As you deck the halls this season, put some sparkle on your front porch, the gateway for holiday gatherings, gift exchanges and family meals. Damon Mundey, co-owner of The Turf Tailor, a local grounds maintenance company, styles one West Chester portico with three inspiring holiday looks.
For all three styles, Mundey starts with a foundation of symmetrical decorative planters, greenery and twinkling lights. To achieve the holiday design of your choice, add accessories like door hangers, ribbons and doormats. Give the look a personal touch with statement pieces that resonate with the whole household. Which seasonal style speaks to you?
Traditional Style
The popular Traditional style is sophisticated in red, green and gold. A wreath of metallic baubles and festive florals is the centerpiece of this design. Decorate potted mini-pines with shiny ornaments to reflect the white twinkling lights. A layered doormat and wooden welcome sign add a personal touch that offers insight about the family behind the front door. Here, Mundey opts for a truck mat and sled, a welcome greeting to visitors.
“I’m obviously a truck guy,” Mundey says as he points out the doormat, “but you can slide in whatever you like for a different level of elegance.”
Mundey recommends that you shop a craft show or local small business to find a unique feature that best suits your family.
Mad for Plaid
Another popular decorating trend this holiday is plaid, evoking a cozy cabin vibe. Natural elements like frosted pinecones and bright berries are a weather-resilient and inexpensive backdrop to this rustic porch. The star of this style is a joyful wooden door hanger in red plaid. Mundey adds a pop of color with matching red tartan ribbons and bows as tree toppers and on the exterior light fixtures.
“Plaid is in for the holidays,” says Mundey. “Some people really go for alternatives to wreaths on the door like this ‘joy’ sign—simple banners, planters and signboards can tie in your style,” he adds.
Vintage Retro
Pay homage to the holidays of the past with a Vintage Retro front porch. This sentimental style evokes warm memories and storytelling. A covered porch is a safe place to feature family heirlooms like a pair of light-up nutcrackers that stand sentry at the front door, welcoming guests with carols.
“These are our small set of nutcrackers,” Mundey says with a chuckle. The Turf Tailor rents and stores oversized pieces like these for clients that have limited storage space.
Let nostalgia be your guide as you plan your Vintage Retro design. Roam antique shops and flea markets for Santas, snowmen and other beloved holiday characters that are the centerpieces of this style.
“It doesn’t have to be expensive to create a porch you love,” Mundey shares.
Whatever style is most attractive to you, don’t overcomplicate it.
“Simple is best, because the holidays are already busy enough!” says Mundey. “Focus on spending time together and make it fun.”
The Turf Tailor provides residential and commercial grounds maintenance services, including seasonal styling and light rental. TheTurfTailor.net
