1. Choose a theme
No matter what festive look you are going for, choosing an over-arching design style can help unite all your Christmas decorations. Need inspiration? Spotlight has selected three major themes for Christmas this year: New Traditions (as stunning, classic navy collection); Winter Wonderland (highlighting on trend metallics); and Jolly Bright (bringing a pop of colour to your festivities). In each of these themes you’ll find a wealth of affordable products ranging from ribbons to room decorations, all you need to do is choose the one that suits your style.
2. Start with the front door
A festive wreath is a great way to set the scene. There are some fantastic do-it-yourself wreath kits available if you want to make your own, or off-the-rack wreaths can be found in all sorts of styles and colours (we really love the simplicity of this white bell wreath as an understated choice in a Winter Wonderland theme).
3. Keep the colour palette simple
When deciding on your decorations, try to stick to two to three colours at the maximum – a defined colour palette helps to create a luxe look. For instance, a mix of three candy shades (pink, yellow and blue) can be pretty, but adding red or green into the scheme can make it end up looking like a mishmash of clashing colours. If you need to include another shade, particularly with decorations such as lights or a wreath, look to white in order to provide relief for the eyes and to ensure your chosen palette is the hero. A simple and stylish idea is to wrap all your presents in white paper, with your favourite colours for ribbons and gift cards.
4. Don’t forget the table centrepiece
Continue your chosen theme right up to the big day with a special centrepiece. You really can’t go past flowers for a spectacular effect – from natives such as Christmas bush (for a modern touch) to roses and hydrangeas (for a traditional effect). Gardenias can also work, especially with a Winter Wonderland theme – place in small bowls around the table and let their summery scent fill the room. Table favours can also have a floral feel; use extra flowers tucked into napkin rings or Christmas crackers to match the centrepiece. Not keen on flowers? A bowl of summer fruit makes a great centrepiece too. You could even try serving this Summer Fruit Punch on the table in a large serving bowl with coloured tumblers as a fun way to start the festivities.
5. Freshen up your tree decorations
Too often we pull out the same old decorations year after year, without having a close look at them. Are some of your baubles and garlands showing their age, or have they been purchased in dribs and drabs over the years without a consideration for their overall effect? Tinsel and garlands are cheap. At the end of November, consider discarding all your old ones and buy a new set, all in the same colour, to create a base for decorations and a fresh look. They will give your tree an instant refresh, for a fraction of the cost.
