)

    xoxo, Tanya

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  9. The simplicity of your birch branches in the clear vase are just wonderful! I really really love the look! Thank you so much for sharing and for the great inspiration!
    Jaime from Crafty Scrappy Happy
    ps thanks for linking up at Happy Hour!

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  10. When I was growing up we had a huge white birch tree in the front yard....I loved that tree ~ your beautiful display brought back some wonderful memories for me!

    Have a happy weekend, Carolyn.

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