Christmas in July this week is all about that twinkling tree holiday magic under star filled skies.
Christmas In July Gathering
Summer blooms & twinkling trees- Christmas in July outdoors is a setting filled with magic and ambiance. And today it is all about this simple gathering set up by the potting shed- and a few tips for outdoor entertaining.
Simple & Sweet
Christmas in July doesn’t have to be a fully decorated tree or even a full size tree. You can absolutely create a whole lot of magic with a smaller potted tree as well. I placed a small tree inside a vintage bucket for a little charm. (side note- I found one in a bucket just. like. this. one – linked below) I set it on the wonky bench on the porch and love the little pop of sunshine it brings. You can leave the tree undecorated- or add a couple of baubles if you would like. This one has just a handful of vintage ornaments to play up the vintage Christmas theme.
Lanterns grow
Lanterns are always a lovely accent all year long- and for Christmas in July- they are perfect for creating a warm and welcoming feeling. I placed one on the stairs of the shed- and set them along the path to light the way to the fire pit.
The Fire Pits
I always think of bon fires when I think of summer evening gatherings. We are not currently burning any outdoor fires or even bbq’s because it is so hot in California though, when I photographed this last month, a small fire inside is just enough for s’more making and creates a warm glow to enjoy.
String Lights
A strand of string lights is perfect for adding enough light to light up the area. Though this part of our property is starting to set a bit into the woodsy area- those lights bring enough brightness to be able to enjoy sitting here without worrying about sneaky lions, tigers or bears -oh my! ha ha.
Christmas in July Christmas Tree
Of course, Christmas in July is all about that twinkling tree magic. For this setting- we tucked a tree in the background. There was a huge cedar tree that had been damaged by the crazy winter storm that had to be cut down- and they left a fairly flat stump- which was perfect for setting a tree on. I decided to do a vintage theme here- and brought out some of my favorite ornaments.
But you could also use an undecorated tree. A tree in your yard draped in lights. A handful of spindly background ambiance type trees tucked under the branches of a tree. It could be a blooming plant with a few twinkle lights draped on it or around it. There are a ton of possibilities if you don’t feel like setting up a traditional tree- think outside the box and go with whatever inspires you.
Flower filled Christmas Tree
Last week, I shared a flower filled Christmas tree for Christmas in July. Floral trees are some of my favorites-simply use just flowers or add in a few baubles for a fun twist. One of the things I love about this one is the string lights- they are tiny globe lights and they add the perfect amount of ambiance.
Set a table with summer and a twinkling tree in the background
Because, what could be better than dining out under the stars in summer- with all that Christmas in July ambiance and magic all around? Your guests will be dazzled and absolutely love the festive feeling and magic that it brings. Even if you leave the tree plain with just lights- it’s perfection.
Of course, this year since we are launching my new Christmas book – we are jumping into Christmas in July a bit more than usual.
Stay tuned for some sneak peeks of the book coming your way – we included your always favorite trees and some beautiful new ideas for dressing trees. But also, entertaining, gifting, DIY and some travel inspired trees too. (spoiler alert- there are 2 more flower filled trees in the book- including one in Paris) And I want to say thank you for all of your pre-orders- you are amazing!! Pre-orders are so important for the success of a book and each and every one of them helps the book! Thank you again for all the love, excitement and support! You can PREORDER French Country Cottage Christmas HERE
Get the Look
Shop the look here- And don’t forget to use my coupon code to save an Extra $50 off $300 or more on the up to 50% off reduced prices at Balsam Hill all through July. Use code : CAJCOURTNEY
And if you are local to the SF Bay Area- Balsam Hill is having a grand Outlet sale at their Tree Lot in Burlingame:
Balsam Hill outlet in Burlingame will reopen this July for one week (July 15 to July 23rd)
Location: 1561 Adrian Rd, Burlingame CA 94010
Store Hours: Mon-Sat 11AM-4PM, Sun 12PM-4PM
All seasons and products (including trees!) will be available.
Find more Christmas in July ideas in this post here.
Chiki