Creative Christmas Tree Centerpieces Bring Joy To SM Shoppers
It is said that Filipinos began decorating their homes with Christmas trees in the early 1900s, as influenced by our American colonizers. Earlier, however, Dr. Jose Rizal, our National Hero, introduced and brought the idea about the Christmas tree in his letter to his eldest sister when he was in Berlin in November 1886. He simply described how Christmas is celebrated in Germany and Spain, and how a forest pine tree decorated with glitter, lights, candies and fruit is placed inside the house where everyone celebrates Christmas around it.
Since that time, the Christmas tree has found its place in many Filipino homes. Beyond the display and the ornaments, it has conveyed a message of love, unity, and joy in every member of the family.
The iconic Christmas tree has also found its way as a creative centerpiece in SM’s malls with artistic renditions in modern and traditional themes. Some like the Christmas in Bloom at SM Aura Premier, and the Southacular Carnival Christmas at SM Southmall, highlight blooms and fair images, respectively, instead of ornaments.
Others highlight the work of artisans in the regions – the lantern makers of Pampanga in SM City Clark’s Parul Kapampangan and indigenous fabrics from local communities – hablon, jusi, piña, abaca, and rattan – at SM City Iloilo.
Christmas is in bloom at SM Aura Premier with its centerpiece signifying the first blossoms of spring as a symbol of hope. Designed in pastel and spring colors, the tree blooms with giant flowers and filled with crystalized Christmas balls in bronze, silver, and white. The tree lights up with fan shaped LED lights, and is accented by 2 giant reindeer beautifully dressed up with floral horns.
SM City Baguio’s Winter Wonderland spectacle features a 35-foot tree with snow-capped pine cones, sparkling snowflakes, and glimmering garlands
surrounded by adorable polar bears. Built by the artistry of local craftsmen, it celebrates Baguio as the cradle of creative culture and traditions.
SM City Clark’s Parul Kapampangan centerpiece is a tribute to Pampanga’s lantern making industry. The dazzling 45- foot tree with 1,680 bulbs and spinning lights is proudly designed and assembled by Kapampangan parol makers.
Get a glimpse of Christmas Mornings in the Orient with SM Seaside City Cebu’s 45-foot tree with red and gold peony flower embellishments, and stately crane birds at the side.
SM Southmall’s Southtacular Carnival Christmas features a 34-foot tree, life size bears, and a gigantic Ferris wheel! Carnival snacks like cotton candy and popcorn, and a myriad of colorful neon lights celebrate the spirit of the season.
More than just beautiful centerpieces, these have become symbols of hope, love, and joy during these most challenging times. These have become focal points where we can reconnect with our traditional celebrations, and join the Filipino community in hoping for safer, brighter, and merrier times.
