newly {wed}nesday:: 'the stockings were hung'

First Christmases are a special time for newlyweds. Though this year isn't our first Christmas, it is the first time we are hosting the holiday at our home. The tree is trimmed, the lights are strung, but I feel there are still a few personal touches needed to make our family feel most welcome.

What's missing? Stockings! You know the kind, "Twas the night before Christmas,...The stockings were hung by the chimney with care." How inviting to walk in and see your name on a stocking hung along a mantle or bannister?!

If you're looking to add a personal touch to your holiday decor this year don't overlook the stockings. These handmade Christmas stockings by Martha Stewart would be fun to make, but how to choose? They are all so charming.

spell it out with garland

give them naming rights

reuse hankerchiefs or linens from your wedding or former holiday gatherings

More stocking ideas.