Top: the ballroom, on the night of the party. There was an excellent choir singing carols and they were enjoyed by all.


2. This tree, in the Gentlemen's Parlour, is decorated with items which are particularly associated with North Carolina, such as dogwood blossoms, red Cardinals, seashells, acorns (Raleigh is the City of Oaks) and it also has many glass ornaments in red, green and white. This tree has approximately 30 bird's nests taken from trees in NC (after they had been abandoned by their makers).
3. Wreaths adorning two inside doors leading from the main public areas to the private section. They were made by one of our other designers.
4. A wreath of tobacco leaves; one of a pair which always hang flanking the mantel in the Library. Mel makes them fresh every year. As you may know, tobacco has played a large role in the history of our state, and though it's usage is less than before, it is still important to our economy.