We believe that Christmas is a time for gathering, unwinding and celebrating with family and friends. With Summer and the festive season in full swing, there’s no better time to create lasting memories at home. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve put together three inspiring ideas by Arkadian Homes’ Interior Stylist Fiona Kittelty, to add some Christmas cheer to your space: a refreshing cocktail recipe, some stylish décor tips, and a guide to creating a stunning festive tablescape.

Summer Christmas Cocktail: “The Gin-gle Bell”

A Christmas in Australia means scorching summer days,  and what better way to cool off than with a refreshing, nature-inspired cocktail? We’ve crafted the perfect summer drink to sip as you relax in the warmth of the summer sun: The Gin-gle Bell. This cocktail combines zesty citrus flavours with a touch of local Gippsland-crafted spirit, making it the perfect drink to celebrate Christmas in style.

What you’ll need:

• 50mL Dry Gin
• 15mL fresh lemon juice
• 15mL fresh lime juice
• 15mL honey water [1:1]
• 1/2 kiwi fruit, skin removed
• Dash of egg white
• Pinch of salt
• Lime

Instructions:

1. Place kiwi fruit in a shaker, add honey water and muddle together
2. Add remaining ingredients, shake and strain into a rocks glass over ice
3. Garnish with lime zest
4. Sip and enjoy!

Christmas Styling Tips for Your Home

 When it comes to styling your home for Christmas, it’s all about bringing in natural elements that bring the Summertime feel indoors. Here are some simple, yet beautiful styling tips that will make your home feel festive, fresh, and effortlessly put together.

• Embrace Natural Elements: Australian summer landscapes are rich in native flora like eucalyptus, wattle, and banksia. Incorporating these elements into your Christmas décor can bring a natural, earthy charm to your space.

Fiona’s tip: Try using eucalyptus in your garland and wreath decorations- the sprigs will fill your home with an amazing, fresh aroma and dry down beautifully.

• Go for Warm Neutrals with a Touch of Red: Opt for soft whites, sandy beiges, and blush tones in your soft furnishings, these neutral shades pair beautifully brighter, festive elements. To add a bit of festive sparkle, consider metallic accents—think gold or silver baubles, metallic tinsel, or a gilded star tree topper.

Fiona’s tip: Use red sparingly in your space to add accent pops and create visual interest without overwhelming your space.

• Maximise Outdoor Spaces: If you’re hosting outdoors, bring the same level of styling to your deck or backyard. Fairy lights around the pergola, coastal-inspired table settings, and plenty of festive cushions and lightweight throws on outdoor furniture will create a relaxing, Christmas-ready atmosphere.

Fiona’s tip: Don’t forget give the backyard a quick spruce before guests arrive!

How to Create a Festive Tablescape

A beautifully styled Christmas table is the heart of any festive celebration, and it’s easier to create than you might think! Here’s how to set a gorgeous table that’s perfect for a summer Christmas lunch or dinner.

1. Start with a Neutral Tablecloth or Runner:
   Choose a neutral base for your tablescape, like a crisp white tablecloth or a linen table runner. This will provide a clean, fresh canvas that makes everything else pop. If you’re going for a more rustic feel, try a natural linen or jute runner.
2. Create a Natural Centrepiece:
   Bring the beauty of the outdoors to your table with a contemporary centrepiece. You can use fresh greenery like gum to create a statement runner, and scatter with pillar candles in varying heights for ambiance.
3. Set the Scene with Dinnerware:
   For a casual yet elevated look, opt for simple white dinnerware, but pair with natural textures like crushed linen napkins and finish with metallic napkin rings for a festive statement.

Fiona’s Tip: We recommend adding in a pop of red in your wine or drinking glasses to contrast beautifully against your neutral colour palette.

4. Add Personal Touches:
   Place cards are a lovely way to make your guests feel extra special. Use sprigs of rosemary or stems of baby’s breath as place markers, or tie little handwritten notes to each napkin. If you’re feeling crafty, you could even personalise Christmas crackers with your guests names.
5. Don’t Forget the Drinks Station:
   Set up a festive drink station nearby, including a serving of your Christmas cocktail (of course!). You can also have a beautiful pitcher of iced tea or mocktail for the non-drinkers. A glass dispenser with a few sprigs of mint or orange slices can make your drink station look as festive as the table itself.

Bringing It All Together

At Arkadian Homes, we understand the importance of creating a warm, inviting space where you can enjoy the company of those you love. We hope these simple ideas have inspired you with some decorating ideas to bring your décor vision to life this Christmas.

We wish you a wonderful festive season, filled with love, laughter and cheer!