I love a good tradition. An advent candle starts burning on December 1st, as per my German grandparents upbringing. And like the Rockefeller tree, I will never not have colorful twinkling lights on my Christmas tree. Perhaps most dear to my heart is a tradition my mother started for our family of choosing one very special and meaningful ornament for our tree each year. It could have meaning based on a trip we had taken, a book we bonded over, or a special interest one of us kids had taken up over the year.
I have carried over this very nostalgic tradition with my own family, and it is something that we look forward to as each holiday season approaches. It is a very intentional practice, and like the fresh cut trees i grew up with, ends up being a tree full of very special memory and meaning. My kids and I love to unwrap each ornament year and after year, like a jewel box full of shiny and special moments that we laugh about, ooh and ahh over, and are sometimes wistful over.
It's easier and easier to feel overwhelmed by the ornament selection process, but going into each season knowing that only one new one will join the collection makes the shopping experience full of joy, wonder and delight, exactly as the season should be. Perhaps you will stumble upon one during your trip to Europe, or hanging in your local bookshop, or even in a garden center reminding you of the new flower you planted in your yard. One to celebrate a beloved pet, or to commemorate attending your favorite concert. My dream is to have our holiday memories passed down from generation to generation.
I have rounded up my favorite ornaments of the season to help you find your new holiday family heirlooms.
Bon Shopping!
Shop Sarah's Ornament Edit
West Elm Glass Sardines Ornament
For More Holiday Inspiration From the Elsie Green Team >