When it comes to Christmas decorations, remember there are no strict rules to what you decide to put around your home or on your tree.

Most of us, I would imagine, decorate with what they have bought over the years (perhaps with a few new additions). Some people like a simple clean modern look and some are quite the opposite and prefer a more decadent style. And some of us may choose a new colour theme each year. Why not?

Whatever you decide for Christmas decorations in Cannes this year, above all, it should be a personal choice.

As I mentioned above, decorate your home with what suits you and your home. But if you need some inspiration and advice, here are my

5 top tips for Christmas decorations in Cannes 2018

1. It’s ok to fake it

Fake foliage, trees and flowers have come along way over the past five years. No longer does fake, look fake. Although I do still love a real Christmas tree (mmm…the smell!), even fake ones can now look like the real deal. Just remember to go for more natural looking styles or those with a subtle dusting of snow.

2. Red and Green

The colours red and green are synonymous with Christmas. And it’s hard to imagine a time when they weren’t. Holly with its beautiful red berries has been the longest association we know about (the holly also representing Christ’s thorns).

In more recent times, Coca Cola ‘s poster advert of Santa Claus back in the 1930s has helped cement our thoughts of red at Christmas. My choice for red and green at Christmas is the traditional Poinsettia plant. A gift from nature and I love the star-shaped leaves.

3. Christmas Candles

Lighting candles at Christmas can evoke many things. Remembering lost loved ones, religious thoughts? (well, it is Christmas) but most of all, they are essential decorations to help set the festive mood. Choose candle holders in light-reflecting shades of gold or silver. Or go for festive silhouettes, like the designs above. When it comes to scented candles at Noël, I like mixed spices with cinnamon and fig. Mmmm…

4. Show the love

During the last-minute panic-buying of gifts, hoarding of food and general stress of Christmas, remember to show the love. Love heart shaped decorations may help think of those less fortunate than us and remember what Christmas is all about. Remember to show the love this Christmas.

5. A Time to Reflect

Christmas lights, neon, and candlelight all spark a wonderfully festive mood. My tip here would be to enhance these lights. Place nearby, glass baubles for the tree, metallic hanging adornments and reflective decorations which will help bounce light around the room. Create a truly magical space this coming party season. Champagne anyone?

Take home some inspiration from my Christmas decorations Tips…

Red & Green Glitter Bauble £5.95– libertylondon.com

Michael Aram Lovebirds Ornament– £50 www.luxdeco.com

Wild Fig & Cassis Candle by Jo Malone €55 Jo Malone Store 25 Rue d’Antibes, 06400 Cannes

I hope you enjoyed our Christmas decoration blog. Stay tuned next week for part 3 of our Christmas guide where we will show you inspiration for setting your Christmas day table and where to buy local Provencal and gourmet food in Cannes.

Till next time,

Geraldine & Pia xx