Target lifestyle expert and self-proclaimed Christmas enthusiast, Camila Alves is known amongst her family for decorating every room in her house and shopping for holiday gifts all year long: “When I see something that makes me think of someone, I grab it!”

This holiday season, Target and Camila co-hosted an intimate dinner in Dallas, which gave the creative hostess the golden opportunity to show off her decorating prowess: Camila used selects from Target’s home collection to pull together a gorgeous holiday-themed tablescape! Take a look:

What’s more, in the true spirit of the holidays, the event benefited local charities, including Camila and husband Matthew McConaughey’s own just keep livin foundation.

After dinner, we caught up with Camila, who was eager to spread her holiday cheer and share her plans, tips and tricks for getting ready for the most wonderful time of the year!

What was the inspiration behind the gorgeous tablescape you created?

When I was thinking about putting my table together, I knew I wanted to create a playful tablescape that took attendees back to how they felt as a kid during Christmastime! I used snow globes, bird figurals, ornaments, miniature stockings and more fun items. I also used gold silverware and replaced regular placemats with wood chargers. They add texture, dimension and a rustic tone to the table, and you can use them all year long for multiple purposes.

How do you get your home ready for the holidays?

Here’s a fun fact: My outdoor Christmas lights on the trees never come down! I leave them up and use them for special occasions throughout the year. I also love decorating indoors for Christmas, so every room will have something that helps get you in the spirit—all of our staircases get wrapped with wreaths and lights. And we also do a big tree!

What are some of your favorite holiday décor items from Target?

I’m in love with all the copper items, especially the punch bowls. I really like the seasonal blankets and pillows, like the Threshold Faux Fur Decorative Pillow and Throw Blanket. The Threshold Felt Ball String Banner would look great in a girl’s room or a fun seating area.

OK, spill: What are your top holiday entertaining tips?

Preparation and organization are key! Get as much checked off your list before the day of the party, that way you can be present with everyone. Here are a few easy tricks to remember:

1. Prepare a great playlist with no commercials.
2. Set the mood using candles and food, then put yourself in the guests’ shoes and walk through your home as a “guest!” This will help you decide if you’re ready or need a few final touches.
3. A simple but meaningful take-home gift is always a nice touch!

What are your favorite holiday traditions?

We always go and serve meals to families in need around the holiday season, and the kids save money throughout the year and use a portion of that to buy gifts for kids in need. We also go Christmas caroling around the neighborhood! My friends usually put a big caroling group together and we go to different homes and sing in their front yards. It’s so much fun and brings such a sense of community.

Ready to take on the holidays like Camila? Shop everything you need, from lights to snacks to décor, at your local Target and Target.com!

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