It's fa-la-la-la-finally time to deck the halls and get the tree up! If you've been putting it off, don't get your tinsel in a twist - I have some suggestions to make each element as streamlined and effortless as possible.
A REAL TREE
You just can't beat it. Even if you add nothing but lights, it will look and smell beautiful and add instant festive spirit to your home. Hillmount Nurseries is my annual go-to for Christmas tree shopping and we've already picked up a ceiling-high absolute beauty this year.
HOLLY & BERRIES
Pick up a huge bunch at your local florist, either on its own or with a mix of greenery and snowberries. Pop it on the mantlepiece and window sills... dot around a few candles and giant bows. Done. For a table centrepiece, add colour with bright flowers, fruit (eg apples and pears) and tall candles or little glass votives.
WREATH
Wreaths are one of my favourite Christmas decorations and provide such a lovely welcome for guests. I actually made my own this year from gorgeous fresh berries and absolutely love it.
Diptyque Protective Pine candle £53
CANDLES
You've heard me profess my love for candles already in this post, but I can't resist picking up a Christmas scented one (or two) each year. Diptyque's Protective Pine candle smells like being in an actual Winter wonderland and I don't think I can resist... I mean the beautiful votive effectively makes it a Christmas decoration too! Do take care to stay safe if you're planning to get merry with candles in the room. There are some brilliant faux Church candles and tealights that work brilliantly for table centre pieces in particular.
Mistletoe & Fir candle, M&S £10.
LIGHTS
Draped over garden trees, the porchway, windows, fireplaces, bannisters - there is no such things as too many fairy lights in my book. Fill your boots.
WRAPPING
I'm all for sustainable gift wrapping and LOVE the idea of presents wrapped in newspaper or brown paper, accessorised with foliage. Drawn-on bows are even a thing now - anything to reduce waste is a plus in my book.
Of course you can go to town with stars, baubles, tinsel and whatever takes your fancy, but there's something to be said for the simplicity of keeping things as natural and sustainable as possible, with tonnes of foliage and pared back decorations. Whatever style you go for, do what makes you and yours happy - and have fun with it!
