23 December,2013 08:20 AM IST | | Kavita Shyam
When Christmas season arrives, shopping cannot be far behind. The markets get flooded with trees, wreaths, stars, snowflakes, baubles and buntings of different kinds. So, whether you wish to invite friends over to enjoy the Yule spirit, or like celebrating the festival with just family, read on to get fun ideas for irresistible and magical X'Mas decorations that will ready your home for the festive season.
From baubles to stars, a variety of decorations can be found in the market (Representation Pic)
"We have a whole range of special Christmas hangings this season. The range includes eco-friendly options like elephant poo-paper stars, angel hangings and recycled fabric dolls, santas, trees and toys. Also available are the fabric hangings that can later be used as hangings in kids' rooms. We even have wooden Santas, traditional bronze bell hangings and shoe stocking hooks," says Ritika Narang Tickoo of the store, Either Or.
Egg crate lights
E-coexist believes in going the eco-friendly way as well. Manisha Gutman from the organisation shares, "We are making some gorgeous Christmas lights by recycling egg crates. This is an idea we have had for some years now. The lights are priced at Rs 400 for a string of 50 lights. Egg crates are made of papier-mâché and are normally thrown away by people. This effort is part of our Beauty of Recycling Campaign, which aims at showing people the aesthetic potential of waste."
Model Ausa Ferreira has already decorated her Christmas tree at home and reveals, "I personally chose to shop for all Christmas decorations from Ravees in East Street. They have a lovely collection and the pricing is not exorbitant." Ferreira adds that the traditional way to put up the tree is with a star or angel at the top and a crib or manger besides the tree. "Traditionally the tree is put up on the first Sunday of advent and taken down after the feast of the three kings on January 6. Chocolates and sweets are made at home preferably or bought at the Christmas exhibition at St Patricks Cathedral," she informs.
Decoration and preparations have undergone a sea-change feels Jasmine Fernandes, a management student. "Christmas shopping has increased in the city over the last few years. Earlier, we would just end up going to an Archies store or MG Road for a few buntings and gifts. But, now Christmas shopping has become more than just chocolates, home decorations, tableware and gifts. Thanks to the international brands that are also selling a lot during Christmas with attractive offers. I pick up stuff from D Furtado or malls, Camp, Laxmi Road, small boutiques or retailers in Aundh, Koregaon Park, etc," she says.
