A Review: French Country Cottage Christmas by Courtney Allison A First Look at Christmas 2023

Join me on Instagram @the.tartan.topiary
Enjoy this early look at Christmas 2023 with Courtney Allison. This book was released on August 29, 2023. Also join me as I get ready for Halloween and an Autumn porch clean up. I also try Courtney Allison's homemade Christmas decorations.
Christmas decorating maven Courtney Allison shows how to create a cozy and aspirational French country Christmas style wherever you are.
“The pastoral-inspired arrangements would please even Scrooge. The result is a festive guide for the cottagecore set.”―Publishers Weekly
Celebrate the season in cozy French Country Cottage style with luscious photography and a plethora of inspiration and ideas for trees in themes from baubles to flowers; décor indoors and outdoors; flowers, garlands, and wreaths; tables, dining, and entertaining; entryways, stairways, and every room of the house; outbuildings; pretty packages; and twinkle lights galore. Plus a little bit of Christmas magic from a Paris apartment with a balcony overlooking the Eiffel Tower, a snowy mountain cabin, and a vintage travel trailer at the lake.
Salt Flour Ornaments
2 cups Flour
1 Cup Salt
1 Cup Water
Mix together dry ingredients and slowly add water until completely combined. Roll out dough for cookie cutter ornaments or press into molds. Sprinkle with allspice or glitter. Bake ornaments at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. These are not make for ingesting. This recipe is for making decorative ornaments that resemble cookies.
Molds can be found: www.amazon.com...
Joe Spencer Halloween Decor
www.amazon.com...
Music provided by Epidemicsound

[@kimberlydean9752]

With everything going on in the world today, this brought me great joy. Thank you. I will be putting up my Christmas decorations extra early this year. ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm reminded of the song "We Need a Little Christmas" from the musical Mame! I agree with you!

[@karenreiter533]

Yes indeed! We do need a little Christmas. Thank you Mary for the delightful video and the tutorial on making those charming Christmas ornaments. I love your decorations for your home as well. And Roscoe is adorable . 💕💕

[@janetellinger9605]

So Agree We need to find peace within our Homes

[@celestehenri2921]

More Christmas in October works for me❤

[@curtischipley520]

Thank you for showcasing this beautiful book . I have her book French Country Gatherings, and love having replicated her gatherings. Christmas has always been a wonderful and magical time for me.

[@nancyconnell8579]

Yes, more Christmas book reviews, please! Never enough Christmas inspiration to enjoy. Thanks.

[@thetartantopiary]

You got it! Next week will be "Charlotte Moss Entertains" and then I'll revisit a beautiful new Christmas book the last Friday in October.

[@susancooper5442]

I agree. The more the merrier! In fact I like pre-Christmas as much as anytime of the yr! So go ahead load us up on the merriment of Christmas readiness!!! Oh, and maybe 1 or 2 Fridays for Thanksgiving. 😉🦃🦃☺️🎄🎄🎄

[@joanoneill381]

YES, please …another Christmas book review in October! Thank you, this was soooo enjoyable! Happy, happy.

[@thetartantopiary]

We so need a little happy happy. I'll do another newly released Christmas book at the end of this month! Thanks for letting me know.

[@joanoneill381]

@@thetartantopiary Thank you for the joy you spread to others. Such thoughtfulness is what lifts one’s spirit in such times.

[@Dina-md3ji]

October is a bit early for Christmas decorations but sometimes you have to go with the fabulous joy and excitement a glittering tree provides for you and your guest's

[@mrsgrandma9651]

Mary, I love The Tartan Topiary!! As an avid KZbin viewer, your channel is my favorite. Your many talents shine through as you share such informative and enjoyable content. Thank you for the effort and time you spend on your channel, and for the joy you bring to others through it! You are so appreciated!!

[@noncompliance1922]

I so enjoy your channel, featured books, crafts, and recipes. Your voice is so soothing and your sense of humor is wonderful. Thank you! Oh, and yes to another Christmas book in October.

[@thetartantopiary]

I so appreciate your kind words! I will definitely review another newly published Christmas Decor book in October.

[@karenhuerter343]

This book is beautiful. Thank you for sharing it with us. I would be delighted to see another Christmas book in October.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for letting me know! I'm on it. ❤️

[@pamelahudson824]

Yes Mary, please share another Christmas book in October or as soon as possible. Christmas makes me happy and I love seeing beautiful Christmas decor and ideas. Thanks for sharing this beautiful book.

