The Ribbon in My Journal – Phyllis Hoffman DePiano

Worth the Trip to Williamsburg

I love Williamsburg—as you all know! Always on the top of my list, it is a fabulous place to go for inspiration and restoration. I make Seasons of Williamsburg a part of my trip anytime of the year I am lucky enough to be in Virginia.

This year Neal and I planned a trip to be at the Christmas Open House at Seasons! I love to go there during the holidays, but I have always missed the Open House. This year we decided to make our journey a little earlier than usual. Even though we got to Seasons on the first day of the celebration, the line was across the front of the building. Yikes! I thought I had outsmarted everyone, but many people arrived even earlier than we did. When we got to the door and I could peek inside, I felt like I was looking at a magical place.

Once inside I was mesmerized by all the wonderful displays. I totally understand why the shop is closed three days for the staging! It is a masterpiece of holiday decorations. Kendall Kerby and Kent Harrell ­­­­are the proprietors of Seasons. Their customers were chatting as they carefully perused each item, and I could tell this was the highlight of their Christmas preparation. Many had driven miles for this; others lived nearby. But each had the same exuberance for this wonderful store. I laughed with delight as each customer—including me!—wanted Kendall and Kent to see their selections. Of course, they loved our choices—they picked them out for the store!

The two-month-long season will delight the most discriminating “Christmaser”, and you will find beautiful keepsakes for all budgets. The trees that tower to the ceiling have branches laden with breathtaking bows, lights, and glittering ornaments . You will find vignettes that dazzle and will spark your creativity.

I like to add something to my stash every year, and usually it’s from Seasons. This year I discovered artificial greenery that everyone will think is real, along with gorgeous artificial pomanders. I gathered up an armful for my centerpiece. If you haven’t seen the flickering candles that look real, you have missed something. I had to look twice! When these are tucked into an arrangement, you can enjoy the flickering with no flame, which makes them the perfect choice for me.

If you are in the Williamsburg, Virginia, area during the holidays, you must stop at Seasons of Williamsburg. You will find a little magic in the air, and you will have plenty of Christmas spirit when you leave. Check out their website for information on store hours and location.

 

What is your favorite Christmas shop?