Category Archives: Aspley Styleboard

Baby Shower Gift Ideas For Mum From Baby Bunting Aspley

If you have a special someone in your life that is expecting a bundle of joy to enter the world soon, then you need to head into Baby Bunting Aspley for the perfect gift. Searching for the right gift can seem overwhelming at first with so many categories and options to give the Mumma-to-be, but fear not as we are here to help you find the perfect present. Today we are sharing with you our top recommendations to choose from when it comes to baby shower gifts and help you narrow down which category to choose. We’ve got you covered from the practical gift ideas, suggestions to spoil the new mum and cute décor and toy ideas that will have them smiling from ear to ear. So, read on for inspiration, then head into Baby Bunting Aspley to start your shopping journey this weekend.

Gifts For The Mum

When we think of baby shower gifts, we often think of what cute outfit we can get the new arrival or what the latest toy innovation is. But opting for a gift that is specifically for the mother to be during this beautiful time will be appreciated endlessly. We love the My Brest Friend Deluxe Feeding Pillow in Soft Rose that supports posture, is adjustable, has a pocket for any essentials and gives Mum the support she needs at feeding time. We also love the range of maternity and postpartum underwear at Baby Bunting Aspley that are comfortable, practical, supportive and come in a classic colour range. Whilst in store, check out the entire maternity range to find the perfect gift for Mum for her baby shower.

Practical Gifts

Practical gifts always go down a treat not only at the baby shower, but long into the pregnancy and newborn phase. Gifting a mum-to-be something practical that you know from experience will make such a difference, is the most thoughtful gift of all. We love the baby shusher that is great for soothing any baby and will be a lifesaver when it comes to nap time and getting the baby to settle. You could also opt for more practical gift ideas such as a car accessory kit for sun protection whilst out on the road, a bath support for the baby to make bath time a breeze or a nappy disposal unit in the perfect colour to suit their nursery décor.

Toys

Toys are always a winner when it comes to baby shower gifts as they can either be practical for learning, fun and entertaining or become sentimental items for the child long term. Baby Bunting Aspley has a huge range of adorable rattles in every colour, style or animal theme you can think of. They also have a great range of interactive toys that will keep the baby’s mind stimulated such as baby’s 1st block sets, teething toys, stacking ring towers or sensory books. If you get stuck with choosing the perfect baby shower gift you can’t go past an adorable soft plush toy that can be snuggled for years on end.

Décor

Our last category of baby shower gift ideas is selecting a beautiful décor piece you know will work perfectly in their nursery. Baby Bunting Aspley has a great range of playmats and rugs that are both practical and beautiful and come in a range of styles to suit any nursery design. We love the 4Baby Nursery Basket Set in White that is a gorgeous set of wicker baskets that perfectly fit baby wipes, nappies, bibs and creams for convenience at change time. Wall decals and art prints are also a beautiful baby shower gift and they come in cute themes from Australian animals to floral motifs to whimsical stars; there is a style to suit any nursery.

Now that you have all the inspiration you need to find the perfect baby shower gift for the mum-to-be in your life you can shop with confidence. Head in store to Baby Bunting Aspley and speak to the friendly staff to ensure you pick a present that will be loved and adored by both the baby and Mum for years to come.

Twilight entertaining: how to revamp your outdoor area for autumn

It’s no secret Aussies love the great outdoors. Whether it’s soaking up the fresh air or lounging around under the sun, there’s a special kind of joy that comes with outdoor living. Luckily, we’re blessed with fantastic weather for most of the year and as autumn settles in, now is the perfect time to update your outdoor entertaining area with a cosy touch. But how can you achieve this? Keep reading for a detailed guide on creating a warm and inviting twilight entertaining experience.

Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Porter Throw $89.95, Eureka Furniture Solar Patio Arm Chair $1,499, Freedom Mali Round Outdoor Floor Rug $249, Outdoor Living Pol 8L Designer Fireplace from $2,395, Pillow Talk Muse Sahara Feather Cushion $59.95, Provincial Home Living Polly Lantern $69.95.