[@thetartantopiary]

I'll do it. Thanks for the comment.

[@pamelahudson824]

@@thetartantopiary Thank you 😊

[@SMElder-iy6fl]

Some years we need "a Christmas" more than others.

[@moniquemckenna6795]

As always you provide us with must needed distractions and the anticipation for the coming holidays. Thank you, look forward to all the books and the after fun you create. ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

That is great to know and I appreciate it. I felt the same way about the distraction. My thoughts have been heavy this week with all that is going on on the world and this book took me to a happy place.

[@moniquemckenna6795]

@@thetartantopiary I know how you feel, the world is upside down and it does weigh heavy. I live in Canada 🇨🇦 Edmonton Alberta where, even though there is violence and even discrimination, that was almost non existent 30 years ago, I still feel blessed with all I have and I think this plays a part in the feelings that some days erupt with such intense guilt, it is hard to get out of that space. This is why, you contribute so much to a normality that we all crave. So please know you bring joy to an otherwise stressful world we live in. Escape is a wonderful thing and if we can hold on to the feelings they invoke, our day going forward will have the light shine a bit brighter. Thank you ❤️ Monique

[@AlishaAnnSiddle]

Yes to more Christmas books! With the word the way it is at the moment it was so lovely to escape between the pages of that beautiful book for a short while and watch you lovely video. I recently found your channel and have been binge watching episodes. Thank for bringing me joy. Xx

[@rroberts249]

My absolute favorite part of the week! Love this channel and Mary ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad. I appreciate your comment!

[@heidim6468]

Love this vlog so much, especially when the books are over there is still more to see……What a bonus.

[@rubylongtine9933]

Yes, I always love any Christmas decorating ideas. I am planning on decorating for Christmas this year by Thanksgiving. This way our family can enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas a little longer. I think we all need the wonderful spirit it gives us!! Thank you for sharing Courtney's vision in decorating. I love it!!

[@rosaleencloade9447]

Oh, yes, please! I love Christmas 🎄 decoration books! Thank you for your wonderful channel 😊

[@kimberlycannaday7509]

I love all things Christmas- so please show away. You and your home are just awesome. Love the decor and ilove the ornaments!

[@janicekeisler9225]

Hi Mary, This book is a lovely intro to Christmas. I also appreciated that you made the ornaments and the pine cone looked beautiful in your flower arrangement. Watching you clean and decorate the porch was a great transition to fall. Your decorations are in such good taste and pleasing to the eye. Looking forward to the next one….thank you!

[@marilynhillam4556]

Just what I needed today. Thank you, Mary, and YES! More Christmas themed books please!

[@bwiseok]

Well I couldn’t sleep it’s 3:30 AM in mid Missouri. This is just what I needed to watch. It’s never too early to drink a cup of coffee and watch a very good tutorial on the beginnings of Christmas. I was a little sad it End it too soon. I guess I will find another one that you have on here about Christmas even if it was last year’s lol. I’m in the mood for Christmas. Thank you.

[@cynthiagreene7042]

Yes! Please do another Christmas book in OCTOBER! Need the inspiration at this point in time as I plan my Christmas decorating throughout the house. 😊

[@marybethbennett5787]

This book tour was greatly appreciated and I loved thinking towards Christmas as we need to plan ahead. Please review more Christmas books early.

[@sherrybischer7118]

Wonderful book. Thank you for sharing. I look forward to your videos each week. More Christmases books please. Thank you

[@ibosquez5238]

I'm happy when I watch your channel. ❤

[@vikkiwebb1424]

Yes absolutely show us other Christmas books. This was a wonderful review.

[@barbarawood8996]

Christmas is my favorite time of year. I loved this review and would love to see another one in October. It’s a magical time of year.

[@elizabethlara4070]

Great xmas book! Yes, please do share more xmas books. It helps me get inspired and start early with preparation. & thank you for the ornament recipe, I will try it too! 😊 Your porch is lovely! ❤ Thank you Mary!

[@toddschneider5007]

I love your channel and I get so excited to see you release a new book review. I would love to see another Christmas book in October. They are so inspiring for holiday preparation! Chelli

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for letting me know! I am on it and thanks for watching.

[@andrewmagnussen8218]

Puff the Magic Dragon,a happier and more simpler time,and Woolworths candy,what happened to penny candy?I guess the answer is blowing in the wind.God bless you for giving us beauty and joy when you appear

[@loretta7851]

Lovely book and ideas! Thanks Mary! Love the coven! Your kitty is adorable 🥰

[@s.barlow7062]

I love enjoying Christmas holiday books. Review away!

