“An Evening with Christian” – This play on Fifty Shades of Grey design by Keith Johnson at Blacklion won the President’s Award for Best Overall Design. This one set the scene well with some not so obvious risque props incorporated into the design.

The North Mecklenburg Woman’s Club recently held their Over the Tabletop and Sip and Shop at The Peninsula Club. Over the last 100 years, this organization has brought together women to promote and support social, educational and civic progress in our community. Members believe that in creating a better life for people in our communities, we create a better life for each other. The club spends all year long raising funds only to give it all away at the end of the year and starts over again the following year.

Over the Tabletop is just one of many fundraising events and it showcases the talent of many local interior designers and small business owners. In addition to their design contest, there was also a very well attended silent auction and Sip and Shop consisting of thirty local vendors and artisans selling their merchandise in anticipation of the upcoming holiday season. This was our first time participating in the event and I must say I was impressed!

The designs by professionals and amateurs alike were amazing and I wanted to feature several designs and winners here to inspire you this holiday season.

“There’s No Business Like Snow Business” by Realtor and amateur designer Dana Greshko won the Holiday Spirit Award for Holiday Design Excellence. The snowman place settings were so adorable!

“Have Your Elf a Merry Little Christmas” was created by woman’s club volunteer and event coordinator Barbara Kasprzak.