Cajun Christmas Decorating Ideas

Van Chaplin / Styling Mindi Shapiro Levine / Food Styling Pam Lolley

Joyeux Noël

The calendar proclaims it's time to call a halt to the preparation and planning as you settle down to enjoy the holiday. Gather inspiration from this home to set the mood to gather family, invite friends, kick back, and relax--Cajun style.

Van Chaplin / Styling Mindi Shapiro Levine

Spiced Up Mantel

Begin with the traditional blanket of greenery, and drip Spanish moss over the edge for Lower South atmosphere. Add clusters of pinecones, magnolia leaves, and peppers, along with candles in red glass cylinders. Create a garland using various kinds of multicolored peppers. Cut a piece of wire the length of your mantel, allowing for the garland's drape, and string the peppers from one end to the other. An 8-foot length takes about 30 minutes to assemble. Note: Wear latex or rubber gloves when stringing peppers.

Attach the finished garland with a few hidden nails or 3M Hooks With Command Adhesive.

Van Chaplin / Styling Mindi Shapiro Levine

On the Half Shell

Surround a rosemary topiary with clean oyster shells and a few ornaments. Cluster pepper lights for a splash of color.

Van Chaplin / Styling Mindi Shapiro Levine

Cajun Glow

Wrap a glass cylinder with wire screen, and drop a candle inside. Insert it into a large hurricane vase, and surround it with peppers.

Van Chaplin / Styling Mindi Shapiro Levine

Peppered Assortment

Create the centerpiece on a large tray.

Purchase three vine balls (or any odd number) in assorted sizes from a crafts store. Cut a hole in the largest two, using garden pruners.

Fill the spheres with a variety of peppers. Place the other ball with them.

Surround the vine balls with additional peppers, a little greenery, and ornaments.

Add a string of pepper lights to complete the centerpiece.

A Cajun Christmas

Joyeux Noël

Spiced Up Mantel

On the Half Shell

Cajun Glow

Peppered Assortment