Christmas in Cape May

While famous as one of the oldest summer seaside resorts on the East Coast, Cape May, New Jersey is also a delightful place to visit long after the temperature starts to drop.
I recently paid a quick visit to this charming Victorian destination for a fun winter girl's getaway (leaving flip flops and swimsuits behind), and thoroughly enjoyed experiencing this unique town decked out in its holiday splendor.

In December many historic inns and private houses open for tours; beautifully decorated and brimming with ideas and inspiration for celebrating Christmas by the sea.

clockwise from top: a starfish tree perched on a porch gives a nod to the sea and a traditional fruit wreath might have adorned the same house a century ago. (exterior private residences)

Antique toy animals in shades of ivory perch on a mantle and old skates hold a spray of greens (both The Cherry House c1849) Touches of beach grass accent one of the many window boxes along Ocean Drive

Shell and Sea Glass Christmas Tree

 

I saw many lovely shell and sea glass holiday ornaments, decorative accents and mini Christmas trees in the lovely boutiques in Cape May but with a little patience, you can make your own version using just a few simple supplies.

You'll need

Clear Plastic cups or clear plastic cone used for doll making

(They were sold out of Doll forms at my craft store so I resorted to a DIY)

Assorted shells, moss, faux pearls and sea glass

Flameless votives

Sand and/or snow

Seaside accessories 

If using plastic cups as a base, start creating tree shape by turning one cup upside down. 

Trim rim and base off of 2-3 other cups and cut all the way up side so you have an flexible section of plastic.

 Form sections into gradually smaller cones, taping securely. (This takes a bit of trial and error.)

Sections can then be stacked and taped together creating a cone shape.

 I taped the middle section only on one side so it could be hinged open and a flameless votive can be easily layered onto the first cup as well as placed underneath for extra lighting.

Using hot glue, arrange shells, moss, pearls and sea glass to cover cone, assuring sure middle section can still be hinged open if desired.

Top with a starfish and let glue harden completely!

Your tree can simply be set in a layer of sand arranged on a tray, plate or cake stand but I chose a lantern for a nautical setting (ikea shoppers will recognize it - I simply spritzed a couple of sections before assembling with hammered copper spray paint) Arrange sand, shells and accessories, popping flameless votives in the tree for holiday glow.

for more about Cape May pop over and visit our post

 Tea by the Sea 

Wishing Everyone a Magical Holiday Season!