If the warm weather is making it difficult for you to get into the spirit of the season, I have the solution. Plan to attend the Historic Fredericksburg Foundation’s 42nd Annual Candlelight Tour this week-end, December 8 and 9. Spend the day in beautiful, historic Fredericksburg, Virginia. Enjoy guided tours of five professionally decorated historic homes, including Braehead Mansion, decorated by Merry Powell Interiors.

Greens native to Virginia adorn the mantels.

These are some of the finest homes in Fredericksburg bedecked in their holiday finery. Visit https://hffi.org/events/  for information on times, tickets, etc.

Thistle, the flower of Scotland, pays homage to the homeland of Braehead’s 19th century owners, the Howison family

Be sure to allow time for shopping in the historic district. You will find one-of-a-kind gifts in the galleries, antique stores or the Gift Shop for the Candlelight Tour. Grab a bite to eat in one of the many cafe’s and coffee shops. Enjoy the holiday street entertainment. Before you know it, you’ll be humming “Jingle Bells”!

Special thanks to my amazingly talented Design Team, volunteers Michelle Bristow, Jackie Mason and Grace Riley. Braehead is glowing with holiday light thanks to your hard work. I could never have completed this project without you.

Photos by Grace Riley