If there's one thing I know for sure, it's that nostalgic tartan prints will never go out of style. In fact, they're set to be one of the biggest table decor trends for 2026, according to design experts – which is why I'm stocking up on Pottery Barn's Stewart Plaid dinnerware collection while it's hugely discounted right now.

As a lifestyle writer, I've kept a keen eye on Pottery Barn's Christmas tableware collection since it dropped, and I've rarely seen discounts on so many trending pieces. Yet the Stewart Plaid dinnerware collection isn't just designed for the holidays: it's brimming with New England-inspired charm, and it's the perfect way to lean into one of the most enduring decor styles while stocking up for the next season.

The holidays can be a hectic (and costly) time of year, so you'd be forgiven if shopping for next year's festive tableware isn't your top priority. After hosting my fair share of gatherings recently, however, I can confidently say that investing in new tableware so far in advance is a real blessing when next winter rolls around.

If you decide to take advantage of the holiday sales, I can't recommend Pottery Barn's Stewart Plaid dinnerware collection enough. Elegant and stylish with a retro feel, it showcases a timeless print that's only set to become more popular in 2026. So, add these chic pieces to your cart, and you'll be ahead of the curve before the New Year is underway.

Shop Plaid Dinnerware in the Pottery Barn Sale

Looking for more charming additions to your dining setup? Joanna Gaines' new cozy festive kitchenware collection is my top pick – it's full of winter magic.

Christmas is over for another year, but in the Obamas’ home, the glow of delicate twig tree lights feels timeless. Even in a single photograph of Barack and Michelle Obama, there’s a sense of effortless elegance – and much of that comes from their thoughtful use of Christmas lighting. Warm, slender, sculptural lights, often seen as seasonal Christmas decorating ideas, are here elevated into a permanent feature, softening the architecture and adding a subtle, amber-hued glow that works all year round.

I first discovered the charm of this approach entirely by accident. One year, after the holidays, I forgot to take down my wire trees with sparkling LEDs – and instead of feeling out of place, I found myself delighting in their soft glow all winter. Since then, I’ve kept them up year-round, enjoying the warmth and subtle magic they bring to every season. My Lighted Birch Trees from Amazon now take pride of place on my sideboard, and they never fail to attract compliments from guests.

What makes twig tree lights so special is how they work with the room rather than dominating it. As Jo Naughton, Co-founder of Lights4fun, says: ‘Keep it simple – a few twig trees with sparkling lights will look beautiful all winter, and just as magical in summer when hosting parties.’ In my home, they’ve become a quiet backdrop for long evening chats, piano practice, or just curling up with a book, creating a soft, welcoming atmosphere that doesn’t feel tied to any one holiday.

The Obamas’ approach shows that lighting like this isn’t just about Christmas – it’s about creating a space that feels cozy, elegant, and full of life all year long. True style, after all, doesn’t have a season. It’s the small touches – the soft glow of a wire tree, the careful placement of light – that make a home feel like a sanctuary, no matter the time of year.

Shop the Look

Choosing the perfect Christmas lights that can shine all year round might seem tricky, but I’ve rounded up my favorite affordable designs that make it easy to try the trend at home. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at the stunning glow they can bring to even the smallest or darkest corners of your space.

Every year when I am battling through tangled decorations and tattered tinsel, I promise myself I'll be more organized next year. This year, I have finally decided to break the cycle.

Instead of stuffing everything back into storage now that Christmas is over, I'm only keeping half of my festive decor for 2026. The rest – the tired tinsel, mismatched ornaments, and decor that no longer spark joy – are going. No guilt or second-guessing.

Professional organizers have given their stamp of approval to my post-Christmas decluttering method and reveal why keeping less will, in fact, bring more joy next year.

Why I’m Only Keeping Half My Christmas Decor This Year

It is generally recommended that everyone follow some post-Christmas decluttering rules each year to help remove broken items, duplicates, or pieces that they didn't enjoy this season.

However, I have decided to take it a step further and keep only the bare minimum, and for two key reasons.

Firstly, I typically decorate alone each Christmas season, making it a mammoth task that often ends in frustration and a sore back, no matter how much I try to romanticize the experience.

Secondly, I live in a small storage-less home, so all of my decorations have to be stashed in extra-large bags from The Container Store to be stored in my parents' house (a 40-minute drive away) from one December to the next. So, the less I have, the better.

This doesn't mean that I am gutting my collection down to minimalist Christmas decor ideas by any stretch. Next year, I will continue to use traditional colors and fun Christmas lighting to make my home cozy for the Holiday Season.

However, I am going to cut down how many rooms I decorate to only the shared living spaces (do I really need a tree in my home office, after all?), and be ruthless when decluttering, using the one-emotion decluttering method to toss out any decor that doesn't immediately make me feel festive joy when I pull it down to store away.

According to professional organizers, this approach to decluttering festive decorations while organizing Christmas decorations for storage is ideal for people like me who are desperate to decorate for Christmas without feeling overwhelmed year after year.

Brittany De la Fuente, designer and organizer with Saint Louis Closet Co., explains, 'Decluttering isn’t about getting rid of the magic; it’s about making room for it. A curated collection of holiday decor creates a calmer, more joyful decorating experience every season

'The end of the holiday season is the perfect time to declutter your decor because everything is still fresh in your mind; what you used, what you didn’t, and what’s no longer your style.

'By sorting and donating as you pack away, you’ll save yourself time and stress next year. When you open your bins [such as the Holiday Storage Totes from The Container Store] next December, you’ll find only the things you actually use neatly organized, labeled, and easy to access. It also helps reduce the need for extra storage, freeing up valuable space in your home for year-round use.'

One thing that helped me to cut down maybe piles and reduce clutter was to remember that Christmas is not in the items I hang in my home, but in the activities I do and the time I spend with my family and friends. Yes, a good tree and warm white Christmas lights from Walmart strung along the fireplace help set the atmosphere, but they are not the essential ingredient in creating cozy memories.

For example, when I host friends, it isn't the decorations I remember; it is the food we cook together and the games we play. The decor doesn't factor in.

Stripping Back Your Collection

If you need a little more guidance when deciding what to declutter, especially when with sentimental items, professional organizer Danica Carson, co-founder of The Uncluttered Life, suggests asking yourself the following questions:

1. Is it in good shape? Are there cracks or tears, or missing pieces? If yes, maybe now is the time to donate or recycle it. If it’s something that can be repaired, you should do so before putting it away. Don’t make more work for yourself next year by kicking the can down the road on repairs.
2. Do I still like this? Seems like an obvious question, but sometimes we become so used to decor pieces that we go blind to them.
3. Will it still be good next year? Some things simply don’t last in storage when exposed to extreme temperatures that occur in attics and garages. For example, my son made this adorable ghost a few years ago, and I put it in storage for the following year. When I went to get it out, I found that parts had melted and the entire thing had become misshapen. I was sad to see it go, but there’s no sense in keeping decor that you can’t use again.
4. Is it meaningful? Sometimes, we keep things that are broken or not our style because they remind us of a special person or time. I would never encourage people to give up something that brought them joy or peace. Just be sure to store those pieces together in their own bin for their protection.

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Really want to cut stress from the post-holiday period? Brush up on the most efficient way to take down Christmas decor to make this year's tidy and next year's decorations ten times simpler.

If you have been searching for the perfect holiday aesthetic that feels sophisticated yet lived-in, look no further than Jennifer Aniston’s mid-century modern living room. As we head into 2026, my resolution is simple: I am ditching the over-the-top, synthetic glitter of seasons past in favor of something far more grounded and enduring.

Jennifer Aniston’s holiday decor is a masterclass in warmth, texture, and organic elegance, curated so thoughtfully that it creates a soulful sanctuary rather than a cold, untouchable showroom. It is a visual reminder that true luxury doesn't shout; it invites you to sit down, stay a while, and breathe in the scent of pine.

The room’s magic lies in its effortless ability to balance high-end modernism with a rustic, 'festive woodland' sensibility. This isn't Christmas decor that feels bought off a shelf in a single afternoon; it feels gathered and intentional.

I was especially drawn to her use of color – the deep, velvety red of the poinsettias immediately caught my eye. By tucking these classic Christmas flowers against the sharp, dark lines of her bespoke shelving, she transforms a traditional seasonal staple into a striking high-design statement. Paired with cascading boughs of lush greenery, the poinsettias bring a sense of life and vibrancy that feels far more sophisticated than the fleeting sparkle of standard tinsel.

What truly anchors the space, however, is the fire log storage – a design choice I am personally vowing to emulate. The raw, stacked wood adds a tactile, earthy element that transforms the expansive living room into an intimate, cozy retreat. It serves as a seamless bridge between the sleek luxury of the interior and the rugged, natural beauty of the outdoors. There is an undeniable honesty in seeing the fuel for the hearth displayed so prominently; it evokes the spirit of traditional cabin decor while remaining firmly rooted in a contemporary aesthetic.

When that rugged texture meets the amber glow of hundreds of warm-toned lights – far from the clinical chill of modern LEDs – the effect is pure festive magic. These cozy Christmas lights from Amazon are a personal favorite.

Add in her three dogs sprawled across a plush cream rug, surrounded by layers of tonal, artisanal gift wrap, and the scene feels complete. It’s a space that unapologetically favours comfort and authenticity over anything remotely performative.

2026 will be the year of the 'Jennifer Aniston Edit,' proving that the most beautiful holiday homes are not those that are merely looked at, but those that are truly lived-in, loved, and warmed from the inside out.

Shop the Look

Christmas may have passed, but the warm, inviting charm of the season can linger all year with fireside-inspired cabin decor. Here are my favorite pieces to shop now.

Jennifer Lopez’s Christmas tree is a masterclass in how to decorate with gold in a way that feels elevated rather than excessive. Wrapped in warm white lights and layered with shimmering gold ornaments, soft blush accents, and elegant ribbon, the tree glows with a quiet confidence – luxurious, but never loud. It’s festive, yes, but it also feels timeless, hinting at something bigger than a single season.

Decorating with gold has long been one of the most uplifting colors, and it’s perhaps not surprising that it is experiencing a modern renaissance in interiors. From subtle flecks of metallic detailing to full-on gold walls and ceilings, this radiant hue brings instant warmth and light to every surface it touches.

In Jennifer Lopez’s home, the effect is especially striking: the gold doesn’t shout for attention, instead enhancing the room with a soft, flattering glow that feels joyful and calming in equal measure.

What makes gold so compelling right now is its versatility and ability to make a home look expensive. Far from the brash, dated finishes of the past, today’s golds are warmer, softer, and more nuanced. They pair beautifully with neutrals, blush tones, deep greens, and rich browns, creating spaces that feel layered, expensive, and thoughtfully designed.

As Justyna Korczynska, senior designer at Crown, explains, ‘Luxurious gold brings in a touch of warmth and optimism to a room, perfect for bringing a sense of positivity into the home. The color creates a sense of calm with a feeling of restfulness and well-being.’

Historically associated with wealth and opulence, gold has often been treated with caution, even in statement spaces. But designers are increasingly embracing its softer side. ‘Its warm tones create a gentle, glowing atmosphere ideal for an intimate and sophisticated space,’ says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands – a sentiment that feels especially relevant as homes become places of comfort as well as self-expression.

This golden Christmas tree idea captures this shift perfectly. It feels aspirational yet approachable, glamorous yet grounded – and crucially, not confined to Christmas alone. This is a room color idea that translates effortlessly into everyday interiors, from kitchens and bedrooms to living spaces that crave a little light and optimism. As designer Jaime Beriestain notes, ‘The gold color is an invitation to dream and to travel. Sometimes it can fill a space with light,’ turning even overlooked rooms into moments of quiet drama.

Jennifer Lopez’s ‘golden’ Christmas tree is just the beginning. A once-forgotten hue is reclaiming its place beyond festive decor, proving that gold can feel modern, refined, and irresistibly glamorous – and it’s a color I predict we’ll be using all year round.

Shop the Gold Edit

Though the Christmas season has passed, the allure of gold endures – offering countless sophisticated ways to infuse your home with warmth, elegance, and a touch of timeless glamor. Here, I’ve selected my favorite golden decor pieces to continue this radiant color trend into 2026.

With the whirlwind of holidays coming to a close, it's only natural to crave a bit of breathing room. Homes feel full in every sense of the word, and that's where our post-Christmas decluttering reset comes in.

Spreading streamlining tasks over 12 days, this slow home decluttering approach turns what would otherwise be an overwhelming project into manageable steps so you don't start the new year burnt out.

This is how to split your workload for this relaxed decluttering method and leave your home beautifully clean and zen for January and beyond.

