A Golden Christmas

Amelia Ann takes decorating for Christmas to a whole new level.

- Melinda Murphy

“My middle name is Christmas,” laughs Amelia Ann as she stands bathed in the warm light from the thousands of festive lights dotting her living room. “In fact, I like Christmas so much that this house was built for it. When we designed the apartment, I made them put in a fake mantle so I’d have somewhere to put a swag.”

And what a swag it is. Amelia has woven together three different vines and then added white peacocks (made with real feathers), small, warm white LED lights, and champagne and gold-coloured ornaments.

Large crystal icicles hang down, too, along with a very special, vintage-like glass ornament she bought at the Salzburg Christmas markets.

“The markets were amazing, really exciting. Whenever I go into a Christmas shop, my hands start to tingle and my knees go weak. I need to look at everything and then my brain starts whirling, thinking about what I can do with everything. I often buy something now for later so I have it when opportunity pops up.”

How it all began

Amelia’s passion started when she decorated her first tree back in 2004. The next year, she entertained clients and friends for holiday drinks. The holiday party became an annual institution and, as the guest list grew, so did her Christmas collection.

This year, she decided to use her champagne and soft gold ornaments, but she also has a collection of red and bright gold ornaments and another silver colour scheme, too. She chooses which to use depending on her mood.