A Guide to Tasteful Holiday Tree and Home Decor for Holiday Shoppers

A Guide To Tasteful Holiday Tree Trimming and Home Decor

The holiday season is upon us, and if you're like me, decorating for this magical time of year is something to be savored. But whether you're ahead of the game or racing the clock, there's still time to create a festive and inviting home. Here’s my guide to crafting a beautiful holiday atmosphere with timeless charm.  

Christmas Trees: The Heart of Holiday Magic  

There’s nothing quite like a Christmas tree to anchor your holiday decor. I always recommend sticking with an eclectic, traditional tree for your main space—one filled with your family’s favorite ornaments, each with its own story to tell. From vacation souvenirs to handmade treasures from the kids, these ornaments are what make your tree uniquely yours.  

For a truly timeless look, opt for white lights instead of colored ones. The warm glow highlights each ornament and unifies the tree's overall aesthetic, letting your family memories take center stage.  

If you love themed trees, don’t shy away! These can be wonderful in secondary spaces like an entryway, where a frosty white "Winter Wonderland" tree greets guests, or even in the kitchen. When my kids were growing up, I loved putting up a themed tree there that showcased their handmade ornaments—a playful, personal touch that added so much joy to the season.  

Layering Greenery: Fresh + Faux for the Win  

Greenery is essential for holiday decorating, and I love to use a mix of fresh and faux for both practicality and beauty. Faux greenery lasts all season without maintenance, while fresh greenery brings that unmistakable holiday scent and a touch of nature indoors.  

Use this mix on mantles, above cabinet spaces, or to frame doorways. The trick is to layer them together—when fresh greenery begins to fade, it’s easy to swap out a few sprigs without dismantling your entire display. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep things festive and fresh throughout the holidays.  

Candles: Subtle Elegance with the Right Scents 

Nothing says "holiday magic" like the glow of candles. My go-to is classic white candles for their versatility and timelessness. However, for taper candles on the dining table, I lean into subtle holiday hues—think sage green instead of bright emerald or a muted burgundy in place of bold red. These softer tones keep your holiday decor refined and elegant.  

When it comes to scented candles, I always recommend choosing high-quality ones with fragrances that evoke the season without being overwhelming. My personal favorites are from Jack Be Nimble (https://jackbenimblecandles.com/), especially their Evergreen, Holiday Sparkle, and Hearth scents. They bring the holidays to life in such a cozy, understated way.  

Natural Elements: A Cozy, Earthy Touch
There’s something so inviting about adding natural elements to your holiday decor. I love using pinecones, dried orange slices, and cinnamon sticks—they’re simple, earthy, and make your home smell amazing. If you’re up for a little crafting, pomanders (those clove-studded oranges we all made as kids!) are such a fun and festive addition.

One of my favorite ways to bring nature indoors during the holidays is with potted winter bulbs like white narcissus, paperwhites, or amaryllis. These gorgeous blooms brighten any room, and they’re so easy to work into your decor. I like to tuck them into simple pots or vintage containers for an extra special touch. They’re perfect for the dining table, a kitchen counter, or even by the fireplace. Plus, they smell incredible and last well into the season. It’s a small addition that makes a big impact! 

Finishing Touches: Thoughtful Accents to Tie It Together

Decorating isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating a space that feels warm, welcoming, and true to your style. Simple accents like thick, cozy throw blankets, a bowl of pinecones on the coffee table, and a stack of your favorite holiday books are just a few finishing accents to pull everything together beautifully. Don’t forget to dim the lights and let the white tree lights and candle glow take center stage—it’s the simplest way to create that holiday ambiance we all love.  

Whether you’re just starting your decorating or adding those final touches, remember that the heart of the holidays is in the memories you create. Let your home tell your family’s story, filled with warmth, tradition, and just the right amount of sparkle.  

Happy decorating and happy holidays!  

Warmly,  

Suzanne