(This is a repost of a piece I wrote for Arkansas Women Bloggers in 2014.)
Billie Cornwell of Benton has more talent in her little finger than I can even begin to wrap my head around. She’s a self-professed Pinterest and Southern Living addict who titles herself “Martha Stewart on a budget.” In her former life, she was an exec with Arkla who took early retirement to become a full-time grandmother, church and community leader and civic volunteer. She’s the person I look to for every decorating question — including the staging of our ARWB booth at the Arkansas Flower and Garden Show last February.
When it comes to decorating for Christmas, Billie is all about family. There are little touches of family throughout her home from the sentimental, handmade aluminum foil star made by her daughter Meredith in elementary school,
to her son’s favorite sock monkey
or the handpainted ornaments from a favorite aunt or a grandson, the prominently- paced spike symbolizing those used on the Cross of the Crucifixion
to the handwritten, framed recipe card for muffins handed down from her mother, now deceased.
Family is everywhere.
And taking center stage among the nativities collected from their travels, is an original painting of three snowmen made especially for her by one of her grandsons. A masterpiece to be sure.
From the time you arrive at her front door, you sense the presence of the Christmas holidays. Simple yet elegant. Welcoming. Beauty abounds in every nook and corner. Yet, by her own admission, she’s cut back quite a bit. (Yeah, right)
It’s just a sense of style that comes as naturally to her as breathing, I think. Some of you are talented in much the same way. As for me, I have to admire your talent and prey on your generosity for assistance. You see it. You take what you have and create a beauty like no other.
And sometimes it’s all about discovering the unexpected in unusual places
When I asked Billie if she would be willing to let me give you a tour of not just her Christmas tree but of her home as well, she was more than willing. I also imposed upon her for some words of wisdom — five pointers that would guide all of us in decorating our own homes for the holidays. Simply put, here’s what she shared:
- Stick to a clearly defined color palate and transition that color scheme throughout your home.
- Make one big statement whether a floral arrangement or a huge vase filled with fresh greenery.
- Keep it simple. (Her tree is totally striking in its simplicity.)
- Invest in heirlooms…something you love and will use year after year, such as a manger scene.
- Learn to cluster—use things in 3’s or 5’s.
- Use what you have.
And that really is what she does. I’m just waiting for her to come do the same thing at my house.