12 Days of Post-Christmas Decluttering

December 25 – Deal with Trash

Although you may be juggling guests and dinners on Christmas Day, it never hurts to streamline a little as you go.

Audra George, owner and professional organizer at Pretty Neat: An Organization Solution, suggests starting small and just focusing on the main bulk of trash to tidy a home without feeling overwhelmed, or detracting from quality time with friends and family.

She recommends targeting wrapping paper, packaging, and boxes that you no longer need for an instant refresh that will make any room feel less chaotic, ready for that post-dinner snooze.

December 26 – Clean the Kitchen

Cleaning a kitchen after dinner is a mammoth task on a normal day, but throw in the chaos of Christmas, and it's even tougher. For this, it is wise to encourage family to declutter with you, even introducing children to chores to speed the process up.

Your first task, Audra says, is to deal with Christmas leftovers. 'Leftovers are great to eat on for the next few days, and look up some new recipes of what to do with the leftover turkey or ham, then make some new recipes to enjoy. The sooner you deal with the food, the better tasting it will be.'

For any items you decide to freeze, consider the Rubbermaid Glass Food Containers from Target. They are leak-proof and oven-safe, perfect for quick reheating later on.

As for cleaning the kitchen, you do not need to gut your appliances right now. Rather, deal with the immediate messes, such as cleaning countertops, mopping floors, taking out the trash, and cleaning the kitchen sink. Don't forget to empty and reload the dishwasher, too.

We suggest using a non-toxic cleaner, such as the Attitude All-Purpose Spray from Walmart, to help create a non-toxic home going into the new year. Sponge cloths, from Target, are also a great pick to minimize waste at an expensive time of the year. They can quickly be sanitized on the top rack of your dishwasher for rapid household cleaning.

December 27 – House Gifts

With the excitement starting to dull, it's time to declutter all the new gifts that are likely sitting in piles around your family room. Pro organizer Audra recommends focusing on just one room at a time, determining where the new stuff will live that is both practical and organized.

Look for homes first, and then determine if you need to purchase extra storage to avoid over-shopping and stop clutter before it starts. If you need new storage, consider clear storage bins from Wayfair, allowing items to stay on display. It's a quick way to optimize storage to avoid duplicates in the future.

You may also want to consider the one-in, one-out rule when putting gifts away. Does a new gift replace something old? Toss or donate the old to make space.

December 28 – Tackle Tables

With the majority of dinner parties over, it is time to declutter your dining room and clear decorations and linens from your table, suggests Max Wilson, home storage expert and co-founder of Pocket Storage.

Put decorations back in their boxes, wipe down place mats, and toss table linens such as cloths and napkins in the laundry basket. It is also a good idea to disinfect the dining table and chairs with a non-toxic disinfectant spray such as Method Citron Antibacterial from Target.

This will give you the perfect clear slate to set up your New Year table decor ideas.

December 29 – Gut the Guest Rooms

If guests have stayed over through the Christmas period, reset the bedrooms now, ready for any New Year friends and family, Audra urges.

Strip and make beds the right way, whether or not guests are arriving in the coming days, so that the space is always ready for last-minute use.

Declutter surfaces and guest bathrooms, not forgetting about clothes storage, to make a guest room feel more homey, and consider curating new guest welcome boxes to present yourself as a super host.

December 30 – Start on Laundry

No one likes laundry, but after Christmas dinner, days spent lounging in PJs, and guests staying the night, it is sure to have piled up in various rooms of your home.

A quick organizing trick to make laundry easier is to gather all of the laundry in one place. This will make sorting laundry and making up loads easier. A pre-divided laundry hamper, such as the Joseph Joseph Tota Trio Hamper, from Wayfair, is ideal for this, with removable baskets making it easy to take items to your laundry room without dropping anything.

When doing laundry, avoid the common laundry mistake of overloading the drum, opting for several smaller washes over one massive one to avoid breaking your best washing machine. It takes longer, but you will get better results.

To keep things clean and simple, use a gentle detergent, such as Tide Free & Gentle from Walmart, to avoid damaging any fabrics or setting off allergies.

December 31 – Clear Family Rooms

The New Year usually means another influx of guests. To prepare, spend some time decluttering the main gathering places, such as the family and living rooms.

Max suggests, 'Fold throws, stack books, and return items to their homes. This area often becomes the dumping ground, so bringing order back here instantly changes how the whole house feels.'

For a systematic approach to decluttering a living room, try the ski-slope organizing method, going back and forth with a laundry basket (I use a folding basket similar to the Joseph Joseph Hold-All Basket from Wayfair) to collect items that don't belong and easily take them to their appropriate homes.

Short on time or energy? Try the GFD basket method, paired with the guest scanning method, to get a home guest-ready in under one hour.

January 1 – Clear Cards

You may be feeling pretty tired on New Year's Day, so take a step back and focus on a small task to help recoup energy.

Max suggests organizing paperwork and decluttering Christmas card displays on New Year's Day, tasks you can sit down and tackle while watching TV.

He recommends, 'Recycle old cards, save a few special ones, and file receipts or warranties. This clears visual clutter and stops piles from spreading into January.' For those cards you want to keep, a shallow project box from Walmart is more than adequate, keeping them safe from damage, ready for redisplay next year.

January 2 – Declutter Decor

The festivities are officially over, so it is time to declutter Christmas decorations and reclaim your home, Max urges.

He suggests, 'Take a moment to reflect on your holiday décor. Start with any decorations that feel out of place. Keep sentimental items and donate or recycle what no longer suits your space.'

Pack items away securely so that they are not damaged for next year. Ornament bags, from Amazon, will protect baubles from breaks and scratches in attic storage, while a sturdy Christmas tree bag, also from Amazon, can protect artificial trees from mold and pests.

January 3 – Blast Bathrooms

You will likely have been cleaning bathrooms periodically over the Christmas period, but now that guests have moved on, it's time to declutter and organize bathrooms thoroughly before giving them a deep clean.

Guest products will likely have been used up, or half emptied, Max points out, so take some time to consolidate products into one bottle where you can and declutter the empties. The same goes for any products or tools that have been replaced by new gifts or items you didn't like using.

When rearranging items in bathroom storage, consider using breathable storage containers from Amazon to corral clutter without trapping moisture.

January 4 – Empty the Entryway

Bulky coats and shoes will always make an entryway look cluttered. While we are still a long way from switching to spring jackets, it's a good idea to declutter any items you are not using and tidy up items that you may have left out in the holiday rush, ready for going back to school and work.

January 5 – The Final Sweep

It's the end of the 12 days of post-Christmas decluttering. By now, most of your home should look as it did before the madness of the holidays.

For the final day, Audra concludes, 'Focus on any other spaces that still need a small reset. Go slow and steady, focusing on one space at a time – baby steps will make to-do lists less overwhelming, decrease stress, and allow you to gradually work on things vs trying to rush and get your home organized all at once.'

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Struggling to beat the post-Christmas blues at home? Our experts have rounded up the best tips to help boost your energy in the coldest, darkest month of the year and make a home less depressing in fall and winter.

The excitement of Christmas morning only grows when there are children in the house, and with them comes a truckload of mess and clutter.

That’s why, after nine festive Christmas mornings with our daughter, my husband and I have developed a three-step process that not only banishes that explosion of mess, but means once the presents are opened, all the clutter has already been dealt with, leaving your living room free from that chaotic sensation.

Whether you have children or not, this organizing tip takes just minutes and is useful for any busy household on Christmas day. Better yet, it won’t get in the way of all that Christmas morning fun.

3 Ways to Stop Christmas Morning Clutter Chaos in Your Living Room

1. Put Wrapping Paper In a Trash Bag As You Go

This isn’t genius by any means, but it’s easy to forget to do in all the excitement. After years spent on our hands and knees finding all the scraps of wrapping paper when everything had been ripped open in a flurry of excitement on Christmas morning, we reverse-engineered the fix.

Now, I keep a strong trash bag, available at Amazon, open and by my side, ready to receive scraps as we go. I remind our daughter to pop all her rubbish inside, too and make it more fun by telling her to scrunch it up into a ball and 'shoot' it into our 'net' (the trash bag). You'll be surprised how easily it energizes the group to get that rubbish in the bag!

We also make sure to grab any plastic boxes (hence the strong bags) and wrapping from gifts that can be recycled and put those in the bag too, then the whole lot gets tipped out to the recycling bin at the end of our gift opening session. It's always good to have an idea of what can't be recycled, so the whole batch doesn't get contaminated, but it might include paper with glitter on, for example.

What I love about this tip as a person who finds visual clutter stressful, is that the mess doesn’t build up as Christmas morning progresses, and I don’t get overstimulated or tapped out by the chaos.

As a person in chronic pain and with nervous system dysregulation, this is vital to my enjoyment of special but busy and potentially messy days like Christmas. If you are neurodivergent, you may experience the same, and this is a smart way of easily decluttering with health challenges with minimal effort or energy spent.

Professional organizer and KonMari® Master Consultant, Rebecca Jo-Rushdy of Spark Joy & Flow adds, ‘Trash bags are absolutely essential – and I love getting kids involved by turning it into a little game as presents are opened (wrapping and boxes straight into the bag). It keeps momentum going and prevents that slow build-up of visual overwhelm.’

It also means we don’t have to stop our gift-enjoying or festive eating schedule to reset our living space before guests arrive, because we’re actually doing the time-consuming tidying up as we go.

2. Allocate a Sturdy Bag to Each Family Member

It’s a simple tweak and negates the need for a big tidy later on. Instead of piling all the presents around yourselves like a gift fortress, each person in your family should have an allocated large and sturdy shopping bag. I have lots of reusable shopping totes from Amazon at home to reduce my plastic, which are perfect for the job.

Once each person has opened a gift and finished marvelling at what good taste you all have, they can pop it straight into their designated bag.

Professional organizer Rebecca explains, ‘Allocate one per family member so that each person’s gifts have a home straight away. It makes it much easier to transport everything to bedrooms later without the inevitable armful-of-gifts-dropping-everywhere scenario.’

This is also helpful for guests who are with you for Christmas, but perhaps leaving soon.

I appreciate this tip a lot, as my daughter usually receives a mountain of gifts she refuses to put away for a while. Having a tidy bag we can tuck behind the sofa or place in a cabinet out of sight makes it easy to reset the living room for our afternoon lunch guests, whilst still keeping her array of goodies on hand for enjoyment.

Excluding children from age-appropriate tasks is something people with tidy homes never do, as it’s a great way to build sensible and useful organizing habits and skills that will serve them for life, first in your family home and later, their own.

3. Ditch Perfection

Housekeeping perfectionism was a mindset that it took me a while to train myself out of. I used to find it particularly stressful when I had guests coming to my home and I couldn’t 100% remove visual evidence of Christmas morning carnage from my most sociable spaces, such as living rooms and kitchens.

But taking the first two steps in this guide helped corral new clutter with next-to-zero effort in that in-between stage of the holidays, where you have a bunch of new items, and no time to find a permanent home for the plethora of gifts received.

This means cleaning things up quickly, not perfectly, so that your space is reset fast and respectable for any friends and family who are stopping by.

Having extra family-member-specific bags to hold new items is also handy when extra relatives or loved ones arrive and add to the chaos. This will prevent your home from descending into further chaos if extra people arrive.

Rebecca agrees, adding, ‘Perhaps most importantly, these tips are not about perfection or restoring your space to a picture-perfect living room. It’s about restoring flow. Clearing the visual noise quickly allows everyone to stay present and focus on what matters most: Being together, rather than feeling stressed by the mess.'

What to Shop

Once the chaos of Christmas is over, having a number of handy storage items to put decor away sensibly will stop them from breaking between now and next Christmas, as well as make it easier to clean up after Christmas.

Meet the Expert

Next, lean into January decluttering rules to start the new year right.

If you're home for the holidays, you're likely entertaining friends, family, and possibly neighbors and new acquaintances. Whichever it is, consulting our Christmas hosting guide is an invaluable resource to ensure success.

Creating a convivial space is an art form – and knowing how to make a good first impression, will leave your guests with lasting memories – whether they are joining you for a cocktail party, coming for Christmas day lunch, or staying for several nights.

From welcoming visitors into the home, to bidding them a fond farewell, interior designers and etiquette experts recommend how to host over the holidays with grace and aplomb.

1. Set the Right Tone From the Outset

You don't get a second chance to make a good first impression – so the saying goes. A warm welcome and lasting memories start before you even open the front door. So ensure the outside is tidy, pathways are clear (and well-lit if it's dark) and exterior decorations are still looking festive. Etiquette expert, Myka Meier likes to take this a few steps further.

