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THE ENGLISH HOME 99Set an inviting mood with the golden glowof decorative Christmas lights and theenticing twinkle of softly flickering candles### 99 THE ENGLISH HOMECLOCKWISE FROM TOPThe tradition of hanging candleson Christmas trees has long gone,however, battery-operated candlelights give a similar look.10 mini battery Christmas treecandle lights, £4.99, Lights4funIt may not be advisable to placethem on the tree, but candles stilloffer a wonderfully festive glowwhen held within a candelabra.Eden Tree candelabra, £48,Rowen & Wren``````Remember to illuminate outdoorareas as well as interiors.Pin lights, £37.95, Red LillyA mix of candles and decorativelights create an opulententertaining space. Here, awreath lights up a shady area.All items, Laura AshleyThis rustic wreath would make alovely feature in a country kitchen.Root star wreath with pealights, £24.95, Not on theHigh Street.comDecorative lighting is an essential aspect of thecelebrations; it sets the scene and invests rooms witha warm, atmospheric mood. Depending on the typeof lighting used, and where it is placed, the overall effect canbe altered with great ease. For example, on a quiet eveningbefore the main festivities begin, a cosy nostalgic mood canbe simply evoked with soft candlelight – a quintessentialaccompaniment to gentle carols and a glass of mulled wine.Conversely, for Christmas parties or gatherings, layers of lightingare an impressive way to offset other decorations. Each of thefollowing examples demonstrates how versatile temporary lightscan be, and how beautifully magical lighting captures theChristmas spirit. Just remember that candles are best used whensafely guarded and should never be left unattended when lit. 10 FESTIVELIGHT IDEASTEH UK DEC15 Festive Lighting.indd 99 14/10/2015 11:13