The question of when to decorate for Christmas really comes down to personal preference + family traditions. Some like to deck the halls right after Halloween, while others prefer to wait until after Thanksgiving.
Mix in pops of blue to break up the classic Christmas palette. This coordinating arrangement features stems of pussy willow and pine branches with cones displayed in an antique blue pickle jar.
Mantel
A swath of flat space above your fireplace makes an ideal spot for seasonal decor. Create a simple, elegant arrangement with a few focal points, like a well-chosen sign or an array of ornaments. For a rustic Christmas, dress your mantel with lots of greenery, like evergreen sprigs and pinecones, plus plaid stockings hung on garland. Or, showcase family photos with a simple backdrop of a rustic clock and a burlap-covered tree.
Ornaments can make or break a holiday mantel display, so don’t be afraid to fill up the space with your favorite pieces. Hang them in clusters, spread them out stacked up in jars or bowls, or string a few together for an unexpected lighted garland. Don’t forget to incorporate a few extra decorations, like sparkly snowflakes or kitschy tinsel, for a more eclectic look.
If you prefer a more refined style, opt for a neutral color palette that’s equally classic. Work in elements of white and silver to add brightness and dimension. Choose a variety of textures, from glossy glass ornaments to shimmering paper snowflakes and frosted branches.
Channel your inner bohemian with a free-spirited, earthy Christmas display. Mix and match woven textiles like macrame and jute, then accent with holiday accessories. Choose a few key items, like steer horns mounted to the wall used for hanging star-shaped ornaments and textured stockings embellished with ric-rac trim and pom poms. For a finishing touch, hang a sign that spells out your holiday message or use wooden tags to label each person’s stocking.
Fireplace
Your fireplace is a natural focal point and design feature that’s especially appealing around the holidays. Whether you have an open hearth or a closed firebox, decorate this cozy space with timeless Christmas decorations that enhance your living room’s aesthetic.
Streamlined green garlands are classic and simple, but you can add a fun twist to these staples with playful embellishments like moose antlers or brightly colored stockings. This year, try pairing your jolly garlands with fragranced pine and eucalyptus branches for a room-filling holiday scent.
If you prefer a more elegant look, opt for neutrals and metallic finishes such as white, silver, or gold for your Christmas fireplace decor. A combination of traditional greens and white stockings can elevate a modern mantel. For a fun touch, use a light projector to display snowflakes or twinkling stars on the ceiling above your hearth.
Make the most of a slender or oversized mantel by filling it with an assortment of decorative baskets and vases. These eye-catching accessories are easy to swap out when you’re ready for a new look. For a more rustic feel, try decorating your fireplace with handmade bunting made from felt or burlap. Alternatively, use paper and string to create festive banners featuring popular holiday messages such as “Merry Christmas” or “Happy New Year.”
Bedrooms
A bedroom is the perfect spot to add a few subtle holiday touches. Opt for a small evergreen tree that can be placed on the nightstand to give your room a cozy, festive look. Or, add a strand of Christmas lights to accentuate the headboard or frame a picture. You can also shop your yard or nearby parks for holly berries, pinecones and other natural elements to create an easy holiday vignette in your bedroom.
Decorative wreaths are an easy and versatile addition to your bedroom decor. Hang a group of preserved boxwood wreaths as a gorgeous wall display or a simple DIY project. Simply use ribbon and Command Strips to affix them to the wall, and enjoy your cheerful new holiday artwork.
Swap your regular photo frames for special ones with Christmas accents like red ribbon and a few small baubles. You can also frame favorite family photos with Santa ornaments to add a whimsical touch to the space.
Make the kids feel excited about opening presents on Christmas morning with a few playful touches in their room. Place a stocking on each bed and fill it with goodies like candy canes or teddy bears. Add scented candles to your bedroom to elevate the seasonal mood with a comforting aroma of cinnamon and pine. You can even choose flameless LEDs with built-in timers for added peace of mind.
Outdoors
Outdoor spaces can be an inviting and festive part of your holiday decor. Use lighted decorations to create a magical ambiance that will leave guests in awe of your winter wonderland. Use different types of lighting to add depth and beauty to your display, and don’t be afraid to get creative with how you showcase your lights and ornaments.
Lighted wreaths and garlands are classic choices to decorate the outside of your home for Christmas. Choose a wreath made from natural elements like grapevines, twigs, or berries and tie it with decorative ribbon to complete your display. Alternatively, try making your own unique wreath out of dried flowers and leaves or natural elements like pinecones. Pair the wreath with a set of tall lanterns that are accented in bright silver, and arrange them symmetrically to frame your front door.
Consider adding a small tree to your porch or patio area for Christmas. You can even opt for a lighted tabletop tree that will offer a festive touch without occupying valuable space on your deck. To enhance the look of your lighted tree, complement it with oversized Christmas presents, a wicker reindeer, or any other lighted sculpture you have on hand.
Lights are a must-have for any holiday decorating scheme, and your outdoor areas are no exception. Use lights to illuminate the surrounding landscape, and don’t be afraid to go big with your display. Using lighted lawn decorations like snowflakes, candy canes, or reindeer sculptures will help your lighted outdoor decor stand out and make the best impression.
