Purim Decor

Hello, Viewers!

It is a strange thing, and sad to say, but hitherto I never really gave the holiday of Purim my full attention - from a decorative perspective, I mean. (Actually, that is not entirely true. Going through some old papers recently, I found notes I had made about fifteen years ago regarding Purim table decorations; yet, so far, I had never turned my ideas into reality.)

However, this year I finally woke up from my mindless slumber, and gave it a fair go. For those who might wonder what Purim is, let me just briefly explain that it is a festive commemoration of the events described in the Book of Esther in the Bible. One of the themes of the day is the hiddenness of G-d's influence in the world - we may erroneously believe that He is absent, but in reality His hand is orchestrating every single thing that takes place. 

This concept of reality not always being what it seems, in addition to the fact that for several years Queen Esther concealed her true identity (a Jewish woman among people who sought the annihilation of her nation), has given rise to the custom of wearing masks and disguises on this day. That is why you will see a number of masks in these pictures. 

So here's how to make your dining room Purim compatible:

 For instance, add a mask to a vase of flowers...

Another variation on the theme...

And yet another...

In some spring colors, maybe?

Since the story takes place at the royal court of Persia, it would also be quite appropriate to give a taste of regal, oriental splendor to the proceedings...

A riot of color or otherwise mismatched accoutrements are also most appropriate, since another theme of the day is "topsy-turvy" (as in the sudden, unexpected reversal of roles and destinies). This colorful lantern, with a multi-colored light string inside, and many royal jewels attached, is the perfect thing for a day like this.

It turns out that cheap party store necklaces are excellent decorating accents: heap them on the table, as in the pictures above, or drape them from the chandelier...

Masks also work very well on lamp shades - particularly in combination with a chic jester's hat! And some necklaces, of course.

 You may remember this from the recent Diva Dinner?

This little lamp became adorable with the addition of a tasteful mask...

The very grand Venetian mask with the Swarowski eyeliner had to come out to play...

A lamp can be decorated in many ways...

Does this look sufficiently royal? The royal purple tablecloth is a $12 curtain from a discount store.

A view of the delicious Purim breakfast - please note the champagne glass, waiting to be filled, because yes, we also get a little tipsy on Purim!

A little bit of Oriental splendor, surely? 

Even the water kettle has gotten its own little "Happy Purim" sign!

All in all, this is not difficult or expensive to do. Most of us have a few lamps and vases to decorate; the bead necklaces, from Oriental Trading are super cheap at approximately $2 per dozen (Party City has a lot of cheap, fun ones as well), and the masks cost me between $2 and $4 each, from, among other places, a florist's supplies store. (Well, yes, the Venetian mask is something else altogether, but one can manage perfectly fine without one!) Adding a few candles and/or flowers is also fairly doable, without breaking the bank.

I warmly recommend it - it certainly enhanced my Purim. Lechaim!

Regards from Rosebud!