Every year around this time, the excitement starts to sizzle in my household; not only for Halloween, but also Thanksgiving and Christmas (or you may celebrate Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Navidad or a host other wonderful cultural celebrations). I never thought I’d admit it, but with the changes in family dynamics we’ve experienced, I began to look for holiday decorating tips that would give me more time to enjoy the season. Not that I don’t still love the fun that Fall brings with it, but I’m asking myself, do I really want to take on the traditional over-the-top celebrations I’ve painstakingly planned for years, or should I follow my husband’s and daughter’s advice and pare it down?

After much thought, and a bit of chagrin at the thought of the tremendous amount of work the next few months would bring me, I decided to rewrite my holiday hustle schedule. This year, my goal is to make this year’s season a time to relax by incorporating beautiful decorations with little or no stress. (Sorry folks, you may have seen the last wall-to-wall holiday party at my house.)

START WITH A THEME, BUT MAKE IT PERSONAL

Growing up, my mom did her best to make the house look like a Winter Wonderland, and though it didn’t quite reach the decor level of Hudson’s Department Store (liked she hoped), it was magical to us. So, of course I did the same, even before having a family and kids. I loved coordinating all the components of the decor and shopping after the holidays to get the best deals to add to my collection of colorful ornaments and decorations. This time, I decided to forget about making everything “perfect”. Instead, I will try to create a holiday mood by telling our family story through simple decorations.

#1 – Create a mood

• With the goal of creating simpler decor, I decided to pull a few of my past favorites, and layer them together in a new configuration.
• If you already have a lot of warm neutrals, plaids, and natural textures like pinecones, birch, and faux fur throws in your arsenal, create a cozy cabin feel by designing a woodsy feel. And always keep in mind that you can bring some of your everyday decor items in your holiday design.
• If glam is your style, mix metallics – gold, rose gold, and silver. Add mirrored ornaments or mercury glass candles for shimmer.

#2 – Simplify the Tree – Or Skip It Entirely

Here’s your permission slip: You don’t need a 9-foot tree to feel festive. (You just need good lighting and maybe a diffuser that smells like a forest.) Remember, this is AGING OUT LOUD, No Limits, No Apologies, No Regrets!

A couple of alternatives to a traditional tree include:

• A wall-mounted tree made from an arrangement of small branches.
• A mini tree trio – small tabletop pines or flocked trees grouped together.
• A vase of evergreens with cinnamon sticks and dried oranges for scent and texture.

I very much liked the simple, little tree below, and am thinking of how to include it in my decor in place of one of the larger varieties we’ve been using for years.

#3 – Decorating with Light

Lighting is a simple and effective way to set a beautiful holiday mood. Continue to think layers: ambient, accent, and sparkle.

• Replace harsh overheads with warm-toned string lights or LED candles.
• Add fairy lights in clear glass vases or drape them along mantels.
• Try a gold or blush-colored lamp shade for a soft glow that flatters everyone.
• Shoot a close-up of candles in mismatched holders on a mirrored tray.

#4 – Dress the Spaces You Actually Live In

Your home doesn’t have to look like a holiday catalog . . . unless that catalog includes fuzzy slippers, cocoa, and laughter. Focus on the spaces where life actually happens: the living room, kitchen, and maybe your reading chair.

Simple Tweaks

• Swap your everyday pillow covers for velvet or knit in blush, cream, and gold options.
• Add a soft throw or two . . . faux fur or chunky knit are awesome.
• I really like the idea of decorating a mantel for the holidays. Try draping a simple garland along your mantel with a few ornaments, or a minimalist wreath above a favorite mirror or piece or artwork that may be currently adorning the space.

#5 – Tablescape Magic

Additional Ideas for Every Mood:

• Crisp white dishes, gold flatware, red napkins, and real greenery runners.
• All neutral tones, matte black utensils, simple greenery sprigs.
• Blush candles, crystal glassware, linen napkins tied with velvet ribbon.
• Of course adding a few candy canes and ribbons always screams “It’s holiday time!”

#6 – Entryway & Welcome Touches

Your entryway sets the mood for the season. Wreaths always work, just be sure to personalize store-bought ones with your special touches, or better yet, create your own!

More Ideas:

• Hang a wreath with ribbon that matches your interior palette.
• Add a scent diffuser or seasonal candle near the door.
• Use a small side table to display ornaments, pinecones, or family photos.

#7 – Create a Cozy Corner

Now that I’m thinking of truly simplifying my holiday decorating and entertaining, I’m really looking forward to the many slow moments I’ll get in exchange because I think I deserve them. One of my goals will be to create a space that will invite me to pause, reflect, and enjoy all my blessings. I think I’ll call it my gratitude corner and who knows, maybe I’ll keep it up and functional throughout the year. I’ll start with a favorite book or journal, a candle, a comfy blanket and soft lighting. In the mornings I’ll sit and sip a cup of tea and gaze out of the nearby window to watch the sun come up or the birds chirping with simple joy. Quiet mornings are the time to squeeze in a little ‘me’ time before the day begins, it will feed your soul.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the best holiday decor isn’t about impressing anyone. It’s about surrounding yourself with what makes you feel warm, happy, and present because your home isn’t just where you live. It’s where your joy lives, too.

So, pour yourself a cup of tea, light the candles, cue the holiday playlist, and let your home, and your heart, shine bright.

Wishing you, and your families, a beautifully relaxed holiday!