December 2023

Scents & Sensibility

THIS IS PRIMARILY A VISUAL MAGAZINE. Not that the words aren't, important, but we editors and art directors take pride in how much time we spend planning the photo shoots and imagery that make Better Homes & Gardens such a feast, for the eyes. For this issue, however, I wish we could've employed scrateh-and-sniff technology because many of these stories would smell absolutely amazing-- just, like our memories of the holidays.

Joy to the World

It's the happiest season, but sometimes ail the hustle and bustle can be, well, a killjoy. Here's how we reconnect with the spirit of the holidays when stress creeps in.

Paint Goals Color Forecast

Quality Picks Worth the Buy

Sweepstakes $25,000 Holiday Help

Let's Eat Food Trend Predictions

To-Do List Holiday Hosting

Holiday Gift Guide

There are gifts that fill a practical need (thanks for the socks. Mom). and then there are those that dazzle. Here, we present 68 items that do both. These beautiful yet useful gifts are the kinds of things the people on your list might not splurge on for themselves but will reach for-- and be delighted by-- every day.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

The menorah is the centerpiece of the Hanukkah celebration. These modern options it delicate shapes and unexpected materials shine bright.

LET IT SNOW

A flurry of paper creations sparks delight for a budget-- conscious homeowner who picked up her scissors-- and couldn't put them down.

Putting away the holidays

Take some extra care when packing up your seasonal decor this year, and your next year's self will thank you. Try these strategies for storing it all the smart way.

Winter Wonders

Thank nature for some of the season's most spectacular ornaments-- bulbs that are ready to be coaxed into bloom indoors. Here are three ways to turn them into the stars of a festive display.

Around the Kwanzaa Table

At his Bronx, NY, home, artist and stylist John Goodman brings meaningful, stylish touches to his celebration of this African American cultural holiday.

I Did It!

An artistic homeowner displays her holiday spirit with illuminated layered silhouettes that cast a captivating glow on her California neighborhood.

All the TRIMMINGS

After thoughtfully renovating their 1920s Virginia home, this family of four decks its halls and enlivens its traditional bones with their magical, maximalist holiday designs.

Out of THE BOX

THE MATERIALS ARE HUMBLE AND THE TECHNIQUES ARE SIMPLE. BUT THESE HANDMADE GIFT TOPPERS-- WHICH CAN PERFORM AN ENCORE AS ORNAMENTS-- ARE ANYTHING BUT BASIC.

Christmas in FULL COLOR

Designer Monica Burt turns her home into a holiday extravaganza with a spectrum of super saturated hues and a heaping dose of joyfully bright pink.

All Spruced Up

PINECONES MAY BE A HOLIDAY CLASSIC, BUT ODDS ARE, YOU'VE NEVER SEEN THEM LIKE THIS.

Out of the Box

1. Trace the template twice onto each color of foil paper; cut out (you should have four circles, two in each color). On the back side of each circle, mark the fold lines where indicated on the template and score all lines with the scoring stylus.

Let It Snow

1. Place a bag on a work surface, bottom flap nearest to you. Cut the top corners of the bag in a curved or triangular shape, meeting at the top center; don't cut the flap area.

All Spruced Up

1. Spray-paint pinecones and wreath form; let dry.

In the Know

30 GRAMS (about an ounce) of nuts per day can reduce the risk of developing depression by 17%. What does 30 g look like? A small handful-- the exact amount will vary with nut size.

Prue Leith

Chef and judge on The Great British Baking Show