Step one: set the scene with lighting

Autumn evenings call for gentle illumination that adds warmth and ambience to your outdoor space. String lights, lanterns, and candles are perfect for achieving this type of cosy atmosphere. Consider hanging fairy lights across trees or pergolas, placing lanterns along pathways, and scattering candles on tables for an inviting glow your guests will love.

Step two: create comfortable seating areas

Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture that encourages comfort and relaxation. Opt for plush cushions, throws, and blankets in autumnal hues like burnt orange, deep red, and earthy browns to add warmth and style to your seating areas. Arrange chairs and sofas around the firepit to create a focal point that will entice guests to gather and linger.

Step three: cosy up with a firepit

A firepit is the quintessential autumn accessory! Choose a firepit that complements your outdoor décor and will enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. Whether you prefer a sleek modern design or a rustic, traditional look, a well-placed firepit will undoubtedly become the heart of your outdoor entertaining area.

Step four: serve up seasonal treats

No outdoor gathering is complete without delicious food and drinks to enjoy. Incorporate the flavours of autumn by serving hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and decadent desserts like apple pie. Pair these seasonal treats with mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate for a cosy experience that warms both the body and soul.

By following these tips and ideas, you can easily create a cosy outdoor entertaining area that embraces the beauty of an Australian autumn. With the addition of pieces from Aspley Homemaker City, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy memorable evenings under the open sky.

Looking for more home styling advice? Check out our latest seasonal trend report filled with décor inspiration, interior trends, tips and tricks, and so much more!

Harvest home: how to achieve an Australian farmhouse

As the air takes on a crisp edge and autumn hits, there’s something inviting about the idea of nestling into a space styled with a modern farmhouse aesthetic – it’s homely, cosy, and above all else, comfortable (all of which are exactly what one needs during the autumn months).

At its core, the farmhouse style is all about celebrating the beauty of imperfection. Reclaimed wood, industrial fixtures, and vintage-inspired décor come together to create a space that feels lived in and loved. While the term farmhouse might make you think of rolling fields and rustic barns, you don’t actually need to live anywhere near a farm to pull off the trend. With a few key elements, a keen eye for detail, and a trip to Aspley Homemaker City, you can transform any space into a harvest home.

Eureka Furniture Farmhouse Paddle $99, Eureka Furniture Ravenswood Bookcase $1,299, Freedom Ulla Table Lamp $349, Freedom Westport Fabric Armchair $1,499, Provincial Home Living Loch Barn Print $199.95, Provincial Home Living Campaign Image.

Defining farmhouse style

Before hitting the store it’s important to understand exactly what modern farmhouse style is so that you can easily identify pieces that will work for you.

Farmhouse style is refreshingly uncomplicated with a homespun charm that instantly puts you at ease. Décor pieces are to be chosen carefully, with a nod to history and antiques. Think barn-style furnishings such as wooden chairs combined with industrial-inspired fixtures like lights, trims, and handles. The beauty of farmhouse style lies in balance, so be sure not to go overboard and remember to keep a minimal approach.

Key elements for the Australian farmhouse

If you’re on the hunt for some key furniture pieces to suit this trend, be sure to select items for their durability and comfort. Practicality is key – comfortable seating and ample storage solutions will make everyday living a breeze. Whereas for décor, less is often more. We recommend keeping patterns simple and understated, opting for some open shelving that displays natural elements like dried flowers, woven baskets, and pottery.

Colour palette: a nod to nature

The farmhouse style tends to favour natural hues inspired by the great outdoors. While white and black are always popular choices, there’s plenty of room to explore shades of brown, deep greens, and soft beige. You can showcase many of these colours through furniture made from natural materials like timber and stone.

Now that you know the basics of modern farmhouse style, it’s time to transform your space! Be sure to head in centre to discover an array of furnishings and décor that can help you bring this trend to life.

