Many people pull out the same Christmas decorations every year and place them in the same spots. They never vary their decorating scheme, which detracts from the joy of the season. Holidays run together in their minds, and nothing particular stands out.
This problem can easily be avoided by trying new things each year. For example, a person might want to look into permanent christmas lights to beautify the home. Check out these tips and ideas to embark on a Christmas decorating journey unlike those of years past.
Where to Start
People often don’t know where to start when they want to change their Christmas decorations. One way to remember what worked in years past and where changes need to be made is to take plenty of pictures. Review these pictures to see where there are gaps and what purchases need to be made each year.
The easiest way to do so is to use a smartphone. Take the photos and put them in a folder labeled with the year. The pictures don’t need to be perfect, but it is helpful to look back on them and see what the family liked and didn’t like.
One thing to remember when reviewing these pictures is the basic arrangement can be kept even if the items used change. For example, one image might show an arrangement in the middle of the table with candles on either side and small items scattered around the base of the arrangement and candles. The setup can remain the same if it works, and the items used can be different for a fresh look.
Next, choose an area to begin this journey. Many people choose to start with a manageable area they can quickly decorate. Other individuals select their favorite decorations and begin in that area. For example, they may have items passed down through the family and want them to be up the longest. They should start the decorating journey with these pieces. It might be a matter of starting with the easiest items and moving forward.
Some people don’t feel comfortable without having a plan in place. Feel free to create this plan, but be willing to adapt as needed. For those who want a theme and color scheme for Christmas decor, ensure this information is in the plan. Items that will fit in the decorating scheme can then be purchased.
Mix Natural and Artificial Items
Bringing the outdoors inside is always a wise move. Add some greenery to Christmas decorations. Evergreens, pinecones, and berries will dress up any room effortlessly and can often be found in the yard. Incorporating these items into the decorating scheme helps keep costs down while allowing for a different look. Fake flowers may also be used, but spend money to get good ones that will blend seamlessly with items collected from nature.
Living Room
Many people place their Christmas tree in the living room so all can enjoy it. However, the tree often looks bare until there are presents under it. Avoid that problem by purchasing some boxes and wrapping them in pretty paper. Nobody needs to know these boxes are empty, and family members can either hide their gifts until Christmas Eve or wrap them and remove an empty box, replacing it with their wrapped gift.
Consider doing a themed tree. It might be a tree filled with ornaments made by the family over the years or a monochromatic tree. Each tree will be unique because it will represent what the family loves.
Don’t overlook the mantel when decorating the living room. Start by laying a garland across the top of the mantel and add high and low items. The different heights add visual interest to the mantel. Avoid high stocking hangers because they take up too much room on the mantel. Purchase artwork with a Christmas theme to prop on the mantel or hang above it. Another option is to add a family photo in a themed frame and place a few pieces of greenery at the base of the frame.
Once the mantel is decorated, move on to the coffee table. Group items in simple trays to decorate this surface. These decorations don’t have to be fancy to be breathtaking. People may also use the table to display their collection of snowmen, vintage Santas, or nutcrackers.
Dining Room
Many people use minimal decorations in the dining room. However, other people chose to go all out in the room. Every person can do what they feel comfortable with. Add a tree or put up some decorations on the sideboard or china cabinet. The backs of chairs are an ideal place to add Christmas cheer, and table linens with a Christmas or winter theme can provide the finishing touches. Attach dollar store wreaths to the backs of the chairs or choose another item that makes one think of the holidays and the joy they bring.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home, and plenty of areas can be decorated for Christmas. Light fixtures often get overlooked when a person decorates a room, and they shouldn’t be. There may be space on the countertops for a Christmas cookie jar, and a person can hang themed pot holders on cabinet door knobs. As with the dining room, chair backs or bar stools can be decorated with many items. Hang ornaments from the lights, and invest in kitchen towels to hang over the oven door handle. Place decorative plates on the kitchen island, and add window clings or Christmas-themed suncatchers to the windows. Use command hooks to hang items for easy removal when the holidays are over.
Bedrooms
Many people skip over the bedrooms when decorating for Christmas because only the family will see these rooms. However, decorating the bedrooms helps everyone get in the mood for the holidays. The bedroom will be cozy and welcoming. There is no need to go all out in the bedrooms, but adding a sign above a mirror or purchasing a few Christmas-themed throw pillows for the bed will make the room merry. Kids might want Christmas lights in their rooms, and parents should try to accommodate this if the lights can be hung safely.
The Entryway
Who wouldn’t like to walk into the home and be surrounded by gorgeous Christmas decor? Hang Christmas artwork in the foyer so it is the first thing they see, or wrap the banister with garland and hang a few ornaments from the greenery. If there is a closet or powder room off the foyer, add a wreath or other decor to the door for an added touch.
Minor changes to the decorating scheme can make a significant difference. Begin the journey today and see excellent results. With each new item added, the Christmas spirit will expand. Soon, everyone will eagerly await this holiday.
