Yahoo Lifestyle Still need to decorate your Christmas tree? Here's how to do it like a pro
These amazing pieces from Wayfair's holiday collection will have your tree dressed and ready in no time — and these amazing prices don't hurt either!
If you're a bit behind in the holiday decoration department and the task seems somewhat daunting, don't fret. I'm an interior designer with a knack for festive decor and I'm going to show you how to create a stunning Christmas tree — without breaking the bank. There are great deals at Wayfair this holiday season on everything you need for your tree, including the spruce itself. So sit back, relax and absorb my seasoned wisdom. Then get clicking. Wayfair will deliver all you need right to your door,
When designing your tree, stick with a theme that fits your home and environment. Do you live in a coastal area? Near farmland or the woods? Perhaps there are elements of your culture you want to incorporate. Keep with a few complementary colors, then mix in textures and layer, layer, layer (I'll teach you how in the steps below). Oh Tannenbaum, here we come...
The tree
First, if you haven't done so already, you need to choose the perfect tree. A few years back, I switched to faux firs for both economics and convenience. There's less mess and you can enjoy it year after year. You'll want to choose the proper size for your space. Wayfair has this handy guide on their website and it's worth posting here. Be sure you have plenty of room for your tree topper, with enough ceiling clearance to crown the top with ease. No matter which you choose, make sure you fluff your branches so you achieve maximum fullness.
If you have 8-foot ceilings, as many of us do, give this charming tree a whirl. It's easy to set up and break down — simply stack the parts together, join the light strands and voilà. This one comes with a metal stand for support. I recommend buying a tree bag to store your tree for safekeeping once the season ends. It will preserve the life of your tree. Try this set of two bags that's on sale for $23 — the spare can house decorations.
Now that you have determined your height, think about the gerth. If your tree is going in a tight corner or you're looking for something small to put in an apartment or guest room, there are plenty of narrow options out there. Try this pencil slim with pretty flocking. It's also perfect for eat-in kitchens — I recommend decorating with cuisine-themed ornaments!
When it comes to easy decorating, I highly suggest a pre-lit tree like this one. It'll save you so much time and the lights are always evenly distributed. This luxe wintry option has warm white and multi-color light options, plus full snowy branches. The included remote control and timer will help you save on electricity.
The base
Once your tree is up and properly fluffed, add an appealing base to hide that unsightly metal stand. Choose a traditional tree skirt, like this charming plaid, or ruffled burlap for a bit of a country vibe. To make a true statement around your tree, try a collar.
This handcrafted tree box collar gives your Christmas tree a rustic farmhouse look — visitors will think you just toted it home in the back of your vintage red pickup truck. It has a locking bracket for easy opening and closing, so you can water your real tree or access your faux in case an errant ornament falls to the floor.
Looking for something a bit more glam? Try this gold collar for some shine. Made of durable iron, this collar fits around any stand that's 21 inches or less and will give your tree a finished look.
If you're looking to go the traditional route, a tree skirt never fails. It allows for plenty of presents to be stacked beneath the boughs and will catch any falling needles from a real tree. This beauty is made out of burlap and embroidered with snowflakes.
The filler
No matter how much you fluff, there may be a few gaps that need filling. It's necessary to give your tree additional fullness, add another texture and perhaps hide where that strand of lights connects. Try this glittering berry sprig spray in one of over a dozen colors or a sprig of faux mums in earthy green and rust tones. I'm swooning over these metallic hydrangeas in gold or silver.
Flocked with crystalized flakes of snow, these wintry branches will add an unexpected layer to your tree. Tuck them in stem first, allowing the branches to jut out just beyond your tree's boughs. They add a natural touch that reflects the winter season to any style tree.
Poinsettia, the December birth flower, symbolizes good cheer and success. While the real thing might wilt on your tree, these velvety, vintage white flowers are sumptuous with a touch of sparkle in their centers — the perfect filler for the season. This set comes with a dozen stems, so there's plenty to go around.
While your tree may be faux, a touch of the real thing will help bring back the impression of the natural forest. Add some dried stems — I love pampas grass because it adds a feathery, airy touch. Try this natural shade for an earthier look or choose one of the many dyed shades to add a pop of color.
The garland
Popcorn and cranberries? Who has the time? Grab one of these beautiful and unique garlands to trim your tree. Again, keep in mind your theme. If you're adorning your tree with classic German glass ornaments, go for a strand of vintage glass baubles. A Victorian tree wouldn't be complete without this strand of pearls, and a wintry-themed fir could use a little ice for sparkle.
Cozy knit garland? Yes, please. This garland is unique and evokes the warmth and simplicity of the Hygge aesthetic. The fresh off-white hue works with almost any theme. Mix it with wood tones and natural hues and textures or allow it to pop with red and green plaids and pine cones.
Ribbons make wonderful garlands. Twist them to create curls and drape them across boughs. This gorgeous ribbon made up of shells with a ginko leaf shape adds just the right amount of sparkle.
The ornaments
The hanging of the ornaments is a time-honored tradition we all look forward to. Perhaps you have a collection of special, nostalgia-filled pieces you place on your tree every year, or you're looking to try a new theme this time. Whatever your fancy, start with a base of colorful baubles that work with your concept. Try this large set of shatterproof rounds in pink or gold. They're faceted, shiny, brushed and glittery, for a variety of textures. Or this 100-count set that looks like glass but won't break. Hang the larger ornaments on the bottom, particularly oblong shapes, and decrease in size as you head toward the top of your tree. Once you've applied a colorful, coordinated base of ornaments, you can fill in with the showstoppers below.
I love this mini version of the nostalgic-lit Lenox ceramic tree. Styled in a soft shade of pink and topped with a gold star, this is an example of a specialty ornament that will lend personality to your tree.
The papier-mache technique was introduced in Kashmir in the 15th century and grew in popularity during Mughal rule, which inspired this set by artist Fida Hussain. Showcasing artistic pieces will give your tree the zhush you're looking for and they make an inspiring conversation piece.
The topper
The crown jewel of your tree — the topper — is one of the most important elements of your design. Choose from classic stars, festive bows, felt poinsettias and even a reindeer.
The Moravian star is a classic symbol of Christmas and what better place to display one than your tree top? Its three-dimensional quality makes it attractive from every angle — and the combination of metallic glitter and silver sequins really brings it to life.
This lovely wire reindeer, who appears to frolic across the boughs, is lit with warm LEDs that will illuminate the top of your tree with woodland charm. I use a gold reindeer in my own holiday decor; it's both elegant and graceful and a sweet reminder of Santa. This piece is also available in silver.
