Tuesday, December 19, 2023 | PaperCity

How Top Houston Designers Are Decking the Halls This Holiday Season

From Traditions and Tree Trimmings to the Very Best Local Takeout

Catherine Brooks Giuffre

Tree or no.

The best smell is a real Christmas tree, but after years of hanging lights wearing dish gloves because I am so allergic, I treated myself to a Balsam Hill faux Fraser fir pre-lit tree with a rush basket tree skirt — best present I have ever bought myself.

Holiday tradition.

Taking my daughter to the Houston Ballet Nutcracker. It’s beyond festive and watching the ballet through her eyes is magical.

Holiday playlist.

Michael Bublé Christmas, The Nutcracker Ballet, Kaskade Christmas for a hipper twist, and Nat King Cole (alwavs).

Best places to pick up hors d’oeuvres.

Moeller’s Bakery for crange rolls and cheese straws. Junior League for tea sandwiches.

Gifts you are giving.

We are going to try and give the kids an experience as a gift, instead of something tangible, whether it’s a vacation or an adventure we can all experience together.

Host gift.

Bulbs, amaryllis or paperwhite. Thoughtful gift with zero calories.

Holiday room scent.

I burn a Diptyque Feu de Bois candle near the gas-log fireplace to make the room smell like real wood is burning.

For more information about the Junior League Pantry, please click here or call 713.622.5965.