13 December 2023
Everyone is ready to enjoy a little magic for the end of the year celebrations. While budgets may be a little thinner this year, you can still be festive without just dragging the same decorations and putting them in the same places. Re-evaluate what you have and see where you can add a little sparkle, repurpose where you can, and if you are going to buy something new, make it sensible for the long term.
Colors
A very easy way to update your current decorations is to add another color to the mix. Earth tones are always a good choice that can include the browns and greens but include some rust or copper colors for a pop. The bright red of the holidays can be the center of attraction with a background of burgundy. This is easy with berries, poinsettias, and ribbons.
Pastels can easily be incorporated. Think Barbie with pinks. Show off the golds that you already have with a complementary gold or minty green. Blues are all the rage from soft to icy. Mix in some teal and you will have an impact that your guests won’t expect. If you want a softer feel, go with white or cream.
Sparkles are always popular at the holidays. Gold seems to be the standard for this year, although silver seems to be making a good run. Add crystals for even more glitz. They will catch and reflect the lights you have on the tree or mantle for added interest.
Candy Canes
Still in full force during December are the ever-faithful candy canes. You can find them in a variety of stripes like Grinch green, traditional red and white, or strange combinations. Add them to the bows on your gifts or hang them from the tree. They are also wonderful in a cup of hot chocolate after a long day of decorating.
Texture
Feel free to combine elements to create a unique texture for your tree, house, cubicle, or special space. Glass baubles and ornaments are always fun but look at the choices in faux fur, feathers, and velvet. Paper has a world of possibilities. There are a wide range of hanging fans and garlands. Go very retro with those strings of paper loops that kids make in craft class. Punch a hole in any greeting cards you might receive and hang them on the tree or hot glue them to this year’s wreath.
Add some soft toys to the tree, including those from your kids. It can help them appreciate nostalgia even at a young age.
Go outside. There are any number of natural items that can make a lovely table scape. Sticks and small branches, or even leftover flowers from your garden like now dried sedum. Some spray paint and glue them to a florist’s stick and you have your own spin on things. Decorative grasses that have gone dormant, fruits and spices can make a huge difference in an old piece that you can update quite easily.
If you go for pine cones, be sure to spray them with an insecticide and allow them the “rest” in the garage for a few days. Otherwise, the heat in your home can cause some unwelcome guests to deal with.
Whatever you choose, there are a lot of ways to celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of the next without going over budget. A little creativity and planning go a long way.
