celebrating the holidays with west elm

when i think about the holidays and our family traditions, the first thing that comes to mind is gathering around the table. whether its our big thanksgiving meal, christmas eve dinner, or our christmas day brunch, its the gathering and sharing a meal together that really makes the holiday season special.

for us, dinner together every night at 6 just didn't happen...so i knew these meals were extra special and certainly not to be taken for granted. my mom would spend all day in the kitchen cooking, and then she'd pull out the china, silver, and crystal glasses [you know, that expensive stuff that hides out in the cabinets and collects dust 11 out of 12 months of the year].  and if i can be honest, these evenings together totally made up for all of the dinners missed during the year. now as i'm older, it's my goal to create that same atmosphere for my own holiday spread. if there's one thing i have learned, it's to never underestimate the power of dimmed lights and candles. that's why i love these candles and votives so from west elm so much [pictured above]. they add just the right amount of elegance and holiday cheer i'm looking for.

when i was browsing west elm, i couldn't help but notice the adorable gifts they have available, like this diy book above. giving gifts has always been another favorite of mine around the holidays. i've never been a big birthday person. this, i will note, totally backfired when all i got for my husband on his birthday was a few v-neck tees. whoops. but when i think about gift giving, i really think about christmas. i get giddy with excitement over personalized gifts for each family member and close friend. so if you're stumped on what to give this year, check out west elm. and to find even more exciting products, also be sure to check out west elm market. i'm in love with their "oh kale yeah" t-shirt. adorable, right!? [take note husband, mom, anyone...] you're bound to find a little something for everybody.

what are your favorite holiday memories and traditions!? i'd love to hear!

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*This post is sponsored by West Elm, but all opinions are my own.