'I have something I call my Five Senses Hosting tip, which is when guests first arrive you want to hit all five senses,' says Myka Meier, founder, Beaumont Etiquette. 'So they have a warm greeting, smell something delightful, hear music, see the seasonal decor – from the wreath on the front door to the decor in the hallway – and they are offered something delicious, as this sets the tone – these little courtesies make a home feel instantly inviting.'

2. Lean into Nature With a Welcoming Entrance

'I love creating an entrance that instantly puts people at ease – firstly soft lighting and a tidy, clear space to take coats or umbrellas,' says Myka. '

'If your home requires shoes to be removed, provide booties or brand-new socks as an elegant alternative,' adds Jackie Vernon Thompson, etiquette expert and founder, From The Inside-Out School of Etiquette. 'And most importantly, communicate this requirement before the event to avoid any awkwardness at the door.

'One of the most essential elements in creating a truly welcoming holiday environment is establishing an atmosphere that feels warm, relaxed, and inviting – an ambiance that encourages your guests to maneuver freely and comfortably within the designated gathering space.'

Interior designer, Nina Lichtenstein, founder, Nina's Home Design agrees. 'A true welcome begins in the body, not the foyer. I use biophilic cues such as natural materials, curved lines, and soft flickering light to calm the nervous system the moment guests enter,' she explains.

'It's less about decoration and more about creating physiological ease. The gentle flicker of candlelight mirrors the fractal patterns found in nature and can subconsciously reduce stress. That's the kind of first impression that lasts long after dinner is over.'

3. Scent Sensitively

Many of us like to scent our homes with the best home fragrances, especially at Christmas or when hosting. Wafts of orange, cinnamon, and clove can feel festive. Yet powerful perfumes can cause discomfort. So be mindful not to go overboard. A few scented natural wax candles, or a diffuser with a subtle aroma in the hallway or as part of a display in the sitting room should suffice.

'Enhancing the ambiance with a mild, pleasant fragrance can elevate the experience,' says Jackie. 'However, be mindful of sensitivities and allergies. The fragrance should never be overpowering – your intention is to delight your guests, never to overwhelm them or cause discomfort.'

This scented candle from Urban Outfitters comes with a lid, so it's easy to extinguish when your room is sufficiently fragranced.

4. Create a 'Moment of Wonder'

However you celebrate the holidays, decorating the home is part of the fun, and a festive setting is something your guests will appreciate. Whether you opt for Christmas tree ideas with baubles and lights, garlands and wreaths, or something less traditional, Nina recommends creating an eye-catching focal point or 'a moment of wonder'.

'Every guest should have one visual element that makes them pause,' says Nina. 'It might be an oversized botanical arrangement gathered from your garden, a sculptural mirror that catches the glow of the tree, or a meaningful piece of art framed in soft light. That touch of surprise activates curiosity and delight, which neuroscientists connect directly to positive emotion and memory.'

'I love setting the tone right at the entryway – it’s the first moment guests experience, so it should feel intentional and inviting,' says interior designer, Mary Paton, founder, Mary Paton Design. 'During the holidays, I put a beautifully styled Christmas tree in the foyer. It’s an immediate signal that the home is festive, warm, and ready to celebrate.' Take a look at our piece on tabletop Christmas trees if you're short on space.

5. Prepare the Guest Facilities

It goes without saying that your powder room should be spotlessly clean, adequately stocked and prepared for visitors. Etiquette experts recommend some extra touches too.

'Upon their arrival, discreetly inform your guests of the restroom location. This small courtesy saves them from having to ask in front of others, preserving their comfort and dignity,' advises Jackie.

'A combination of fresh hand towels (like these West Elm Hand Towels) and easily accessible paper options, along with extra toilet paper placed in plain sight, helps guests feel comfortable without having to search or ask,' says etiquette instructor, Sydney Dunn. 'A light, neutralizing spray (like this Fresh Wave odor removing spray from Amazon) and a package of wet wipes are often appreciated too.'

Full hand soap and hand lotion dispensers are non-negotiable when you have a house full. This Hinoki hand care set from Bloomingdales is elegant and gently scented.

6. Add Sociable Seating Spaces

It's no accident that people congregate in the kitchen at parties. It's usually where the host is and often the food, too. If you want to encourage this, ensure there are barstools for guests to perch on, and places they can rest their glasses and plates. Alternatively, create a comfortable space where you would like people to gather.

'Begin by imagining where people will naturally gather,' says Sydney. 'Create cozy, conversational spaces with warm lighting and seating that encourages easy interaction. Avoid placing a single chair by itself; instead, arrange seats in soft curves or clusters that foster natural conversation.'

'Keep surfaces clear nearby for drinks so guests aren’t left juggling plates or cups. Soft background music can gently fill quieter moments, and a cleared kitchen counter helps guests feel welcome rather than in the way.'

'Offer light refreshments, even if a meal will follow,' adds Jackie. 'Canapes will ensure guests feel cared for and never hungry while they wait.'

This Costa Nova Oval Pearl serving platter from Anthroplogie is elegantly understated and great for serving nibbles before the main event.

7. Offer Considered Gestures at Mealtimes

What you choose to serve and your Christmas table decor ideas will depend on many factors. From the number of people you're hosting and individual preferences to the time of day you're dining. With overnight guests, you will be entertaining them at multiple mealtimes. However, there are some simple gestures that will put your guests at ease and create a convivial setting.

'For overnight guests, a simple, cheerful breakfast table with fresh fruit and pastries, is ideal. I set things family-style so guests can help themselves without formality.'

'Evening meals automatically call for a little more ambiance. Candlelight, cloth napkins, and a centerpiece that doesn’t block conversation add a sense of occasion without being stiff. I keep serving pieces easy to reach so the meal flows naturally.'

Nina believes luxury is not about perfection; it is about emotional generosity. 'I like to set out soft slippers in winter, place a cozy shawl on the back of each chair, and ensure that lighting falls on faces rather than ceilings,' she says. 'These small gestures communicate care at a cellular level. When people feel seen, safe, and comfortable, your home becomes more than beautiful. It becomes restorative.'

8. Go the Extra Mile With the Guest Bathroom

A sparklingly clean bathroom – whether specifically for guests or shared – with fresh towels is a no-brainer. However, anticipating overnight guests' needs can help their stay go smoothly.

'A well-prepared bathroom is another subtle but meaningful way to show care for your guests’ most personal needs,' says Sydney. 'When space allows, a small basket (like these seagrass storage baskets from Pottery Barn) filled with thoughtful toiletries adds an extra layer of hospitality.'

'If you don’t have a dedicated guest bathroom, simply clearing personal items from the counter can create a cleaner, more welcoming space. Adding a small night light (like these plug-in LED night lights from Walmart) also helps guests navigate a dark, unfamiliar bathroom with ease.'

Guests might also appreciate this small wooden table mirror from H&M Home when applying or removing make-up.

9. Level Up the Guest Bedroom

The best bed sheets, a beautifully made bed, and space to hang clothes is basic hospitality. However, seasoned hosts like to add extra thoughtful touches. This not only levels up the experience and makes it more pleasant for your guests, it makes life easier for you too. So it's a win-win.

'With the guest bedroom, think boutique hotel, but personal,' advises Myka. 'I always include a small carafe of water and a glass (like this clear glass carafe at Crate & Barrel). so guests don’t have to wander around at night to get a drink.'

'A note with the guest Wi-Fi code is usually appreciated too – I find guests love feeling independent, and it saves them from feeling like they're “bothering” you. I also like to put flowers or greenery, such as sprigs of lavender, from my garden in their room by their bedside."

Etiquette expert, Nick Leighton, co-host of the podcast Were You Raised By Wolves agrees and adds: 'Add a small basket full of things like earplugs, sleep masks, travel-size toothpaste, and bonus points if you offer cords and chargers too.'

'In addition, clear off surfaces, make room in the closet, and empty a few dresser drawers for your guests.'

A portable light like this LED table lamp from Anthroplogie enables your guests to move it to where it's most convenient for them. Just make sure it's fully charged before they arrive.

Shop the Essentials for Making a Great First Impression

Perfecting a good first impression is less about you and more about putting the focus on your guests and how they might feel in your home. Finally when it's time to wrap things up, Jackie suggests 'As the gathering comes to a close, be intentional in expressing your gratitude. Let your guests know how much you truly enjoyed having them before you start to reclaim your home after the holidays.

Christmas is all about joyful celebration, and for me, that usually means a lot of fabulous new decorations. But I've learnt that you don't need to spend big to feel festive, and the simplest ideas can look surprisingly impressive. When it comes to Christmas table decor ideas, there's one trick that never fails: filling a vase with Christmas ornaments to create an effortless centerpiece.

The first time I tried this DIY Christmas craft idea, I was amazed that I hadn't done it sooner. Adding sparkling ornaments to a glass vase or jar can elevate any space, whether you display the finished centerpiece on a sideboard, dining table, or even a mantel. I like to start with my hammered glass hurricane jar from Pottery Barn, and I use different ornaments every year – sometimes plucking a few from my tree that work well together. For a fun and eclectic idea, try adding in some cookery-themed Christmas ornaments.

This centerpiece hack is, of course, totally customizable. You can vary the size of your vase, depending on where you'll be placing it – a taller option like McGee & Co's Allaire vase is ideal if you're lacking table space, while a lower, wider vessel like the Georg Jensen Facet vase will really make a statement. You can even use serveware like Crate & Barrel's Atwell glass serving bowl, if you like.

When it comes to choosing ornaments, the options are endless. If you want to show off spare decorations that you can't quite squeeze onto your tree, this is the perfect opportunity: build a collection of ornaments in different shapes and colors for a whimsical, eclectic look.

If you often lean towards more slick Christmas decorating ideas, however, stick to a narrow color scheme. You can still experiment with unexpected Christmas colors like pink and mauve (I've been desperate to show off my favorite rosy velvet ornaments from Wayfair) – or go for classic shades like red, navy and green to channel the Ralph Lauren Christmas decor trend.

What I love about this hack is that you really can make it your own: when it's time to show off your centerpiece, you can even add string lights to the vase for a cozy feel, or incorporate a few pinecones and berries to create a rustic look. (Just make sure that your vessel of choice isn't so tall that it's blocking sightlines across the table.)

And, you can swap out the ornaments in your centerpiece whenever you feel like a refresh, so you can ring the changes with your table decor for every gathering.

Shop Everything You Need to Create a Christmas Ornament Centerpiece

If you're looking for more DIY table decor ideas, check out Shea McGee's no-fail centerpiece rules – they're full of ways to use pieces you already own.

I can't be the only keen host with a tendency to get carried away during the festive season. I spend months feverishly adding to my mood board, and when it's finally time to host holiday gatherings, my Christmas table decor ideas can become rather elaborate. After a simple tip from Shea McGee, however, I think I've finally figured out how to create a picture-perfect tablescape that still feels warm and inviting.

Balancing elegance with a more relaxed feel is tricky at the best of times, but Shea McGee's secret weapon is surprisingly simple. In a recent video shared on the Studio McGee Instagram, Shea explains that she always relies on one key element: texture.

It might sound straightforward, but Shea's advice has really stayed with me. Every designer knows how to balance core elements like color, depth, and pattern – but texture really can be transformative.

'When I'm setting up for the holidays, I always like to do a more formal tablescape, because I think it makes the event feel special and memorable,' Shea explains in the video. 'But there always has to be an element of feeling relaxed, as well – which is why I love to incorporate woven textures, because it's a nice juxtaposition.'

Just like the rustic pieces that adorn Shea's 'festive farmhouse' table, these additions can bring instant warmth to a scheme, creating a look that maintains a sense of sophistication while still feeling utterly inviting.

'When it comes to holiday hosting, we love adding small, unexpected details that make guests feel special and welcome,' writes Shea in the caption. 'Layers, woven textures or a simple ribbon can bring just the right touch of festive charm without feeling overdone.'

To me, it's all about softening the edges. Think literally: McGee & Co's Nevelyn fringed tablecloth is the perfect, cottagecore-style example, paired with lace trim napkins and braided placemats. You can even bring woven textures to serveware and glassware, too. Tuckernuck's seagrass highball glasses are real statement pieces with the seagrass detail, not to mention Pottery Barn's handwoven serving set, which brings a rustic touch to the table.

In a more abstract sense, however, textures can 'soften' a more polished scheme to bring personality to your table. I've learnt that a more casual look can be perfect for the holidays, allowing guests to come together and unwind.

From Shea's chair bow trick to her hydrangea Christmas tree decor idea, I'd say she knows exactly how to add stunning textures into any space – and I'll be taking her advice this year to create an effortlessly magical tablescape.