Looking for more home styling advice? Check out our latest seasonal trend report filled with décor inspiration, interior trends, tips and tricks, and so much more!

Little wonders: how to prepare a nursery

Expecting parents have a lot to consider when waiting for a baby to arrive. There are hospital bags to pack, car seats to install, baby showers to plan, and diapers to buy – and that’s all before there’s a tiny human to raise!

However, one of the most exciting tasks to ponder before your newborn arrives has got to be the baby nursery decor; the design, theme, and purchasing all the essentials.

The nursery is about to be a place where you’ll spend many hours of your time for feeding, changing, or putting your little one to sleep (or should we say attempting to). So, you’ll want to invest some much-needed time, effort, and funds into ensuring your nursery is decked out exactly how it should be.

We want you to have one less thing to worry about when your newborn arrives, so we’ve compiled everything you need to know into one place. Read on to learn all about navigating your new nursery.

Baby Bunting Boori 3 Tier Changer $269, Baby Bunting Ergopouch Cocoon $49.95, Baby Bunting Living Textiles Cotton Rope Storage Set $39.95, Baby Bunting Owlet Baby Monitor $249.99, Baby Bunting Zazu Nightlight $59.95, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Pete Pretzel $29.95, DecoRug Luka Shaggy Colour Rug from $199, Forty Winks Boori Corindi Cot $649, Freedom Evie Rocking Chair $1,299, Freedom Mornington Dresser $1,699.

The design

There are four main factors to consider when designing your nursery – the placement of the cot, glider, changing table, and storage drawers.

The cot should be positioned first and should be placed away from any windows or doors to limit temperature changes, air drafts, and light exposure. Next up, place your glider (aka feeding chair) into a corner nook, ensuring it has enough space around it to rock. Once the cot and chair are placed, slot the drawers and changing table in the leftover space.

Tip: For those who are working with a smaller space, we recommend using your chest of drawers as a changing table as well.

Now that all the key pieces are appropriately placed, it’s time to sort out the lighting. Having a dark room will promote the release of melatonin (the hormone that helps us to both fall asleep and stay asleep). So, be sure to purchase block-out blinds as these will keep the room dark for both nap time and night time. You’ll also want to limit any artificial light such as baby monitors – place these away from the cot so that the light isn’t in the baby’s line of sight when they’re in the cot.

The décor

Now onto the fun part – the décor! Before getting carried away with an elaborate theme, it’s important to keep in mind the top priority of a nursery and that’s for it to be conducive to sleep. You’ll want your newborn to be exposed to as little stimulation as possible, so avoid using too many decorative pieces that can distract them. Refrain from placing toys or hanging mobiles in and above the cot, in fact, we recommend no toys in the cot until four months of age, which also happens to be the optimal time to introduce a comforter.

This doesn’t mean you can’t have a super stylish nursery – you can still stick to a colour palette so the room is cohesive with the rest of your home. Start with a neutral base for the furniture and then add accent lighting, wallpaper, artwork, rugs, and more. Even if tastes change, your accent pieces can easily be swapped out while keeping large investment pieces the same.

Tip: incorporate thick pile rugs and drapes throughout the room to help absorb outside noise.

The essentials

Lastly, it’s time to ensure you have all the essentials for a functional nursery. First up, it’s important to baby-proof the room – secure blinds and electrical cords, keep any medicines out of reach, and set up a baby monitor.

Next, purchase a white noise machine (this will help silence your baby’s built-in alarm clock by drowning out all outside noises during vulnerable phases of light sleep), a swaddle (to make your baby feel safe and comforted), a dim nightlight (to help navigate night time feeding), and of course, nappies, bedding, toys, and clothes.

There you have it! We hope this helps you prepare accordingly for your newborn. Be sure to download our first-time parent nursery checklist here to better prepare you for the arrival of your little one.

