All posts filed under: Christmas

gifts for the woman who has everything – part one

{from left to right 1. Burberry rubber mid-calf boots 275USD, Diane Von Furstenberg cashmere scarf 250USD, Diane Von Furstenberg travel adapter 95USD, Diane Von Furstenberg stone leopard ipone case 48USD} {from left to right 1. Herve Van der Straeten 24Kplated earings 195USD, Marc by Marc Jacobs shoulder bag 260USD, Sophia Webster glitter finished leather clutch 595USD, Percossi Pai 24K plated earings 1570USD} {click here to shop for more gift ideas}

holiday decorative table setting

I love the holiday season and truly do not mind walking through different stores to gather ideas for the buffet table setting. However, in the past I had always avoided the color red because I hated the orange hues visible in the tone, so I stuck to golds and silver to play it safe. This year, since the color has been perfected to a vibrant red, I can’t help but lean towards a more red, white and silver theme.  Check out some of my favorites from here: 1. Red Bridge Tea Kettle 2. Peppermint Dish Towel 3. Flatware Stockings 4. Matte Metal Red Pillars 5. Antique Red Votive 6. Diaz Red Candleholders 7. Tasmin Dessert Platter (my favorite) 8. Ombre Red table mat 9. Happy Holidays Tumbler

christmastime in the napa wine country

I have never been to Napa past October, let alone during the holiday season. Usually because, the countryside past the turning of the leaves, isn’t  as appealing during this time of the year and if there is rain involved, the region usually experiences flooding, making it difficult to travel.  However, this past weekend, we decided to venture out to Napa since it’s been unusually warm and dry around the bay area. I must admit, I was actually surprised to discover still remnants of fall all around, with colorful trees standing strong, bright orange leaves hanging on their last thread along the walls of the wineries, vibrant green holy leaves and red berries blooming  through the bare twigs of the fig trees. It was truly a sight for sore eyes.  To top it off, once we opened the doors to all the wineries we visited, I was captivated by the warm glowing lights and sparkle from all the Christmas decor and the subtle smell of cinnamon and spice incense emanating from every room. I loved every …

holiday party cocktails

Every year I dream of hosting a holiday party and after contemplating the venue, I end up not following through.  This year however, I have decided to host a small get together with friends and with it I asked each person to find a unique cocktail we can all try and bring it to the party. While I wait for their suggestions to create my drink menu, I have found some of my favorites so far. Click on the photo for the recipes    

christmas tree decor for small spaces

Decorating a small apartment or studio can sometimes be challenging since space is an issue. For example, placing a tree in a multi purpose or multi functional room requires moving some furniture around to accommodate  the decor, subsequently making the limited space feel even more smaller. While I searched for ideas to decorate a small space, I came across some wonderful christmas tree suggestions here which will not require any furniture moving. Check out the pics below:

holiday decorating tradition

While most people run to the stores the day after Thanksgiving (in America that is) to shop until they drop “literally,” I, along with my family, decorate the house for Christmas. It’s been a tradition in our household for years, to wake up, not to early and  have a hearty  breakfast. Afterwards, while sipping our morning coffees, decorate the entire house whilst still in our pajamas.  It’s actually an amazing feeling and probably the most fun the entire clan has together and afterwards, maybe, go to the mall or just stay home and watch classic movies and nibble on popcorn :). What can I say, I am most sentimental during the holiday season. {Borrowed Photographs}

christmas around the world contest

In light of my passion for travel, I have decided to include the following contest for my readers.  Below are photos of  various destinations  around the globe which,  either celebrate Christmas or  recognize the  holiday. The person who guesses the most locations will win a prize. Contest will run from December 22-25, 2010 and  results will be posted on December 26th. Contest open to US and Canada residents only 🙂 There are 10 photos total – click on photo above and below to enlarge for better visibility. Please send me an email at rawsilkandsaffron@gmail.com with your answers by midnight December 25th to qualify. Answers,winner(s)  and prize will be posted on the site on December 26th and prizes will be awarded based on the person with the most correct answers. Should there be more than 3 winners, we will have a lottery for the prize. Good luck and have fun!!!