Christmas A CAPE COD

According to recently returned Massachusetts resident Tere Bunker, Christmas on Cape Cod is every bit as magical as it sounds. If you want to recreate your own Currier & Ives–like New England holiday, consider these tips from Tere to give your home that c

KEEP IT SIMPLE: Fuss-free can still be festive, Tere advises, and minimalist can be merry. One vintage tree on a table decked in heirloom ornaments can have as much impact—or more—than a roomful of more ordinary trimmings. “Feather trees are simple and perfect in an old firkin or crock,” she adds.

HOLIDAY HANG-UPS: Tere makes the most of her vertical display space. For instance, red wool stockings filled with boxwood are hung with care in front of windows on the porch, and a wreath adds a natural touch to a rustic kitchen chair. She also puts bow-bedecked wreaths on the front door and between the garage doors.

NATURAL WONDERS: Fill vintage wood trenchers or firkins with greens or fruit gathered from a nearby forest (or florist) for the perfect period centerpiece. “I love greens, either live or artificial, which,

along with a splash of red berries, is the perfect holiday addition to any country decor,” Tere says.

CHRISTMAS COLORS: Shop your basement and attic during the season, and look for new ways to combine period pieces. For example: Redware is popular year-round, but the prim staple gets a seasonal twist when paired with evergreens in a perfect Christmas color combo. Tere favors green for antique accessories in the kitchen, and she tucks in holly berries or candy canes for an easy and attractive holiday vignette.

GREAT GROUPINGS: Displaying items together—a Santa collection, miniature trees, a trio of nutcrackers—makes for maximum impact in minimum space. “My Santas are not all old, but they have that perfect country appeal and blend well with the old pieces I have collected,” Tere notes.