88 SS 8OSe8= {HolidayDecoratingTips 2 >= ~ee f Teer e~O67 a @ ~~ Warm AndInviting With A Few Simple Touches (NAPSA)—There’s no place like home for the holidays—and by adding a few affordable items—it’s easy to transform your homeinto a wonderful setting for holiday entertaining. The key to hosting a successful get togetheris to create a comfortable environment where guests feel welcome. Here are sometips from the experts at Linens ’n Things, a leading homedecorating specialty retailer: * Create Warmth with Lighting—Soft candlelight creates a cozy setting for dining and conversation. Consider votive wall sconces in the dining area along with a tabletop cluster of pillar candles surrounded by festive garland. In the living room, place votive candles on the mantle, end tables and wall ledges or add a torchiere for ambient light. Display aromatherapy candles in the powder room. * Mix and Match Elements of Style—Introduce harvest or holiday hues as well as pattern and texture. Update a sofa or chair with a Surefit slipcover in a chic suede or cozy chenille cable pattern. Add beaded velvet, fringed, needlepoint or tassel pillows and replace a worn throw with one that’s covered in patchwork. Enhance window treatments with braided, beaded or fringed tie backs and embellish with crystal or floral garland. In the bath, exchange solid hand towels for plush versions adorned with tassels or satin ribbon. Create a functional and festive tabletop to make your guestsfeel at homethis holiday season. * Play Tabletop Dress Up— Whether your dining style is casual, whimsical or formal, create a landscape that invites guests to dine in style. Layer surfaces with linens, dinnerware and accessories. A table runner, madeof crushed velvet patchwork or one that’s embroidered or monogrammed, will add dimension to a solid tablecloth. Plate chargers help to display and unify an eclectic mix of dinnerware in solids, patterns and shapes. Napkin rings, made of wrought iron scrollwork, carved wood, rattan or beads, add a special touch. Complete the picture with a tealight scrollwork centerpiece or a grand martini floating candle holder. For more information, including the store nearest you, visit the Linens ’n Things Web site at www.LNT.com.
