About Us


My love for Christmas began long before A Merry Little Kristmas became official. As a little girl, I used to tell people my name was Kristmas, a sweet hint of the joy, beauty, and wonder this season has always held for me.
For more than 20 years, I have been transforming homes and boutique properties for the holidays, creating elevated, thoughtfully designed spaces that feel warm, magical, and unforgettable. What began as a family tradition has grown into a true creative calling — one rooted in detail, atmosphere, and the belief that a beautifully styled environment can completely change the way a season feels.
My approach goes beyond decorating a tree or placing garland on a mantel. I design with the entire space in mind, curating color, texture, scale, and placement so each room, or each guest‑facing area, feels cohesive, refined, and personal. From grand entrances and statement trees to intimate family spaces, lobby moments, and seasonal tablescapes, every detail is selected to complement your architecture and reflect the feeling you want to create.
As a mother and longtime host of our family’s holiday gatherings, I understand that the most memorable spaces are not only beautiful, but meaningful. I bring that same care to every client, blending artistry, cohesive storytelling, and a deep love for seasonal design to create an experience that feels effortless, elegant, and uniquely yours.
A Merry Little Kristmas was created to bring that sense of wonder into your home, and into boutique hotels with stories worth telling, with sophistication and heart, transforming your space into a holiday retreat filled with warmth, beauty, and lasting memories.
Kristin Ilgunas
PRESS & MEDIA
Christmas, by the Book
Pretty Magazine
7 Minutes Read
Pretty Magazine captured Kristin Ilgunas’ holiday designs in “Christmas, by the Book,” showcasing her romantic, heirloom‑infused tree and garland styling inspired by classic literature.