“I always start with branches and greens as the first layer. These heavier pieces will anchor the base and guide the look or inspiration. Next, I plug in my flowers so they’re visible. A local floral mart is the perfect place to find “statement” flowers or branches to add texture and color to help pull together any arrangement. In this case I used deep burgundy cattails, dried white holly branches and my favorite, white protea steams. Larger flowers, like the protea stems and cabbage roses are a nice way to add bulk. I finish by incorporating texture with berries and citrus.”

Here are some of the varieties used for the arrangement:

White roses
White protea
Pussy Willow
White holly branches
Dried white statice flower
Eucalyptus bells
Seeded eucalyptus
Olive branches
Cattail
Curly willow

“Create a mulling spice station stocked for guests to mix their own nostalgic, wintery blends for a cozy home scent.”

“You’ll need a small mason jar for each guest. We used mini quilted jelly jars by Ball from Target. Set out bowls with various spices along with teaspoons or playful mini scoopers like these we found on Amazon.”

Finish off each jar by securing a swatch of fabric and ribbon along with directions for home use.

“Choosing a signature cocktail is a helpful start for creating a theme a festive gathering. Sprits with bourbon or mulled wines are great options for the chilly season.”

Maple Old Fashioned
1 1⁄2 oz. Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old Bourbon
1 oz. maple syrup
1-3 dashes Aromatic Bitters

Pour into glass on ice and stir. Twist of a citrus peel over the top and serve garnished with the peel and or add a Maraschino cherry.