Decorating Is “Berry” Simple!

Using the gifts that nature gives us is a wonderfully frugal and simple way to decorate when entertaining this season.  Berries, with their vibrant colors of cream, green or red, are the perfect accessory to a holiday spread.  Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing!

• Use sprigs of berries - artificial and real - to accessorize any table setting.  Tuck sprigs into napkin rings, or simply tie cutlery with a napkin using a festive ribbon and tuck a sprig of berry inside.  Berries can be used to fill empty spaces in floral arrangements, too.  And, give your buffet a holiday flair with berry branches interwoven between the dishes.
• Fill glass jars with fresh cranberries for a simple centerpiece, or use in the base of a vase before adding water and evergreen clippings.  Fresh cranberries are a good size and are safe to have around when animals and small children might be tempted to taste a few (even though they are VERY bitter!).
• Cranberry candle holders - fill canning jars with berries (cranberries work best) and then set a votive in the middle for a unique and simple candle holder.
• String berries (again, cranberries work best due to their size and hardiness) on a small-gauge wire to create a berry garland.  This is great to use on a tree or down the middle of a table for accent decor.  Or, tie off the cranberries in small rings for a naturally festive napkin ring!