Inside Out Christmas issue

Yes you read that title correctly. Christmas issue! Already? Eeeck! I must admit I haven't even thought about the holidays yet but perhaps these sneak peeks from the Christmas issue of Inside Out, out today, will give me the nudge I need. I'll let Matilda Duffercy, Senior and Social Editor of the magazine, explain what's between the pages.

As the year has galloped past, I'm emailing you to let you know about our November issue (hitting newsagents and digital outlets on Monday), which also happens to be our Christmas edition! There are lots of fantastic ideas for getting into the festive spirit in whatever degree you see fit. Even if you're more into the entertaining angle of this time of year, then you'll find what you're looking for.

 

Our cover home is really beautiful. The home manages to exist as a country-meets-coastal cottage, and the backdrop just perfect to showcase our take on a merry & bright Christmas. I've also included a pic of the dining room to showcase the owner, Lee's (of @mavendolls) fresh take on classic style. This feature also offers lots of easy craft projects for cheery touches during this season. Cover and dining room styling by Vanessa Colyer Tay. Photography by Maree Homer.

 

Our clever style editor Jessica Hanson has also pulled together her edit of the best decorative touches for a design-savvy Christmas, as well as all the best cards and wraps for rocking gifts! Christmas branch and cards styling by Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper. Paper branch made by Benja Harney.

 

We asked seven local design talents for their spin on a traditional Christmas wreath and the results are gorgeous! Here's ceramicist Ingrid Tuft's beautiful design. Wreath styling by Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper. Wreath made by ceramicist Ingrid Tufts.

 

Now, let's get to the food. V. important! We've pulled together ideas for the all-important ham (of course) but also the smaller bites that can work for all sorts of occasions before and after December 25th. The cheese, the nibbles, the anti-pasti that are perfect for guests dropping in and low-key get-togethers. There's lots of info on assembling the perfect cheese boards and the like so you'll pull off easy entertaining with flair. Entertaining Food styling by Kristen Wilson. Styling Jessica Hanson. Photography by Sam McAdam-Cooper.

I love this issue!

The November issue, out today, looks amazing but don't fret if you aren't in Australia. You can read along on Zinio, Google Play, the Apple Newsstand and Nook.

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Bah humbug round 2

Any closer to getting into the Christmas spirit? I'm still floundering. Here is my next attempt at getting my holiday mojo back. Introducing my vintage book Christmas tree stack. Now my decorations amount to candles in brass sticks and old books. You'll be pleased to know that for safety sake they are in different rooms ;)

Christmas gift ideas from Freedom

When I was asked to put together a Christmas gift guide by Freedom I wanted to do something a little different. Sure there are lots of great gifts in store for "him" and "her" and "me" but I wanted a challenge. I wanted to tackle the dreaded Work Secret Santa. I hate the Work Secret Santa. I always end up with out of date shortbread or a box of pens nicked from the stationery cupboard. Check out my suggestions from Freedom. All under $25 and starting as low as $6.95.

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My second collection is for the family member who has flown the nest this year. It's so exciting setting up a new home of your own but when you're just starting out all the money goes on the boring basics. Time for a little something extra, something to layer on the personality, something that's not secondhand from mum and dad.  And that something special doesn't have to be expensive just fabulous and fun. Thanks Freedom for the chance to put these guides together and family, if you want to know what to buy me... hint hint hint!

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This is a sponsored post in partnership with Freedom.

Christmas with Freedom

Anyone else out there with no Christmas mojo? I'm at a loss this year when it comes to how and what and why bother. Thank goodness for Freedom who have come up with the cutest little videos to help and inspire! Lisa Tilse, designer, crafter, and maker from the red thread has gift wrapping nailed with simple and stylish solutions. I'm already folding gift bags for presents I haven't even bought yet. Lisa you are so clever!

Stylist Eliza Ashe shows us how to set two simple but super Christmas tables after the jump. I'm loving the coastal theme, just perfect for an Aussie Christmas.

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Bah humbug!

Thought I'd show you the extent of my Christmas decorations for this year. Brass candlesticks, white candles, box of matches. Done! I think I'm over the whole Christmas thing already. I will, however, never be over the whole fire thing ;)