[@brendaw53]

We shouldn’t put a time when to decorate (my opinion) whatever makes one happy and in a cozy mood. I love Autumn Season especially and you making Christmas items added to both Seasons. They turned out beautiful! Thanks for sharing your video! Helps to keep our minds off things…❤

[@dianeoneal4183]

Mary, I always look so forward to your book reviews and seeing what you’re up to! You’re so inspiring and the reviews always lift my spirits! I vote for more Christmas book reviews soon! 🍁🎄

[@catwomen3557]

Very beautiful thank you very much for all the pretty ideas

[@patriciacleary9634]

More Christmas books please! I have no time to enjoy them after the middle of November, or to make any projects they’re in. Loved your porch!

[@pamelaprivette5361]

Loved your video of my favorite times of the year! I always begin decorating for Fall with Christmas in mind! The chill in the air that approaches around the time the veil is thinest sets everything in motion for me! From decorating to baking and to having tea with a friend who unexpectedly drops by just as the nutbread comes out of the oven--it all begins the holiday season for me! Enjoyed your official definition of a spider web versus a cob web: quite informative, and the unrequited love story of the raven and the cat! You have such a way of telling it -- have you ever written children's books--I think you would be very good at it! Thank you--it brings up some pleasant memories even in the month of June!

[@buttonsacorns3734]

I would love to see another Christmas book in October! I really enjoyed this video, so relaxing and inspiring. I will be purchasing this book, it’s just beautiful and full of so many wonderful holiday treats for the eyes.

[@susanstage9279]

Please! It's November now and I love that magazine. It does give such joy! Thank you!

[@shorelife737]

PLEASE review another Christmas book in Oct! This was a very pleasant surprise and I loved every page. I’ve already put this on my Christmas wishlist!Thank you!

[@lindacurrier9262]

I agree to more Christmas books. They are always cheerful.

[@lorenemccormick3004]

Absolutely LOVE this book!!! Thank you for the wonderful review! I would love to see another review of a Christmas book! This gives me time to purchase the book, mull over the ideas, and prepare for Christmas in December!

[@rosariopaiz6158]

I love Christmas, but I would like to see thanksgiving celebrations . I am greatful to you for your time thank you so much .

[@kimclarke5018]

Definitely review another book. This was a delight.

[@suzieq2493]

Always look forward to your videos. Yes, more Christmas inspiration will be needed this year. The porch looks lovely. Love Rosco❤ ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate that. Thanks for letting me know!

[@deborahpappas7334]

Let’s all enjoy the bounty fall before wintery Christmas 🍁🍂🌾

[@karedreher2816]

Yes I’d love to see another Christmas book❤🎄💗

[@MaryKayAbblett]

Just love your voice..comforting

[@jenniferkellerman4888]

Yes to another Christmas Book! My favorite time of the year. The more the merrier!

[@lynneaiken773]

Always waiting for your video's.. love them!

[@thetartantopiary]

That makes me very happy. Thanks for letting me know!

[@sandraward8275]

Yes, more please. Thank you

[@lindaortolano7837]

Hi Mary, I have followed Courtney Allison's blog for years. This book was beautiful and I enjoyed this review. I love anything Christmas related so for me more Christmas reviews in October would be just fine!. I enjoyed watching you make the ornaments and they came out pretty! The front porch looks so welcoming for trick or treaters! Yes, I have seen the price of candy and yes, I did have to remortgage my home!! LOL! Always a pleasure to visit with you and I love Roscoe!! See you in the next one! Hugs! :)

[@rhondav4204]

Never to early for Christmas 🎄

[@melishamason7241]

I enjoyed the book and craft along with the front porch decoration.

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad. I appreciate you watching!

[@debbibenedict7346]

Two comments....1. I also always cry at the end of "Puff the Magic Dragon" and always have since I was a little girl and first heard the story on Captain Kangaroo and 2. Yes, please do another review of a Christmas book in October! By the way, is the bracelet you are wearing in the first part from Julie Vos? If so, I have that same one and I love it!

[@thetartantopiary]

Yes- Julie Vos is my weakness. I try to invest in jewelry (gold or silver) but her designs are so beautiful and well made. My daughter and my husband always know what to get me as a gift. Thanks for commenting.

[@martina3048]

Christmas anytime❤️ I have ordered this book, thank you.

