Christmas thoughts & ornaments to keep

A beautifully decorated and festive Christmas tree is one of the things that come with the Yuletide season. But with the tragedy that has befallen our country, and with numerous images of destruction, suffering and despair from the typhoon, those of us who have been unable to set up their trees before the big storm may be less eager to do so now. Hence, it might be beneficial to remember that the Christmas tree is a symbol of hope. It signifies a faith that current difficulties will be overcome and that we can look forward to happier days.

Folklore tells us that the tradition of decorating homes with Christmas trees and evergreens began in Europe. At a time when winters were long, food was scarce, and the cold proved fatal for a multitude, evergreens that were able to withstand freezing temperatures represented the fortitude to go on living. Likewise, they were believed to be inherently endowed with mystical qualities.  Because of this, evergreen boughs fashioned into wreaths, or even small trees, were brought inside homes to ward off illness and bad luck. More importantly, however, they were a reminder that spring was just around the corner. Trees were festooned with fruits, nuts and sweets so that spring, which is the season of rebirth, could be somehow encouraged to come sooner. And throughout the years, the craft of making Christmas tree decorations evolved so that the ornaments became exquisite works of art.

 â€œThe common belief is that the custom of decorating trees with man-made ornaments started at a time when the harvest was meager so that there were no fruits to decorate the trees,” shares Peter Fischer, co-owner of Briefing Home Collections. His company, which is based in Yverdon-les-Bains, Switzerland has manufactured premium Christmas décor since 1997. Fischer points out that as the world market becomes more exacting about aesthetics and quality, the concurrent demand for high-quality decorations is expected. He counts among his company’s customers well-travelled Filipinos with discerning design sensibilities. And indeed, the excellence of products by Briefing Home Collections makes these worthy to keep and pass on to the next generation.

“We don’t want to go too far away from the season’s most important colors of red and green,” says Fischer about the Christmas decorations made by Briefing Home Collections. The exquisite glass ornaments are hand-made. “Our philosophy is to serve quality-conscious customers a selection of high-quality items that are distinct from the usual mass market goods. This is why all items are individually crafted.” Apart from the usual Christmas baubles and tree decorations, the company commissions artisans from Eastern Europe (particularly the Czech Republic), India and even the Philippines to create delicate glass birds and figurines. While Fischer is appreciative of the artistry and craftsmanship of Filipinos (“In terms of aptitude for excellent design, you could liken Filipinos to the Italians.”), he points out that the hot and humid tropical climate is not conducive to glassmaking.

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Quality décor items by Briefing Home Collections are sold in special outlets all over the world. In the Philippines, they are exclusively available at Rustan’s stores in Makati, Shangri-La, Alabang, Gateway and Cebu.