I went to one of my favorite garden center/gift shops a while ago, with two of my sweet friends….

…..to sign up for a class on Christmas mantel decorating by a fabulous Christmas design expert.

When we arrived, this is what was in the garden center..

…..the elves were working night and day and here are some of the spectacular trees and decor.

I am partial to these “upside down/inverted” trees as I have two of them…

This tree has a woodland/owl theme…

I was discreetly taking photos with my iPhone….:)

I love this reindeer covered with script paper…I think it could be an easy D.I.Y..

The Christmas designer owns his own company that sells “all things Christmas”….

He utilizes many large items in his design of the trees..like these wreaths.

…..he ran a Christmas decorating contest last year and I won!….

………..I won merchandise from his catalog and can’t wait to receive my “loot”….

Owls are still very popular this year…but this cute hedgehog is a new item….love him!!

It’s hard to see, but there is a large wagon that is incorporated in the base of the tree!

And here are some great letters that are made from books…cut out by using a jig saw perhaps?

And here is a great idea of “merchandising” a hurricane…

And yesterday, I traveled to one of my other favorite garden centers/gift shops….

I needed a few supplies to complete my wreath making….for our community Craft/Artisan show….

You are greeted by this friendly fella….I cannot believe that I did not buy him!!!

This is where I purchase quality silk florals…

Here is a beautiful swag…I bought the materials to make this…

…..and will share it with you soon!

So this year, I keep seeing the same theme…of owls and decor of woodland themes…

I have used owls in much of my decor last year and still plan to do that this year…

…..however, I so love the look of a sparkly “White Christmas”

This week, I have been busy with social commitments and making wreaths for our community Craft/Artisan show..

My hubby’s “man cave” has turned into “Santa’s Workshop”

So that I can create my wreaths and swags and coordinate my Christmas decorating….

….like this…a little sneak peek of one of my wreaths.

So now I shall go back to my “Santa’s Workshop” to make more wreaths!!!

Stay tuned for my creations….

Do you make your own holiday wreaths too?