Sliding open the original pocket doors leading into the parlor of his 1894 Central West End home, Jim Heeter, owner of the Gifted Gardener, unveils his spectacular homage to the man in the red suit, Santa Claus. Heeter’s love affair with St. Nick goes all the way back to his college days in Springfield, MO, when he was called to fill in for Santa at Sears. What was supposed to be a one-night thing turned into a two-year gig, but it taught Heeter so much about the spirit of the holiday season, which he incorporates into his decorating.

When bringing out the boxes of decorations and working like an elf to deck your halls for the holidays, don't forget to bring a touch of the season to your kitchen. Setting up a display on the kitchen island is an easy way to continue the holiday cheer in a simple, subtle way. Add florals, ribbons, ornaments and more, but don't forget to leave room for holiday food prep or serving. Three local design shops show off their take on a working kitchen-island display in a beautiful kitchen located in the Fischer & Frichtel display home in Enclave Bellerive.

“It’s so easy to do too much, but I have to be selective with the glitter. Just a highlight,” explains Susan Medart, owner of Knollwood Lane. And just like that, with a gentle stroke of glue and sprinkle of fine indigo glitter, a delicate shimmer is added to the manger scene on one of her vintage-inspired Christmas cards.

SLHL: Do you provide the lights for homeowners or can they use their own?
Mark: We do provide the lights, but if the customer would like to use their own then we will work with them on a time-and-material basis.

SLHL: When is the best time to call to set up an appointment for holiday lighting?
Mark: When thinking about holiday lighting, it best to call late September to mid-October to ensure your lights are up in time to enjoy them throughout the holiday season.

Still stuffed from the previous evening’s feast, a West County family spends the day following Thanksgiving decking their house in holiday décor. Cozy in their pajamas as a fire crackles in the background, it’s a family affair, says the wife, who heads the decorating duties. By the Monday following the autumn holiday, their traditional, French-country two story is transformed from everyday into a magical holiday wonderland.

Whether you’re seeking the finishing touch to your extravagant holiday décor, or looking to keep your decorating to a casual minimum, opting for a beautifully decorated mailbox will fulfill your vision of the ideal holiday home.