Even though across the First Coast it’s unlikely that we will see snow, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas out there. Holiday decorating is one of those seasonal happenings that everyone enjoys. But when it comes to actually doing the decorating — it’s a chore that sometimes ends up being more trouble than it’s worth. So why not turn a new leaf this holiday and ask the experts for help.
What used to be a chore for mom and dad involving ladders, lights and the potential for broken bones, has now gotten a little easier. Enjoy all of the magic of the holidays without any of the work with a little holiday decorating help. Imagine not having to worry about which bulb went out in a tangled strand of lights? Even better than that is spending time with your family instead of at odds with them, while someone else takes care of those pesky decorations you always fight over.
Brad Miller, owner of Holiday Hanger, said he always helps his neighbors put up lights and for the first time this year, decided to expand the service to people who want help.
"We supply the time and labor to install the lights people already have," said Miller.
For an hourly charge, Holiday Hanger will come out and hang holiday decorations, both inside and outside your home. Miller said the staff works with each homeowner to determine how elaborate the decorations will be and the estimate includes cleanup after the holidays.
"An average 2,000 square foot home will generally run between $250 and $450, depending on how elaborate it is," said Miller.
He said most people have no problem putting up the easy stuff, light lights on bushes or wreaths on doors. It’s the lights and decorations that include the use of a ladder or a little extra effort that seems to give people headaches.
"I have a pretty good eye for design," said Miller. "This way, we can help people save money and time. I know if I do the work it’s going to be good quality work."
It’s not just lights that need to be hung. Holiday decorating is all about creating a visual for the season, and no one is better at creating a visual than event planner and designer Liza Chung.
Chung, who is well known across the First Coast for her impeccable ability to style an event, has been decorating the TPC Clubhouse for the past two years.
"My approach to design is that I do not like to compromise," Chung said. "I’m looking for what I love and for the quality of design to remain in tact. It’s my job to make that come to life."
Chung said she treats residential and commercial properties the same when planning the decorations — everything is treated as if it is a residence — and the TPC Clubhouse is no different. The aim is to make it feel authentic and she does that by decorating on a grand scale while managing the details as well.
Chung said she uses smell to help create a state of "holiday" mind — using fresh cedar and evergreen and creating centerpieces that use smells of the season to transform a room.
"Candle light is something you can never have enough of," said Chung. "It’s beautiful and exudes warmth."
One of the things Chung said is important is extending holiday decor to the entrance of your home.
"The arrival or entryway should be dressed," she said.
For Chung, that could be elaborate reindeer outside with evergreen wreaths around their necks, or it can be poinsettias and holiday garlands in the foyer of a home she is styling for a holiday party.
The benefit of utilizing an expert is their attention to detail and their inspiration, and Chung said it’s all about the thought that goes into it.
