Tips and Tricks for Decorating Your Home for Holidays

Use Nature as a Source

Although it might be tempting to head straight to the store for decorations, try this first: a budget-friendly DIY tip for decorating is to turn to nature. We're talking about going beyond wood and garlands and applying greenery in new ways. Some of our favorites include using oranges, lemons, or pinecones to create a centerpiece on the table. You can use leaves and greenery to decorate a mirror frame or the center of a coffee table. Something simple, like stones arranged in a circle around a candle with added greenery, can become an artistic composition.

See Light Differently

While you don't have to completely give up twinkling garlands, one holiday tip is to rethink lighting. Garlands don't have to be hung outside the house or on a tree—they can be hung in open spaces, such as on a bookshelf or placed inside a jar for an interesting centerpiece or decoration on a side table. Light can also serve as a pleasant addition to central compositions that feature natural elements.

Redefine Traditional Decorations

Another trick for decorating your home for holidays is to add to what you already have rather than buying everything new, saving time and money. Decorative table napkin wraps—even DIY ones made from pinecones or decorative thread—can add a creative and festive touch almost to any color or pattern of napkins or tablecloths. Hanging holiday ribbon on dining chairs can give your home a Christmas look without purchasing new items. You can also move decorations from one room to another to get a fresh look—this is also a trick used by stagers preparing a home for sale without needing to buy many new items.

Be Bold

While it might seem obvious to stick with holiday colors like red, green, silver, blue or gold, one of the most popular trends in winter design is mixing unexpected shades—working with what you already have can be useful. The key is to choose a color palette and stick to it throughout your seasonal decor. Some designers suggest using orange tones or even pink. Be creative with garlands, flames, ornaments and candles by adding accents of your chosen color. Perhaps you already have a favorite item in a bright color, such as a vase or candleholder, and you can build a theme around that color. Assess the colors you have on hand and act from there.

If you're tired of traditional Christmas decor, applying some of these tips will definitely give your home the update it needs. Let your imagination run free and see how your home transforms into a winter paradise.