Once the hum of summer has passed, we settle into the task of transforming the patio room into a Christmas display. Christmas comes early here at Sunnyside; usually everything is in its place by late October.
Décor
We decorate a handful of our smaller artificial trees and you are more than welcome to shop off of our themed adorned trees: assorted tree trimmings, baubles and a large selection of artificial stems. The tables are surrounded by ornaments and other holiday décor and giftware.
Artificial trees
We have a fine selection of artificial Christmas trees of varying heights and styles that fluff up to be natural and full. We offer a variety of types of artifical trees, with or without pre-lit lights. The options available for pre-lit lights include either clear or multi- coloured.
How to fluff an artificial Christmas tree
The tree that comes out of the box in sections does not resemble the decorated tree that will be displayed with pride and excitement in a prime location. Fluffing takes some time and patience.
In order to get to the end result we need to start here – wear gloves, the trees bites!
- Select permanent location for the Christmas tree to be displayed.
- Find all sections and the tree strand and do a safety check, especially check the lights PRIOR to plugging them in.
- Once you have checked each section over, plug them in to make sure all the lights are working. If not, you will need to replace the burnt or broken light bulbs with the replacement bulbs given.
- Put together the tree stand and place the bottom section of the tree in the post - make sure it is secure.
- Working from the bottom up, spread the tips in a V pattern, alternating the direction for the most natural look. Spread some tips vertically and others side to side to give the most natural look and a fuller appearance.
- Once the section is completed , attach the middle section and repeat.
- When it comes to the top section, fluff and blend to finish.
- Stand back and check for gaps, the inside stem of the tree should be hiding; if not then more fluffing is required.
Storing your artificial tree
Always store your artificial tree in a container or storage bag, preferably waterproof and in a cool dry location.
Holiday Plants
Holiday flowering plants such as the traditional poinsettia, amaryllis, Christmas cactus and Norfolk pine (a live tropical Christmas-like tree), are excellent ways to brighten and liven the home and office. Poinsettias can be displayed on their own or in a group for a dramatic, festive effect. They also make great gifts at functions or in the office.
Fresh Greens
As you walk through the front entrance the smell of fresh greens cloaks you. The tables are piled with cedar rope, pine, fir, cedar boughs and wreaths, as well as fresh stems and pine cones to accessorize your elegant entrance arrangement. If you are not the creative type or short on time with all your holiday shopping, we offer pre made arrangements too.
How to get the most out of your Christmas Boughs
You will need:
- Fresh boughs such as cedar, pine, fir (we recommend one of each for a full look)
- Wilt Pruf ( anti desiccant)
- StaFresh ( supplemental energy)
- Cut approximately one inch or slightly more off the end of the branch. Using a hammer or mallet gently mash the end of all branches but do not pulverize. This will allow the branches to ‘drink’ up the water more, supporting hydration.
- Mix some StaFresh in a pail of water. Allow the branches to ‘drink’ the solution for at least 12 hours. Save the water solution for step three. While the branches are soaking up the solution, spray them with Wilt Pruf. This assists in moisture retention so they don’t dry out as fast during the winter winds.
- Now your boughs are ready to be placed into outdoor containers. Put some soil into your container and add just enough of the water solution that you made in step 2 to moisten the soil. Arrange your branches in the soil. You may wish to use some “U” shaped pins to hold the branches in place. (Do not completely saturate the soil as it will freeze and expand which could cause your container to crack and /or break. If the soil is slightly moist, expansion should not be a problem.) You may also wish to use green floral foam in your container instead of soil. Allow the wet oasis foam to soak in water for a half hour or so until saturated. Make sure you pack the foam into your container very securely so that the weight of the branches does not cause the entire arrangement to fall out.
Seasonal
Easter, Thanksgiving and Halloween all play a part in our seasonal department too.
Come for a visit, there is more to us than flowers and trees!