pleasure in simple things

Don’t candles just scream the holidays?  Now that Thanksgiving is just a fond memory of pies past, holiday decorating is in full swing and candles always play a big part.  Standard votive holders are a great part of creating a seasonal ambience.  Because votive holders are small and inexpensive (less than $1. each), they can be grouped in large numbers at little cost to pack some great holiday punch!

There are so many ways to transform these mild-mannered little guys into something beautiful for the season.  Here, I am sharing five easy ways to transform these simple glass containers into something special for your holiday vignettes.

1.  Reason for the season

Covering a votive with a favorite prayer or religious saying is a great way to pay homage to the season.  Here, I simply typed up a prayer on my computer and printed it out on vellum instead of regular printer paper.  After trimming it to the proper size, I attached the two ends together with a decorative sticker.  A wax seal in red is another great option to attach your message in an attractive way.

2.  Chalkboard fun

Adding a chalkboard sticker or painting the votive with chalkboard paint is a great way to write out a holiday word (think jingle, jolly, sparkle, joy, etc.).  Or, use as place cards and/or table favors at your holiday get together by writing the guests names on the chalkboard section.  I cut a rectangular shaped piece from chalkboard Contact paper – a handy items to have on hand for a multitude of uses.  For something more playful, try cutting the shape into a snowman, santa’s hat, candy cane, or other seasonal shape.

3.  Shells are always welcome

In my home, shells are always a part of my coastal decor – including my holiday decorations.  Any natural items are always beautiful to use to decorate.  Tie shells onto votives with scraps of ribbon or raffia, or use a glue gun to attach securely.  I love scallop shells on the votives because the candles gives a wonderful glow through the transluscent shells when lit.  Shells, sand dollars, starfish, sea glass, or even mini red and white bobbers clipped onto a Christmas ribbon – in keeping with a coastal theme – are great items to use!

4.  It’s a wrap

Any scraps of fabric can be wrapped around or decoupaged onto the votive.  I love to use burlap, because the candle glow comes through the loose weave of the fabric.  I like to tie a piece of burlap with a ribbon and then glue on a small piece of linen stamped with a holiday word.  (Try stamping  ‘ho’ on three separate votives to group together!)  These can also be utilized as place cards or menu cards.

5.  Christmas icons

What item instantly makes you think of the holidays?  A candy cane?  There are so many icons that can be utilized to give an instant holiday feel…think red & white or ribbon candy, a jingle bell, or a holly sprig.  These are all items that will give a votive an instant holiday transformation.  Grab your holiday favorite, or pick up an inexpensive ornament at a discount store…maybe a red sled, an ice skate, or an angel…either tie with a pretty ribbon or raffia, or glue onto your votive to complete the look.

I happen to celebrate Christmas, but these ideas work just as well no matter what holiday you may celebrate.  Incorporate your own icons and colors into your decor.

I hope you enjoyed these five easy ways to dress up your votives for the holidays…a great way to take pleasure in simple things.  Enjoy!

 Thank you so much for stopping by, Jackie

I am sharing at Craftberry Bush…check it out!