Shop Shea McGee-Inspired Textured Tableware

Looking for more expert-approved hacks for the holiday season? We've pulled together the ultimate guide to Christmas hosting, from food prep to decor ideas.

Few plants are as instantly synonymous with the festive season as the poinsettia. With its jewel-toned bracts and glossy green foliage, this striking houseplant has become a winter staple in American homes.

Knowing how to care for a poinsettia properly is key to keeping it looking vibrant long after the holidays begin. While they are often treated as disposable decorations and Christmas plants, poinsettias are in fact long-lived tropical plants that can thrive indoors with the right care.

From watering and temperature to light levels and placement, this complete guide covers everything you need to know to keep a poinsettia healthy, colorful, and thriving throughout winter and beyond.

How to Keep Your Poinsettia Healthy: Expert Advice

One of the most iconic winter houseplants, the poinsettia's story stretches back far beyond modern Christmas décor.

Native to Mexico, this joyful plant was introduced to the United States in the early 19th century by botanist and diplomat Joel Roberts Poinsett, who was so captivated by the plant that it was later named in his honor. By the mid-1900s, clever cultivation and promotion had cemented its place as the definitive Christmas plant we know today.

Poinsettias do have a reputation for being tricky to maintain after the holiday season, and especially if you make any common poinsettia mistakes, but rest assured all you need is the right care advice.

Don't forget, poinsettias need a period of being placed in the dark each day for 8-10 weeks (usually from October) to in order for it to flower profusely again by Christmas.

‘They can be a little challenging to care for, but with due consideration and proper poinsettia care, it is possible for them to thrive in most home environments,’ confirms Andrew Gaumond, horticulturist, botanist, and editorial director at Petal Republic.

We consulted top plant experts to find out exactly how to care for a poinsettia properly. Follow this advice and you’ll be keeping your plant alive until next Christmas, and it for many winters to come.

1. Choose a Healthy Plant

Start your poinsettia care regime before you’ve even bought it, by choosing a healthy plant from a reputable store or garden center.

A way to select a high-grade plant is to look for undamaged, dense foliage and budding flowers in-between the colored bracts (these are the upper leaves, which are often mistaken for flowers).

‘Buy your poinsettia from an indoor store, and make sure they don't display these plants near automatic doors,’ says Naomi Robinson, founder of Houseplant Authority. ‘Poinsettias don't like lower temperatures so any period exposed to this, even just the doors opening and closing every now and then, can mean that the plant won't last long.’

This poinsettia from Costa Farms and available to buy via Amazon would be a good online choice, and the festive gold pot is a bonus.

A caring seller will also have made sure the poinsettia is watered correctly – feel the compost and ensure it is neither sandy dry nor soaking wet.

2. Transport Your Poinsettia Home With Care

‘Wrap your poinsettia in paper for the journey home to protect it from drafts and temperatures below 54°F (12ºC),' says Dr. Susanne Lux, international campaign coordinator at poinsettia grower collective Stars for Europe.

'This protects it from damage that is initially invisible but can lead to premature loss of leaves after a few days,’

When you get it home, take it out of its sleeve and place the pot on a saucer. ‘Be careful with pot sleeves because they can hold too much water, which can cause the plant to die,’ says Gail Pabst from the National Garden Bureau.

3. Ensure Consistent Temperature

When it comes to knowing where to place a poinsettia, these plants are particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, which is why consistency is just as important as hitting the right range.

Sudden changes, such as being moved from a warm living room to a chilly hallway, or placed near an exterior door that’s frequently opened, can quickly stress the plant.

Drafts, cold windowsills, and heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, and air vents can all cause leaf drop or premature fading of the colorful bracts.

For best results, keep poinsettias in a stable spot where night and daytime temperatures remain steady

‘Keep the plants at a temperature of between 59-72°F (15-22ºC),’ says Susanne Lux.

Naomi Robinson adds: ‘Poinsettias don't generally like direct sunlight, although this is less of an issue during winter, so it's fine to keep your plant near a window (ideally south-facing) during the Christmas period.’

‘Just make sure you move it away from that position as the warmer months approach to avoid its leaves burning.’

4. Only Water Poinsettias When the Soil is Noticeably Dry

While technique and water temperature are crucial, timing is just as important when watering a poinsettia. Rather than sticking to a strict schedule, it’s best to check the compost regularly and water only when the top inch feels dry to the touch.

‘Overwatering is the most common mistake with poinsettias – and it's important to let the water drain,’ says Gail Pabst.

Knowing how often to water a poinsettia will varies depending on the temperature, location, and the size of both the plant and its pot. ‘For a pot with a diameter of 5 inches, give it no more than a small glass of water,’ advises Susanne Lux. ‘This prevents large pores in the soil from clogging up and waterlogging.'

Mini poinsettias should not be given more than one shot glass of water. Excess water that is still in the planter after ten minutes should be removed as this can lead to overwatering. ‘If in doubt, it’s better to keep these plants a little more dry than moist and to water them little and often, rather than rarely but in great quantity,’ adds Susanne.

Only water poinsettias when the soil is noticeably dry, which can range from every day to every three days. Pay extra attention to smaller pots as they dry out faster – mini poinsettias, especially, will most likely need watering daily. A soil moisture meter, such as this one from Amazon, will really help to know for sure when your poinsettia needs its next drink.

It’s also worth knowing the early signs of watering issues. Drooping or yellowing leaves can indicate both under- and overwatering, while sudden leaf drop is often a sign that the roots have been exposed to cold, waterlogged compost. Adjusting watering habits promptly can often reverse these issues and help the plant recover.

5. Hold Off on the Feeding

While you would typically fertilize a plant when it's in bloom this is a big no-no when it comes to poinsettias in the winter.

Fertilisation is most beneficial after the bracts begin to fade, when the plant can use nutrients to support new leaf and root growth in preparation for the next season.

‘Never fertilize a poinsettia in full bloom,’ adds Andrew Gaumond, horticulturist, botanist, and editorial director at Petal Republic.

‘These plants are generally light feeders and only really need a nutrient boost once or twice in spring and summer with a balanced water-soluble houseplant feed.’

Shop Our Poinsettia Care Edit

FAQs

What is the Most Popular Poinsettia Color?

Red is the most popular poinsettia color, however, the bracts actually come in a many more shades and even patterns, meaning there’s a breed to suit any taste or style. Shapes, too, can differ from pointed or jagged to rounded or crinkled.

Some of the most popular non-traditional poinsettia colors are:

• White
• Cream
• Salmon
• Magenta
• Apricot
• Lemon

There are also lots of interesting variations, like marbled or mottled patterns which feature multiple colors – we love this white and pink poinsettia.

Can You Put Poinsettias in a Vase?

Yes, you can put cut poinsettias in a vase. However, this is not as simple and just cutting them and dropping them into a vase of water.

If you’re using cut poinsettias in a vase, cut the bracts, dip the cut end in warm, around 140°F (60ºC), water for a few seconds, then immediately in cold water. Once arranged, make sure to replace with fresh water every few days. With the right care, they will last around two weeks in the vase.

If you don't love the ruby red blooms of the classic poinsettias for Christmas, they are also available in a range of colors including white, lemon, and pink.

Why not use different colors to make a poinsettia wreath? Or, if you want inspiration for poinsettia alternatives, you'll find them in our guide.

Christmas is fast approaching, and with just a week to go, you might be imagining yourself relaxing with a glass of mulled wine, confident that everything is ticked off your list. But is it really? Even Delia Smith, the iconic British cook, reminds us in her Christmas cookbooks that it’s often the little non-food essentials – the easily overlooked items for the home – that make all the difference when hosting.

When it comes to Christmas hosting, it’s easy to forget the small details that keep everything running smoothly. Do you have enough napkins and napkin rings so guests aren’t reaching for kitchen roll? Spare place cards? Or a simple set of matching candlesticks to make your table feel effortlessly polished? A few thoughtful purchases now will ensure you’re ready for guests, without any last-minute scrambling or awkward improvisation.

One of the most commonly overlooked essentials is batteries. If you’re not sure you have enough, I’d recommend ordering two large packs of batteries from Amazon now – you can never have too many. To make things even easier, here’s a handy list of last-minute buys you can add to your basket today and have delivered straight to your door before Christmas.

Forgotten Christmas Essentials That Save the Day Every Year

Drinking glasses often run short when guests arrive, leaving you scrambling for spare tumblers or wine glasses. A quick solution is to have an extra set of bistro-style drinking glasses, such as this Tumbler Set on Amazon, on hand – they’re practical and always look smart.

Placemats and table runners are another easy detail to overlook, yet they can instantly transform a table from chaotic to carefully curated. Don’t forget serving utensils, either – a missing ladle or cheese knife can turn a simple buffet into a minor disaster. Stocking up on these often-forgotten essentials now will keep your Christmas hosting running smoothly and save you from any last-minute panics.

By now, your list of last-minute buys should be looking a little more complete, but there are always a few more overlooked essentials that make Christmas hosting run smoothly. Make sure you have plenty of thick bin bags to avoid the dreaded overflowing recycling on Boxing Day, and enough ice trays to keep drinks flowing without frantic freezer raids. Spare tea towels, extra chopping boards and a few rolls of kitchen paper are surprisingly handy when unexpected spills happen, while a set of small serving bowls or platters will save you from scrambling when everyone wants a second helping.

Do not forget corkscrews, bottle openers and trivets to protect your surfaces, and despite my aforementioned disdain of kitchen roll at the dining table, ensure you buy plenty of the stuff for the kitchen (Regina Blitz from Amazon is the very best kitchen roll). By thinking ahead and ticking off these often forgotten items, you can enjoy hosting with confidence, knowing your home is fully prepared for a stress-free, festive Christmas.

The grazing table may be ubiquitous at weddings and formal events, but the trend isn't going away anytime soon. The opposite, in fact: grazing tables are becoming a favorite way for hosts to create a visually arresting and stunning display of savory and sweet treats. And, if you're wondering how to host Christmas celebrations without turning on the oven, this is your answer, especially as it's a way of naturally encouraging mingling and conversation – exactly what the holidays are about.

No matter your Christmas decor ideas, you can design a no-cook grazing table to suit your style, space, and your guests’ needs. Check out these expert tips, tricks, and ideas to create the perfect grazing table to add seasonal scents, color, and flavors to your home.

Add Drama with Color and Depth

While reds, greens, golds, whites, blues, and silvers all lend themselves easily to Christmas grazing tables, don’t forget about neutrals.

‘Working with a color palette or specific mood is easier than people think. You don't need every single item on the table to be in your chosen colors,’ New York-based chef and creative culinary producer, Amy Karp, explains. ‘Neutrals do most of the heavy lifting, and you're just weaving your actual palette throughout to create the feeling you want.’ Amy also uses dark and moody tones (purples, browns, blacks) to ‘make the table feel expensive and considered.’

For Amy, ‘a grazing table is not just food laid out on a surface. It is an invitation to gather, to linger, and to feel taken care of. That feeling is the whole point.’

Fabric can also help achieve a sumptuous aesthetic that lends your finished table the quality of gazing at a ‘still life painting.’ Amy layers tablecloths (try Williams Sonoma’s Italian washed linen tablecloth, which is perfect for year-round hosting) to add dimension and interest: after placing one tablecloth down, she adds risers for height (stacks of books, cardboard boxes, flipped pots and pans), then drapes a second tablecloth over it all.

Prioritize Variety Over Volume

Your grazing table styling should reflect your guest list, according to Lindsey Coffelt, owner of Michigan-based Graze Craze Okemos, who says: ‘A larger crowd doesn’t necessarily mean piling on more items: think variety over volume.’

Instead, use serveware to organize your table, whether you’re serving two people or 20+. ‘Begin by placing a few small ramekins or bowls on the board to act as anchors for dips, nuts, olives, or other wet ingredients. These help to create sections and make the layout feel more organized and intentional from the start.’

Embracing a more geometric or stylized look for your grazing table can create a striking impression, even when you don’t have a lot of food to serve.

DeJa Robinson, of Colorado’s The Board Gatherings, follows the ‘rule of three. I like to place decor in a bit of a triangular or zigzag pattern to balance out the table.’

Curate your Cheeses

Made By Merry NY’s Merry Masson, who specializes in luxury grazing and charcuterie tables, calls cheese ‘the star of the grazing table show.’ (West Elm’s Cove cheese knives, sold in a set of three, add a contemporary finish to any grazing table layout.)

Nail the basics with a soft, semi-soft, and hard cheese, like a brie, Cheddar, and a Manchego. Masson likes budget-friendly Président Brie: it looks pretty, pairs well with white and red, and doesn’t smell or brown).