5 Reasons You Need To Visit Outdoor Living At Aspley Homemaker City

There is no better location in Brisbane to shop for your Summer backyard entertaining needs than at Outdoor Living Aspley. Summer in Queensland is the perfect time of year to embrace the outdoors, get outside and enjoy the sunshine and long, leisurely days. Creating the perfect outdoor oasis that feels like you are on holidays at all times is easy with a few simple tips and tricks. Today we are sharing with you our top recommendations for furniture and styling pieces to create the perfect outdoor living and dining area in your own home. Outdoor Living Aspley is a one stop shop for all your outdoor furniture needs, so be sure to check them out next time you are at the centre.

Outdoor Umbrellas

A summer essential for all Queensland homes, especially those with a pool is an outdoor umbrella. To protect you and your family from the heat and unwanted sun exposure an outdoor umbrella is the perfect addition to your backyard. Outdoor Living Aspley has a range of umbrellas in a variety of colours to create either a simple and chic look or a fun pop of colour. From a small umbrella that allows shade for a couple or a large umbrella that can protect an entire dining table, they have got you covered. We love the canter leaver shelta umbrella in French grey for a practical and stylish edition to your backyard –

Outdoor Seating

Entertaining at home during the Summer months is a Queensland tradition and you’ll find most of us in the backyard of a Sunday afternoon relaxing with family and friends. When entertaining at home, adequate outdoor seating is a high priority and options for lounging, sitting and conversation zones must be considered. Outdoor Living Aspley has a huge range of seating options in a wide variety of colours, fabrics and materials to suit any design style. They have beautiful outdoor sofas, armchairs and modular pieces to create the perfect lounging zone on your outdoor patio. Or if you are in need of some bar stools, day beds, sun lounges or dining chairs they have got you covered too.

Outdoor Cushions

Cushions are often thought of for living rooms and bedrooms only and sometimes forgotten in the outdoor decorating space. Outdoor cushions are the perfect addition to any patio or alfresco space as they add a sense of comfort and blend the indoors with the outdoors. Outdoor Living Aspley has beautiful cushions that are purpose made for outdoor use and are specifically designed for marine conditions, UV protection and are water repellent. This means they can stay outside all year long and you won’t notice any colour fading or mould. We love the camburi yellow throw cushion that would be the perfect addition to any outdoor sofa or daybed this Summer.

Outdoor Fire Pits

To create the ultimate outdoor oasis and luxurious entertaining space, we recommend adding an outdoor firepit to your home. Not only do they create a beautiful ambience and look amazing, but they also encourage friends and family to gather around and enjoy quality time together. An outdoor fire pit is the perfect cosy addition to your Summer soiree to end the night in a relaxing way. Outdoor Living Aspley offers a variety of styles and materials, so whether you are looking for a sleek, modern design or a traditional cast iron look, they have got you covered.

Outdoor Plants

Lastly, our final tip for decorating an outdoor area is to add plenty of greenery through outdoor plants. Plants are no longer restricted to garden beds and the perimeter of the backyard, we are seeing beautiful potted plants becoming more and more popular in outdoor designs. We suggest grouping three large pots in varying sizes in the corner of the alfresco area holding tall plants such as a bird of paradise or palm. Add greenery to your tables by potting a large bowl with some succulents and moss for a centrepiece that lasts all year round. Not only do outdoor plants bring life and vibrancy to a space, they also add a pop of colour and statement to your alfresco.

How to master alfresco dining this summer

Nothing beats the classic Australian backyard family BBQ. The sun is shining, the sausages are sizzling, and the tongs are at the ready. Whether it’s a weekend ritual or a special celebration, there’s nothing quite like spending time outside during the summertime. This year, we think it’s about time to skip the restaurants and create a stunning alfresco scene in your own backyard instead. Here’s your ultimate guide to alfresco dining.

