Throughout most of each year, glistening ornaments, twinkling lights, metallic garlands, and tiny villages patiently sit in storage. Family recipes are kept under wraps, and holiday sweaters remain tucked away. The excitement of unboxing and arranging these treasures is always delightful. There’s something remarkable about unwrapping memories and tokens of years past to create an atmosphere of warm, festive cheer.
The holiday season is a time when entertaining and visiting others’ homes becomes especially memorable. It’s a special season when we open our hearts and homes to share traditions and decorating styles, whether they are classic or eclectic, cohesive or patchwork. We get to share the flavors of family recipes and even proudly display silly decorations, like a small motorized Santa with a saxophone that sits on my father’s grand piano each year. (He’s a kitschy Santa, but we love him.)
Within the pages of this issue, you’ll discover an abundance of inspiration to help elevate your holiday spirit. If you’re looking to add a fresh touch to your decorating style, don’t miss our guide to mantel decorating from Carey Taylor of C. Taylor Interiors, which can also be applied to a bookshelf or credenza. And for those of you hosting events, our feature on ice sculptors might inspire you to commission a wintry display or even customized ice cubes for holiday drinks.
Food and drinks are as integral to the holidays as the twinkling lights and decor. We’ve included an overview of upcoming culinary classes at The Cook’s Station, where you’ll have a blast learning techniques and recipes to bring home. Sydney Taylor shares three recipes that put a creative twist on traditional holiday pies (like pears instead of apples). And for those who prefer not to cook, you could always hire a personal chef, like Ebony Sullivan of Suga Pie Honeybun, whose remarkable story is shared in this issue.
As we move into the holiday season, TOWN is moving into a new season, as I am transitioning into a new position with my alma mater, Clemson University. Our contributing editor, Leigh Savage, will step into the role as managing editor, and will continue to bring the spirit of the Upstate to TOWN while leading it into exciting new directions. In the meantime, we hope this issue serves as your guide to a magical season filled with cherished moments and memories shared with friends and family. From all of us at TOWN magazine and Community Journals, we wish you a heartwarming and joyful holiday season.
