Christmas Merchandise

Upgrade Your Home for the Holidays with a 12-foot Artificial Christmas Tree.

There’s something special about the holidays. Whether it’s the sight of snowflakes falling or the scent of freshly baked cookies, it’s a time for creating cherished memories with loved ones. However, nothing quite compares to the sight of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree taking center stage in your home. If you want to take your holiday decor to the next level, consider investing in a 12-foot artificial Christmas tree. Here’s why:

The Perfect Size for Your Home

One of the most apparent advantages of a 12-foot artificial Christmas tree is its size. It’s the perfect size for a home with high ceilings, making it an ideal choice for a grand entrance or a spacious living room. In addition, this size tree is suitable for showcasing large ornaments and decorations, making it a showstopper of your holiday decor. Finally, you’ll love how it complements your home’s architecture and creates a focal point to which guests can pay attention.

Moreover, it eliminates the need for multiple small trees to fill empty spaces, creating a more cohesive and polished look. And let’s be honest, if you go all out on holiday decor, why not go all out with your tree as well?

An Eco-Friendly Option

Choosing an artificial Christmas tree over a real one is better for the environment, and a 12-foot artificial tree is no exception. These trees are made of durable materials that are built to last for many holiday seasons to come. As a result, they don’t need constant maintenance like watering and pruning, which saves water, reduces carbon footprint, and decreases waste.

Moreover, most reputable Christmas tree manufacturers use high-quality, flame-retardant PVC or PE plastic for their products, which is much more ecologically responsible than cutting down a real tree each year. So, when you choose a 12-foot artificial Christmas tree, you’re making a responsible decision with a small ecological footprint.

Easy to Assemble and Store

One of the most significant drawbacks of real Christmas trees is the mess they leave behind. Needles everywhere, sap on the floor, and a presence that looms over your holiday festivities. With a 12-foot artificial Christmas tree, you won’t have to deal with that.

These trees are straightforward to assemble and disassemble, and most come with a storage bag or box that takes up minimal space when stored. So, when you’re done reveling in the holidays, you can pack away your beautiful tree without any fuss, ready for the following year-new Christmas memories.

Keep it Clean

A 12-foot artificial Christmas tree is an investment; hence, you want to keep it clean throughout the holiday season. These trees don’t need water or daily care, but it is essential to wipe down the branches occasionally to remove dust and debris.

To keep your tree in tip-top shape, gently wipe down the branches with a soft, lint-free cloth or a feather duster. If, over time, you notice that the tree’s needles are falling off, it might be time to consider purchasing a new tree.

The Ultimate Christmas Experience

The holidays are about creating an atmosphere of warmth, joy, and togetherness. A 12-foot artificial Christmas tree can help you achieve that goal and then some. With its impressive size, easy assembly, effortless storage, and low maintenance requirements, this tree is perfect for busy families and individuals who want to create a stunning holiday display without spending too much time and energy.

If you want to upgrade your home for the holidays and create the ultimate Christmas experience, consider investing in a 12-foot artificial Christmas tree. Trust us; you won’t regret it. Let the festivities begin!

The holiday season is never truly complete without the iconic glow of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Whether you prefer a classic green fir tree or a modern white one, an artificial Christmas tree can offer the perfect compromise for those who prefer the convenience and low-maintenance of an artificial tree. And, with a little creativity and effort, you can decorate your 7-foot artificial Christmas tree like a pro and achieve a stunning holiday centerpiece that will leave your guests in awe.

Step 1: Choose a Color Scheme

To start, decide on a color scheme for your tree. Traditional colors like red, white, and green are always popular, but you can also go for a modern and chic look with metallic colors like gold, rose gold, and silver. When choosing your color scheme, be sure to consider the look and feel of the room where your tree will be placed, and choose colors that complement the decor.

Step 2: Add Lights

Once you have your color scheme, it is time to add lights to your tree. Use a mix of strings of lights with different levels of brightness and colors to create depth and interest. Start from the bottom of the tree, and work your way up, ensuring that each light is evenly spaced and distributed. For a classic look, use warm white lights, or for a modern twist, you can use colored LEDs.