Products: Bed Bath N’ Table Panama Stripe Outdoor Cushion $29.95, Eureka Furniture Brighton Dining Chair $849, Eureka Furniture Vendale Oval Dining Table $2,099, Freedom Olive Tree Garden Pot $269, Freedom Soho Cutlery Set $59.95, Provincial Home Living Avery Goblet $12.95, The Furniture Shack Bondi Indoor/Outdoor Bean Bag $329, The Lighting Superstore Mette 47 Rattan Shade $218.

1. Invest in staple pieces

When it comes to outdoor dining and entertaining, it’s important to invest in the big pieces – we’re talking about your dining table, chairs, barbecues, and additional lighting features. These items should be strong enough to withstand the great Australian outdoors (even if they’re under the protection of a patio ceiling). We recommend opting for timber, oak, or steel tables and likewise for chairs. If your dining chairs have plush cushions, ensure they are removable so they can be brought inside during those pesky summer storms. It’s also a good idea to keep these larger pieces cohesive – opt for outdoor dining sets where the sofa, table, and chairs all match.

2. Quality over quantity

Out with the old, in with the new! It’s time to update your dining essentials this summer – we’re talking about cutlery, luxe glasses, and a set of simple ceramic plates. Having good quality dining essentials will make all the difference when entertaining – after all, no one likes paper plates or plastic cups. The best part? These items are going to last for seasons to come so there’s no need to replace them anytime soon!

3. Decorative accents

Now that you’ve got staple furnishings and necessary tableware, the rest is all about showcasing your personal taste and style. Stock up on outdoor cushions, vases, plants, and even sun lounges that match your aesthetic. We’re loving the coastal style this summer (read all about it in our Summer Trend Report).

4. Change up your tablescape

You’re likely to have more than one outdoor dining experience this summer, right? So why not have a few different tablescape options to choose from? Be sure to keep your cutlery and glassware the same but change up your tablecloth, table runner, placemats, and centrepiece. By doing so, you can easily create a completely different feel.

We recommend having one minimal tablescape – this could be a white tablecloth, neutral table runner and placemats, and pillar candles. Another easily achievable tablescape theme is modern retro – create this aesthetic through burnt orange, yellow, and dark green hues.

Tip: mix and match across tablescape themes to create a whole new feel.

It’s officially time to embrace summer with an alfresco dining experience! Remember to play with an array of colours and patterns to suit the ambience of your outdoor dining area and most importantly have fun and soak up the good vibes with your friends and family.

Top four summer entertaining trends

Summer has finally arrived and with the change of season comes a new appreciation for our outdoor spaces! There’s no denying that the weather is close to perfect and we think that calls for a celebration of our hard-working front yards, backyards, patios, and other open-air spaces (you know, the spots that are dedicated to entertaining).

With that in mind, it comes as no surprise that outdoor trends are starting to rival the number of indoor trends! Keen to know more about the latest craze in the interior space (or should we say exterior space)? Below we’ve gathered some of the top outdoor entertaining trends.

Front yard focus

Enhancing front yard areas is becoming more popular than ever before and rightfully so. This space is so often forgotten about, yet it’s the very first area your guests will see upon arrival. We’re seeing front yard makeovers everywhere and they’re certainly upping the curb appeal of houses as a whole.

So, what are some key elements to incorporate in an on-trend front yard? For starters, manicured lawn is a must (no explanation needed). You’ll also want to think about symmetry –frame your front door with potted plants or incorporate symmetry into your landscaping. Rid the space of unwanted weeds and dirt (yes, time to pull out the weed killer and pressure cleaner). Lastly, if you have the space, consider adding a seating area. This could be a singular floating chaise or a pair of outdoor armchairs.

Tuscan design elements

Dreaming of summertime in Tuscany? Why not create the same feel at home? Tuscan-style décor is in with its warm colours, natural elements, and a touch of rustic charm. This trend is all-encompassing, so to successfully pull it off, Tuscan additions are required to all areas of your outdoor space. Invest in wall hangings, ceramics, sculptures, terracotta pottery, and wrought iron furniture. Plant a variety of traditional plants like rosemary, olive trees, and lavender, and lastly consider an overall colour scheme – stick to olive greens, deep oranges, and even maroon.

