Deck the halls with boughs of holly, world’s biggest scone

Last Christmas was a limp affair thanks to Covid so this year we can be forgiven for going a little over the top. Interior design experts say homeowners will be going bigger and better to make up for the pandemic-stricken festivities in 2020.

This year we really have something to celebrate as restrictions ease. A traditional tree alone won’t do - we want glitz.We want glamour.And we want the most beautiful baubles and the brightest lights.

Vivien Smith, co-owner of Viano Interiors, said: “Christmas is coming earlier this year, as last year was hard with all the restrictions. People want to make up for that.They’re saying:‘Let’s do it bigger and better – and throw in a New Year party too!

“Everyone just wants to have a good time with the people they love in a house that looks like a Christmas wonderland.”

Vivien and business partner Fallon Cowley, say business is booming as customers stock up on Christmas decorations, to create a house worthy of a huge celebration.

The pair, who are set to open their third shop next month, are preparing to give a Mrs Claus-style makeover to homes across Glasgow, with several of their celebrity clients asking them to dress their trees and houses.

“Everyone is trying to out-do each other.And everybody wants what they can’t get!”Vivien said. “As much as they want to follow trends, people want something unique.”

And this year, the trends vary from muted metallics to bright and bold.

Vivien, 42, says blush pinks, pearls and champagne golds are big, as well as lots of twinkling lights and outdoor garlands.

“I think gold is going to be huge this year and muted colours, like taupes and pearls,”Vivien said.

“I have always had the traditional red, green and gold, but last year I changed it to more champagne golds with eucalyptus sprays.

“Tablescaping is a thing this year too. For some people, dressing the dinner table is as important as the tree.”

Catherine Gee, head of brand development for Country Living Magazine, said she’s expecting a real resurgence of colour.

“It’s the traditional greens and reds, but much more opulent shades, such as emerald green and corally reds.And metallics, too.

“People aren’t ripping up the rule book, just deepening it all to make everything more rich.”

Gee says the cosy Scandi look, using a white backdrop and adding bold colours, is also in, along with outdoor decor.

“Traditionally it has been the front of the house people decorate, but this year they are thinking about back gardens, too.

“Lots more people will use their gardens as a gathering space and an extra room, putting twinkly lights in hedges and trees and cosy throws and cushions and firepits out so everyone can have a glass of champagne around the fire.

“After all, some people are nervous about coming inside while we’re still in the middle of a pandemic.

“And it will be fantastic. There’s something quite magical about being out in the fresh air in winter.”

Rebecca Stanton, style expert for Dobbies garden centres, says DIY eco decorations, such as wreaths and floral centrepieces, are on trend this year too, using flora, fauna, conifers and pine cones foraged from the garden.

Gee says another big trend this year, following on from COP26, is sustainability and eco-friendliness.

“Things like reusable crackers, making your own gift cards and wrapping with brown or brown or craft paper that’s easy to recycle are likely to be big.

“And gifts that can be reused, like a candle that comes in a nice glass jar which can be used as a flower pot afterwards, or heirloom pieces like pottery or ceramics or pieces of art that will last for years.

“With decorations, people are realising you don’t need to buy new baubles every year, and instead choosing traditional ones that will stand the test of time.

“It’s all proof you can have a joyful Christmas without the plastic and foil wrap!” Country Living Magazine’s Christmas Fair, Glasgow’s SEC, December 2-5. For tickets visit countrylivingfair. com. To purchase 2 for 1 tickets for £20 simply quote promo code SUNDAYPOST241 when booking.