The New New Year’s

While a typical New Year’s Eve might involve a night on the town, this year is more than a little different for everyone. But you can make the most of it with a glamorous night in, starting with decor. We spoke to interior designer Rajni Alex of Rajni Alex Design who shared festive tips to make your home a New Year’s haven with any kind of budget. 

(No) Sounds Of Silence

“At a time like this when your home is really your retreat, your entertainment area, everything, I think music is really important,” Alex says. Make a playlist in advance and set the mood with an uplifting party vibe to carry your guests – whether it’s your pod or just your family –until midnight or later. This is not the time for the news, in other words. “You want to shut out all of the negativity right at the door,” Alex says. 

Let There Be (Candle) Light

To elevate a tabletop without breaking the bank, Alex recommends stacking tea lights at different heights or using floating candles in tall glasses. For a splurge, go for flameless pillar candles. No matter which direction you choose, though, a collection is key for a chic visual. “The beauty of these candles really comes through when you do it in a collection,” Alex says. “I’m not saying do four, I’m saying do eight or 10 because then you really get that whole look.”

A Blooming Good Time

Another way to add style to your New Year’s decor is with flowers. Alex suggests local bougainvillea in vases at centerpiece height if you want to save, and orchids if you’re feeling fancy. You can also use palm fronds for placemats and faux flower garlands for centerpieces woven through with tiny LED lights. “You entwine them so there’s this really pretty glow on the table,” Alex says. 

No China Needed

For an easy cleanup, leave your fine china in its cabinet, Alex says. Instead, opt for fabulously designed paper plates, cups, and cocktail napkins – you don’t even have to go to the store for them because they're easy to find online at places like Target and Amazon. Choose an on-trend marbled style or even something splashed with gold for a little bit of New Year’s sparkle...and if there are any leftover, save them for next year!