[@MaryKayAbblett]

Your video lifted my mood! Thks!

[@pcrice-lr2dn]

Christmas books can be reviewed any time,go for it .I was not familiar with this book and I want it ,yay!!My brain is always months away from every holiday,today I was thinking about something that I want to do for Easter,I have always done that,the only difference is now I have to write me a note so I remember 😂😂😂. I can’t think about the price of CHOCOLATE……it’s my favorite food group. As always,Thanks Mary 🍂🍁. Prayers for Peace in the world!

[@dorislong9420]

Thank you Mary, beautiful and a reminder that it's time to order bulbs for Christmas.

[@thetartantopiary]

I do order paperwhite and amaryllis early. Sometimes I go to Home Depot or Lowes a couple of weeks before Christmas and find the bulbs that are bursting through the boxes and packaging trying there best to blossom and purchase these.

[@joanwatson9178]

Very enjoyable….. thanks for letting Rosco make an appearance. He’s a great sidekick 🍁

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. Roscoe is my favorite sidekick and quite the stinker!

[@valentinarodoracio8145]

Would love to see a Thanksgiving video.. I’m always ready for Christmas and more Christmas 🎄!! Thank you

[@thetartantopiary]

Got it! Thank you for letting me know. I hope you have a great weekend!

[@mariesmith9507]

Yes Mary see you next week thank you sharing.

[@annettehowell9392]

Absolutely loved the book this week and the photography was very good. It is a must have for my library of lovely books. I'd love to see another Christmas book. I remember the christmases spent in Germany as a child when my father was stationed there. The Christmas markets were wonderful. Also in the Netherlands, st Nicholas was so anticipated by European children. I spent time in Paris often and saw the eifle tower all lit up at night. The Christmas markets in Brussels Belgium where I went to boarding school. This book re-kindled all those happy times. I must give those ornaments a try. Take care until next time. Can't wait to see what's instore.

[@thetartantopiary]

What an experience and exciting memories you have to draw from! All the different traditions of Christmas you enjoyed firsthand is something I envy. I bought a Belgium hot chocolate mix today at Whole Foods and cant wait to try it! Thanks for the comment.

[@DorisBallard-h2b]

Yes I would love to see some more Christmas thank you so much for sharing

[@thetartantopiary]

You are very welcome and I appreciate the comment!

[@tracyhobbs886]

Yes please Oct. Christmas book !

[@maureenk1635]

Your porch is amazing!

[@rinskeraphael8755]

Thanx for posting. It made me smile. 🌹 I had the same idea today🥰

[@joanoneill381]

Thank you for deciding to add another Christmas review this month. You’re so very thoughtful to lift the spirits of others.

[@debrahalcrow1933]

A heartfelt video and love your decorating style for Halloween. Yes, on a review of Christmas books in October and November.

[@thetartantopiary]

Great! I just released another one yesterday!

[@grandaflora4191]

I am fascinated by cookie stamps, rolling pins that imprint a pattern and cookie molds. You have inspired me to make and bake some ornaments. Your ornaments look lovely. Thanks for sharing❣️

[@carolynratliff1380]

My grandmother told me that the sticky webs are poisonous spiders so be careful….I do love your kitty…does he get mad when you have a mess while you are decorating….my old cat just hated mess….I want to thankyou again for all of your videos and reviews on these gorgeous books…hugs carolyn from Columbus GA

[@marlaalbert7906]

Love this! Yes, please review another Christmas book in Ctober. 📖🎄✨✨✨✨

[@rebeccaread2033]

Yes🎄, do another Christmas book🌟

[@glendalafont1561]

lOVE THIS

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for watching.

[@TheFairwinds1]

"Bring it On!!" Some of the "seasonal plants" need this extra time...as well as some "aged acorns, moi" I follow Courtney's blog...she's like the neighbor (you wished you had) next door. Luv'd your review, merci!! franki

[@marciamellow1211]

Loving your content... ❤

[@lindamiklos4964]

What a lovely prch and yard

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you!

[@sarahelizabethfoster]

I think it's great to start talking about Christmas books now so we have time to get the book, the materials, and do all the projects by the time we want to decorate!

[@wendybray2370]

Please do another Christmas Book next month. I really liked this one 7:22

[@lovemyshipoo]

Yes please, I am ready for another Christmas book review in October...Thank you.

[@thetartantopiary]

Will do- thanks for letting me know.

[@RamonaL909]

Gorgeous! By all means another in October!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for letting me know.

