2016 Nov 23
By Ruvinie Machado
Christmas is just lurking around the corner.
In fact, its subtle near-presence can be felt by even those who harbour a little disdain for the mushy warmth of the season itself. The sound of carols, the smell of pine, the gluttonous taste of rich cake – just a few thoughts that provoke the mind to drown in nostalgia.
The festivities however, would be nothing without the décor. To deck the halls is, in most cases to carry on family tradition.
Whether you leave the kids to do the decorating or you prefer to do it yourself with Mariah Carey playing in the back drop, to make the festive season a little less of a burden; here is a list of the best places to get your Christmas décor:
Odel
Odel, although deemed as a pricey stop, does have a rather exclusive variety of decor. If your family tradition – as I know many families do – entails you to add a new piece to your pre-existing collection of deco each year, you are bound to find something a little unusual – and perhaps even a little abstract here.
Paradise road
Like Odel, they offer a variety of unique and abstract Christmas décor. It’s not exactly easy on the wallet, but the somewhat localized feel to the baubles and trinkets – like miniature choir rope trees – does make it seem worth the money.
Arpico
Arpico is, as many people associate with the tagline, the one stop shop for all your needs. Reasonable on your wallet and boasting quite a variety, you are bound to find whatever you are looking for here. Décor wise, their expansive collection of baubles never fails to disappoint. A plus point: they now offer home delivery.
House of Fashion, Borella
Since their move from R. A. De Mel Mawatha to Borella, House of Fashion has expanded the variety of things they offer; including décor. From Nativity sets to fairy lights and candles, House of Fashion has an interesting collection of décor. However, with thick crowds and the prices being reasonable, the possibility of purchasing common pieces of décor is quite high.
Pop-up sales and fairs
SLECC annually hosts Santastic, a family fair just for the season, and although they have a general selection of stalls, you are bound to find some selling décor and lights just for the festivities. (This year, it will be held from the 14th – 24th of December)
Studio Stitch in Rajagiriya also offers some customized décor for the season. You can give in orders or even take part in workshops they offer, to make your own décor. If visiting their studio happens to be a little inconvenient, they will be having a stall at the Good Market throughout the month of December. (The Good Market takes place every Saturday at the Colombo Racecourse Car Park).
You can also find a seasonal pop-up sale at 26/1 Col T. G. Jayawardena Mawatha, Colombo 3. Dubbed, Daya Perera’s Christmas Décor, the little outlet offers good quality décor at affordable prices. (If you wish to inquire more about their supply, call them up on +94712283414 or +94112573972.)
Tip: Have an eye out for more pop-up sales. You are always bound to find something a little unusual to add to your collection of ornaments.
Pettah
Pettah is the stop for the tight budgeted. Titus stores on main street (they also have a branch at Liberty Plaza) usually specializes in houseware, but during the holiday season you can find a selection of wreaths and poinsettias in a variety of sizes costing between Rs. 35 – Rs. 80 per flower.
If you don’t mind the rush, shoving and shouting, take a stroll down either China Street or 2nd Cross Street, where you can find street vendors and small boutiques along the pavement selling synthetic trees, streamers, and fairy lights at whole sale prices – décor heaven. A piece of advice, do arm yourself with some skillful bargaining phrases to ensure that you strike the best deals possible.
If this list does not suffice, and if you happen to be the lazy shopper with a grace period for shipment, eBay will make your life a lot easier.
On the other hand, if you’re short of time, a quick trip to a craft store (like Srina Palace), a little inspiration from Pinterest and you could be the proud owner of some DIY Christmas décor.
All in all, decorating the tree and hanging up lights should be fun affairs. So, a little less stress on the details and the fever of the festivities are bound to catch on easily.
