Holiday decorating for dummies

(WTNH) - Tired of all the shopping, cooking, baking, and running around, but still haven't decorated the house? Try these quick and easy tips from Kelley Taylor, author of "Holiday Decorating for Dummies."

Taylor says a good place to start is with a centerpiece. Every table needs a little something to make it complete. This little decorator trick you see in magazines, on television, and in books is an inexpensive and quick way to add a little pizzazz to any room.

Taylor says you can add instant holiday to anything by the use of bows, whether they are used to top packages, as tree ornaments, or napkin rings.

If you are looking for great ways to spruce up home furnishings, use Taylor's secret to deck the halls with color and patterns.

Additionally, Taylor says to use seasonal art to cover up blank walls or replace photos and add to the holiday.

The following is a list of items Taylor suggests to keep in your decorators stash.

• Candles
• Tablecloths
• Faux greenery and berries
• Basic silver and gold ornaments
• Ribbon

For more ideas and tips on Holiday Decorating go online or visit Taylor's home on the Westport Historical Society Holiday House Tour , Sunday, December 4, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.