Step 3: Add Garland

After the lights have been added, it’s time to add garland to your tree. Garland comes in many different textures and materials, and the choice in your material can influence the look and feel of your tree. You can choose from traditional garlands, such as tinsel and popcorn, or you can get creative and use unconventional garlands such as ribbons, beads or even feathers. Start from the top of the tree, and work your way down to the bottom, spacing out the garland evenly and twisting it around branches.

Step 4: Add Ornaments

Now it’s time to add the ornaments to your tree. Purchase a mix of different shapes, sizes, and textures to create a visually appealing display. If you have chosen a metallic theme, add metallic ornaments to complement that scheme – it will really add a pop of elegance and glamor. Starting at the top of the tree, hang your most significant ornaments first in pairs or clusters, then fill in with the smaller ornaments. Be sure to space out each ornament so that they are visible and not cluttered together.

Step 5: Add a Tree Topper

Finally, complete the look of your tree with a beautiful tree topper. Choose a tree topper that coordinates with the theme of your tree and fits the scale of your 7-foot tree. It could be a simple but luxurious-looking bow, a traditional star, an elegant angel, or an eclectic topper that complements the rest of your decorations. Place the tree topper on the tree’s peak and adjust if needed.

In conclusion, decorating your 7-foot artificial Christmas tree does not have to be a daunting task. With some planning and creativity, you can create an elegant and cohesive look with unique personalized touches that reflect your family’s personality. Follow these simple steps, and you are sure to create a stunning centerpiece for your holiday celebrations. Happy decorating!

Twelfth Night: An Intriguing Exploration of the Intersection of Religion, Culture, and Literature at the Smithsonian Libraries

Twelfth Night is one of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays. Its comical yet tragic nature has intrigued audiences for centuries. Twelfth Night was written in 1601 and was first performed at the close of the Christmas season, which is why it is named after the twelfth night of Christmas festivities.

One of the most unique aspects of Twelfth Night is its gender bending plot. The story follows the character Viola, who is shipwrecked on the coast of Illyria. Disguised as a man and calling herself Cesario, Viola becomes the servant of Duke Orsino, who is in love with the Countess Olivia. Olivia, however, falls in love with Cesario instead of Orsino, leading to a host of comedic and tragic misunderstandings.

Twelfth Night is not only a play about love and its illusions, but it also explores themes of identity, social class, and gender roles. Shakespeare’s portrayal of Viola as both a woman and a man challenges traditional gender norms and highlights the absurdity of societal expectations placed upon individuals. The play also touches upon the misuse of power and the consequences of making hasty decisions without considering their impacts.

The Smithsonian Libraries is home to numerous resources related to Shakespeare and Twelfth Night. One of the most notable items is a first folio copy of the play, which was printed in 1623, seven years after Shakespeare’s death. The Smithsonian’s first folio copy is special because it is one of only 234 known copies in existence.

Another valuable resource is a 1607 edition of Plautus’ play Amphitruo. Twelfth Night is believed to have been influenced by both Plautus’ Amphitruo and the Italian play Gl’Ingannati (The Deceived Ones). The Smithsonian’s copy of Amphitruo is an example of the types of plays that Shakespeare would have been familiar with and uses for inspiration.

A Journey Through the Intersection of Religion, Culture, and Literature With Twelfth Night at the Smithsonian Libraries

Additionally, the Smithsonian Libraries houses various scholarly articles and books that explore the influences, themes, and historical context of Twelfth Night. One such book is Twelfth Night: A Guide to the Play by Neil King. This book delves into the play’s complex themes and provides insight into the historical context in which it was written and performed.

The Smithsonian Libraries’ collection of Twelfth Night resources not only provides valuable insights into the play itself but also allows for a deeper understanding of Shakespeare as a writer and his contributions to literature. By exploring the influences and historical context of Twelfth Night, scholars and enthusiasts alike can gain a greater appreciation for Shakespeare’s unique style and his ability to create enduring works of art that continue to captivate audiences after centuries.