Outdoor rooms

Much like the concept of open floor plan living, we’re seeing a trend develop where larger outdoor spaces are being divided into distinct areas or “rooms.” This includes outdoor kitchens, the use of pergolas, and contemporary poolside styling. Backyards now house multiple sections for seating, dining, and relaxation, rather than a single focal point.

Tip: if you’re struggling to create a divide between sections, look to the earth! Break up the areas by changing the flooring or ground texture. We recommend the use of gravel, tiles, and fresh grass.

Bold colours

Go bold with colours and say goodbye to muted hues with bright tablescapes, outdoor rugs, cushions, and statement furnishings. Minimalism is out and maximalism is officially back in!

We’re expecting to see splashes of colour everywhere this summer (indoors and out). Naturally, the Pantone colour of the year, Viva Magenta, continues to be a beloved shade this year. But hues of yellow and orange are also at the top of interior designers’ lists.

Keen to discover more summer trends? Read our Summer Trend Report online now and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with retailer offers, professional decorating advice, and more interior inspiration.

Bedroom Makeover Ideas at Homemaker Aspley City

The bedroom is a space that we spend the majority of our time in when we are relaxing at home, so today we are sharing our tips alongside Snooze Aspley for refreshing this space and creating the ultimate sanctuary. After a long day at work, there is nothing better than unwinding in a space that feels comfortable, tranquil and like an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. There are many elements that need to be considered when designing a bedroom, from the mattress to the bed linen to the lighting and more. Today we are sharing with you our top tips for what to consider when making over your bedroom and ensuring you select the perfect pieces to invest in.

Start With The Mattress

When planning your next bedroom makeover we recommend heading into Snooze Aspley for all the inspiration you need. The best place to begin is by choosing a quality mattress that suits your requirements and provides comfort and longevity. There are a few key things to consider when selecting a mattress, most importantly the feel. Whether you are a lover of an ultra firm mattress or like to cocoon into a plush feel, Snooze has an option for you. Some other things to consider when selecting a mattress are the people who will be using it, the mattress topper feel, your sleeping positions, whether you use the bed to watch tv or read and of course, the size.

The Perfect Bedroom Suite

Once you have selected your perfect mattress, it is then time to choose some beautiful furniture pieces to pair it with. Whether you are after some small bedroom ideas to make the most of the space or are looking for a statement bedroom suite, Snooze Aspley has you covered. Bedroom furniture can include the bed frame, bedside tables, tallboys, dressers and more. Snooze also have a great range of customisable beds that allow you to select the best option for your bedroom needs. There are options to include drawer storage underneath, expandable trundle beds and bedheads in a variety of fabric options and styles.

Invest In Beautiful Linen

Decorating your bed with beautiful bed linen would arguably be the most fun step in a bedroom makeover. Selecting the perfect quilt cover and pairing it with decorative cushions in your favourite colours can completely transform a space. Firstly, head into Snooze Aspley and pick up your quilt insert and pillows of choice, then choose from a number of other amazing retailers we have at the centre for beautiful bed linen. We love the look of a neutral quilt cover paired with patterned European cushions and 3-4 decorative cushions in your favourite colour. Or go bold with a patterned quilt cover in gingham, paisley or a coastal print paired with cushions in one or two shades featured in the design. To finish it off we love adding a throw blanket or two underneath your cushions for a styled and cosy look.

Creating The Vibe

When embarking on a bedroom makeover you can’t forget the finishing touches in the bedroom to create the ultimate relaxing oasis. Add statement lamps to your bedside tables with a warm globe to create a soft and serene atmosphere. We also love creating a vibe by using a signature scent in the bedroom from a candle or reed diffuser. When selecting a scent for the space it is best to go for subtle notes such as citrus, sandalwood or freshly washed linen. Lastly, to create a personalised touch we suggest styling the bedside tables with a beautiful tray, a stack of your favourite books or a lovely, framed photo with a vase of flowers.

