Designer Christmas Trees are the star of Barton event this week

We all have our own traditional touches we put on our Christmas Trees, from Grandma's special ornament to strung popcorn and cranberries. There is nothing ordinary or traditional about the trees on display at Harrah's Tahoe this week during Barton's Festival of Trees.

Tree designer Tara Dobyns, a 37-year South Lake Tahoe local, was selected to design two trees this year. When asked if she was an artist or decorator, Dobyns answered "no, I'm a landlord!"

One of her trees was sponsored by Dr. Jean Makris and her husband Tom. New Orleans was the theme of the tree which was decorated with brass musical instruments, metal notes and whimsical figures.

Everything on the tree was either made by Dobyns or were items she found them at local thrift stores. The "star" of the tree was a metal king's hat crafted from a Burning Man display.

The second tree Dobyns put together was sponsored by Dr. Marissa Muscat and had a western theme, complete with saddles and toy horses.

All of the designer trees will be auctioned off during Saturday's Gala. Each tree is packaged together with donations that match the theme, including room nights, skis, tickets and more.

The Festival of the Trees runs through Sunday, December 7 at Harrah's Tahoe.