When you host Sunday dinner for 20 every week, your home can't just be lovely to look at. It must function beautifully, too.

That's why, when the Miles built their home in Newhall, they had one driving force in mind: family. "Our home was built for family," says Gina Miles. "We want it to be homey and welcoming, casual and warm."

And, while the Miles home certainly fulfills that goal year-round, there are also few better examples of holiday design done right. Since the completion of the estate, Miles has turned to interior designer Ruben Haynes to assist her in creating a cheerful winter wonderland each Christmas season.

"Gina has her own design style, so I always keep her in mind when I'm creating in her home. With simple decor, we are able to convey a traditional, homey Christmas that everyone enjoys," says Haynes.
Ruben and Gina also partner together in support of the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley's annual Festival of Trees, albeit in different ways. Miles is a big supporter of the event, which she describes as "tons of fun." Last year, she purchased numerous elaborately-decorated trees and vignettes. All monies raised go to help our community's children.

Ruben, who has volunteered for Festival since the event's inception, is the primary tree designer. "He is the ultimate perfectionist," says Suzanne Benty, the Boys & Girls Club's special event coordinator. "He'll spend all night long making the trees perfect. He has a real heart and talent for this. What he does benefits the kids, and we're always so grateful that he shares his gift with us."

Haynes, who specializes in private residential decor and holiday rentals, wouldn't have it any other way. "I love Festival of Trees! It's incredibly stressful, but I get great satisfaction from helping the community and the children and families that the Boys & Girls Club serves," he says.

The Boys & Girls Club's Festival of Trees runs November 18 through November 21. Turn to page 36 for more information on this beloved annual holiday event.