By Sarah Overall, Director of Minden Main Street & Economic Development | Owner, Sarah Overall Events
Photography by Hector Sanchez & Courtesy of Sarah Overall
I was raised in a Southern home where entertaining wasn’t reserved for special occasions—it was simply a way of life. My mother had a gift for bringing beauty and warmth to every gathering, from our perfectly matched holiday dresses to the coordinating bows on the Christmas tree. Every detail mattered, and I absorbed it all—watching her plan, prep, arrange, and pour her heart into making others feel welcome. And believe me, it was always a family affair, whether we wanted to be part of it or not.
My grandmother shared that same spirit, but she expressed it through food—Southern soul food served daily to family, neighbors, and whoever happened to walk through her door. Instead of scolding when we misbehaved, her warning was, “I’ll break your plate,” which was all the motivation any of us needed to get ourselves together.
From these two remarkable women, I learned that hospitality is not just hosting—it is care. It is love, expressed through intention.
As a teenager, I stepped into the world of events by working for a local caterer. I loved the energy, the creativity, the way every detail led to a moment. Later, in college, I helped plan holiday gatherings for my sorority, Phi Mu, and realized I had inherited that same eye and heart for hospitality. Creating spaces that made people feel something brought me joy.
Though I pursued a career in nursing—a calling I deeply respect—my creative side never quieted. Over time, I learned that nurturing people can happen in many forms: through thoughtful design, through styling, through a meal, through a moment. Whether I’m setting a holiday table, styling a photo shoot, or transforming a venue, I approach every detail with purpose—and always with heart.
Mixing Old and New Around the Home
Decorating for the holidays goes beyond the tree and the mantle – it captures the heart of the home, as well. The place where family and friends gather – around the table. When creating a holiday tablescape, I always encourage mixing the old with the new—because that’s where meaning lives. Start with one anchor piece: a special linen, a favorite set of china, a sentimental heirloom. Let that be your guide.
For instance, I knew I wanted to use my Spode Christmas Tree plates, but since the room already carried a lot of green, I brought in deep red velvet and natural textures to create warmth and balance. Linens matter—layering fabrics adds depth and softness. Velvet or satin ribbons, woven runners, and elegant napkins instantly elevate a table. The goal is not perfection—it’s feeling.
One of my favorite tablescapes was built around the beauty of the wood table itself. I skipped the full cloth and used a rich velvet runner, greenery, and gathered accents to enhance what was already there, not hide it.
Designing with Heart
Today, as a designer, stylist, and event planner, my goal is simple: to create meaningful moments through beautiful, intentional details.
When I walk into a space, the first things I notice are color, lighting, and layout. In homes, I layer textures and tones that feel cozy, not cluttered. A few thoughtfully chosen statement pieces—a styled mantel, a well-lit tree, a welcoming porch—can define the whole atmosphere.
For porches, I love playing with scale: oversized garlands, planters, lantern clusters, and soft lighting that make guests feel embraced before they even knock on the door. In commercial spaces, it’s about design that stands up to traffic and movement while still inviting warmth and wonder.
My design philosophy is to first understand the purpose then, tell the story and let the space make people feel something.
Tradition Meets Whimsy
Decorating my own home is where my roots and my creativity meet. Pulling out the holiday bins each year feels like opening a time capsule of memories. The nostalgia paired with something new helps create a look that feels both familiar and fresh. Last year, I decorated with vintage Shiny Brite ornaments from local antique shops—their soft shimmer reminded me of childhood magic. I loved it so much that I’ll be doing it again this year.
But holiday decorating is not just about my style—it’s about my family. My daughter has had themed trees of her very own, from Santa to full pink tinsel wonderlands. Every home should have a place where each person feels celebrated.
Creating Welcoming Holiday Designs
When I think about being home for the holidays, I think of warmth. The fragrance of a Frasier fir candle.
Soft, twinkling lights on the tree and mantle. Laughter echoing from the dining room table where we gather. Slowing the busy pace of life down, even just for a moment to savor precious moments and make memories that last a lifetime.
At the end of the day, creating a beautiful holiday home isn’t about extravagance—it’s about intention, connection, and heart. The goal is to make spaces that feel as welcoming as they look. That’s the kind of beauty that lingers long after the season ends.