We’re back for week nine! Of course, we’ve handled almost all of our preparations so this will be a short one. We’re hosting family over and I decided this year that each guest would take home a small box of candy from underneath a tinsel tree in the family room. We have our tree in the formal living room, but I wanted something a bit playful, too. It’s very kirakira-in-real-life. I bought this 2 foot silver tinsel tree a few years ago from Target, along with a mini, faux fur tree skirt,  and  a small array of mini red and gold ornaments in glitter, matte, and shiny finishes. To tie it all together I’m going to put the mini boxes of sweets from Sugarfina underneath the tree and I’m hoping they look like presents when I’m done stacking them all up.

I also need to go buy some serviettes. I’ve been buying all of my linen serviettes from Cost Plus World Market this year whenever I need an emergency supply of festive colors. It’s not so much that I forgot this year, I just haven’t made it yet. Luckily, we have plenty more in assorted colors if they don’t have what I’m looking for. I have a few things to pick up from the grocery store, and then I’m completely done with my shopping. (Luckily for me, I left only the items that aren’t completely “Christmas necessities” on my list, so I have no doubt that the store will have some in stock).

As far as other decor, I feel pleased about how everything turned out. I picked up a few pieces this year (which I’ve discussed in previous posts) but I was able to use most of what I’ve been collecting over the years, so there were no surprises. Looking at the tree, though, I’ve decided to add some big red bows last minute which I will do tonight.

In other news, there are still a few sales going on that I wanted to share with you. These won’t get to you in time for Christmas, but there’s always someone with a birthday right after the new year, a gift you’ll exchange with friends at a later date, or even something special for yourself.

• Joe’s Jeans Until 12/31 receive 25% off sale and clearance items. And through Dec. 24, buy a gift card and receive a free gift card.

• SSENSE Sale items up to 70% off through 1/10.

• Tory Burch Up to 60% off through 12/31. Use code EXTRA20 for an additional 20% off sale items.

• Barneys Warehouse Up to 60% off during the All In Sale.

• Saks Fifth Avenue Up to 60% off the Designer Sale.