Finish off your cheese curation with a spreadable cheese like Boursin (which you can place in a festive mold like these festive tree molds from Amazon for shaping), a goat’s cheese, an Alpine cheese like gruyère, and a blue cheese like Stilton or gorgonzola, which ‘brings more complexity’ to your spread.

And remember, cheese isn’t just for eating: ‘Think about a brie wheel, chunking your Cheddar, or a create a Christmassy flavored goat cheese log by rolling it in cranberries, almonds, and rosemary, then placing in the freezer,’ suggests Merry. Holiday cookie cutters like these from Williams Sonoma, create festive shapes easily, too.

Choose Seasonal Hero Ingredients

In addition to grazing table essentials like meats, cheeses, breads, dips, crisps, nuts, crackers, and veggies, include a ‘hero’ ingredient to reflect the season (think pomegranate seeds, oranges, or cranberries). This is a minimum-effort way to add pops of vibrant color festive flair to a spread.

For Amy, grapes are the ‘number one’ ingredient because they are ‘inexpensive, beautiful in any color, available year round, and they pile in this gorgeous way that creates a natural dimension across the table.’

She adds, ‘olives are the other thing I always include, and here's my controversial take: canned black olives are completely fine. They taste the same as expensive ones, and once you put them in a beautiful dish, no one can tell the difference.’

Amy also likes to include a ‘really good salted French butter with a knife tucked into it.’

Display Food in Eye-Catching Ways

Want to level up your grazing table? Suspending food will add instant ‘wow’ factor.

‘We love reimagining the buffet vertically, suspending food to introduce height, playfulness, and a touch of poetry,' explains Marjorie Artieres, partner and creative director at Pinch Food Design. 'It adds a dynamic, interactive element to the table and disrupts the traditional buffet in a delightful way’. Try it at home by running a line above your table and hanging snacks, like free-form lavash crackers or root vegetable chips. Ziediop’s meat hooks at Walmart will do the trick.

‘Imagine jewelry-like bites plated individually, instantly creating order, rhythm, and a dose of quiet drama. This approach is especially effective for filling a large table when your guest count or food quantity wouldn’t naturally create a sense of abundance,’ says Marjorie.

Amy Karp also likes to make no-bake Croquembouche-style towers, using a foam cone and toothpicks. ‘Start stacking whatever you want: grapes, figs, cornichons, olives, even donuts. It gives you instant height and makes everything feel festive immediately,’ she says.

Factor in Festive Touches

‘Fresh rosemary, eucalyptus, and cedar sprigs instantly make the table feel wintry without overpowering the food,’ says Claudia Khoury, of Tavola Charcuterie. She likes to add unexpected seasonal touches, such as cinnamon sticks tucked between cheeses, honeycomb for shine, sugared rosemary or cranberries for sparkle, and clusters of chocolate-covered almonds or peppermint bark for contrast.

‘These touches give the board more texture and make it feel festive without turning it into a dessert table,’ she explains.

Claudia mixes themed boards with neutral platters and natural foliage to avoid overwhelming the table with novelty items. To create your own Christmas tree design at home, use a few triangular platters (like these mango wood platters from Target), or band ingredients together in horizontal rows, narrowing as you move upwards.

Or make a wreath: ‘Start with your greens (rosemary, eucalyptus, or lettuce leaves) to form the outline, then build in layers of cheese, charcuterie, and fruit. Keep your circular shape intact by placing components in repeating clusters,’ says Claudia. Terrain’s wreath serving board is a stylish cheat.)

Festive Buys to Bring Your No-Cook Grazing Table to Life

By encouraging hosts to embrace seasonal ingredients and unexpected styling ideas, these expert-approved grazing table tips can be used year-round. For more ideas on how to nurture connection with your loved ones this festive season, don’t miss our editorial director’s rules for relaxed hosting, wherever you're spending Christmas.

Party season is in full swing, and nothing will delight guests more than a cocktail to kick things off. When it comes to the best Christmas Day menus, simplicity and speed are key – which is why I'll be counting on the viral mimosa ice cube hack for my Christmas morning drinks this year.

The holidays are all about tradition, and I can't imagine Christmas morning without a mimosa. It's my favorite festive tipple, and perhaps the easiest recipe I can think of – but after years of batch-prepped mimosas served at busy Christmas breakfasts, I've been keen to add a more professional touch to the proceedings.

Enter Instagram's 'mimosa cube' trick, which uses just two ingredients to produce a picture-perfect set of ice cubes ready to be finished off with a (generous) splash of Prosecco. It's the perfect make-ahead recipe for Christmas morning.

Every host is looking for easy wins during the holiday season, and to me, this means show-stopping dishes and drinks that don't require hours of setup (or a crowd of people in the kitchen – check out our ultimate Christmas hosting guide if you want to streamline your festive parties). Mimosas will always be my go-to, but I can't wait to elevate my recipe using the mimosa ice cube hack – and I know my guests will be won over by the rose petal-style detail.

Creating these gorgeous ice cubes is simply a matter of cutting oranges into slices and folding them into large ice cube molds (like this king ice cube tray from Williams Sonoma). Tucking the slices into the molds in a little spiral will create that unique rose petal look, leaving you to top up each mold with water (or OJ) before popping them into the freezer.

With the mimosa ice cubes prepped and frozen in advance, all you need to do come Christmas morning is add the finishing touches to your festive drinks. I might even batch-mix a few sloe gin pomegranate sparklers, too, for another spin on the classic festive cocktail – and I'll be serving everything up in red and gold coupe glasses from CB2. (The most festive piece of tableware in my hosting closet, naturally.)

Shop Everything You Need To Make Christmas Morning Mimosas

With tricks like these up your sleeve, you'll be ready for holiday entertaining – but if you need a little more inspiration, we asked experts exactly how to host a cocktail party.

With the holiday nearly upon us, we're all thinking of ways to elevate our hosting game this year. From planning your Christmas day menu to your Christmas table decor ideas, the countdown is on. If your home will take center stage for hosting a large group of family and friends, or you're opting for a more intimate gathering this year, ensure that you're organized for the days ahead with this expert advice. Here's how to have a very merry (and well-planned) Christmas.

Create an Inviting Atmosphere

Creating a sense of warmth and ambiance for the festivities with ensure everyone feels, calm, merry and ready to enjoy the holiday as well as creating a welcoming home-from-home for your guests. 'Holiday hosting should feel as warm and memorable as the gathering itself,' says interior designer Erica McLain, founder of McLain by Design Interiors. 'I like to think of my space as an experience that starts from the moment guests walk in the door.'

1. Make Your Entrance Feel Welcoming

Don't forget to think about your front door when hosting guests this festive season. Since it's the first interaction guests will have upon entering your home, adorning it with a festive Christmas wreath creates a welcoming entrance that says 'come on in.'

'Don't miss the opportunity to make an impression right from the start,' says Jenny Weiss, founder and director at Hill House Interiors. 'Greet your guests with a festive flourish – a beautiful wreath hung on the front door is the perfect way to set the tone for your styling.'

'Wreaths can be personalized to suit every taste, from a traditional mix of cinnamon and orange slices with lush foliage to an exuberant display of layered baubles and ribbons – anything is possible. The smell of pine and mistletoe is key to bring that scent of Christmas throughout, hence why we love to integrate foliage, right from the entry. Our top tip is to weave twinkling lights throughout the wreath; battery-operated lights are easy to use and add a magical touch.' Festive Doormats (like this fun Let's Get Spritzed doormat from Anthropologie) and slippers for guests to put on when they arrive will all add to the welcoming atmosphere.

2. Create a Cozy Feel With Lighting

When hosting guests during the holidays, lighting is key. Ambient lighting creates a relaxed and intimate feel. 'Lighting acts as an effortless, atmospheric backdrop to hosting and should be a core consideration in your festive season planning,' says Mara Rypacek Miller, founder of Industville. 'Small changes can make maximum impact – look to change bulbs to warmer tones with lower Kelvins in order to nurture seasonal wellbeing.'

'Setting the mood rests entirely on the lighting you choose,' agrees interior designer Matthew Williamson. 'Forget about using one main lighting source in favor of illuminating a few lamps around a kitchen for a more interesting, flattering lighting scheme.'

'If there is ever a time to experiment with lighting, it’s the holidays,' says suggests Denver-based interior designer Nadia Watts. 'Simply adding a strand of white twinkle lights (like these Battery Operated Fairy String Lights from Walmart) can make your entire space feel more festive. Dim your overhead lights and focus on layered lighting. Add candles, luminaires, and strands of holiday lights in unexpected places.'

3. Add Candles for Ambiance

When hosting throughout the holiday season, candles are one of the easiest and most effective ways to create a cozy and welcoming feel for your guests. Whether that's with taper candles (like these Christmas taper candles from Target) on your dining table or pillar candles in the living room, candles are the finishing touch to ensure a welcoming home.

'Candlesticks are a stylish and budget-friendly way to enhance your holiday decor,' says Interior designer Darla Bankston May, founder of Houston-based Bankston May Associates. 'They bring a touch of elegance and warmth to your space, making them perfect for decorating table settings or mantels. With endless color options, you can select candlesticks that align with your style and decor, adding a festive flair to your home.'

4. Consider Fragrance

A smaller detail that won't fail to create a welcoming vibe is to use seasonal home fragrances. Whether using the best candles or reed diffusers, opting for seasonal scents of spices or pine will ensure your home feels festive from the moment guests walk through the door.

'Something subtle and natural like a cinnamon, cedarwood, or balsam fir can make the space feel even more inviting and cozy without overpowering the senses,' says Erica McLain. 'The goal is to create a space where people feel truly at home, surrounded by beauty that feels effortless and comforting.' Try the Pottery Barn Fireside Cinnamon Scent Collection, which includes candles, tealights, diffusers and potpourri.

5. Set up a Self-Service Bar

Don't forget the welcoming drink for when your guests first arrive – a festive cocktail or hot toddy is a lovely idea to invite them in from the cold with. But once everyone is settled in, it's nice to have a self-serve bar cart or even a mini fridge, which guests can help themselves to and it will save you the job of bartending, too. When it comes to cocktail hour, a kind guest might even pour you a drink to enjoy in the kitchen while you're food prepping.

You may also want to invest in some luxe cocktail essentials, from nick and nora glasses to tumblers, and cocktail shakers to bar tools. 'When the holidays roll around, I always like to make sure that my bar cart and drinks cabinet are fully stocked, not only with a variety of spirits, wines, and garnishes but also with a plethora of glassware,' explains interior designer Kathy Kuo. 'It's so nice to be able to use the proper glass for specific cocktails and wines, and it really does add to the overall festive mood of a gathering when guests can delight in how beautiful your coupe glasses or cut-glass tumblers are.'

Get Your Kitchen Holiday Ready

No room works harder when it comes to hosting season than the kitchen. But as well as the food prepping, the kitchen is often a hub for hosting, too. There are some easy Christmas kitchen countertop decor ideas you can try to give the room a sense of occasion. The kitchen is often a sociable space during the holidays, so it's important to make it feel inviting, but also to ensure that it works practically while you're busy cooking and your guests don't feel 'in the way'.

6. Make Sure You Have Enough Kitchen Essentials

'A well-stocked armory of essentials, easily accessible, can transform hosting from a daunting task to a gracious art.' is how designer Artem Kropovinsky so eloquently puts it. The last thing you want to be doing when hosting is washing up, so ensure you have enough of the best cookware, like roasting pans to accomodate your meet and veg, as well as utensils, to make everything as easy and as seamless as possible.

The same goes for dinnerware. Think about the maximum amount of people you usually host and ensure you have enough plates, bowls, glasses, cups, cutlery, and so on. It may be useful to stock your hosting closet with some good basics (such as this Corelle Dinnerware set in winter frost from Target, which is microwave and dishwasher safe), to cover all bases so you don't run out.

7. Consider How You Use the Space

You'll want to ensure you can move as easily as possible around your kitchen while your guests are in there, too. 'Carving out clear zones for the culinary dance of prepping, cooking, and cleaning can compose a harmonious rhythm,' says Artem. 'Generous seating and surface realms beckon guests to alight, mingle, and partake in the culinary narrative.'

Tempt guests to certain areas that you know will be out of the way, but feel like they are part of the action. And don't just stick to one space, as guests will congregate in one part of the kitchen, which could become awkward. Have a bar set up in one section of the kitchen, and dot food around the rest.

The kitchen island may feel like the perfect space to have guests gather, and you could actually turn it into a curated hosting space for a charcuterie spread, like Designer Bryan Graybill.

8. Choose Serveware That Doubles as Decor

'When preparing to host for the holiday season, I like to first make sure my kitchen is stocked up on rustic wooden serving boards (like this carved edge round wood board from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia at Target), glassware, decanters, and barware, and plenty of scented candles. I also like to place a large stone or ceramic vase of seasonal greenery or foliage on my countertop to add an air of festivity,' advises designer Kathy Kuo.

