Happy Holidays from EA DAVIS….

My name is Michele Rose and I am blessed to be part of the E A Davis family. Our hope with my blog is to share ideas, inspiration, design advice and of course fashion ideas with all of you. EA Davis is a wonderful mix of tradition and innovation. Our past is what keeps us grounded and our constant dedication towards the new and exciting design world keeps our loyal customers coming through our doors smiling….. For that we are so grateful.

The Holidays are here!

So much has to be done. Shopping, decorating, wrapping gifts and cooking. It’s a truly magical time of the year, but it can also be super stressful. I like to keep things moderately simple. I find that family and friends enjoy us more when we are at peace this time of year. So with that in mind, here are a few tips to help your season get a bit more cheerful and calm….

Decorations…. if you have a special way of decorating your home that is tradition to you and your family then by all means, you should create that wonderland you are famous for. But if you are feeling the stress of making sure every nook and cranny in your home feels like the holidays, please know that a few simple touches will make your house sparkle and feel festive. White or colored lights (we all have our favorite) simply placed in various places throughout you home will add a glow that will complement the Christmas tree. Hanukkah decorations, too, come alive with white lights scattered about.

Another thought this holiday season is decorating with glass trees or simple glass hurricanes with candles. You need not be specific to one particular type of holiday decor. I imagine our blended families are blessed with family members who celebrate in many different ways. Celebrate all the special days within the season.

Gift buying is always stressful.  Many times I worry I have forgotten someone along the way… a wonderful neighbor or the lovely friend who cuts my hair. I try to buy a few back up gifts to resolve that issue. Even the smallest find will do; a candle or a scarf. Really, I am always so happy when I receive an unexpected gift at the holidays. It truly is not about the gift, but the sentiment behind it. My little trick with gift buying is that I do wrap my gifts as I buy them. I have to say that as this blog goes on, you will come to know that I am happiest when I am organized. However in this regard, it works to my favor. I know that some of you with little ones in your house, it may not be possible to wrap presents as they are purchased, but for those of us who are past that stage or not quite there yet, I can assure you, it is a wonderful time saver when the festivities get closer. No more all day wrapping to worry about!!

I find that simple entertaining is easiest for me. I have learned over the years to make some things and buy some things. Those of you who make it all from scratch impress me so much. I find that a rather stressful endeavor. Your guests expect nothing from you except wonderful company and good memories. However, you will have to feed people, so here are a few of my favorites…

Is there anything more festive than a really fun cocktail? Our favorite holiday libation is a Christmas Sangria… Light and fruity… it’s great with appetizers and getting into the Holiday spirit.

Ingredients:

2 bottles Pinot Grigio
3/4 cup sparkling apple cider
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup cranberries, halved
3/4 cup cranberries, whole
1 Granny Smith apple, chopped
3 rosemary sprigs

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher and stir together with a large wooden spoon to help the sugar dissolve. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Serve chilled or over ice.

For quick and easy appetizers that are always pleasing choose Roasted Shrimp with a really spicy cocktail sauce. Definitely a twist on traditional, but it’s a crowd pleaser! A beautiful cheese board is a delicious favorite and easy to assemble. We like to make sure to use really great cheeses and local is always better! Entertaining should be fun. Again, if you are an avid cook, your talents will shine. Just remember to enjoy the friends and family you are celebrating with. That is truly the magic of the Holiday Season.

Wishing you all safe and happy Holidays!!