Joyeux Noel: Fleur d'Elise at Home

My husband and I have lived in our apartment for nearly five years now, and you know what? We've never had a tree! Every year I say I'm going to get one, but we never host our families for the holiday, so in the end I usually go without. Also, I just can't bring myself to buy a little tree I'm just going to throw in the garbage come January 1st. It seems like a waste of money and a waste of tree. So this year I set out to buy a fake tree and found the perfect one! 

As much as I wanted a silver or white one, this tree was the best choice, because it will still be sensible when I'm over my kooky Christmas colors phase (it's a phase, right?). It looks so lovely atop our new mid-century credenza (Say it outloud. It makes you feel fancy). This is honestly the prettiest, tidiest corner in our apartment.

I'm having a lot of fun with the colors and concept for my gift wrap this year. I wasn't sure it would all work together, but so far I really like it. Silver looks so good with neons and greens!

 LEFT: The little bear ornament is just hanging out till he's ready to go to a new home. If you'd like to own him, he's still available on my Etsy! RIGHT: I'm happy I'm finally getting my insect collection displayed where I can enjoy it! The butterflies were a gift from my dad. I believe he bought them in Covent Garden. They're pretty old. The beetle below them is a Pine Sawyer. It's the biggest beetle on the west coast and the only one I've ever seen. I found her outside Petco in Gig Harbor (I grew up there). I tried to keep her as a pet, but she died :(

 LEFT: One of my gem stone art prints and the most expensive beetle I've ever purchased. He's a jewel scarab. RIGHT: I'm so happy I finally get to use my ornaments! 

Do you decorate for the holidays? What's your favorite tradition?

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