[@linp1268]

Hello Mary. I just discovered your channel and I am over the moon happy that I did. What a well done review of Allison's book. I most certainly am going to check it out. I must say that you have a most stunning home from what I have seen in this video. You also have a fun sense of humor. There is something so special about crafting and creating things with your own hands. I don't have much time to be creative as I would like but I can tell you that I so appreciate receiving a homemade creation as a gift. I think those ornaments would make lovely Sentimental gifts. I would appreciate so much to hear about another book you have to review. So finally, there is only one thing left for me to say, I have now become a subscriber to your channel! Have a beautiful day!!! 😊

[@thetartantopiary]

I’m so happy you discovered the channel as well. I appreciate your thoughtful comments. ❤️

[@karenhanley3912]

You have a beautiful home !

[@dulcerush735]

We can all use a lift in our spirit right now. Thank you for sharing this beautiful happy book. As far as I’m concerned, you can do a Christmas book every week for now till Christmas;)🎄🎄🎄🎄 The ornaments are beautiful and beautiful in a kitchen Christmas tree 🤷🏻‍♀️❤ There really was no need to clean away the webs and cobwebs before Halloween 🕸️

[@thetartantopiary]

In my quest (frenzy) to clean, that idea didn't even occur to me. People pay for those this time of year. There was a giant "writing spider" at the end of the porch and I left it alone.

[@cynthiaschorr553]

❤ Delightful! Thank you for taking us into your & Rosco’s 🐈 GORGEOUS home. Subscribing now. Thanks for the joy you shine. CLS❤️

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, Cynthia and welcome! I appreciate that. I try to release a new video every Friday afternoon.

[@beckid5107]

Yes please, October!💕

[@thetartantopiary]

On it!

[@kimkelley3721]

Please show us more Christmas books!!

[@DarlaPenados-rp1ss]

Hi please release another book its so wonderful to be thinking if things will change a bit from last season to this season and we will have time to come up with the items we will need Thank you👍

[@thetartantopiary]

Will do. Ill have another newly published Christmas book later this month. Thanks for the feedback!

[@vickeypierce293]

Oh this was a much needed book review!! I love love Christmas 🎄 Please review another Christmas book this month!!! What size dowels did you use? Because you know I ordered the molds lol lol They turned out beautiful Love Halloween decorations ....and the cat is hilarious 😂😂

[@annieswanson9369]

Oh Mary,I’m sitting on the floor here in Ontario Canada on a cold cloudy day with a glass of wine putting lights on my wreaths. This was wonderful to see,I get a preview of this book which I asked the kids to get me for Christmas. LOL. Love you channel so much. ❤️🎄

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad you enjoy the channel. It sounds like you are having a nice cozy day indoors! Sometimes those cold rainy days can be oddly comforting! ❤️⛈️

[@shirleystarling7300]

I love all things Christmas and would love to see more books, maybe a traditional Christmas. ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Noted! Victoria released a wonderful book in August entitled "Traditions of Christmas". I will review it very soon!

[@debbiecalmeyn6946]

Thank you, please do another Christmas book.

[@thetartantopiary]

You got it!

[@rdoucette2953]

More Christmas books, please!

[@Flowerglass62]

❤❤❤

[@laranich]

I have a new book to add to my reading list. Thank you for sharing Sophie’s Masterpiece! 🕷️🕸️🕷️And French Country Cottage Christmas gives all the cozy, festive feels! 🎄🍁🎄

[@lynnedwards6278]

Yes please review a Christmas book in Oct and Nov.

[@thetartantopiary]

I will- thanks for letting me know.

[@ЛіліяМей]

ДЯКУЄМО ЗА КРАСУ ❤❤❤🎉

[@guardsfarm5073]

I would not mind at all if you choose to review another Christmas book. Cheers

[@joannlessner1551]

More Christmas books, please.

[@juliecarns]

Mary, This book is fabulous: thank you for sharing. Do you have a Thanksgiving book to share? We do not celebrate October 31st so another Christmas book after a Thanksgiving book would be nice then. Julie 💐

[@thetartantopiary]

For Thanksgiving I was going to review several books on entertaining and tablescapes. Next week will be devoted to entertaining with the book "Charlotte Moss Entertains" and I'll do another Christmas review the last week of October.

[@MaryKayAbblett]

Same thg w candy here. Cream pumpkins

[@Dina-md3ji]

Any ideas on cocktails or mocktails for the elderly relations