Kelley’s approach is undeniably fresh and modern, but don’t be deceived. Traditions—new and old—underpin the holiday season at the McNamara house. Take the miniature houses that sparkle on display: “They’re the start of a family tradition. We add one every year,” says Kelley. “And at the beginning of December we have one full day of decorating and one full day of baking,” says the ultra-organized multi-tasker. “The whole house is turned upside-down, but it’s done in a day.” The kids love it, she says, and though Keefe is only two and Lauren four, they help, especially Lauren, who’s inherited her mom’s decorating gene. “She loves to shop, and we have so much fun decorating her room together,” says Kelley. Lauren’s holiday scheme comes complete with a tree—another snowy white confection that’s topped with a romantic feather star.
There is one real tree in the house, and the outing to a tree farm is a family affair. “It’s so much fun,” says Kelley. “We go with friends and their kids. We sing carols, and sit around a fire and drink hot chocolate.”
Kelley holds one custom especially dear, and it’s one she shares with her mom, sister and girlfriends. “Every year we get fresh greens together and then we decorate them with glass glitter and make our own wreaths,” says Kelley. She loves the scent they bring to the dining room, entry and great room. And she always uses cedar at the front door and on the porch. “I love the country theme,” she says. “The smell of cedar, the vintage wood sled, the kerosene lamp that I light when guests are due. It’s so welcoming and warm.”
A warm, welcoming home, and sharing the season with the ones you love. That’s the real secret behind the magic at the McNamara house. And that’s a Christmas tradition with timeless appeal.
Read more in Decorating and Feature Homes
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