Having serveware that does the job and looks lovely is something I also rely on when getting my kitchen ready for hosting. Aesthetically pleasing platters, boards, and glasses can do so much of the work for you. Plus, as Kathy suggests, you can make them part of a display that will instantly give your kitchen a relaxed, festive feel.

Plan the Food Prep

You might have your Christmas Day menu sorted, but to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible on the day, it's important to put in some groundwork. The experts have shared their advice on everything from making sure you don't run out of key ingredients, to keeping things simple, and clever shortcuts to help you along the way.

9. Check Your Supplies

Don't forget the chef prep secrets for holiday meals, to ensure your ingredients are fully stocked and prepared ahead of time, as you don't want to run out of an essential ingredient at a crucial point or when the stores are closed for the holidays.

'Always be sure to go through your panty before you do any shopping, so you’re not buying duplicates of items,' advises Mackenzie Mitchel, Founder At Home With Mackenzie. 'It’s also a good idea to organize your pantry in advance – that way you can find everything you need easily and check the dates of items. There have been several times when I thought I had an ingredient only to realize it had expired, and I had to go back out.'

10. Stick to What you Know

'The biggest mistake I see from hosts is overcomplicating things; the goal isn’t perfection, it’s connection,' says Sakshi Khurana of the luxury home lifestyle brand, dumæ. 'Pare down the menu, let your pieces speak, and focus on creating warmth for your guests. At the end of the day, the best host is one who is confident, having fun, and feeling good in the space they’re entertaining in – because that’s when your guests truly feel at home.'

The same applies to the menu, according to etiquette expert, Maryanne Parker 'One of the most important tips for hosting a successful holiday gathering is this: never experiment with a new recipe on the day of your lunch or dinner party. Even the best home cooks can have a mishap, and the holiday table is not the place to take that risk,' she says.

Chef Dennis Littley agrees: 'Be smart with your menu,' he advises. 'Pick two show-stoppers. For example, a glazed ham and potato gratin, and keep the other dishes simple. Roasted vegetables, a green salad, or a very basic, but well-seasoned side can round out the table without overwhelming you.'

12. Keep Things Cool

With so much extra food to store, from Christmas canapes to desserts and cheeses, organizing your refrigerator can become a game of Jenga. Not to mention all those extra drinks you'll need to keep cool. That's when you need to think outside the box – quite literally.

'Pre-packed coolers are a hosting powerhouse and free up precious refrigerator space,' says Atlanta-based entertaining expert and party planner, Sandy Dostal. 'Fill one with beverages – beer, soda, bottled water, canned cocktails – for quick grab-and-go service. Use another for chilled side dishes, desserts, garnishes, or condiments. And always dedicate one cooler solely to ice – trust me, it becomes liquid gold once beverages start flowing.'

Another idea is to invest in a mini fridge that is stylish enough to be kept in the living room, so guests can help themselves to cold drinks (they might even offer to re-stock it for you when it's running low.)

13. Take Strategic Shortcuts

There's nothing wrong with making life a little easier on yourself when the pressure is on, and there are plenty of kitchen shortcuts that will help save you time and stress.

Mackenzie Mitchel suggests 'Make and freeze pie dough in the dish (wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil) ahead of time – this will store for up to three months.'

Better still, Executive Chef at the Waldorf Astoria, Beverley Hills, Peleg Miron gives you permission to buy elements of your meal in. Not everything has to be made from scratch. 'High-quality store-bought crusts or gravies can elevate efficiency without compromising flavor,' he says.

And, if you're cooking turkey for Christmas day, Mark Jeffers, Culinary Director, Fifth Group Restaurants, suggests a great time saver. 'Spatchcock Your Turkey: Remove the backbone and flatten the bird for even cooking, crispy skin, and freed-up oven space.'

Letting yourself off from doing everything perfectly from scratch is the first step towards feeling more relaxed on the day. If the pros do it, so can you.

14. Nail Your Timings

Managing the cooking times can be one of the trickiest parts of Christmas meal prep, and despite best efforts, it doesn't always go to plan. But you can buy yourself some breathing space.

'Decide what can be made ahead. Cold desserts, chilled apps, doughs, roasted veg and certain mains keep well and save time,' suggests Chef Chrissy Camba, Head Chef at Tovala.'Time your reheats and plan which dishes require the same oven temperatures, in advance, and when each item should go in. Putting the schedule to paper keeps everything moving.'

And, for an absolute failsafe, Karina, Founder of food and lifestyle blog, Goodley Living says 'always plan an extra 30 minutes to an hour buffer if you’re roasting a dish. It tastes better when it’s had time to sit anyway, and it will help to ease peace-of-mind should something be unexpectedly undercooked and you need a little longer.'

Practical Ways to Keep Things Calm and Organized

With a lot more people in the house comes a lot more noise, movement, and stuff. It's important to clear space, so your guests have enough room to stow away their belongings. And don't be afraid to get your guests involved with helpful tasks – the chances are they will be happy to oblige, and it will help you keep things ticking along calmly. Here's how to ensure you keep the chaos to a minimum and the day going smoothly.

15. Do a Dry Run

Even if you've planned out your Christmas table decor ideas to a tee, when it comes to the day, you will want to avoid any unexpected hiccups, so lay everything out in advance to check it all works together and looks as you expected.

'The first thing I do before hosting anything is to pull out every platter I plan to use and do a quick dry run,' says Whitney English, organization expert and author of Organize First, Decorate Second: How to Go From Clutter to Creativity. 'If it’s family-style, I set the dishes right on the table to make sure everything fits – serving pieces, glassware, flatware, all of it. If it’s buffet-style, I mock up the whole spread on the sideboard, down to the serving spoons and trivets. It saves me from the last-minute scramble.'

16. Make Space for Coats, Boots & Bags

Chances are your guests will arrive togged up for the chilly weather, which means bulky coats, chunky boots, hats, scarves, and the rest. It may sound obvious, but making sure you have somewhere to store them is essential to keep your entryway or cloakroom clear and organized. Your entryway may be perfectly organized all year long, but bring on a holiday, or a last-minute family gathering, and it can easily be thrown out of sorts.

Sandy Dostal says 'multiple coat trees are a hosting hack I swear by. Dedicate one to coats, and another to handbags. It keeps your home organized during the event and makes it easy for guests to retrieve their belongings when it’s time to head home.'

Making sure there's somewhere to store shoes, such as a large basket (like this water hyacinth basket from the Container Store), which can look stylish as well as being practical, is a good idea too, for keeping your carpets clean and your entrance uncluttered.

17. Stow Unnecessary Items Away

With more people in the house, there will inevitably be accidents and breakages, but you can avoid that happening by storing away your precious items and anything unnecessary before your guests arrive. One idea is to put them in the boxes that you took your Christmas decorations out of, so they can be wrapped in the same padding, and there's no chance of forgetting where you stored them as you'll do the swap again when the decs come down.

Barbara Brock, professional organizer, home stager, andowner of Barbara Brock Inc., says, 'have an empty tub handy to put unnecessary items, then remove items and put them all in a closet to be edited later.'

Conversely, Maggie Kelly, founder of Organizing CU suggests storing the pieces you need for the festive period in a hosting bin. 'I store all of the dishware, utensils, and other holiday items I only use for the week of Christmas in one easy location.' This also allows you to clearly see what you have and what you might need to stock up on when everything is all in one place.

18. Ask for a Helping Hand

Asking for help as the host can feel a little daunting, and some are quite stubbornly against it. However, saying 'yes' to a kind friend or relative who wants to help you, whether that's laying the table, making an appetizer, or even washing up, can make all the difference.

'Get your guests involved. Assign small, meaningful roles like pouring drinks, arranging a cheese board, or warming rolls,' says Chef Dennis Littley. 'This not only eases your burden but makes people feel part of the celebration.'

19. Plan Ahead for the Cleanup

Amid all the excitement of the day itself, the last thing you'll want to think about is the cleanup, but making your home feel like your own again after the holidays will be worth a little forward planning to make the process so much less arduous – your future self will thank you.

'Make a list of everyday essentials to stock up on – items that often get overlooked but are always needed, says Sandy Dostal, 'think garbage bags, hand soap, dish detergent, disinfecting wipes, paper towels, napkins, toilet paper, foil, a plunger, zip-top bags. Store them all in one central spot so any willing volunteers don't have to hunt down supplies.'

Want to know more about how the hosting pros get ahead? Read our Ultimate Christmas Prep Countdown to help you to stay calm and composed on the day.

I usually throw my poinsettias away once the holidays are over, but it turns out they don’t have to be a one-season plant. With the right care, poinsettias can live year-round – and even return in time for next Christmas.

Although these Christmas plants naturally fade as the season ends, that’s no reason to discard them. Poinsettias are tender perennials, and a healthy plant can thrive for months after the holidays with just a few simple adjustments.

It's a simple case of knowing how to care for a poinsettia post-December. From managing temperature and light to knowing when to prune, the basics are surprisingly straightforward. I spoke to plant-care experts to uncover their simple, seasonal tips for keeping a poinsettia alive, and looking good, long after Christmas. Here they share their top three must-dos to give your poinsettia longevity.

1. Give Your Poinsettia Time to Rest

After the holidays, it’s normal for all types of Christmas poinsettias to stop flowering. Their colorful bracts fade and leaves may drop, explains Nastya Vasylchyshyna, resident botany expert at Plantum.

‘This is the time when the plant goes dormant, preparing itself for future active growth and blooming next holiday season,’ she says. While this can look alarming, it’s a natural part of the poinsettia’s life cycle, and the moment when correct care matters most.

The first step is pruning, which helps the plant conserve energy and encourages fresh growth later on.

‘When the poinsettia begins to drop its bracts, make sure to cut back the bare shoots by about one-third or half their length, leaving about four to five inches at the base,’ Nastya advises. Because the sap can irritate skin, it’s best to wear gardening gloves while you work.

You won't need heavy duty pruners for this job; these snips from Amazon would be ideal.

Next, move your poinsettia to a slightly cooler spot for four to six weeks to support dormancy. ‘During dormancy, the optimal temperature range for this plant is between 55 and 60ºF,’ she says, adding that the location should still be well-lit.

Knowing how often to water a poinsettia is key at this time. Watering should be reduced during this period, as growth slows. ‘As the temperature goes down, the soil will take longer to dry,’ Nastya explains. ‘To prevent waterlogging, give the poinsettia a drink when the topsoil dries out by about two inches.’

2. Repot Your Plant in Late Spring

Poinsettias typically begin to show signs of fresh growth in late spring, once dormancy ends and daylight levels increase. This is the ideal moment to repot them, giving the roots more space and access to fresh nutrients after their winter rest.

Repotting at this stage can help stimulate healthy new growth, says Nastya. ‘Opt for a nutrient-rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic potting mix.’ This Miracle-Gro indoor plant potting soil from Amazon would work well.

Choose a container that’s only slightly larger than the previous one and make sure it has drainage holes, she adds, as poinsettias dislike sitting in wet soil.

When repotting, gently loosen the root ball and remove any compacted or depleted compost, taking care not to damage the roots.

Water lightly after planting, then return the poinsettia to a bright, warm spot where it can resume active growth. From here, regular watering and feeding through spring and summer will help the plant build strength for its next flowering cycle.

3. Adjust Your Care Routine During the Growing Season

Once the growing season begins, it’s time to adjust your care routine to encourage healthy growth and prepare for next year’s blooms.

Nastya recommends gradually increasing the temperature to 64–68°F and starting to water more frequently. The plant will signal when it’s thirsty: wilted or curling leaves are a clear cue, notes Paris Lalicata, plant expert at The Sill. ‘Be sure to evenly and thoroughly saturate the soil,’ she adds.

Lighting is equally important. Keep your poinsettia bright, but avoid direct, harsh sunlight. ‘Avoid strong, direct sunlight from a south-facing window unless the sunbeams are diffused by a sheer curtain,’ Paris advises. If natural light is limited, a grow light, such as this one from Amazon, can provide the extra brightness the plant needs to thrive.

Summer care also includes fertilizing periodically with a balanced, indoor plant fertilizer to support growth and strengthen the stems for winter flowering.

As new shoots appear in late spring, Paris recommends pinching back the tips. This encourages a compact, bushier shape, ensuring the plant looks full and lush.

Looking ahead to fall, remember that poinsettias need periods of complete darkness each night to trigger their colorful winter bracts. Placing the plant in a darkened room or covering it for 12–14 hours nightly for six to eight weeks will help it bloom beautifully in time for the holidays.