A bedroom makeover should be an exciting and fun experience and here at Aspley Homemaker City we look forward to helping you on this journey. We have a plethora of retailers that specialise in your bedroom needs such as Snooze, Sleepys, Beds n Dreams, Pillow Talk and Forty Winks. If you would like a helping hand with selecting the right pieces for your bedroom, then be sure to book in for your free styling session with our resident stylist today!

Deck the Halls: How to Decorate Your Space With Style This Christmas

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and as Christmas 2023 rolls around, we’re eagerly awaiting the chance to hang out with our favourite people, soak in the festive vibes, and enjoy the holiday cheer. But with all these family gatherings and merry celebrations on the cards, it’s also time to get your abode ready to entertain.

Need some ideas? Here’s the ultimate roundup of essential Christmas home decorations to get you through the holiday season – from festive décor to tableware, we haven’t forgotten a thing.

FEATURED PRODUCTS: Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Antler $14.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Dinner Candles Textured Metallic Set of 4 $9.99, Bed Bath N’ Table Morgan & Finch Protea Wreath $89.99, Freedom Glasshouse Fragrances Candle $59.95, House Alex Liddy Mode Set of 4 Coupe Glasses $79.99, House Ecology Peace Sauce Jug $21.95, Pillow Talk Habitat Christmas Mariah Hanging Star Decoration $7.95, Pillow Talk Habitat Gnome Sweet Gnome Christmas European Pillowcase $34.95, Provincial Home Living Festive Village Tealight Holder $59.95

Tableware

Want to upstage your 2022 Christmas tablescape? Then a few new additions are a must! Plus, who doesn’t love setting the table for the holidays? It’s a festive and fun activity, especially when the entire family gathers around to indulge in a feast afterwards!

First and foremost, a centrepiece! This year, we recommend keeping it simple by opting for a humble candle or some fresh flowers arranged in a gorgeous jug vase. Keep in mind that larger centrepieces are often removed once everyone is seated and the food is served, so consider a reasonable height to ensure it can stay on the table.

Next up, glassware! Yep, it’s time to ditch the paper cups (apologies to the clean up crew!). But glassware truly makes all the difference; it will transform your table from drab to fab, adding a touch of luxury and opulence to a day full of celebration and unity.

The rest of your table should follow a theme – whether it be woodlands, traditional, or vibrant colours. Be sure to complete the look with placemats, ceramic plates, cutlery, napkins, and even name tags.

Home scents

Often overlooked, yet undeniably essential – we’re talking about holiday home scents, of course! There’s no doubt that Christmas somehow has an aroma, a nostalgic combination of freshly baked sugar cookies, gingerbread, cherries, and pinecones.

So, what better way to fill your home with festive spirit than with a distinctive scent that encapsulates Christmas? We recommend the Glasshouse Fragrances White Christmas candle – it smells divine! Burn the candle throughout the season and then when Christmas rolls around next year, find a new festive scent to fill your home with!

Traditional décor

It wouldn’t be Christmas without some traditional décor! We’re talking about Christmas trees, wreaths, tree hangings, and other novelty motifs. Be sure to keep all the pieces within an overall theme – even if it’s just a colour scheme like pale green, pink, and gold. This way your home will feel cohesive from when your guests walk through the door all the way through to the dining area and living space.

Subtle additions

It’s important to note that Christmas home décor doesn’t necessarily have to be cliché. In fact, it could be super subtle with the ability to be repurposed throughout the year. How? Choose throw blankets and pillows that stick within your colour scheme but don’t have any Christmas messaging or symbols. We recommend the same approach when it comes to decorative accessories. For example, the Bed Bath N’ Table Antler screams Christmas when seen next to other festive pieces, but when styled in another season, it could have a completely different feel to it.

