Behind the Design: The Pinecone Candle Lantern

After Halloween, it's time to start planning my annual holiday tradition—watching all the Christmas movies I have and adding a few more to my collection. While Chief Worker Bee is solidly Irish, I bring a healthy dose of Scottish charm into the season. It starts with bringing a piece of Scotland into my home... (he has no idea I'm doing this). This year, I'm adding the Hallmark movie, "A Merry Scottish Christmas," to my collection. Before watching, here’s how I go about transforming my living space into a cozy Scottish haven, setting the perfect scene for a festive movie night.

The Magic of Scottish Christmas Decor

First things first: decorations! A Scottish Christmas calls for rich traditions, colors, and a touch of the Highlands' rustic charm. Here’s how I deck the halls:

1. Tartan Everything

The heart of Scottish decor is tartan—those iconic plaid patterns associated with various clans. I’m not about to run out and purchase tons of tartan just for the holidays, but I do have a beautiful hand-loomed wool blanket in the classic Campbell tartan that is both festive and authentically Scottish. So that comes down to the living room. I have four plaid napkins that come out at this time of year.

2. Thistles

Adding a touch of the Scottish Highlands is simple with native flora. I place sprigs of thistles and heather in vases and wreaths. Not only do these add a natural touch, but they also symbolize protection and good luck, essential for a joyous holiday season. Of course, my Scottish Thistle Lantern will be lit. In both sizes, I have it in my kitchen on the island in black walnut. I keep it in the living room with the Snowflake and the Pinecone as well, all in oak.

3. Stag Antlers and Pewter

Chief Worker Bee loves a bit of pewter, and we have goblets from many of our holidays. I even have a set of candle stick holders with stag antlers (I think they are not real stag but they look real enough for me). These set the scene of Scotland's rich cultural tapestry in suburban Oakville, lol.

4. Scottish Shortbread and Whisky

What’s a Scottish Christmas without some shortbread? My best friend Glenda (who I designed the Pineapple lantern for) makes amazing shortbread straight out of the Five Roses Cookbook. It’s not the most Scottish version of shortbread, but I’m happy to nosh. And, of course, some fine Scotch whisky. These treats are perfect for snacking while watching the movie and add an authentic taste of Scotland to the evening.

Setting Up for the Movie

When it’s time to kick back for the movie night itself, it will be solo—unless I can get a girlfriend to join me. Basically, "A Merry Scottish Christmas" is a little too wholesome for him. He prefers Die Hard.

1. Cozy Seating

I get my tartan blanket and cushions ready (the ones with the skating penguins). The goal is to create a warm, inviting space where I can relax and enjoy the movie... and that foot massager thing Chief Worker Bee bought me.

2. Highland-Inspired Snacks

I make the most amazing oatcakes— not traditional but better—and Scottish cheeses from my local purveyor. I have never made Scottish sweets like tablet and cranachan. In another post, I’ll reveal my (mother’s) oatcake recipe.

3. Atmosphere

I dim the lights and light a few candles in my lanterns to create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. The flickering candlelight adds a magical touch, reminiscent of a winter night in the Highlands.

The Movie: "A Merry Scottish Christmas"

I really watch this for the setting. Gorgeous landscapes of Scotland abound. The plot is obvious, but the scenes of snowy hills, charming villages, and ancient castles are relaxing. The story unfolds with plenty of touching moments, laughter, and a few tears—just what you’d expect from a Hallmark Christmas movie. And so I fall asleep pretty quickly. Perfect. Chief Worker Bee eventually wakes me up after finishing my scotch!

Reflection

Adding a bit of Scotland to our home for the holiday season is nice but still takes second place to some of Jim's Irish traditions. The combination of traditional decor, a wee dram, and way too many sappy movies gets me into the Christmas spirit. Whether you’re of Scottish heritage or simply an Outlander fan, adding a little tartan decor and Highland traditions is no bad thing for your holiday celebrations. "A Merry Scottish Christmas" is just one film to watch—even if it’s a little predictable. Here are a few more of my favorites:

• Sunshine on Leith (if you haven't seen it, The Proclaimers meet Mamma Mia)
• Love Actually - Yes, I know, but it never gets old
• Rare Exports - this one is DARK... the way Die Hard is a Christmas movie. It's obscure and in Finnish (with subtitles), but it’s great if you can find it.