Styling Work | Country Living
There is something very special about styling a home for a holiday issue. Behind the scenes there is a flurry of elf-like work as we gather trees and evergreens, wrap presents, and deck the halls…sometimes in February, or June. Either way, I always consider it an honor and do my best to style in a way that both, reflects the homeowners holiday traditions, and the vision the magazine has for the feature. Bringing them together through my styling work can in a sense, feel magical to me, even with the large task at hand.
There are homes that showcase the spirit of the season in a way that truly captures our hearts. Like the one in Father of Bride or Home Alone. They were perfect holiday homes. As is this saltbox/farmhouse built in the 1850’s now belonging to Lori Guyer. In keeping with her neutral color palette, I kept the styling simple by adding subtle color in muted reds, using her collection of vintage ornaments throughout the home, and a few nautical elements since the home is located on the North Fork of Long Island.
All the garlands were fresh. When we shoot out of season, I have them shipped in from growers in the Pacific Northwest. We were able to source a tree from a local farm, which is always the best! The buoy on the mantle made for a fun wreath alternative. The ribbon is handmade from vintage grain sacks. Oh, and aren’t those chunky hand knit stockings the coziest thing you’ve ever seen?!
In the amazing farmhouse kitchen I created a holiday baking scene. I always love working with the editorial team to come up with ideas - cookie baking, gingerbread houses, or some other baking activity that feels festive. Most of my propping was done with Lori’s beautiful collections of white stoneware and vintage holiday decor which makes the space feel timeless and very peaceful. I always try to incorporate the homeowners decor and collections into my styling. Doing so helps the spaces feel more authentic to their personal style. To that I will bring in layers - pillows, bedding and throws, plenty of vase options, and fresh florals and produce.
For the guest room the styling was a bit more playful with the handmade teddy bear, the vintage toys on the dresser, and a tiny striped stocking tied to the key on the pine cabinet. It’s my favorite little detail! Behind the scenes sidenote: we actually shot this with and without the stocking and I’m so happy it made the final cut!
All the images were photographed by the incredible David Land. Over the years, he and I have worked on quite a few Christmas shoots together and it’s always fun and festive! You can see more images and read the full story in this months December issue of Country Living. If you have any questions about the styling, let me know in the comments. I’m happy to help!