Shop Poinsettia Care Essentials

FAQs

Can You Move a Poinsettia Outdoors?

If you're wondering whether poinsettias can live outside in winter, they will struggle to survive outside where temperatures drop below 50°F. You can, however, move your poinsettia onto a patio during the warmer months, just be sure to bring it back indoors before temperatures drop.

There are other things you can do with a poinsettia after the holidays if you don't fancy keeping it as a houseplant. Our guide will give you some ideas, such as using them for craft activities.

Some prefer to keep things simple with a few placemats and candles, but nothing compares to a beautifully styled dining table. A thoughtfully decorated tablescape instantly elevates the annual Christmas meal, making it feel more special and celebratory.

I usually bring out the same Christmas table decor each year, but seeing Martha Stewart’s festive setup has completely changed my perspective. Inspired by a wintry woodland theme, her dining table is layered with metallic Christmas trees, charming animal figures, and delicate votive candles. The result is enchanting, elegant, and undeniably impressive.

What makes Martha’s tablescape so compelling is its balance of texture, color, and whimsy. Each layer feels intentional yet approachable, and the overall look is surprisingly easy to recreate at home – proof that a little creativity can transform a holiday table into something truly magical.

Shop the Look

Martha’s dining table decor strikes the perfect balance between festive and refined. With gold bottlebrush trees and elegant woodland animals, the look feels joyful and nostalgic without tipping into kitsch or excess. It’s a thoughtful nod to Christmas that still feels polished and timeless.

Whether you’re refreshing your table ahead of the big feast or looking to elevate your home’s existing holiday decor, these picks capture the same sense of enchantment – bringing warmth, charm, and a little seasonal magic to every setting.

In her Instagram post, Martha says, 'No matter where I am for Christmas, I always like to decorate several rooms of my home with festive trees, wreaths, and pretty plants from the greenhouse. This year, some of my decorations include gold and silver trees glistening with ornaments, coordinating wreaths on the windows, woodland animals, colorful forced amaryllis, and shooting stars.'

While all of Martha's Christmas decorations are beautiful (the large alpine bears from Mrs Alice in the second slide are pretty irresistible), her table steals the show. Following a metallic color palette, Martha's design feels elegant and still festive. From the vintage vases filled with candles to the array of bottlebrush trees in varying heights, the design perfectly balances sophistication with celebration.

Let's not forget about the charming woodland-themed Christmas decor. Evoking a wintry feel, the endearing deer bring a seasonal feel, transforming the center of the table into an enchanting forest-themed display.

Martha’s festive tablescape offers a fresh take on tradition. Rather than relying on the usual Christmas decorations, her table is styled with woodland-themed ornaments and touches of gold, creating a wintry, celebratory atmosphere that feels both elegant and timeless.

Cookie exchange parties are a wonderful seasonal event where friends and family gather together to share their favourite seasonal sweet treats. For those who love to bake and host at Christmas, it’s a fun way to get an assortment of holiday cookies without spending hours baking different varieties.

Having held cookie parties since the eighties, Martha Stewart is a seasoned festive hostess and cookie party queen. Each year, she goes all out and puts on a fabulous holiday celebration at her Bedford farm. The guest list now goes into the hundreds, and she transforms three separate buildings to accommodate everyone. Stacks of sugar cookies are served up, decorated to a different theme every year.

However, you don't need to go to great lengths to host a spectacular cookie party. With some forward planning, creative thinking, and festive flair, small home gatherings can be just as magical. To inspire you, we've compiled a guide to throwing a magical cookie exchange party, complete with some handy tips from the hosting and baking professionals.

What is a cookie exchange party?

The concept of a cookie exchange party is simple: each guest brings a different batch of cookies; the cookies are then beautifully displayed on platters, with extra available for sampling, and guests will then pick one from each batch to take home. Generally, bakes are handmade, but you can buy store-bought, too – it all depends on the rules set out by the host. Each platter is often accompanied by a recipe card, to allow guests to bake them at home, too.

1. Plan it Out

As with any festive occasion, planning is key to stress-free cookie party hosting. Start by deciding how many people to invite. While Martha Stewart's guest list may be sky high, if you invite too many guests, quantities can get out of hand. Inviting around 8-10 guests works well and means there'll be a good variety of cookies on offer.

When it comes to the bakes, it’s important to do the math before you start and to inform guests how many cookies they'll need to bake. If you invite eight guests to your party, they will need to bring a minimum of 12-24 cookies (plus extra for sampling) to ensure that everyone will leave with at least one of each type of cookie.

‘While I love baking, sharing, and getting together with friends, I don't necessarily want to come home with 6 dozen cookies,' says says Bonnie Bontempo, founder of Bon Bon Fête Events. 'My book club has an annual Christmas party, and we always do a cookie exchange. We each get a platter and go around and take a handful of each, so everyone leaves with the amount they came with.'

Ann Clark, founder of America's largest cookie-cutter manufacturer, adds, 'for a cookie swap, set a few basic expectations in advance with your guests – perhaps in your party invitations, suggest how many cookies to make, and remind them to share ingredients used, for guests with food allergies or dietary requirements.'

2. Lean Into the Trend for Nostalgia

This year, the nostalgic Christmas theme is particularly strong, think the Ralph Lauren Christmas decor trend and sentimental bakes, ‘like Grandma used to make’.

‘I’m thrilled to see nostalgic cookies taking center stage, they’re exactly what’s fueling my own holiday spirit,' says Becky Geisel, New Jersey-based chef and founder of Bex Kitchen. 'I recently uncovered my cherished grandmother’s old cookie press in a forgotten box, and holding it again instantly transported me back to the bakes that shaped my childhood. That sense of nostalgia is inspiring everything I’m making this season.’

Ann Clark adds, ‘traditional holiday cookie shapes like gingerbread men, Christmas trees, ornaments, and candy canes continue to be popular amidst this season’s nostalgia trend. Old-world shapes like our Santa cookie cutters (Amazon) are trending, too. One reason for their appeal is that they look so fancy and festive when decorated with colored royal icing – but they are sneakily easy to decorate.’

She adds, ‘Wintry shapes like snowflakes, snowmen, winter hats, and mittens are also popular ‘ because they have no particular religious associations,’ and when it comes to recipes, Ann explains, ‘the two most popular cookie recipes, hands down, are classic sugar cookies and gingerbread cookies.’

'Right now, bakers are leaning into elevated flavor twists,' says Maruschka Ang, pastry Chef at the Four Seasons in Las Vegas. 'Brown butter chocolate chip cookies are having a major moment because they feel familiar yet indulgent. I also love pistachio and cranberry shortbread and rich chocolate crinkle cookies. There’s a real return to heritage recipes too – cookies tied to family traditions or cultural stories, which makes baking feel more personal this time of year.'

And embossed cookies are popular too ‘it looks stunning on a cookie platter,' says Jules Grasekamp, founder of Bonni Bakery 'and photographs beautifully at parties.'

3. Incorporate Activities

Planning a range of festive bake-themed activities is a great way to keep guests entertained at a cookie party, especially the little ones, plus they’re a great way to break the ice if guests aren’t known to each other. Try these ideas:

Cooking decorating station: Offer guests the chance to get creative and customize their own bakes to take home. ‘Make sure you have enough space and materials for everyone. Stock up on food coloring sets, royal icing mix, piping bags, piping tips, and any other decorating materials you would like to use, such as sprinkles, sanding sugar, or crushed peppermint candy,’ advises Ann Clark. For an instant flourish, you could also buy some pre-made icing decorations, such as these Sarah's Bakeshop bows from Walmart. ‘Cookie decorating can get a bit messy, so tablecloths are essential, and I’d also recommend wearing aprons if you have them. Set aside space with wire racks for the icing on finished cookies to dry while you’re enjoying food and drink.'

Cookie awards: Set categories like best-looking bake, or best-tasting bake, to introduce a friendly element of competition and keep guests engaged. ‘Giving awards or prizes allows everyone to sample the cookies and vote, which is a great conversation starter,’ says Bonnie Bontempo.

Cookie dip station: Cookie dip stations are a fun way to elevate plain cookies. Try arranging a platter of plain cookies in a festive wreath shape around a bowl of flavoured frosting for a festive focal point. ‘Dips are having a moment,’ says Destiny Villarreal, founder of Sweet Grace Bakes. ‘Buttercream boards turn the best part of a cake – the frosting – into a shareable centerpiece. Surround it with cookie fries or mini cookies, and you have the dessert version of a charcuterie board.’

Festive drinks table: No party is complete without a drinks table. Hot chocolates are ideal for a cookie party, as well as cookie-themed beverages like gingerbread lattes. You could get creative with some Christmas cocktails, too. ‘For the adults, pairing cookies with something warm like a hot toddy, transforms the whole experience,’ says Becky Geisel. You could also channel Martha Stewart by serving a classic Eggnog.

4. Dial Up the Decor

Christmas table decorations and beautifully styled buffet tables will really make your party stand out, so take time to plan your decor scheme, platters, and serveware. A beautiful tablecloth (such as this Soho tablecloth from Heather Taylor Home) is a must. Adorning your table with a festive garland overhead will make it feel extra special.

A beautiful stand or creative platter idea can elevate the humblest of bakes. At a previous cookie party, Martha Stewart created a festive scene by gathering stacks of cookies around the base of a Christmas tree, alongside raised log-shaped cookie stands at different heights.

Varying the height of your cookie display helps to keep the arrangement eye-catching. ‘I decorate the tables with cake stands so there are cookies high and low,’ explains restaurateur and hospitality expert Elizabeth Blau, founder of Blau + Associates Hospitality.

For those looking for a rustic theme, wooden boards or mini wooden crates lined with parchment, such as these cute scalloped crates from Michael's, work well. Or, for a more elegant feel, try tiered cake stands and glass cake domes. You could even thread up some cookies and hang them from a tabletop Christmas tree.

5. Create a Packaging Area

When guests are ready to leave, it’s a good idea to have a packaging station near the door where guests can beautifully wrap their exchanged bakes. Simple paper or cellophane bags will do - such as these Gingerbread cello treat bags from Target, but as it’s the season to be merry, why not bring festive sparkle with some extra special gift boxes?

‘The packaging is half the fun! Beautiful wrapping elevates the entire exchange and makes each bundle feel like a gift,’ says Elizabeth Blau. ‘Some of my favorite ideas include clear boxes tied with velvet ribbon, holiday tins lined with patterned parchment, and Kraft boxes with handwritten tags. We stock up on festive tins and the tables are piled high with cookies.’

For something more rustic, 'layer cookies in Mason jars, add a handwritten tag, and finish with classic red-and-white butcher’s string,' suggests Becky Geisel. 'If sustainability is part of your holiday mindset, beeswax wraps (Amazon) make beautiful, low-waste options.'

'Recipe sharing is part of the fun,' says Ann Clark. 'Some hosts compile all recipes into a digital document to share with the group. Recipe-sharing apps like Pepper and ReciMe are fun options.'

Shop Cookie Exchange Party Essentials

A cookie exchange party provides festive fun for all the family and is a perfect way to celebrate the festive season with the bakers in your life. At the moment, we're loving Joanna Gaines' Silo cookie recipe, which can be cooked on a skillet and served with ice cream as a dessert.

By this time in December, you’ve likely already adorned the tree, picked out the perfect gifts, and are now turning your attention to the final preparations for the big day. As many of us begin to focus on setting the festive table, there’s something irresistibly charming about tableware that evokes the warmth of childhood Christmases.

Despite the abundance of modern options available, nostalgic designs – whether patterned plates or delicate glassware – bring a comforting sense of familiarity to the table. This season, shoppers are gravitating towards pieces that feel both timeless and playful, creating a dining experience that’s as visually captivating as it is inviting.

Christmas decorating is all about the details, and the table often serves as the centrepiece of festive gatherings. Layering vintage-inspired china with coordinating glassware and whimsical serving pieces instantly elevates the setting. These nostalgic designs provide a perfect way to blend traditional charm with contemporary flair.

What makes this trend especially meaningful is its ability to combine sentiment with style. Whether it's a set of plates adorned with holly and berries, tumblers featuring festive motifs, or serving bowls that feel as though they’ve been passed down through generations, each piece adds a unique personality and warmth to the table.

Long-forgotten plates, tumblers, and serving bowls that once quietly gathered dust in cupboards are now stepping into the festive spotlight. Tableware from Christmases past – once dismissed as old-fashioned or consigned to the history books – is enjoying a triumphant return. Nostalgic Christmas pieces are riding the wave of the nostalgia-core trend, which has been shaping interiors, fashion, and lifestyle choices across the UK. This season, shoppers are drawn to familiar patterns, playful motifs, and heirloom-inspired designs that evoke warmth, comfort, and joy.

