I don’t know about you, but decorating the holiday tree is a tradition in our home. Some years we do things differently than previous year. Every year we find a new way to refresh the look of our tree. So I thought I would gather some tree decorating ideas and tips to help you create a truly stunning Christmas tree for your home.

1. Start With The Tree Skirt

The tree skirt is truly the foundation of your Christmas tree. It creates a base of colors and textures that you will utilize throughout the decorating process. Simply place it around the tree stand and straighten out the fabric so it lays evenly. Something to consider when selecting your tree skirt for a live tree: your tree skirt will catch falling pine needles and sap, protecting your floor or carpet.

Tree skirts are easy to decorate with and come in a variety of materials, patterns, and colors. For a professional look, choose a skirt that works with your overall theme and the room’s decor. It’s ok to think out side the box with this. In the image below, I used a sequin tablecloth instead of a traditional tree skirt.

2. Add The Lights

I prefer a pre-lit tree, but for those of you who don’t like pre-lit or you want to add more lighting to your pre-lit tree; String lights are available in many colors and styles to make your Christmas tree pop! If you’re using a traditional green tree, opt for lights with green wiring to blend into the branches. When hanging lights on your Christmas tree, start from the top and work your way down, winding around branches as you go. Classic white string lights are always my go to because they match almost any type of tree, making them perfect if you change colors or themes each year. Colored or multicolored lights can be fun but can be careful to not clash with your theme or palette. You can always try LED lights that switch between white and colored lights if you can’t decide on the two.

3. Add Ribbon and/or Garland

Garland isn’t just the plastic, tinsel-like material from the 1980’s. This is when you can truly bring your personality to the tree. Garland comes in many different colors and materials. You can use both ribbons and garlands strategically for a uniform look. I opted out of Garland this year, but that’s no reason for you to not have some fun with it! When selecting your ribbon, make sure its broad. At least 2.5-5 inches wide. Broad ribbons and thick garlands fill out thin foliage and balance the appearance of denser trees.

4. Go Big or Go Home With Ornament Selection

If you have several ornaments of varying sizes, start with your largest. You can find large sets of globe ornaments in a variety of finishes and colors that match your palette. This year my palette was gold, black and cream. Don’t be scared to blend hues of one color or use ornaments with different finishes like shiny, matte, or glitter. Choose one to three colors to keep the theme consistent and look for ornaments in large sets so you’ll have enough for your tree.

5. Add Stems and Florals

If you have faux flowers, stems , or other large decorations to add, place them before adding any smaller pieces. They help take up space and also fill in any gaps within your tree.

6. Add Finishing Touches

Now that you’ve almost finished decorating your tree, complete the job with coordinating presents and a tree topper. Tree topper decorations come in many different forms, so choose one that matches your tree’s style. This year I opted for gold floral stems. Afterwards, place the color coordinated presents under the tree and get ready to show it off when you celebrate with family. Below, you can see the chic gift bags and wrapping paper I found on a routine run to Ross. One thing I love about color coordinated gift wrap is that it adds a level of ambiance to your tree. Plus having an attractive and well-planned Christmas tree display will elevate your supporting decor and add to the overall holiday ambiance.

7. Have Fun

This is the most important tip! Have fun! Make your tree something special and beautiful to you! Let your tree be a reflection of who you and your family are. There’s nothing greater than that!

Happy Holidays to you and your family!