For Anna and John-Anthony “Jay” Boggess and their five children, Christmas is more than just a holiday—it’s the heart of their family life, wrapped in twinkling lights, cherished traditions, and joyful celebration.
“We love decorating, visiting Santa, and embracing all the season’s traditions,” says Jay, newly appointed president of Jupiter Christian School and former chief of staff of the School District of Palm Beach County. “But at the center of it all, we remember the true reason for the season,” he says, in a nod to his Christian faith that he calls “central” to his and his family’s life.
His wife, Anna, a substitute teacher at Jupiter Christian, agrees. “Christmas is labor-intensive, yes—but it’s also incredibly joyous,” she says. “It’s a beautiful time to pass down our traditions and beliefs and create new memories with our kids.”
That spirit of warmth, wonder, and family connection is exactly what makes a Boggess Christmas so magical.
With their roots firmly planted in the sun-soaked culture of Florida’s coast, the Boggess family has a natural flair for fun. The children—Beach (17), Banyan (14), Breezy (10), Baylily (8), and Brave (6)—are named for the outdoor world the family cherishes. “We wanted names that reflected joy and playfulness,” says Anna. “Grandma always said, ‘Every day is a beach day!’”
During their holiday gathering at their cozy Juno Beach home, the Boggess family came together for a festive feast. To make it a Christmas to remember, event designer and stylist Sarah Solomon of The Blonde Styles It helped bring the family’s vision to life with decor infused with joy and nostalgia. “Christmas is pure magic,” says Solomon. “There’s just nothing like creating spaces that feel both festive and full of love.”
Together with Jupiter-based interior designer Angela Reynolds, Solomon transformed the Boggess home into a holiday haven. A trio of Christmas trees took center stage—decorated with pearlized ornaments, bright red bows, pine cones, and holly berries. Cardinals perched on branches added a natural, whimsical touch. “We always start with our Christmas tree,” Anna says. “Decorating it together—right after Thanksgiving—has become a treasured family tradition.”
Banyan especially loves contributing to the tree each year. “I like seeing my hand-painted ornaments next to ones from our family vacations,” he says. “But my favorite is our surfing Santa ornament.”
No Boggess Christmas would be complete without a special visit from Santa Claus himself, who arrived (direct from the North Pole, we hear) to mingle with the children, pose for photos, and even join in on cookie decorating (and eating). “This family really knows how to throw a party,” Santa said with a smile. “They love decorating cookies, which I must say are delicious.”
Dubbed “Mrs. Claus’ Bakery,” the cookie decorating station was curated by My Mind’s Eye and Southern Belle’s Cakery. Nearby, a whimsical hot cocoa cart (another one of Solomon’s touches) stood ready with plenty of warm chocolaty goodness and a host of sweet toppings. On the wall nearby, a surfboard adorned with red ribbons added a playful coastal twist.
For the family’s Christmas dinner, Solomon and Reynolds styled a tablescape that was as much a feast for the eyes as the food was for the palate. “A holiday table is more than a place to eat—it’s a stage for laughter, connection, and holiday magic,” says Reynolds.
Chef Maude Eaton of For the Love of Food designed a menu sure to delight all ages. The family dined on shrimp cocktail, charcuterie, beet salad, tenderloin with asparagus and rainbow carrots, and twice-baked potatoes. The sweet finale? A dreamy selection of pecan pie, coconut cake, and fruit tarts.
Florist Rachel Vanatta of Mellow Creative Club created a showstopping centerpiece filled with seasonal blooms: roses, anemones, ranunculus, antique hydrangea, pine, and more—arranged in lush, layered beauty. A deep green velvet tablecloth, Tiffany holiday china, and festive goblets completed the elegant look.
One of the most enchanting moments came from daughter Baylily’s room, which was transformed into a feminine winter wonderland. Pink and white Christmas trees, pink nutcrackers, and candy cane decor created a magical scene. A red bow above her bed completed the look. Dressed in matching Christmas pajamas, the children snuggled together for a reading of The Night Before Christmas, a Boggess tradition that brings everyone together in the sweetest way.
The Boggess family’s holiday celebration was a heartfelt expression of love, creativity, and the joy of togetherness. From twinkling trees and warm meals to Santa’s visit and giggles around the cookie table, every moment was filled with Christmas spirit.
“Reliving Christmas through our children’s eyes is the greatest gift,” says Anna. “This season, we truly felt the magic, the warmth, and the love that makes Christmas unforgettable.”
Facebook Comments