For more than a decade, the monumental—and super fun—job of decorating The Garlands of Barrington for the holidays has been in the capable and creative hands of The Red Geranium Gift shop team.
“It is truly a family affair,” says Cindy Baldocchi, The Garlands Interior Design Services Coordinator, who’s sister-in-law, Lori Siemon, owns the gift shop. “We come together every year on the weekend after Thanksgiving to decorate. It takes a team of 15, which includes husbands, sisters-in-law, daughters, sons, nieces, nephews and boyfriends, to create the magic.”
Décor Details
- 100 timers keep the holiday lights shining bright from 8am to 9pm daily
- 100 wrapped presents with bows glisten underneath trees, shine in sleighs and decorate cabinets
- Approximately 50 decorative accessories beautify every nook and cranny, consisting of Santa’s, snowmen, angels, leaping deer and carolers
- 44 Centerpieces throughout The Garlands adorn tables and sideboards
- 15 lighted wreaths with approximately 3,400 lights and 6 decorated wreaths enhance walls and windows
- 37 swags with 97 electric candles and 5,500 white lights that glow on sideboards and in windows
- 14 holiday pictures hang on the walls from jolly Santa’s to wintery snowman and traditional poinsettias
- 30 lighted snowflakes shine bright in windows around campus
- 4 Nativity sets and 4 Menorahs throughout The Garlands honor the religious holidays
- 140 snowflakes hang from the ceilings in our hallways, windows and dining rooms
- 146 holiday centerpieces adorn our dining tables
- 6 lighted reindeer, horse and carriage, snowman and lighted snowflakes in the courtyard
- One perfectly lit Santa’s sleigh with Santa’s toy sack and presents sets the backdrop for priceless family photos