We know that planning for Christmas home décor can be a really big deal! Everyone wants their home to feel stylish and welcoming all while maintaining that festive vibe. Luckily, achieving this balance is simpler than ever this year with Aspley Homemaker City. Find all your fave holiday home décor essentials under one roof. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and happy decorating!

Looking for more home inspiration? Join the Homemaker Collective to stay in the loop.

Get the colour psychology lowdown

Have you ever stepped into a room and felt a wave of emotions wash over you – be it a hospital, theatre, or even your living room? Well, this phenomenon has everything to do with the interplay of colours within the space you’re in (also known as colour psychology).

Colour psychology is pivotal in the interior design industry and understanding how it works is something that many industry experts have mastered. But being able to decode colour psychology isn’t just for the pros, anyone can do it! Keep reading to find out what colours evoke certain emotions and how you can use colour to create various atmospheres and moods within your home.

Shades of blue

When the colour blue comes to mind, you probably think of clear skies or the ocean, right? Both of these subconsciously influence a person’s mood because they’re affiliated with fond memories. So, when blue is utilised in interior design, it triggers a sense of calm, serenity, and relaxation, and even more so in the lighter shades. Darker hues evoke feelings of confidence, trust, loyalty, and dependability.

So, how to incorporate these into your space? Blue is best used in bedrooms and living spaces because you want these areas to feel calm and inviting. Use light shades of blue as a dominant colour in your bedroom by adding a blue coverlet to your bed or a pastel blue feature wall. When decorating your living room, we recommend using deeper shades of blue in various decorative accoutrements – think vases, artwork, and throw cushions.

Shades of green

Green is one of the more versatile colours and can be brought into almost every room in some way. Similarly to blue, green also evokes feelings of calmness because it has strong associations with nature. Green is thought to be tranquil and promotes growth, renewal, prosperity, and regeneration.

The best way to bring green into your space is through textural pieces like plants, rugs, and fabrics. Opt for statement furnishings in rich green velvets like dining chairs or sofas, add in a variety of foliage from hanging plants to petite succulents, and opt for contemporary Moroccan rugs with speckles of green throughout. The best part? Green can be added to any room within a house or apartment and even the most subtle additions can make all the difference.

Shades of red

Red can be a daunting colour to add to your space but it’s a real game changer! Red symbolises a range of emotions often depending on its intensity and contexts, but some common interpretation of the colour includes passion, energy, warmth, comfort, and creativity.

Shades of red are more suitable for kitchens where creativity is key. Ultimately red works best as an accent feature but be sure to balance with neutrals to prevent the space from becoming overwhelming. We also recommend creating a gradient by using various shades like maroon, burgundy, and rose instead of sticking to one stark shade only.

Shades of yellow

Radiant and cheerful, the colour yellow exudes warmth and sunshine which is why it’s often associated with youthfulness, energy, and fun.

Consider featuring yellow in nurseries or kids rooms because it is the ideal gender-neutral choice. When integrating yellow tones, it’s important to strike a balance where the shade is used in conjunction with other colours and design elements to create a harmonious environment. We recommend opting for a yellow ceiling accent or removable wall decals. For a more subtle yet impactful approach, add yellow fitted sheets to the bed to create a soft pop of colour in your bedding.

Shades of pink

To conclude, our final colour is pink – which is also the Pantone colour of the year, viva magenta! Pink has recently made a resurgence in interiors, especially dusty pinks which have been seen in a slew of Pinterest-worthy interiors. The shade often evokes romance, elegance, and harmony.

There’re so many ways to incorporate pink into your interiors but one of the best ways is through lighting. Look for pink-hued lamps, lampshades, or pendant lights to add a subtle glow of colour to your space. We also recommend introducing pink through bathroom accessories like towels, shower curtains, and bathmats.

As you decorate your home, keep in mind that colours do more than just look pretty – each colour can also help create the mood you want. So, whether you like calm blues, nature-inspired greens, bold reds, happy yellows, or elegant pinks, enjoy picking shades that resonate with you and the feelings you wish to welcome into your home.