Lavender Design + Cuisine

Friday, October 3, 2025

Simple Christmas Table Ideas | Centerpiece and Place Settings

The holiday table is a blank canvas, and it doesn't matter if your guests number one or ten—the goal is to create a setting that feels celebratory and inviting. Before you rush out to the stores, take a fresh look at what you already own. You might be surprised to find that a festive and memorable table is just a few creative touches away.

So, let’s get started!

Select color themes - One of the first things to establish before creating your table design is the color palette. Choose 2-3 colors max. Then you’ll want to choose serve-wares, textiles, decor and foliage that work within the color theme you’ve chosen.

Consider scale - Do not overcrowd your dining table. Choose everything based on the size of the table, number of chairs and guests.

Apply contrast to create interest - If your tablecloth is white or a neutral color, use tabletop items that are bolder in color such as different shades of green and red.

Incorporate various heights - By incorporating elements with varying heights, you create variety, interest, depth and dimension in your dining table decor.

Make your table vibrant - Use fresh flowers, foliage, fruits and even seasonal vegetables on your table to provide texture and color.

Create a center piece - A centerpiece can be a winter greenery with shiny red berries, flowers and candles (avoid scented candles, they’ll interfere with your foods’ aroma).

Most of all have fun with your table set up and don’t hesitate to ask family and friends to help, not only they’ll have great ideas, but also can contribute by providing flowers, greenery, etc.

Wishing you a holiday season full of incredible flavors and happy moments!

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Interior Designer
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive Feng Shui & interior design tips and information on upcoming workshops!

Saturday, September 6, 2025

Clutter and why controlling people think they know best?

Controlling people believe they know best due to deeply rooted insecurities, a need to feel adequate, and a lack of self-awareness or exposure to diverse perspectives. Their need for control often stems from fear, anxiety, or an inflated sense of self-importance, leading them to believe that imposing their will is for others' own good.

Additionally, for many controlling people, the desire to dictate situations and other people's actions is a coping mechanism for their own internal fears and anxieties. By controlling their environment and the people within it, they create a false sense of security and predictability.

Here's how to effectively deal with controlling people, focusing on immediate and clear actions:

Limit the information shared. The less a controlling person knows, the less leverage they have.

Keep composure. Controlling people often want an emotional reaction. By remaining calm, their tactics are disarmed and it's demonstrated that you are detached.

Walk away to preserve your own physical and emotional health. It's incredibly hard to emotionally and physically detach from controlling family members, especially when you live with them. The best approach is to manage the situation by detaching yourself to the best of your ability.

As a reminder. Yes, there's a strong connection between clutter and control, with two main links: clutter can cause feelings of being out of control, as a disorganized environment increases stress and anxiety, making it harder to manage daily life. Conversely, a desire for control can lead to hoarding and clutter, where people may accumulate possessions as a way to feel secure or manage perceived threats.

In summary, to maintain your emotional well-being, concentrate on what is within your control - your own life. An effective method for this is to declutter your own matters and detach from the responsibilities and behaviors of others, a practice that is challenging but achievable.

In essence, Choose Your Own Peace of Mind.

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Green Interior Designer
Decluttering & Organizing Expert
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information
on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes, and special events!

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Simple & Practical Feng Shui Enhancements for the Entryway!

In Feng Shui, the entryway is the ‘mouth of Chi,’ essential for attracting positive energy, abundance and prosperity. Keep it clean, clutter-free and welcoming to enhance the flow of positive energy throughout your home. This includes ensuring the entryway is well-lit, visually appealing and reflects atmosphere of beauty, vitality and abundance.

Here's a breakdown of simple and practical Feng Shui enhancements:

Clutter-Free: Remove any clutter, both inside and outside, that obstructs the path or creates a sense of unease.

Cleanliness: Keep the entryway spotless, including the front door and surrounding areas.

Welcoming Elements: Add a welcome mat, a beautiful door knocker and potted plants to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Natural Light: Ensure the entryway is well-lit, either naturally or with bright inviting lights.

Artwork and Mirrors: Strategically place artwork that depicts positive imagery or mirrors that reflect light and energy, but avoid placing mirrors directly in front of the door as they can deflect energy.

Natural Elements: Incorporate a simple and soothing water feature to promote vitality and balance.

Door Functionality: Ensure the front door opens fully and is in good working condition, as it represents the flow of energy into the home.

Keep in mind that enhancing your living environment, both inside and out, is a gradual and creative process. You should embrace and have fun with this journey toward a more beautiful and harmonious home.

Ready to create your dream home? Whether it's a complete sanctuary transformation or a fresh dose of inspiration you're after, contact me today to start the conversation.

Ellie Lavender
Certified Feng Shui Practitioner
Green Interior Designer
Decluttering & Organizing Expert
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Join my network on Facebook & Instagram to receive recipes and information
on upcoming chocolate, culinary & wine pairing classes, and special events!