By VOICE-TRIBUNE • Photos by Kathryn Harrington
Brenda Fleishman’s home during the holidays is nothing short of enchanting—a sparkling showcase of memories, creativity, and holiday spirit. Her festive decor is a culmination of years of collecting, customizing, and crafting a style uniquely her own. Each corner of her home tells a story, weaving together cherished moments from her travels with her husband Michael and her passion for holiday glamor.
For Brenda, holiday decorating begins with her extraordinary collection of “characters,” puppets, and sculptures, each with its own story. There’s a Santa riding a polar bear from Palm Springs, a whimsical rabbit puppet from a bike trip in France, and a charming jester picked up in a small Roman shop. These treasures, collected from destinations like Santa Fe, Brussels, Venice, and beyond, aren’t just holiday accents—they’re pieces of her home year-round, seamlessly incorporated into her holiday designs.
Decorating begins the first week of November, with Brenda dedicating over two weeks to transforming her home into a festive wonderland. Each piece is carefully stored in groupings—trees, mantles, buffets, and tablescapes. With the help of friends to lift and arrange the heavier pieces, Brenda ensures everything is perfectly placed. “It’s a lot of work,” she admits, “but the results are so enjoyable.”
While Brenda doesn’t craft her decor from scratch, she loves to enhance her pieces. Whether painting a train and adding whimsical passengers, embellishing a wooden deer with gold ceramic antlers and fairy riders, or even attempting to sew new clothes for a Santa figure from Victoria, Canada, her alterations add a distinctive flair. “I love anything that has glitz, sparkle, or lights up!” she shares.
Among her favorite pieces are a mechanical Ferris wheel and a Mark Roberts merry-go-round, adorned with fairies. These vintage treasures, sourced via eBay and lovingly delivered by a friend, are a hit with visitors. “Friends bring their grandchildren to see it all,” Brenda says, “Guests love to watch them.” These playful, animated displays capture the magic of the season, bringing joy to all who visit.
Brenda’s style is bold and glamorous, yet her advice suits every aesthetic: Stick to a consistent theme or color palette that compliments your space. Look for unique pieces year-round—some of the best finds come from unexpected sales in the summer. Don’t shy away from adding personal touches to store-bought items; a little creativity goes a long way.
From the glistening lights to the meaningful mementos, Brenda’s holiday decor is more than just beautiful—it’s personal. Her home radiates the joy of the season, reflecting her passion for celebrating in style and honoring the memories that make life special.
Whether it’s the Ferris wheel that delights her guests or the glittering characters that evoke memories of distant travels, Brenda’s decorations are a celebration of love, laughter, and the magic of the holidays.
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