Everyone loves a nice wreath on the front door and some stockings on the staircase, but with a bit of holiday cheer and seasonal inspiration, you can create completely unique decorations that will make your home the most festive one on the block. Here are some holiday décor ideas to try this year.

1. Create a berry branch centerpiece. Instead of purchasing pricey flowers and struggling to arrange them before guests arrive, simply step outside and gather some branches for a more rustic centerpiece. If you prefer something more colorful, try berry branches instead.
2. Don’t forget the doorway. Greet guests before they even get inside by decorating your doorway with evergreen garland, fresh poinsettias and a bright red bow.
3. Add lanterns. Arrange some vintage lanterns in shades of red, silver and black at the entrance to your home. If you place them inside you can fill them with tall pillar candles, or you can even use flameless candles if you put them outside.
4. Deck the pendant lights. If your kitchen has hanging pendant lights, wrap them with festive garland or even tinsel for a festive look.
5. Add colorful candy dishes. Create candy dishes that are just as pretty as they are tasty by filling a clear bowl or vase with striped peppermint candies.

13 Stylish Holiday Decorating Ideas [Real Simple]
11 Easy Holiday Decorating Tips from Top Bloggers [House Beautiful]
101 Fresh Christmas Decorating Ideas [Southern Living]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/Patrick M Burke

Long before vegetarianism and veganism went mainstream, Mother's Cafe was already on board. It opened in Austin back in 1980 with a completely meat-free menu. Plant-based eating may be commonplace today, but back then, this eatery was blazing a new trail.

Perhaps that's why it's continued to thrive in the years since; vegetarians and vegans know that they can count on a fresh, carefully prepared meal here. Even if you're a meat-eater, you'll still be able to appreciate the fact that Mother's uses healthy ingredients such as non-GMO canola oil and offers purified water (which chefs also use when cooking). Locals suggest you try the Bueno burger, which showcases a patty made of veggies, grains, seeds, and tofu tucked inside a vegan whole-wheat sesame bun with tomato, pickle, red onion, and lettuce. Add vegan cheese or guacamole for some extra flavor. The artichoke enchiladas are a big hit, too, so opt for these if you're craving something spicy.

Mother's Cafe
4215 Duval Street
Austin, TX 78751
(512) 451-3994
www.motherscafeaustin.com
www.yelp.com/biz/mothers-cafe-and-garden-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr regan76

We hope everyone has a wonderful day celebrating with family and friends! What are you thankful for this year?