RACHEL MIELKE, JEWELLERY DESIGNER
For Regina-based Mielke, this brushed-bronze crown evokes both the birth of Christ and her love of metal. "It symbolizes what Christmas means to me," says the 29-year-old, whose hand-forged baubles are coveted by the likes of Drew Barrymore, Sarah McLachlan and Barbara Walters. "I also love the rustic beauty of it." Metal crown, $55 at Crocus & Ivy ( www.crocusandivy.com)
CONNIE BRAEMAR, INTERIOR DESIGNER
If Toronto-based Braemar's choice of Alessi's Anna G corkscrew as a tree topper seems unorthodox, there's a certain logic to it. "It's got a shapely black body with stainless-steel arms and face," says the fan of quirky design. "It's an unconventional angel." Anna G corkscrew, $68 through www.alessi.com.
PAUL HARDY, FASHION DESIGNER
This year, Calgary-based Hardy is taking a global approach to his tree, topping it with an earthy African icon given to him by a friend. "It's an Ethiopian cross made by women marginalized in society and is reflective of the sustainable-revenue project I am currently developing in Africa," he says. "My spring/summer 2010 collection, called Patriarchal Femininity, was also inspired by it." For more on the project and Hardy's work, visit www.paulhardydesign.com.
YOUSSEF HASBANI, RETAILER AND INTERIOR DESIGNER
In choosing this sparkling silver star to cap off his Yule tree, Hasbani is declaring an end to downturn doldrums - at least over the holidays. "'Tis the season for glamour and glitter," says the designer and owner of Toronto's L'Atelier decor shop. Silver star, $21 at L'Atelier (416-966-0200).
BRUNO DUARTE, FLORAL DESIGNER
For the owner and creative director of Fresh Floral Creations in Toronto, Christmas means dogwood studded with orchids. The living star combining the two has both "an exotic feel and warmth," he says. To make sure the orchids last through the season, each bloom comes with its own mini water vial. Dogwood star with Vanda orchids, $150 at Fresh Floral Creations ( www.freshflorals.com).