Natural Christmas Decor Ideas from Stacy Risenmay

Discover how to style Christmas with nature, plus extra holiday pointers from Stacy Risenmay in this interview.

When I started the Homemade Christmas series on Bildirimlerim, a key aim was introducing readers to other gifted women. I hoped to glean from them, and also share their insights.

Abby previously shared tips on Christmas organization. Today, I'm excited to present my friend Stacy; you will surely appreciate her.

Styling Christmas with Natural Elements

A Conversation with Stacy Risenmay

Could you share a brief introduction and explain the origin of the blog name “Not Just a Housewife”?

My name is Stacy Risenmay, and I've been blogging for approximately 8 years. I began it for enjoyment before realizing blogging could become a business. I had a family blog, but desired a secondary blog to showcase projects for our fixer upper.

I initially named my blog Not Just A Housewife because I grew weary of hearing stay-at-home mothers claim they were “just a mom.” We fulfill numerous roles and wear many hats; nobody should ever be limited to “just” anything.

My blog is now simply my name, yet I retain “Not Just a Housewife” as my tagline.

(Stacy’s blog can be found here.)

I just noticed you are an author (how did I overlook that??). Please discuss your book and how it came to be.

I wrote a book a couple of years ago. I have always loved the outdoors and love to incorporate elements from nature. When I was approached by a publisher, I chose that as my topic. It is called Natural Accents and has 35 tutorials for DIY projects as well as decorating tips and ideas. I was honored when Nate Berkus agreed to write the forward for my book.

Can you provide instances of how natural materials can be incorporated into Christmas decorations?

The winter holiday period is the simplest time to integrate natural components! I prefer keeping my Christmas decorating straightforward. I select a color palette, acquire a few items in those shades like pillows and tree ornaments, and then incorporate abundant greenery! Regardless of the theme, I always include numerous pine cones. Tree slices under plates, natural woven baskets, rosemay sprigs, and small potted pines are delightful ways to embrace nature.

Do you create your own Christmas decorations? What beginner-friendly projects would you suggest for eager DIY enthusiasts?

I always make at least some of my decor. As a blogger, I kind of need to change up my decor each year since I share a home tour each season. I don’t have the budget to buy everything new each year so I reuse a lot of key pieces, change the color scheme, and DIY a bunch of ornaments and other decor. Painted signs, pillows, advent calenders, and ornaments are all easy projects.

How do you manage preparation and organization for the holidays, or do you adopt a plan-as-you-go approach?

For decorating, I establish the color scheme first, then proceed. Pillows and ribbon usually follow, as I enjoy using non-traditional hues. Finding holiday patterns, like plaid, that aren't red or green can be tricky. Next, I select a theme. Two years ago, it was snowflakes, and last year featured gingerbread men. While not always themed, a direction helps. I plan everything else as I go!

We share a similarity—we are both mothers of all boys! What are some of your cherished family Christmas traditions?

We make homemade gifts for each other. I love watching my boys plan and scheme and get so excited about what they are making. I love seeing the use their individual talents (carving, leather work, painting, etc) to create something for their brothers. We also carry on a tradition started by my grandmother where we have a treasure hunt. Growing up, my mother’s parents owned a small grocery store in a tiny Idaho town. They didn’t have a lot of money so they would only received one gift. My grandmother wanted to stretch out the fun so that one gift last longer so she left them clues and they had to hunt for it. She had a tiny ceramic fireplace with itty bity stockings hanging from it for each child. Rolled up in the stocking was the first clue.I made a small fireplace out of polymer clay and stitched some small stockings and their main gift is their treasure hunt.

Earlier this year, I saw your wonderful garden harvest shared on Instagram stories. I admire your kitchen skills and effort! Do you have advice for ensuring a smooth Christmas dinner meal?

My family resides nearby, so our large family dinner only requires me to manage one or two dishes. My counsel is to invite others and delegate food preparation! My goal is simplicity; I don't want to be stressed and overheated in the kitchen all day and miss enjoying the day. Simplify the menu if necessary so you can savor the company around you.

What counsel would you offer a newly married couple beginning to plan and create their initial Christmas together?

Ah! I remember those days. You are joining two sets of traditions and holiday memories which can be so fun. You are also starting from scratch with decor. Shane and I bought one new thing each year since we were poor and I made a few things here and there. Just enjoy it! Don’t think that you have to instantly have a Pinterest perfect home with all your traditions figured out.

I am fascinated by tales of Christmas kitchen mishaps or blunders. Do you have any notable Christmas bloopers?

I wish I had a grand, elaborate story, but I mostly have small mishaps. I enjoy baking a variety of treats to share with neighbors. Distractions (like children) have caused me to burn numerous cookies, spoil fudge, and scorch caramel.

Quick Fire Questions:

Most cherished gift received: Anything made by hand

Homemade Delights: A Top Gift from a Teacher or Neighbor

A Thought for Your Holiday Wants: Home Depot gift card

The Best Personalized Gift: Something deeply considered and crafted by hand

A Beloved Holiday Dish: My mom’s caramels

Top Holiday Advice: Keep things simple to truly savor the season!

Most Popular Holiday Post on Bildirimlerim: My Christmas Home Tour from 2016