CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINING

It's that time of year again!  We are so excited about Christmas and inspired by the traditional decorations and styling that we have seen... gone are the days of only silver and gold decorations and we are embracing the colour! 

We are particularly drawn to the rich burgundy, fuchsia and antique rose in the shops and on social media.  Below are a selection of our favourite images from the Wickenden Hutley archive and inspiration from Instagram and blogs.

From top left: Festive bouquet from Scarlet & Violet, Table centre piece with miniature deer style by Wickenden Hutley, Four poster bedroom by Alex Hampton Inc, Entrance Hall by Wickenden Hutley, Hydrangea wreath by The Real Flower Company,  Christmas mantlepiece image by @ritakonig, Carolina Irving's Paris home as seen in Haute Bohemians, Silverware and antique linen napkins tied with velvet ribbon styled by Wickenden Hutley, Ottoman/Coffee table styling by Wickenden Hutley

Whether you have children in the house or not, we all love to be reminded of the magic of Christmas.  The current resurgence of antique decorations means it is now very easy to create a more personal style for your tree and decorations.  

We love to recommend purchasing a few pieces every year that represent what you have achieved or where you have been (a little house for a house move, an animal for a new pet or decorations from your travels etc.).  You will soon have a good collection and will love to get them out every year and remember the various events.  Below is our selection of finds to 'Get the Look' for your festive entertaining... 

1. Santa Claus Decoration 2. Bell Garland 3. Reindeer 4. Mistletoe Bauble 5. Kalloo Bird Decorations 6. Star Champagne Coupes 7. Falling Stars Tablecloth & Falling Stars Napkins 8. Steel Pitcher 9. Burgundy velvet ribbon 10. Camel Decoration 11. Antique Rose Candles 12. Zodiac Decoration

Winter Travels

Happy New Year!

We hope you all had a lovely break whether it was spent at home with family and friends, or like some members of the WH team, travelling Europe. Europe at this time of year is beautiful. Every town had bright festive street lights, Christmas markets, the best local food, mulled wine and an amazing atmosphere. 

Christmas in Brussels

Christmas was spent in the centre of town down a beautiful cobblestone street. The Christmas markets were a short walk away, as was the Grand Palace with it's enormous Christmas tree and gold detailed buildings. Even the Manneken Pis statue was dressed for the Christmas occasion!

Bruges

We were welcomed with blue skies on our day trip to Bruges. After a day spent admiring the architecture, we burnt off the Belgium waffles as we climbed the Belfry of Bruges just in time for sunset.

Amsterdam:

Amsterdam has one of the most amazing city maps with it's many canals. Remembering that cyclists own this city, we rented our bikes and explored as the locals would. 

Berlin

Visiting Berlin is a must do. We recommend taking a free walking tour to learn about the history and architecture of the city. The tour takes you to many historical places including the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and the Holocaust Memorial. 

Wishing you all the best for 2016!

-The WH team

Disco Balls, Stars and Little Creatures

How is it December already?! To get in to the festive season, the Wickenden Hutley team was sent out on assignment to capture the lights of 2015. From streets to shop front window displays, London has not disappointed!

Above: Elegant peacock feathers of New Bond Street

Above: The giant pink disco balls of Carnaby St

Above: Motcomb Street's simple stars and delicate christmas trees

Above: The pretty baubles of Oxford Street

Above: Giant mistletoe and disco balls inside Covent Garden Market

Above: The illuminated orbs running down The Seven Dials, Covent Garden

Above: Stella McCartney on Bruton Street 

Above: Fortnums' Christmas eclectic window display including Fruit of the Year; the Pineapple!

Above: One of the many faces of Harvey Nichols

Inspired by the streets of London, we have started buying decorations for ourselves. We saw themes of disco balls, stars and orbs mixed in with feathers and woodland creatures. Below are some favourites for the tree this year;

1) Gold dipped feathers from John Lewis here

2) Gold and Glitter Bird of Prey here

3) Bristle Reindeer from Liberty here

4) Cody Foster Silver Star from Harrods here

5) Silver Sequin Bauble from Rockett St George here

Merry Christmas from everyone at Wickenden Hutley!