This year, I had the chance to participate in the Pickering College Home Tour in Newmarket, and it was such a fun way to kick off the holiday season! If you’ve never been, it’s an annual event where beautifully decorated homes are opened up to inspire all kinds of holiday magic. It’s like stepping into a Pinterest board, but with the charm of real-life spaces.
For my home, I leaned into a theme I called Earthy Wonder. Think natural textures, old-world charm, a palette of muted earth tones and neutrals, and a touch of that handmade feel. The vibe is warm, cosy, and timeless—more about creating a relaxed, inviting holiday atmosphere than going all-out with glitter and sparkle.
To bring it all together, I swapped out some of my everyday pieces for festive touches with heart—like handmade ornaments, garlands woven from natural materials, and little details that feel intentionally crafted. It’s those thoughtful, imperfectly perfect layers that make the space feel unique. The result? A holiday look that’s understated, personal, and full of warmth—like wrapping yourself in your favourite wool blanket by the fire. It’s Christmas, but make it grounded and meaningful.
At the entrance, the Earthy Wonder theme really sets the stage. The front door greets you with just the right mix of natural charm and holiday spirit. Lush evergreen garlands, softly lit with warm twinkling lights, frame the doorway and instantly make things feel festive yet grounded.
On either side, modern planters overflow with seasonal greenery, brought to life with textured wicker spheres and a pop of rich orange from magnolia leaves. It’s simple but layered, and the combination of natural elements with those warm tones adds so much depth. The whole look feels elegant and cosy—like a warm hug for anyone stopping by.
It’s proof that you don’t need over-the-top decor to create a magical holiday moment. Sometimes, it’s the minimalist touches that make the biggest impact—fresh, timeless, and just plain welcoming.
The living room has that perfect mix of modern living and holiday warmth—a space that feels calm, festive, and totally inviting. In the centre of the home, a stunning 12-foot Christmas tree takes the spotlight, its soft lights casting a cosy glow that instantly sets the mood for the season.
The fireplace holds its own with a minimal garland and simple knit stockings that feel thoughtfully chosen. Above it, a nostalgic winter landscape brings a touch of charm, tying the space together without overpowering it.
The built-ins keep things understated with mini trees and a few carefully selected pieces that add a subtle nod to the holidays without feeling overdone. On the sofa, layers of warm-toned cushions and textured throws invite you to settle in and stay awhile.
It’s simple, it’s inviting, and it’s where you want to be—clean lines softened with seasonal touches that bring all the holiday magic, minus the fuss. Perfect for making memories with the people you love most.
Get the Look
1. Personalized Wooden Stocking Tags 2. Velvet Ribbons 3. Knit Stockings 4. Candle Sticks 5. Taper Candles 6. Mantel Garland
The dining room has that effortless holiday charm—modern, yet warm and inviting. A simple garland of fresh greenery runs down the centre of the table, dotted with fresh figs and dried orange slices for a seasonal touch that feels natural, not overdone. Rough gold candlesticks with a hand-forged vibe add a bit of rustic elegance, grounding the table with their imperfect beauty.
The place settings are all about personality—uniquely painted ceramic plates that feel one-of-a-kind and earthy linens that tie it all together. The tones are warm, cozy, and refined, creating a space that feels like it was made for relaxed, meaningful gatherings.
It’s a table that makes you want to pull up a chair and stay for a while, where the small details add up to something special without trying too hard. The perfect setting for a holiday dinner that’s all about feeling at home.
Get the Look
1. Dried Orange Slices 2. Ribbed Glassware 3. Candle Sticks 4. Taper Candles 5. Napkins 6. Matte Black Cutlery 7 .Table Garland
The kitchen feels like a natural extension of the holiday season, with thoughtful touches that blend effortlessly into its modern vibe. The coffee bar is a cozy little corner that perfectly mixes function with festive flair. Above the sink, a cascading garland drapes over pinecones and a golden heart, adding a touch of warmth and charm. It all draws the eye up to the sleek brass sconce, bringing a subtle glow to the space.
Over in the glass-front cabinet, the holiday spirit continues with carefully curated pieces. Rustic wooden stars, fresh greenery, and golden accents mingle with stacked plates and well-loved cookbooks. The gold tones and natural elements elevate the display, turning this kitchen into more than just a place to cook—it’s a stylish, cozy spot to gather and enjoy the season.
Get the Look
1. Wooden Trees 2. Candle 3. Gold Heart Ornament 4. Vintage Bells
The master bedroom is all about subtle holiday magic. A beautifully decorated Christmas tree, with gold and neutral ornaments, stands tall by the window, casting a warm, cozy glow that perfectly complements the room’s calm, relaxed vibe. Above the bed, a simple garland of pine greenery with a velvet ribbon drapes over the artwork, adding just the right amount of festive charm without interrupting the room’s modern, serene aesthetic. It’s the kind of space that feels festive, but still totally peaceful and inviting—where you can enjoy the season without it feeling overdone.
Get the Look
1. Block Print Lumbar Pillow 2. Rust Linen Pillows 3. Large Velvet Ribbon 4. Vintage Bells 5. Green Branches
Can you count the gnomes? There are a few tucked throughout the kids room, adding a playful touch to the holiday decor. The slim Christmas tree by the window is decked out in whimsical ornaments and glowing lights, with a cuddly holiday gnome sitting at its base.
Above the bed, three minimalist wreaths—dried orange slices, fresh greenery, and delicate ribbons—bring in a natural, creative vibe. It’s the perfect mix of fun and festive, with every little detail carefully placed for maximum charm.
Get the Look
1. Small Gnome 2. Duvet Cover 3. Bed Pillows 4. Gold Wire Wreath Frame
Reflecting on the magic of the Pickering College Holiday Home Tour, I’m feeling so grateful for everyone who helped bring this vision to life. A huge thank you to Hartley Built Construction for not only their expert craftsmanship but also their generous sponsorship, to Toombs Team Real Estate Group for their sponsorship, Sweet Stems Floral for the stunning floral arrangements that brought life and elegance to every space, and La Belle Cuisine for the delicious catering that made the event even more special.
A big shoutout to Pickering College for organizing such an incredible event and giving me the opportunity to share my home with this wonderful community.
Wishing you all the happiest of holidays—full of love, laughter, and all the festive magic.
Happy Holidays!
All photography by @DanMolinaStudio
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