Regarding the holiday season, there isn’t a room around here that doesn’t have a six-foot Christmas tree. Nothing is more magical than a dark winter morning filled with a twinkle of Christmas lights. I take decorating my home and trees seriously! I live for the day when we unbox all the ornaments, memories, and decorations to create a festive atmosphere to enjoy for the next two months.
I realize not everyone wants their holiday decor up quite as early, but how would I share it all with you if I waited? Besides, it is a little labor of love, and I want to enjoy it to the maximum. Below, I am outlining a few of my go-to holiday decorating tricks, including my trees, garlands, and all the items you need when you are ready to deck the halls.
First, let’s set the tone for your decor. A cohesive theme throughout your home will impact your decor more significantly. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun, and it doesn’t need to be boring. Go big or go home, as we say, and it works. If you love red, add small red elements to every room. Bring in small touches throughout your home if vintage and nostalgia are your vibe. This year, I am adding touches of bows. I started small last year, and this year, it seems to be a trend that’s caught on, and I love it. The boys are loving it too.
Second, a great tree is what makes the difference. I have five King of Christmas trees throughout my home. I am pretty obsessed with their offerings. Three are flocked, two are a beautiful green; the King Noble Fir is also super nostalgic. All of them are pre-lit because I can’t deal with that! The Full-sized Queen Flock is pictured above, and this tree is gorgeous! I originally picked this version because, growing up, my Mimi had a small flocked tree in her house, and she always let the grandkids decorate it with all sorts of ornaments. Our flocked tree brings all the nostalgia of the holidays.
Small decorating elements can have a significant impact. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I have been sharing all my decor items and the tools I use to achieve those looks. Adding bows from Amazon or a special ribbon that coordinates with your overall mood can bring that cohesion we discussed. This year, I added premade red velvet bows to my garlands; the impact was significant for something so small. Belles and brass garlands are trending in decor, easy to find, and affordable. I also love personalized elements such as a monogram on a ribbon or a wreath with an initial. Small, thoughtful decorating goes the distance!
A little greenery can transform your entire home and your holiday mood. If decorating isn’t your favorite, try adding a twinkle to a doorframe, a headboard, or the top of your cabinets. It doesn’t need to be overly priced; a simple garland with fairy lights and some ribbon looks classic, and there are many affordable options, pre-lit and unlit. I like to use twine to attach my garland to my stair railings and large 15-lb command hooks on my mantle. Nothing is more joyful than turning on the garland above my bed first thing in the morning when it’s dark and cold outside. See my Holiday folder if you need some inspiration!
My most significant advice is that more is usually just more; your decor should embellish your home, not bring stress and overwhelm. We feel sad when we remove all the decor because our home looks its best at Christmas. If in doubt, start small. Remember, If something isn’t bringing you joy, find a new home for it. Christmas is a season of comfort, so plan out your decor; if it feels overwhelming, stay simple. We all need a peaceful home to return to after the day’s stress, especially during the holiday season.
I’ve been collecting Christmas ornaments and decor for a few decades now. Remember that good things take time. With Amazon and Target pickup, it is easy to click buy or purchase, and I am here to say it is ok to be intentional. To use the same decor again and again. I have so many memories attached to my decor, and I love feeling that when I pull out the ornaments or the garland each year. Take your time, turn on the music, and have a good cup of coffee. I hope Christmas is good for you, but mostly, I hope these tips help you enjoy your home, decor, and traditions over the next few months. And remember, the turkey tastes the same with the Christmas tree up.
