Classic Christmas Decorating

The Concord, New Hampshire, bungalow that Matthew and his wife, Jenny, call home is decked out for Christmas. The palette is traditional red and green with white accents. Linen napkins, iridescent cranberry glass, and bright apples grace the dining table. As to flowers, he recommends massing one type — it’s foolproof and often achieves a more dramatic look than a bouquet of mixed blooms. Here, vibernum berries and deep-red roses grace the table. Hollowed-out apples make innovative containers for votive candles. Matthew says that when entertaining, you can’t lose with “candlepower.” The flickering flames are romantic, elevating the occasion so guests feel special. Yards of white pine or cedar roping and other greens like pittisporum and boxwood provide contrast and lushness, giving the garland-draped dining-room window a multidimensional quality. Matthew believes Christmas is a time to evoke memory and engage all the senses with music, the aroma of delectable food, and a rich, colorful environment.