Waukesha County Home

HOME NOVEMBER 2018 8 (StatePoint) — This year, rethink that bottle of wine and instead, give the gift of getting cozy and slowing down to truly enjoy every- day moments. Tap into glow- ing candlelight, cozy tex- tiles, and celebrating simple pleasures when shopping for friends and family. In other words, give the gift of hygge. Pronounced "hoo-ga," this Danish way of life embraces a feeling of cozy contentment. Here is a collection of gift ideas that will inspire those moments during winter, a hygge-high season, and all year long. Cozy textiles Textiles are hygge in the way that they keep us warm, conjure up memories, and make everyday life more beautiful. For example, a chunky throw adds warmth to a couch or the foot of a bed, while a Turkish hand towel is a fresh addition to any bathroom or kitchen for everyday use or when guests arrive. Sheepskins have been bringing warmth and coziness into homes for gen- erations with their soft tex- tures and natural beauty. Glow and scent Lighting and fresh scents are key elements of hygge, and candles are the perfect gift for any holiday hostess. In addition to sharing holi- day cheer, guests' personal celebrations can sometimes leave behind a distinct smell. Made with essential oils and sourced from natu- ral ingredients, consider a Cannabolish gift set that includes a candle and room sprays. The candles give the gift of glow while clearing away any leftover party odors. Cannabolish comes in chic packaging that can attrac- tively hold court in a gue- stroom or on the hall table for in-home odor control while guests are visiting. Developed by OMI Indus- tries — the world's authority on odor control — both the spray and candles are designed to naturally elimi- nate the toughest household odors, including tobacco and cannabis smoke, delivering discreet confidence to those in legal cannabis markets. Sip and savor Give a set of tea, a hand- crafted mug, and a book on hygge, such as "The Year of Living Danishly," by Helen Russell, to be read over the winter. Share teas that can be experienced throughout the day, such as a mid-after- noon pause or a calming toast before bedtime. Be present Finally, one of the most memorable gifts to give is to turn off the electronics, slow down, and be present in the small everyday moments when spending time with family and friends over the holidays. The best part? This gift fits any budget. (StatePoint) — 'Tis the season of friends, family and entertaining! If you're planning on hosting guests — whether for an entire week of family fun or a one- night celebration — now's the time to get your home in the holiday spirit. "Preparing a home for the holidays doesn't have to require adding extensive decorations or undergoing a total remodel to update favorite spaces," said Jen- nifer Kis, director of mar- keting communications for Progress Lighting. "Small changes through lighting can create a festive and com- fortable environment with minimal effort and invest- ment." Here are three easy tips to try: ■ Update entryways and foyers. Your entryway is your opportunity to make an exceptional first impres- sion and set the tone for the rest of the interior. Add drama to your foyer with a grouping of striking, over- sized pendant lights in lieu of a traditional chandelier. ■ Pay attention to shared spaces. Popular spaces where friends and family are likely to gather most during the holidays include great rooms, living rooms and dining areas. A large statement chandelier in a common living space creates a focal point and also ensures there is enough illu- mination for card games, movies and coffee and cocoa by the fireside. ■ Illuminate walkways to enhance curb appeal. Simple outdoor lighting techniques can improve a home's appearance and also offer functional features during the holidays and beyond. Added illumination will improve safety and enhance security, while bringing a new bold look to the front of your home. To create instant curb appeal, hang a large lantern on either side of your front door, or install a post lantern at the front of your walkway. For more design inspira- tion and to view on-trend lighting collections, visit progresslighting.com. In a few easy steps, you can light up your home for a warm and welcoming holi- day season. (c) puhimec / stock.Adobe.com Whether it's tea or a cozy throw, think warm thoughts when thinking of a hostess gift this holiday season. Submitted photo Subtle changes in lighting can create a more welcoming and festive setting for the holidays. Make sure your home is lit outside for safety's sake as well. Holiday hostess gifts that inspire comfort Three easy ways to illuminate your home for the holidays Replace that bottle of wine with something warm or cozy

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