In conclusion, Twelfth Night is a timeless play that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day. By exploring the resources available at the Smithsonian Libraries, we can gain a greater understanding of the play’s themes and the historical context in which it was written. Twelfth Night’s exploration of gender, identity, and the misuse of power remains relevant and thought-provoking, and Shakespeare’s masterful storytelling continues to captivate and delight audiences after centuries.

The Origins of Twelfth Night and Its Culinary Traditions

Twelfth Night, also known as What You Will, is a play written by the great William Shakespeare. It was first performed in 1601-1602, and has remained a timeless classic since then. This comedy of errors revolves around love, mistaken identity, and gender bending characters. It was first printed in the First Folio in 1623, seven years after Shakespeare’s death.

The play is set in the mythical land of Illyria, and it tells the story of Viola, who washes up on its shores and, believing her twin brother has drowned, decides to disguise herself as a man in order to be able to serve Duke Orsino. Meanwhile, the Duke, who is in love with Olivia, sends Viola-Cesario as an emissary to deliver his love letters. However, Olivia falls in love with Viola, while Viola herself falls for the Duke. Hilarity, confusion, and miscommunication ensue, leading to a happy ending for everyone involved.

Twelfth Night was written near the end of the Elizabethan era, which was known to be a time of great creative output in the field of literature, music, and theater. As such, it was a time of great innovation and experimentation, with new styles and genres emerging all over the place.

In Twelfth Night, Shakespeare showcases his mastery of comic timing, witty puns, and melodic verse. It contains some of the most famous lines in English literature, such as “If music be the food of love, play on” and “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”

Twelfth Night Around the World

The Smithsonian Libraries has a wealth of resources that help us understand the context in which Twelfth Night was created, and its significance in world literature. For example, it has a copy of the First Folio of 1623, which contains the first printing of the play. It also has various annotated editions of the play, which allow us to see the different interpretations and adaptations that it has undergone over the years. Additionally, it has books on Elizabethan theatre, music, and literature, which give us a broader appreciation of the cultural milieu in which Shakespeare operated.

One interesting fact about Twelfth Night is that its original title refers to the traditional occasion of the Twelfth Night, which was an important holiday in the Tudor era. It was celebrated on January 5th, the twelfth day after Christmas, and marked the end of the Christmas season. It was a time of merrymaking, feasting, and revelry, with people dressing up in costumes and engaging in all sorts of shenanigans.

In conclusion, Twelfth Night is a masterpiece of English literature, and Shakespeare’s genius is apparent in every scene. It continues to delight audiences to this day, and its themes of identity, love, and gender fluidity are just as relevant now as they were in the Elizabethan era. The Smithsonian Libraries provide us with valuable insights into the context in which Shakespeare wrote, and how his work has influenced and been influenced by the world around him.

The Origins of Christmas Wreaths and Garlands: A Journey through Time

When it comes to Christmas decorations, nothing quite beats the charm and warmth of holiday wreaths and garlands. These spherical bouquets of evergreen leaves, adorned with bows, candy canes, and festive ornaments, are not only visually stunning but also steeped in history and symbolism. From ancient Roman times to modern-day Christmas celebrations, wreaths and garlands have been a vital part of the holiday season. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history and symbolism of these beloved decorations, unveiling the stories behind the wreaths and garlands that add so much cheer to our homes during this special time of year.

Going back in time, wreaths have always been meaningful symbols, from the times of ancient Greece and Rome to modern-day Christmas festivities. In ancient Greece, wreaths were given as prizes for athletic victories, and in Rome, they were hung on doors as a status symbol or given as gifts on special occasions, such as weddings. The use of wreaths to celebrate holidays and special events has continued throughout history, evolving to become a popular Christmas tradition.

The use of evergreen leaves in wreaths can also be traced back to ancient times when people attributed mystical properties to evergreen trees. People believed that evergreens could ward off evil spirits, and so they used them as decoration and protection during the winter months. The Christian faith adopted the use of evergreens, specifically holly and mistletoe, for Christmas decorations, with holly symbolizing the crown of thorns that Jesus wore during his crucifixion and mistletoe as a symbol of peace and goodwill.

