The holidays can bring about many emotions for those who are grieving. As beautiful as the season can be for some, many others are grieving the lost moments with loved ones. With this in mind, we wanted to highlight a story of reclaiming joy and finding ways to enjoy the holidays throughout the grieving process. We are honored to share Shameeka Ayers’ story of reclaiming her holiday joy and finding ways to enjoy the holidays while grieving her beloved husband and soulmate. Check out her story below:
Honoring Your Loved Ones Through Holiday Decor with Inspiration from a Georgia Lifestyle Curator
Shameeka’s Holiday Decor Story
As a recent widow, I hadn’t found the desire or happiness I thought I needed to decorate my “Single Lady” home these past two Christmases and since my late husband passed away. While I know I’ll never be the same, a familiar voice from “Shameeka Past” spoke in my year this holiday season and after I stumbled upon this fabulous set of Black Girl (Magic) ornaments from Black woman-owned Kafi Kafi Co. (https://www.instagram.com/shop.kafikafico?igsh=bTlmMGN4bGdncWU2) on Instagram. Bam? Joy! Smack dab and in the middle of my face. And heart.
After placing my order, I looped in the creative eye and spirit of my God-brother, Frederick. And here we went: sourcing complementary ornaments and baubles in a color palate that we both agreed didn’t “match”…all the better. The fuschias, pinks, melons, reds and chinoiserie played off the Nutcrackers’ translucence, colorful skirts, beaded Afro-centric hairstyles and hues of skin tones. Our favorite decision?
To give the tree (Fred named her “Boho Sassy”; an aside: the children in my life refer to me as “Sassy” vs “Auntie” and I love it! It’s a spin on my monogram, sAs.) acrown of pearls…an Afro of sorts. Though she’s merely a tree? Boho Sassy represents love, survival, reemergence, light and brightness as I continue to become rooted in peace on this grief journey. My late Eric would be so proud; he loved the Christmas season and whatever I’d do to make our homes lovely throughout our marriage of 23 years. This tree and my current joy are conscious decisions to continue to heal, move forward and make this new house a home. Ashe’.
RESOURCES FOR HOLIDAY GRIEVING
https://www.caringmatters.org/lossandgriefblackcommunity
https://africanamericanbehavioralhealth.org/documents/AABH-COE_HolidaySelf-CareGuide23.pdf
https://www.blackfemaletherapists.com/podcast/dealing-with-grief-and-loss
FULL GALLERY
Fun with Color: We adore the fun and playful color combination Shameeka chose for her tree. It is a great twist on traditional holiday decor.
Tree Topper: This tree topper is an excellent pop of sparkle and adds height and volume to any tree. It pairs well with a mix of modern and traditional ornaments.
Art as the Backdrop: This tree is a perfect vignette to match Shameeka’s beautiful art gallery collection. The anchor of the peach color works perfectly in this space.
Touch of Velvet: A touch of Velvet dresses up any holiday decor. We love these colorful velvet ornaments carefully adorning this heartfelt tree design.
Comments
