Lucy is no stranger to the arts. Growing up in a family of artists and musicians, she has inherited a love for it that she now desires to impart to her children. She wants her family to see how beautiful the world can be through art.
The journey, however, wasn’t always moonlight and roses. There came a time when Lucy, with a heavy heart, had to put art aside. She continued to create but was hesitant to share her art with others because of a nagging fear that she wasn’t “good enough.”
Looking for an outlet for sharing her passion, Lucy began Craftberry Bush, a virtual diary for her and her children. Today, she has a better understanding and appreciation of art and the need to be open to feedback, both positive and negative, so that she can continue to grow as an artist and as an individual.
Balsam Hill spent time with Lucy and asked her a few questions about herself, her blog and how she plans to decorate her Norway Spruce artificial Christmas tree:
BH: How did you come up with the name of your blog? How has blogging changed your life?
Lucy: I used to make polymer clay ornaments and jewelry under the name Clayberry Bush. When I started my blog, I knew I wanted to focus on crafts and anything creative, so the name Craftberry Bush seemed appropriate.
BH: What are some holiday decorating do’s and don’ts you like to share with your readers?
Lucy: DO fill your home with items that evoke cherished memories. DO use natural elements such as birch logs, pine, boxwood, etc. DO think outside the box; never be afraid to mix the new with the old. DO make handmade ornaments.
DON’T follow trends just to fit in; not every new trend is a fit for everyone. DON’T compare your home to your neighbor’s; beautify your home as best you can, according to your own style, ability, and means.
BH: How would you describe your holiday decorating style? Are you more inclined to stick with the classics or do you like to experiment?
Lucy: I enjoy experimenting with new looks. However, I tend to stay true to my own style by making my own ornaments and incorporating a lot of natural elements.
BH: What is your must-have ornament or piece of Christmas decor, and why?
Lucy: I keep going back to the use of natural elements such as birch and pine. They not only infuse your home with that familiar Christmas scent; using them is also an inexpensive way to decorate.
BH: Do personal memories play a significant part in how you decorate for the holidays? Would you mind sharing a little bit about a holiday memory that left a great impression on you?
Lucy: I am a true believer in keeping traditions alive and filling your home with items that evoke fond memories. One of the most beautiful yet toughest Christmases we have ever celebrated occurred a few years ago, as we took care of my ailing father-in-law. His passing just a few weeks after that Christmas made us realize that Christmas is a time to celebrate and spread love and kindness to those around us. At the end of the day, our family and loved ones are what matter most.
BH: What was your thought process when you chose your Balsam Hill tree? Did you have a specific type of tree in mind beforehand, or did the tree you ended up choosing just strike your fancy?
Lucy: Choosing a Balsam Hill tree was not the easiest task for me, as every tree is more beautiful than the next. I originally wanted a frosted tree but decided to go with a more traditional one. I’m glad I did.
BH: What do you like most about your Balsam Hill tree? How do you plan to decorate it?
Lucy: I love how realistic it actually looks and feels. Finding the enclosed fancy gloves, to be used when fluffing your tree, was a definite plus. With regard to decorating, this year I decorated my tree using natural elements, such as pinecones, feathers, and nests.
BH: What can we look forward to on your blog this holiday season? Do you have exciting new holiday décor or party ideas?
Lucy: I have a few tips and tricks to share with my readers on how to make their tree look fuller, plus many more inexpensive décor ideas. Also, the Holiday House Walk is always a highlight throughout the blogosphere, and many people look forward to it every year.
Lucy is on a mission to build a strong bond with her readers. Through Craftberry Bush, she also shares her family’s personal journey.
To me, her upfront presentation is one of the things I love about her blog. Her holiday posts, like the one that featured Christmas ornaments, unravels some very useful and practical information. Her instructions are easy to follow and the ornaments, easy to make. They also had a great homespun look, while remaining classy and elegant.
Lucy is only beginning to gain the confidence to call herself an “artist,” and she hopes to encourage her readers to join her on a journey to create a life inspired by art and art inspired by life.
