With 2020 being a year like no other, renowned interiors stylist Heather Nette King - the 2020 face of style for Early Settler Furniture - believes people will be looking for a sense of nostalgia and simpler times when it comes to decorating for Christmas.
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"We've endured so much this year, from devastating bushfires to the unprecedented pandemic, so I think there will be a real sense of nostalgia for a simpler time and we will choose to focus on family, beautiful fresh food and relaxed outdoor dining," said Heather.
"We'll see less bling and over-the-top metallic décor, and a greater appreciation for natural fibres and earthy organic shapes.
"This year Christmas will undoubtedly be a very Australian affair and I think this will be reflected in our décor choices which will celebrate the unique colours of our landscape. Think lots of pale timbers, eucalyptus and sage greens, the warm pinks of proteas, the sunny yellow of wattle and bottlebrushes."
According to Heather, Christmas tables are all about abundance and treating loved ones to a visual feast as well as one for the tastebuds.
"Big timber grazing platters loaded with delicious food will set the scene," she said. "Tiered food stands take up little table space and can be used for everything from starters to sweets.
"For night-time dining, there's nothing like the twinkle of candlelight to create a festive mood, so place small votive tea-light holders along the table, or hurricane lanterns around the dining area.
"A big floral centrepiece is always stunning, but if space is tight use small single stem vases dotted along the table (this is a more economical way to dress a large table too)."
Heather said traditional Christmas colours like red, white and green would always be a popular choice for festive décor, but this year the look will be softer, featuring warm pinks and paler and more natural reds.
"The greens will also be gentler, like pale gum leaves or native grasses," she said. "White is always lovely for keeping your Christmas colour palette fresh, but creamier tones will look beautiful as well."
With all of the extra time many of us have spent inside this year, Heather said she thinks most people will be itching to eat as many meals outdoors as they can this festive period.
And if decorating funds are tight this Christmas, Heather has some good advice.
"My golden rule for decorating on a budget is volume and repetition," said Heather.
"You don't always need loads of big expensive decorations to create a beautiful Christmas table.
"Instead, use masses of little votive candle holders, single stem vases with faux florals, and even scatter tree decorations along your table to create visual interest. Your guests will love it."