
Thanksgiving presents the perfect opportunity to create a festive home atmosphere although the outside world in Southern California hardly changes during the fall season. Patina Gifts at 957 Turquoise St. is an ideal place for browsing to find inspiration on decorating the house. Owner Barbara Holz has a few suggestions and a treasure trove of trimmings to brighten up an entranceway, table, corner or window. Holz recommends bringing the traditional fall colors of the season inside to warm the house when the outside world shows little change. Throw a red-leaved wreath on the door; hang a berry-filled garland around the staircase; sit a cinnamon-spiced candle in the corner. Keep the children busy with turkey and pilgrim window stickers. Tired of your old tablecloth? Creative alternatives include scattering French parchment leaves across the table or tucking them under guests’ plates. Patina also sells a beautiful, unique Swedish tablecloth decorated with poppies in soft hues of red, orange and purple for those who want a more subtle appeal. Holz advises against throwing out the pumpkins with Halloween. A variety of ornate, petite pumpkins and gourds are available at the farmer’s markets like the olive gem squash, bright orange traditional pumpkin and the Monet-hued Blue Hubbard – blue with a splash of sunset. Finally, don’t forget to honor your hosts for all their hard work and hospitality with a gift. Holz likes the idea of bringing a festive guest towel or soap, but her book on 49 stuffing recipes seems fun – and they’ll fondly remember this Thanksgiving next year when they pull out the book.