Saying 'I need a little Christmas' this year is an understatement. It's truly the time to gather with family and friends to exchange stories, enjoy comforting foods, and give gifts in a warm and cozy setting. This could be the perfect occasion to celebrate the holiday as it is done in the French Countryside.
Not so different from Farmhouse style, the color pallet in rural France is muted with soft colors for a seriene atmosphere feature timeless heirlooms hand down for generations. Imagine stone walls and floors, lots of wood, baskets, and wine decanters, all with understated beauty.
The French incorporate evergreen, eucalyptus, pine, and red berries to create a deep visual and sensory connection with nature. Garlands crafted from dried fruit are abundant, accompanied by flower blossoms. The entire home is filled with a cozy ambiance.
Christmas Trees in Rural France
Lots of handmade and wooden ornaments, beautiful ribbons, twinkling lights, kitchen tins, and heirlooms are nestled among boughs of greenery, berries, pods, and blossoms brought in from the outside. The tree is the center of the Christmas scene. Try standing your tree in a basket or crate for a rustic look.
The French Home at Christmas
Cozy throws and pillows create an atmosphere with their texture and rustic patterns. Evergreens decorate banisters, mantels, and mirrors. Candles and lanterns emit a warm glow, complemented by fairy lights for added charm. Dried fruit provides scents, while soft classical and traditional music ensure all the senses are engaged.
Festive French Table Settings
Although the table might be an authentic rustic farm table, the French flair for elegance is evident during festive meals, with attention to detail being crucial. Tablecloths made of toile, plaid, or simple linen serve as the foundation for exquisite wine glasses and dinnerware. Wine holds great importance and may be presented in rustic decanters or bottles. The centerpiece is kept low, featuring evergreens and candles, along with some simple handmade ornaments. Place cards are typically handwritten, and small gifts at each place setting are a tradition. And of ourselves, a cheese board is always to be expected.
The French Bedroom
Remember the bedroom and baths to spread the Christmas cheer...
French Christmas Festivities
The French celebrate Le Réveillon on Christmas Eve, gathering family and friends to share old memories and enjoy a lavish feast, often continuing into the early hours. The Bûche de Noël, or Yule log, serves as a show-stopping centerpiece, with its rich chocolate and buttercream filling. For a lighter option, consider serving French macarons, madeleines, or chocolate truffles.
Finally, there’s La Fête des Rois, the celebration of Epiphany on January 6th. This holiday is marked by the Galette des Rois, a flaky pastry filled with almond cream and served with a hidden fève (a small trinket) inside. The person who finds the fève in their slice is crowned king or queen for the day.
Holiday Markets
An essential aspect of the French Christmas celebration is visiting the holiday markets. You can recreate the Country French Christmas experience for yourself, your family, and friends by attending the Lakewood 400 Antiques Market's annual Antiques & Gift Show on the first weekend in December. There, you'll discover many items to make your home warm and inviting for the holidays, as well as gifts for yourself and your loved ones.
Whatever your heart desires when it comes to your She Shed, you can create. It's your little place to bring out the little girl in you with memories of your childhood, or the artist, or even the entertainer. Make it your own. And whatever you do, have fun designing, decorating, and sharing over the years.
If you're looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out my Pinterest Board: French County Christmas. It's impossible to showcase all the fantastic ideas in just one article.
You can also find the photo credits for all the images above.
Discover a wide range of treasures at Lakewood 400 Antiques Market, the perfect place to find everything you need to decorate your home, from furniture plus fresh produce, handmade jewelry, fashion items, art and collectibles. With such a diverse selection, you'll always be surprised by the amazing finds waiting for you! For additional details, Click Here!
Please Note: Beginning January 2024, Lakewood 400 Antiques Market will be open on the 1st weekend of every month, and no longer on the 3rd. From the website and you can add the upcoming dates to your Google calendar. For a reminder every month, sign up for their newsletter.
Jan Jones is a Designer, Artist, and Author of
"Finding Me: A Motivational Journey of Discovery for Young People."
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