Golden/Glam/Rustic...

...is the vibe we are channeling this fortnight at Jingle Belles. Or at least, it's one possible interpretation of the beautiful inspiration photo we're using as a jumping off point for our holiday card designs. I realize I should probably show you that pic first, but I'm just too excited about my card to wait:

And now here is the inspiration picture, of which you can use as much or as little of literally ANY aspect you choose. Maybe you'll go for a palette of all neutrals? Maybe you'll focus on ALL THE SPARKLE? Maybe you'll just choose one element, like the stockings hanging from the mantel? Or the frosted evergreen garland? Or even something super-specific, like the amazing texture of that sisal rug? It's 100% up to you!

It's pretty obvious that I focused mainly the neutral-but-never-boring color palette... specifically the many shades and many textures of WHITE which are in that gorgeous holiday room. I've incorporated plenty of metallics, as well, from gold to silver to copper. And I couldn't resist adding some floral elements and sparkly snowflakes, like the ones included on that amazing tree. 

I also loved the fact that each area in the photo had layers (and layers!) of different decorations and elements, so I started with a beautiful collage-style white-on-white paper from Prima's "Pretty Pale" collection, added some sparkly white stenciled snowflakes and about a third of a sheet of gold holiday-themed rub-on transfers. The copper metallic elements are part of the paper; which is the reverse side of a pattern called "Seasons of Love". The small raised hexagons-- which are the last few from a very old version of Prima's "Say It In Crystals" line --show the other side of that same paper and add yet another dimension to the design. I don't think the hexies are as old as the "Monarch Diamond" Bling at the Center of my flower stacks, however; which I serendipitously found stuck down behind a drawer about a month ago. I put a few Eyelet Outlet Pearl Brads in the center of the snowflakes, tucked in a couple of velvetty white holly leaves and added lots of messy machine stitching, by which time I felt like I had a pretty good card version of that beautifully maximalist and elegant holiday decor from the the inspo pic.

Stephanie also has a fab card and it's possible there miiiiiiiiiiiight be a little bit of blog candy over at Jingle Belles for one lucky random cardmaker who links up with us this fortnight. Just sayin'...