On me: Cashmere sweater (also in black) / White denim / White t-shirt / Jimmy Choo heels / Necklace (similar) / Nails: Essie in Ballet Slippers

Can you believe Christmas is this weekend? I feel like we have been getting ready for it with gift guides forever yet in a sense it suddenly popped up. Today, I am sharing how we celebrate Christmas because we are always home for the holidays.

We have always been the meeting point for holidays. Christmas is always hosted in our home (as is Thanksgiving). My parents come over, all the kids are here and we invite family members. Pete and I cook and serve a late lunch around 1 PM. Actually, Pete does most of cooking (homemade lasagna using his Grandmothers sauce recipe) and I set the holiday table. We open gifts when the majority of people are here being mindful that they have other places to go and family to see. Although our home is formal, our experience is relaxed and casual. No one is expected to dress up in fact we’re usually in casual clothes much like what I have on in today’s post. These white jeans and white t-shirt are my staples and I love throwing on the cashmere sweater with it. For a little sparkle I like to wear these Jimmy Choo glitter pumps I purchased to wear with this dress to Crystal Charity Ball.

Another family tradition is that we attend Christmas Eve mass and then go out to eat. Occasionally, we try to see the local production of A Christmas Carol. When the kids were little some of the characters would really scare them. If there’s a good movie out, we’ll head to the theater. Regardless of how you celebrate the holidays, family time is huge for us. As far as stress is concerned, I once had a friend tell me “Expect the worst and hope for the best”. I really think that this is sound advice. Families are stressful and I think a lot is expected of a “grand holiday” celebration. Later this week I am going to post ten ways to enjoy the holidays right now. Be sure to come back for that one.

While I’m sure it is fabulous to travel over the holidays, we can’t imaging being away on Christmas or Thanksgiving. We love a traditional holiday at home. What are your family traditions? Leave me a comment below.

xoxo – Tanya

P.S. Be sure to check this blog post about holiday decorations and gift wrap. I’m still wrapping gifts!

shop the post

Holiday decor

Outfit

Photo: Mary Summers