An elegant glow for a festive decor this holiday

By Susan Love, The Plain Dealer

October 26, 2009, 10:10PM

View full sizeAllison Carey, The PDFour-foot tall Pointsettias in assorted colors $34 each, from Something Different Gallery in Cleveland.

Photos by Allison Carey, The Plain Dealer

Holiday decor -- full of silvery glitz and glitter in recent years -- is getting back to basics.

"Things are becoming simpler and more traditional," said Marianne Minogue, manager of the Arhaus Furniture store at Legacy Village in Lyndhurst.

This year, look for elegant garlands, red and green plaids, simple (but still full of sparkle) ornaments. Holiday displays will probably include lots of poinsettias, mirrored trees, recycled glass decorations and greenery accents.

"I think we are going to see lots of clean lines, clear glass and red accent pieces," said Minogue, who is also an interior designer.

Overall, accent colors will be very natural, with silvers and plum colors joining the reds and greens, she added.

Hudson interior designer Pamela Bayer agreed. "Less is always more, so choose from these ideas wisely and sparingly," said Bayer.

Bayer has several suggestions for making this holiday memorable from a decorating standpoint.

Some of her thoughts: White candles with silver or gold wreath holders look good even after the holidays. White lights on your houseplants and trees add a special glow and warmth. Amaryllis bulbs flower beautifully in red if you start watering them a month before your holiday events. Remember to store the bulbs in a dark place and bring them out next year. A pot of steaming water with winter spices is wonderfully aromatic, and you probably have everything you need in your pantry. A table runner with a large bowl of pine cones as your centerpiece adds flair. Throw pine cones into the fireplace to create an authentic seasonal scent. Nutcrackers bring the richness and pleasures of the holidays to life. Snow globes are fun, mesmerizing and collectible at any age. Stenciled snowflakes on windows and doors bring fairy-tale delight to children and adults alike.

Holiday wine-glass markers are among the many small, creative things you can do that make a big impression.

Holiday throws, pillows, candles and potpourri are common traditions. Just be careful not to go overboard. Silver, gold and red dinner napkins and holiday paper hand towels for the powder room complete your look.