How We're Bringing Back #ChristmasAtHome Magic with #SMHome This Year

As a Gen X mom, I thought I was used to the rhythm of the seasons.

But every time September rolls in, I still get that unmistakable flutter because in the Philippines, the BER months mean one thing: Christmas is coming.

My kids, who once counted down the days with paper chains and holiday songs, are growing up faster than I expected. My second daughter, who is now in college, mentioned last week that she almost forgot it was already the BER months. That hit me hard. I understand that adulting has a way of pushing the magic aside. I reminded her that it’s okay, and that no matter how busy life gets, we’re still here to keep the joy alive as a family.

We haven’t put up our tree yet (yes, it’s October and no judgment, please!), we’ve had a few other things going on. But one thing we never skip is planning our yearly Christmas theme. From BTS ARMY purple to teddy bear wonderlands and color-coded elegance, every year is a new memory in the making. It’s our family tradition and this year, we found the perfect inspiration thanks to SM Home’s Santa’s Workshop.

Finding Fresh Holiday Inspiration at SM Home's Santa's Workshop

Last weekend, we headed to SM Home at SM Makati for their Santa’s Workshop event, and it was just the spark we needed. Walking into SM Home during the holidays always feels like stepping into a festive Pinterest board but only better, because you can actually touch, feel, and style everything yourself.

We explored beautifully curated themes like Crystal Wonderland, Golden Elegance, and Whimsical Holidays. Each one told a different story, and I found myself imagining our home transformed again, this time with a mix of cozy textures, glistening accents, and warm lights. Even my son, who pretends to be “too cool” for decor, will definitely pick out a few ornaments he will want to hang himself. Small moment, big heart melt.

Decorating Tips I’m Bringing Home

Here are a few decorating gems I picked up from the workshop that I’m excited to try this year:

Layer your lights: Combine warm fairy lights with classic string lights to create depth and warmth.

Create small vignettes: Instead of overloading one area, sprinkle the Christmas magic across your space, think coffee corners, entryway tables, and kitchen shelves.

Stick to a color story: Whether it’s icy blues or cozy golds, keeping to a cohesive palette makes everything look polished and intentional.

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A post shared by Erica Yu-B 🇵🇭 (@ericayub)

Building Traditions That Last

One of the best parts of growing up is creating magic for your own family, not just waiting for it to happen. That shift from wide-eyed kid to holiday “planner-in-chief” is something I wear with pride now. And honestly? SM Home makes it easier to turn that dream Christmas into a reality, no matter your space, style, or budget.

So if you haven’t felt the holiday spark yet, maybe it’s time to get out there and find it again. Visit SM Home at SM Makati, SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, or SM Cebu and see which collection brings out the magic in you. I promise, it’s more than just decor. It’s about finding joy again, one ornament at a time.