"We always try to keep it classic for the holidays but with a fresh twist– something unexpected!" says Heather Taylor, whose eponymous homewares brand creates cult-favorite linens. She's known for soft but sturdy fabrics in perfect lived-in palettes you'll see on stylish holiday tables of hosts- in-the-know.

After a year of growth for her business, including launching collaborations with West Elm and Clare V. and a topsy turvy holiday last year, she's excited to be hosting Christmas Eve for family and friends, a beloved favorite tradition. "After dinner, we head outside to enjoy Christmas cookies and hot chocolate around the firepit. So cozy and very California!"

On this sunny afternoon, before they settle into crafting, Scarlett (7) and Marigold (4) try on party dresses (a perk of partying at home) while working on their lists to Santa. Heather says, “They both still love bows and lace–outfits that feel like dressing up! I love an old-fashioned look, so classic knee-highs have been my go-to since they were babies. And the sparkly shoes make any outfit feel magical.”

Heather's go-to tricks for setting a stylish holiday table for their crafternoon, "When mixing colors, it's always safe to focus on one color and mix shades–lighter and darker shades of goldenrod, for example. Print can be trickier, but if you're feeling bold, definitely go for it and have fun! If you're cautious, we suggest mixing scales for an easy option. A large-scale gingham tablecloth with a mini gingham napkin is always a sure bet." Here she does a bit of both, with shades of honeydew and hunter green in the linens and vintage-inspired bottle brush trees with a classic red plaid tablecloth and leather napkin ring.

It can be tricky to strike the right balance of activities that engage kids while keeping things from getting too chaotic. Heather always "thinks about what will enchant my daughters. They are surprise ball-obsessed, so I love to have those around for special parties. The Meri Meri surprise balls are so pretty that I love to use them as festive table decor that doubles as a diversion once kids sit down."

Of course, with a brand focused on hosting, Heather loves to get Scarlett & Marigold involved; "The girls helped me put together the paper garland which feels like such a throw-back. They love setting the table and the whole scene. Special (and easy!) details like using velvet or grosgrain ribbon as napkin rings make the table feel extra cozy to adults and kids alike."

Once they are "done" with the project, kids can move on to snacks like hot chocolate. Because a party isn't a party without music, she usually has "The Nutcracker on in the background since it sets a festive mood but is also relaxing for parents!" 

Her friend Amy Blessing inspired this project, dried orange garlands to decorate their cozy mid-century home. The key ingredient is 2-day old popcorn since it holds its shape and is less likely to break apart if stale. Her pro tip: Only use Orville Redenbocker popcorn since it pops bigger, crucial for stringing.

You'll need:

◦ fresh cranberries

◦ dried orange and lemon slices

◦ popcorn

◦ 2-3" cinnamon sticks

◦ a long craft needle with a large eye

◦ thin twine

Instructions:

You can make or buy the dried orange and lemon slices. To make them at home, slice oranges into 1/8 to ¼ inch slices and bake in the oven at 225 for about 3 hours. If they are still not completely dry after that, hang them until they're dry.

Thread the twine on the needle but do not cut the end of the twine–unless you know the exact length you desire for the garland. Start stringing!! The cinnamon sticks can be a bit tricky for the kids if your needle is not long enough, so they need a hand with those.