1. Simplify Your Tablescape
We all know that holiday décor can easily veer toward excess, but for Nate, there's beauty in a less-is-more approach to table settings. A neutral color palette—like the navy-and-gold one shown here—makes for an elegant display. You can introduce simple festive touches in the form of a patterned table runner, or even some greenery. (Nate likes tucking a fragrant sage leaf into the napkin at each place setting.)



2. Think Evergreen
Beyond the usual red, green and reindeer-themed items that you can find in department stores, Nate recommends getting creative and incorporating things that might not scream "Christmas"—like vintage gold trays and brass candlesticks—but can add to a sophisticated, festive feel to your home. And bonus: They can be used past the holiday season as well.



3. Embrace Your Tradition(s)
Nate observes both Christmas and Hanukkah with his husband, Jeremiah, and their daughter, Poppy—and these dual celebrations are honored in the family's holiday décor. Here, Nate thoughtfully displays a pair of sleek menorahs alongside Christmas stockings on the mantelpiece.



4. Add Shine
Comfort and elegance are not mutually exclusive when it comes to holiday décor. Nate strikes the perfect balance by mixing in polished accessories, such as sparkling crystals and metallics.



5. Get a Jump on Organizing
"I love Christmas—especially watching Poppy open all of her new toys," Nate says. But the self-professed double Virgo admits he enjoys organizing his daughter's new goodies as much as watching her unwrap them. After all, it's never too early to prepare yourself with a storage strategy. That way, you won't start off the new year corralling all the new items and trying to find a place for them in your home.



Published 11/20/2018

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