Traditional Materials and Techniques: Crafting Beautiful Wreaths and Garlands

As the popularity of wreaths grew, so too did the variety of themes and materials used to create them. Today, holiday wreaths come in numerous shapes and sizes, often featuring a mix of natural and artificial elements such as ribbons, flowers, berries, and pine cones.

Garlands, similarly to wreaths, have a captivating history and symbolism around their use. Dating back to ancient Rome, garlands made of evergreens, flowers, and ribbons were also used to adorn homes, temples, and public spaces during festivals and celebrations. In fact, the word “garland” comes from the Old English word “gyrelaunde,” which means “crown made of gold.”

Garlands have also been used in Christian churches and homes as decorations during the Christmas season. Strung with evergreens, red bows, and delicate lights, garlands are often used to adorn staircases, mantels, and windowsills, casting a warm and festive glow throughout the home. The use of garlands and wreaths has been a practice for centuries, and it is impressive how it remains relevant even today.

In conclusion, wreaths and garlands have been a significant part of Christmas celebrations for thousands of years, rich in symbolism and history. Today, they are beloved decorations that add warmth, charm, and cheer to our homes during the holiday season. As you adorn your home with wreaths and garlands, take a moment to appreciate the stories and symbolism behind these cherished decorations, reminding us of our rich history and the wonderful traditions we continue to celebrate.

Explore the World of Glass Ornaments: A Journey Through Nature’s Beauty

Glass ornaments are an exquisite way to bring the beauty of nature into your home. From flowers and birds to oceanic wonders, glass artists have created stunning pieces that capture the essence of the natural world. Whether you are looking for a unique way to decorate your home or searching for the perfect gift for a nature lover, glass ornaments are a wonderful choice.

Flowers that Blossom Forever: The Timeless Beauty of Glass Flower Ornaments

One of the most popular subjects for glass ornaments is flowers. Glass artists use a variety of techniques to create these delicate and detailed pieces. Some artists use lampworking, a technique that involves heating small rods of glass with a torch and shaping them into intricate designs. Others use fusing, which involves layering different pieces of glass together and heating them in a kiln until they fuse together. The result is a stunningly lifelike flower that can be displayed on a shelf, in a vase, or as part of a larger glass art piece.

Birds in Flight: The Mesmerizing World of Glass Bird Ornaments

Birds are another popular subject for glass ornaments. Whether you love the vibrant colors of a parrot or the sleek lines of a hummingbird, there is a glass bird ornament that will capture your attention. Glass artists use a range of techniques to create these pieces, from etching and engraving to painting and layering different colors of glass.

Oceanic Wonders: The Mystical World of Glass Ocean Ornaments

If you prefer more aquatic themes, glass artists have created a range of oceanic wonders that are sure to delight. From shimmering schools of fish to graceful sea turtles, you can find a glass ornament that captures the beauty of the ocean. Some artists even create larger pieces, such as intricate glass bowls that showcase a stunning underwater scene.

Of course, glass ornaments aren’t limited to just these themes. Glass artists have also created pieces that capture the beauty of trees, insects, and other natural wonders. Some artists even create abstract pieces that are inspired by natural forms and colors, resulting in stunning abstract art that evokes the beauty of the natural world.

One of the great things about glass ornaments is that they are versatile. They can be displayed individually, as part of a larger glass art piece, or as part of a larger collection. Because each piece is unique, they also make for excellent gifts. You can give a glass flower to a friend who loves gardening or a glass bird to a birdwatcher. You can even build a collection of glass ornaments for yourself or someone else, adding to it over time as you discover new pieces.

In addition to their aesthetic beauty, glass ornaments also have historical significance. Glassmaking has been around for thousands of years, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Over time, the art of glassmaking spread around the world, with different cultures developing their own unique techniques and styles. Today, glassmaking is still an important art form, and glass artists continue to innovate and create stunning pieces inspired by nature and beyond.

In conclusion, glass ornaments are a beautiful way to capture the beauty of nature and bring it into your home. From flowers and birds to oceanic wonders and beyond, glass artists have created stunning pieces that showcase the natural world. Whether you are a collector, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique way to decorate your home, glass ornaments are a wonderful choice that will bring joy and wonder for years to come.