Caxton magazines staffWith SA’s fabulous weather many of us celebrate Christmas on the patio. So why not spread the festive cheer outdoors with these easy alfresco decorating ideas from Bernice Morrell of Morrell’s Boutique Venue?
HANGING OUT
Who says you have to hang a wreath on the front door? Tie one to your garden gate or prop it against the wall behind your server to create a festive backdrop for your drinks table or an outdoor tablescape.
FONT OF INSPIRATION
Pretty up your pool or birdbath after dark with a few roses and floating candles. You could also turn a planter into an impromptu water feature by blocking the drainage holes and filling it with water.
TURNING THE TABLES
Group attractive garden ornaments, potted plants and an arrangement of fresh flowers to create an alfresco tablescape; don’t forget to add a few candles for a romantic glow in the evenings.
LIGHT THE WAY
Encourage guests to take a stroll in the garden before dinner by lining the steps leading from your veranda with candles. For added whimsy, get creative with your choice of holders. Along with lanterns, Bernice’s used decorative birdcages, garden urns and plant pots filled with fresh flowers.
PLAY DRESS-UP
Wind fairy lights around your topiary frames and treat your topiaries as mini Christmas trees by trimming them with decorations. Then show off your humorous side by allowing your garden statues to don a pair of quirky reindeer horns or a Caesar-style wreath of greenery.
THINGS ARE LOOKING UP
Create a magical atmosphere in minutes by hanging candlelit lanterns and bottles of fresh blooms from tree branches, garden arches and pergolas. Lightweight ornaments can also be suspended from the chandelier above your outdoor dining table – a great option if space for decorations on the table top is tight.
PICK OF THE BUNCH
What could be a more fitting centrepiece for an alfresco table setting than freshly cut garden flowers? And just because they’re home-grown doesn’t mean they can’t look glam. Follow Bernice’s lead and arrange hydrangeas and full-blown roses in a mix of silver, glass and crystal vessels to create a romantic, vintage-inspired feel. The tableware is from Bernice’s new shoppe, Maison de Morrells.
