Deck the Halls: Holiday Interiors
Some of you may have decorated your home for the holidays even before Thanksgiving! But for those who need a little extra time to plan and shop, I’m sharing some of my tips and tricks for beautiful holiday interiors that bring light and warmth into the home.
We see the decorations people put on their exteriors, but unfortunately, we spend most of our time inside the home during winter months, so we deserve to have the inside look just as festive!
Here are some ways you can “Deck the Halls!” for your family to feel the festive spirit this December.
Just like my newsletter stated for exteriors, it’s helpful to Start with a Theme
Choosing a theme helps you maintain a cohesive look throughout your home. Traditional themes often include red, green, and gold color schemes with classic elements like wreaths, garlands, and plaid patterns. If you’re looking for something more modern, consider themes like neutral tones, natural materials, and simple designs, or a metallic theme with silver and gold accents that add a touch of glamour.
trees, please!
The Christmas tree is often the centerpiece of holiday décor. Whether you opt for a real tree or an artificial one, its decoration sets the tone for the rest of your home. Begin with stringing lights from top to bottom, for even coverage. Even better, pre-lit trees are so simple and require minimal setup. Next, add garlands or ribbon to fill gaps and create depth - I love adding some poinsettia flowers too. Finally, decorate with ornaments that match your theme, varying in size and texture to add visual interest. Don’t forget the tree topper - a star or an angel or a fun family heirloom brings interest to the top.
More on the mantle
Garlands aren’t just for the tree—they can be used to decorate mantels, banisters, and door frames. A lush, green garland brings a touch of nature indoors and can be dressed up with lights, ornaments, or berries. For a more modern look, consider a minimalist garland with eucalyptus or pine branches. You can get fresh garland for your home to smell like perfect winter greens.
Your mantel is another prime spot for Christmas décor. Hang stockings with care, and add a few candles, figurines, or a festive sign. I also love displaying my Christmas cards here to show all the wonderful people we have in our lives.
Fluffy, cozy, color
Christmas is all about warmth and coziness. Achieve this by layering your space with soft textiles like throw blankets, cushions, and rugs in festive colors and patterns. Opt for materials like faux fur, wool, or velvet to add texture and comfort. Check out my blog from last winter for more information on winter fabrics!
Lighting also plays a crucial role in creating a cozy atmosphere. In addition to your Christmas tree lights, consider adding string lights around windows, draped over headboards, or intertwined with garlands. Candles are another great way to add warmth; choose scented ones like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla to evoke the holiday spirit.
Set a Festive Table
Whether you’re hosting a big Christmas dinner or a small gathering, your dining table is an opportunity to impress guests with your decorating skills. Start with a table runner or a festive tablecloth, and then build up layers with chargers, plates, and napkins that fit your theme. A centerpiece of candles, flowers, or a small wreath can make the table feel special. Personalized place settings or small gifts at each seat can also add a thoughtful touch.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Incorporating natural elements like pinecones, berries, and branches brings an organic feel to your Christmas décor. These can be placed in bowls, added to garlands, or used as part of a tablescape. A simple yet elegant idea is to fill clear glass vases with ornaments, pinecones, or fairy lights for a festive display. You can go for a holiday hike to collect these items, saving money in the process.
Details!
Finally, pay attention to the small details that make your home feel festive. Swap out everyday items like cushions, rugs, and curtains with holiday-themed versions. Hang wreaths on interior doors, and add festive touches to bedrooms, bathrooms, and even your kitchen. These small changes can make every part of your home feel ready for the holiday season.
These are just the basics, and there are so many more ways to personalize your space for the season. I always love showing homes during Decemeber to see everyone’s creative and beautiful displays.