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Christmas is hands-down my favorite time of year. Alongside my full-time work in interior design, I have spent the last 20 years honing my skills in Christmas tree decorating and creating enchanting holiday scenes in my clients' homes. Today, I’m excited to share my tips and tricks so you, too, can achieve professional-level holiday decor in your own home. Regardless of your chosen theme or decor style, these foolproof steps will consistently lead to remarkable results.
The Tree
Like most clients, I prefer an artificial tree so I can enjoy it for as long as possible each year. Whether you choose an artificial or a real tree, the most important step is to fluff the branches. Fluffing is crucial for transforming your tree into the best "canvas" for decorating. While many artificial trees come pre-lit, adding an extra layer of lights can give your tree a little something extra. Choosing lights all in the same hue allows for a more cohesive look.
The Ribbon
Wired ribbon works best for decorating a tree, although other types can be used with more difficulty. Choose ribbons that are 1.5 to 4 inches wide and consider pairing different sizes. Start by making loops at the top of the tree and work down in an “S” pattern, using branches to secure the ribbon for a natural drape. Tuck the ribbon towards the trunk and pull it forward to create a billowing effect, varying loop sizes for an organic look. Once you reach the bottom, cut the ribbon and repeat the pattern from the top, aiming for at least 3-4 sections around the tree, depending on your desired fullness.
The Florals
Floral stems are an excellent way to add fullness, texture, and dimension to your tree. Begin by creating height at the top with a vertical arrangement of stems, bending them to achieve a more organic look. Once you have the desired amount of stems positioned around the crown, change their direction so they point downward, creating a cascading effect. Next, group a few stems that complement each other to create a spray, and insert this between the branches. You can also separate the stems and distribute them around the tree to fill in any gaps.
The Ornaments
Once your ribbon and stems are positioned on the tree, start adding ornaments, beginning with the largest ones close to the trunk. Then, add medium-sized ornaments, followed by the smallest ones at the tips of the branches. Choose a variety of shapes and sizes for dimension, and consider incorporating one or two garlands for added texture. Place the garlands after the medium ornaments and before the smallest ones. If the garland is delicate, like a string of pearls or crystals, add it with the smaller ornaments. Use the same technique with the garland: start at the top and work your way down for a cascading effect.
Christmas Trends
Vintage Charm
Cherish family heirlooms and distinctive vintage holiday decorations that have been passed down through generations. Using classic colors, particularly timeless shades of red and green, along with nostalgic ornaments and traditional string lights, can give your tree an antique charm. Reflect on the vintage Christmas decorations that adorned your grandparents' homes and bring that warmth into your own holiday celebrations.
Natural Elements / Sustainable Decor
This style of holiday decor embraces simplicity and highlights the beauty of nature. To achieve this look, begin by incorporating natural elements such as pinecones, twigs, fresh greenery, fruit, and dried flowers. The focus is on bringing the outdoors inside. Sustainable decorations are handcrafted using materials like natural woven fabrics, paper, and raw wood.
Bold and Moody
This holiday style creates a sense of mystery through its rich, deeply saturated color palette. Focus on bold colors like blues, forest green, burgundy, and charcoal black. These striking choices make a unique and nontraditional statement during the holiday season. Consider incorporating velvety, plush materials into your decor, such as pillows, throws, and upholstery.
Traditional
The classic color scheme includes bright reds, greens, and golds. Incorporate natural elements such as fresh garlands, wreaths hung on doors, and vases filled with holly berries and branches. Iconic decorations like nutcracker figurines, Santa figures, Christmas villages, and stockings hung by the fireplace are great additions to your decor.
From all of us at Open Range, we wish you a joyful and healthy holiday season filled with good cheer. If you use these steps to decorate your own tree, be sure to tag us on Instagram @openrangeinteriors so we can admire your masterpiece!