CHRISTMAS DECORATING WITH MELANIE LISSACK
Bows, candlelight, and final touches that tie the whole vision together: how interior design blogger Melanie Lissack transforms her home for festive season.
The days are shorter, nights are longer, and the temperature lower. Winter is here, and Christmas is firmly on the horizon. While preparations can feel full-on at times, there’s still a lot of joy to be had in getting the home Christmas-ready. This year, interior design blogger Melanie Lissack shows us how she approaches her festive decorating, leaning on this year’s standout trend: bows.
Written by: Tom Keown - Published: 20/11/25
THOUGHTFUL TOUCHES
For Melanie, Christmas decorating is part planning, part spontaneity. “I have to admit I plan the colour scheme of my tree ahead of time,” she says. “While I don’t buy loads of new decorations every year, I’ll switch up the colours of the ribbon or use something like limes rather than oranges for natural dried decor.”
This year, bows play a starring role on the table too:
“For my Christmas table, I chose FRASERS bow-themed placemats, then added matching ribbon around the base of the wine glasses to tie the scheme together.”
It’s a simple way to bring cohesion to a tablescape without feeling overdone: a small touch that will leave a lasting impression amongst the family and friends who join you around the table.
BIG ON BOWS
Bows are set to be seen everywhere this year: on trees, gifts, wreaths, and place settings. It’s a decorating trend that Melanie couldn’t be happier about:
“I love bows at Christmas and I use them throughout my home to add a festive touch,” she says. “From dressing my tree completely with bows for a dramatic look, to adding a simple bow to the top of a picture frame in the hallway - bows are always a good idea!”
Her favourite FRASERS pick?
“The gold bow candlesticks. They suit the season but they can also be used at all times throughout the year.”
For an effect that retains it playfulness all through the festive season, Melanie recommends mixing materials and tones. Contrast the textures of satin and velvet and opt for neutrally toned bows occasionally to balance out the richer pieces.
A FESTIVE GLOW
For hosting, Melanie always goes for an atmosphere that’s “cosy, homely and full of personality.” She further explains:
“I do like a bit of wow-factor, but the most important thing is that everyone can relax. Candlelight is really important – I like tealights lit in dark corners for atmosphere. I love FRASERS ceramic tealight houses, which have a snug, Nordic feel.”
Her approach to the table is just as considered:
“I’ll avoid huge centrepieces that block conversation; instead I add festive touches via the tableware, like the FRASERS marble tree serving board,” she explains. “If I add flowers, it’ll be small bud vases that can be moved easily.”
As for Melissa’s failproof secret for making guests feel welcome?
“Lots of food and drink, pretty details and a considered Christmas table has always worked well in our house!”
Whether it’s tying bows to the tree’s branches or ensuring tealights are lit before her guests arrive, Melanie’s approach to festive season is anchored in warmth and attention to detail. This year, follow her lead and ensure your home is the perfect space for all the festivities ahead: glowing, inviting and filled with thoughtful details.