Our Guest: Kortney Wilson
Celeb designer and TV host Kortney Wilson shares her top tips for entertaining, decorating and getting guest-ready for the holidays.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP TIPS AND TRICKS WHEN IT COMES TO DECORATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS IN A HURRY?
In the dining room, my holiday go-to is always a table setting. I use an oversized holiday runner to frame the centerpiece and then I fill every large vase or glass container I have with leftover ornaments and battery operated lights to set the mood. Greenery is the fastest way to give your home a whimsical feel for the holidays. Hang or drape DIY garland around, over, through all of your chandeliers. It’s a simple, more personal touch that gives you a big bang, for a little buck, in just a few minutes.
WHERE DO MOST CASUAL HOLIDAY GET-TOGETHERS HAPPEN IN YOUR HOME?
The kitchen is the hub of any holiday gathering because food is the main event. Some of my most favourite moments during the season have been laughing around our kitchen island, cooking for a large crowd who have all had a little too much to drink, and having hot cocoa with marshmallows when it’s really too late and we should be going to bed.
HOW DO YOU MAKE A GUEST BEDROOM (OR LIVING ROOM CRASH PAD!) FEEL WELCOMING FOR OVERNIGHT COMPANY?
We have a big old basket in our guest bath filled with all of the fancy little trialsize toiletries we have collected at hotel rooms. Everything from tooth brushes,to fancy soaps that make for a more personalized stay. We always place our prettiest towels and a sweet little note saying, “Our home is your home so please snoop away to fi nd what you need.”
WHAT ARE YOUR BEST-LOVED HOLIDAY DISHES?
I always make a ton of desserts with the kids and then refill one large platter daily for our family and any guests that stop by. Chocolate crinkles, whipped shortbread, butter tarts and peanut butter dainties are some of the biggest hits but no-bake chocolate macaroons are my personal fave.
