Concept: What Was the Big Idea?
The idea behind this Christmas window display was a Victorian-inspired scene that would transport viewers back in time to a festive, old-fashioned holiday. Miss Gardiner, the teacher, introduced the competition, and soon Milla, with help from her friends, began sketching out the concept. The group decided to recreate a traditional Victorian Christmas, complete with a festive tree, a dining room set for a family meal, and a cozy fireplace. This nostalgic concept was set to showcase the warmth, charm, and intricacies of a bygone era’s holiday celebrations.
Process: How Did They Do It?
The creation of the display was a true team effort, with each member of the class taking on a special task. Milla and Ruby began by focusing on the wallpaper and flooring, using their mathematical skills to plan the amount of material needed. Teagan worked on restoring a mantelpiece, with help from Gilbert at the Amberley Mens Shed. Stacey sourced various items, including a fireplace grate and a table, while Greta and Willa crafted decorations and even made a Victorian-inspired houseplant. The team didn’t shy away from making things from scratch, like the air-dried clay sweets, salt dough pies, and the beautiful dehydrated orange tree ornaments. As the pieces came together, the girls added personal touches, like posing in Victorian costumes and framing their photographs to hang in the scene. Through many late-night “make” sessions at Stacey’s house and a lot of creativity, the project took shape beautifully.
Result: What Does It Look Like?
The finished display is a stunning Victorian Christmas scene, complete with a beautifully decorated tree, a dining room table set for a festive feast, and a cozy, glowing fireplace. Handcrafted details like the clay sweets, antique frames, and a refurbished dolls house add a unique charm. The mannequins—Arthur, Martha, and Clara—are dressed in period costume, their heads artfully painted, thanks to the efforts of Heather, Milla, and Grandmother Lyn. An interactive element adds an extra touch of fun, with Ruby hiding 10 items in the display for children to find. The result is a window that not only reflects the spirit of Christmas but also showcases the hard work and creativity of the whole team. The class is proud of their efforts and hopes viewers will enjoy the display as much as they enjoyed bringing it to life.
Season's Greetings from North Canterbury… Come instore to view the lovely concept come to life and place a vote for your favourite window display. Here’s how you can do it.