Christmas decorating has never felt so fun – or so sentimental. If you’re hosting this year and want your table to feel classic, cosy, and infused with festive charm, these are the pieces to invest in. Layer vintage-inspired plates with modern glassware, tactile linens, and whimsical serving pieces to create a tablescape that is both stylish and inviting. Every setting tells a story, sparks conversation, and gives guests that heartwarming sense of holiday nostalgia.

Shop Nostalgic Christmas Tableware

For anyone hoping to make this festive season truly memorable, investing in nostalgic Christmas tableware is about more than just plates and tumblers. It’s a chance to curate a table that feels thoughtful, charming, and personal. By mixing and matching pieces with different patterns, textures, and colours, you can create a layered, lived-in look that feels effortless yet deliberate. Even a small selection of heirloom-inspired items can elevate your table setting, adding a touch of theatricality and festive delight for guests of all ages.

Christmas shopping isn't always easy – especially when it comes to gifts for keen cooks or aspiring bakers. They'll always be delighted to find some brand new cookware under the tree, but if you really want to surprise them, I'd start with something they can put on the tree. Yes, I'm talking about pint-sized, cookery-themed decorations – like the utterly charming copper mini ornaments from Williams Sonoma.

They might seem like rather unconventional Christmas decorating ideas, but trust me: these will be greatly appreciated by any foodie in your life. Personally, my dream cookery setup involves some surprisingly similar copper pans hanging in my kitchen –a look inspired by Martha Stewart's '70s country kitchen, of course. Yet since my current kitchen isn't exactly cavernous, I'll stick to hanging charming replicas from my Christmas tree instead. Call it a happy compromise.

Classic colors and traditional ornaments will never go out of style, but this year, Christmas tree ideas are all about personality – and nostalgia. From the kitschy joy of Anthropologie's 2025 holiday decor collection to the sentimental charm at the heart of the felt Christmas decor trend, we're looking for whimsy and character in our holiday decorations, and I think options like Williams Sonoma's copper mini ornaments are the perfect choice.

Home cooks will be thrilled to channel their culinary enthusiasm into Christmas cheer – and cookware isn't the only holiday decor theme you can experiment with, either. While I'd be delighted to display some mini copper pans on my tree, I'd be just as excited about food-themed pieces like Target's resin bagel ornament, West Elm's charcuterie ornament set, or a particularly glamorous glass croissant ornament from Bloomingdale's. The options are endless – but if you're looking for some last-minute inspiration, you'll find some of my favorites below.

Shop More Cookery-Themed Christmas Ornaments

Want to really dial up the retro feel of your decor this year? Check out our guide to the most collectible vintage holiday decorations – John Derian's Santa Claus ornament is at the top of my wish list.

Step into Lauren Sullivan's home at any time of year, and it feels warm and welcoming – but over the holidays, that cozy, inviting sense is tenfold. Her transitional style effortlessly mixes her love of vintage with the more ‘modern European’ aesthetic she’s known for.

When we toured Lauren's Tennessee home back in the summer, we knew we would need to revisit this beautiful space for the holidays. Red ribbons add pops of color among the neutral scheme, luscious garlands adorn the mantels and staircases, and mini wreaths sit among family heirlooms. The home feels effortlessly festive, charming, and nostalgic, yet with a touch of elegance.

‘My approach to holiday decorating is rooted in nostalgia and simplicity,’ explains Lauren. ‘I like layering greenery, candlelight, and a single unifying detail to create a festive home that still feels calm and collected.’

Here, the founder of design studio Well x Design shares her five key holiday decorating tips for recreating her timeless scheme.

1. Choose One Signature Detail and Repeat It Throughout

'For me, it was red ribbon. Repeating a single detail throughout the house creates an immediate sense of cohesion. I carried the same rich red ribbon throughout – mixing satin and velvet for subtle variation – from the mantel and chandelier to the pass-through tree and even the greenhouse. It’s simple but impactful, and it keeps the decor feeling intentional rather than busy.'

2. Elevate the Everyday with Natural Greenery

'I love working with materials like foraged branches, dried citrus, or simple textiles—things that feel textural and grounded. Even something like a sculptural bowl of pinecones or chestnuts can nod to the season in a way that feels elegant and a bit unexpected. Fresh (or very natural-looking) greenery instantly softens architectural lines and adds dimension. I draped long cedar garlands across the mantel and staircase, and used smaller wreaths on dining chairs and shelves. The key is letting the greenery fall a bit naturally – not too stiff or perfect – so it brings movement and life into each room.'

3. Layer Lighting for Warmth and Atmosphere

'The foundation of our decor is warm, layered lighting: taper candles, tree lights, and soft interior fixtures working together. The Christmas tree in the entry sets the tone for the whole house – thousands of tiny lights create a glow you can see from almost every space. Candlelight on the dining table and mantel brings depth and gently draws the eye to smaller vignettes.'

4. Add Holiday Touches to Pieces You Already Love

'Instead of replacing a lot of decor, I prefer to accent what’s already there. A simple wreath on the range hood, ribbon tied to existing sconces, or a bit of greenery added to a favorite console or shelf. These small touches layer beautifully without overwhelming the space. They keep the holiday spirit present while still allowing the architecture and collected pieces to shine.'

5. Embrace Nostalgia in a Quiet, Intentional Way

'A timeless holiday look doesn’t rely on trends; it’s built on pieces that feel familiar and meaningful. Tree candles, classic greenery, red ribbons, and traditional silhouettes all nod to the past without feeling dated. I love creating moments that feel warm and nostalgic, but still edited and refined.'

Shop the Look

Lauren's tips are simple but effective, as all good Christmas decorating should be. Her approach is all about adding warmth, nostalgia, and effortless elegance to your holiday scheme, nothing too complicated, just a sprinkling of festivity that still works with the style of your home.

For those of us who like to deck the halls as early as November, the countdown to Christmas can feel like a marathon – and as the anticipation builds, so does my eagerness to host a truly spectacular holiday gathering. (What can I say; I just can't wait to finally show off my Christmas table decor ideas). This year, however, one particular design feature will be making its debut in my home: dining chair bows, inspired by Shea McGee.

Having already crowded my mood board with images of Shea McGee's 'festive farmhouse' table, it's safe to say that I was thrilled to get another peek at Shea's Christmas setup for 2025. But in a recent Instagram post from Studio McGee, it wasn't the tableware that caught my eye: this time, I was won over by the silk velvet ribbons adorning Shea's Marisol dining chairs. Channelling the nostalgic luxury of the Ralph Lauren Christmas decor trend, this simple detail brings instant elegance to any table, and I can't wait to recreate it.

'Designing a dining space is all about balance,' writes Shea in the caption of the post. 'We want it to feel comfortable enough for everyday meals, but special enough to gather and celebrate.'

To me, this is what a simple addition like a velvet bow can add to a tablescape: a sense of effortless opulence, creating a setup that feels elevated and yet utterly inviting. The Christmas bow decor trend is as popular as ever this year, and tying a few oversized bows onto your dining chairs is a quick and affordable way to get the look.

'I've gone a little bow-tastic this Christmas, so naturally, Shea's look is right up my street,' says H&G's Style Editor, Charlotte Olby. 'I've got a set of vintage pine chairs with a heart carved out of the back, so I'm going to try and follow Shea's new Christmas bow tutorial and create some oversized bows to loop through the hearts.'

Shea McGee proved that bows are back for Christmas after using them to accessorize both her tree and her mantel – she even took to displaying them on her porch (Shea's outdoor Christmas bows are a real beauty).

I must admit, though, that the dining chair bow look is my favorite take on the trend: it's totally customizable, and it adds the perfect finishing touch to your table, whether you create a pared-back look or a maximalist masterpiece. Below, I've set out everything you need to recreate Shea's look, so you can add some flair to your dining space this Christmas.

Shop Everything You Need to Create Shea McGee-Inspired Dining Chair Bows

Finding new ways to show off velvet ribbons isn't the only design lesson I've learnt from Shea McGee's holiday home this year – take it from me: Shea's hydrangea Christmas tree decorations don't disappoint.

The secret to successful Christmas hosting is preparation, so choose dishes that need minimal last-minute work and schedule in some time a day or two before the party. This menu is ideal, and would easily serve eight.

Cook the ham in advance, so you only need to glaze it; if you have freezer space, make a clutch of baked alaskas the day before and keep frozen until needed; bake the Gorgonzola biscuits a few hours ahead, so they need only be topped with extra cheese and quince paste just before serving.

In fact, you’ll find that all of the recipes can be at least partly made in advance, so you’ll be free on the night to indulge in the sloe gin and pomegranate sparklers.

Gorgonzola Crackers with Quince Chutney and Chicory

A flavor-packed but light savory morsel is exactly what is needed as a Christmas day appetizer and these Gorgonzola Crackers with Quince Chutney and Chicory are the perfect bite-sized treats. You could serve them earlier as canapes or plate them up before the main meal.

Beet, Potato and Taleggio Gratin

This Beet, Potato and Taleggio Gratin is like three sides in one, incorporating your potato, seasonal beets and creamy indulgent cheese with crispy breadcrumbs on top. Serve up in generous scoops.

Spiced Red Cabbage with Warm Winter Spices, Juniper and Bay

A festive classic – everyone needs a go-to red cabbage recipe for Christmas, and this one with winter spices, red currant jelly, and red wine vinegar is a failsafe option, which can be prepped in advance.

Christmas Ham with Chilli and Marmalade Glaze

A Christmas ham is the centerpiece around which your Christmas meal is based and this marmalade and chilli glazed ham is a sticky, spicy showstopper. Plus it will make wonderful leftovers as cold cuts for Boxing Day.

Roast Carrot, Mushroom and Chestnut Puff Pies

Vegetarians can often be an afterthought but these Roast Carrot, Mushroom and Chestnut Puff Pies are so delicious that even the meat-eaters will want to try them – just be sure to make enough so there are plenty to go around.

Chocolate Cherry Bombe Alaskas

These decadent Chocolate Cherry Bombe Alaskas will bring real wow-factor to your Christmas Day menu, with a moist chocolate cake, cherry compote, and ice cream center, and soft, blow-torched meringue topping.

Sloe Gin Pomegranate Sparklers

For a festive twist on the classic bellini you can't beat these sloe gin cocktails. With Prosecco and pomegranate seeds they are such a gorgeous color and make a sparkling aperitif to kick off your Christmas day menu.

The placement of your Christmas tree is always a topic for debate, whether you opt for putting it by a window to twinkle out on the street, a cozy corner, or at the bottom of a sweeping staircase.

But as our Feng Shui pros reveal, there's one very specific place you should be placing your tree for wealth in 2026 – whether you're yet to buy, or will need to move yours. Here, they explain why this Feng Shui Christmas tree placement is so important.

Where to Put Your Christmas Tree for Wealth and Wellbeing in 2026

As Suzanne Butler from Harmonizing Energies Feng Shui explains, 'When people think Christmas tree placement, they’re usually worried about aesthetics, power points, or where the dog or cat can’t knock it over.'

But, in terms of Feng Shui, the tree isn't just about decorations. Instead, she highlights, 'It's an activation device for the festive season and the year ahead. Where you place that symbol of the season can either pour luck into your home, or quietly siphon it away.'

For that reason, the very best place to put your Christmas tree in 2025 is in the South and Southeast areas of your living room ideas, 'to pack a double punch going into 2026,' says Suzanne. But why, exactly?

Well, while this may seem unnecessary, or even a little extra, with a little know-how, it makes perfect sense. Most specifically, it's because in Feng Shui, the Southeast governs Wealth and Prosperity, which is why Feng Shui wealth corners exist.

'A Christmas tree is a powerful Wood element feature, and in this sector, Wood is the star of the show,' advises Suzanne. 'When you place your tree here, you’re essentially feeding the area that governs financial flow. Think of it as fertilising the “money corner” with sparkle, intention, and upward Wood energy.

'Bring more green and blue colours into this area to support the space, and keep the traditional red to a minimum,' when thinking up your Christmas tree ideas. 'It’s the ultimate sign of abundance with all the gifts you place below.'

It's not just wealth, either, as the South also relates to fame and reputation, meaning how visible you are in the world and the recognition you receive for your work, which you may know if you're clued up on Feng Shui energy mapping.

Max McKenzie, a double-qualified Feng Shui practitioner, member of the International Feng Shui Guild, and home healer at Yinteriors, adds, 'This area aligns with the Fire element, and Wood naturally feeds Fire. A tree placed here can help “fuel” that sense of being seen, appreciated, and rewarded – all of which can positively influence finances.'

As Suzanne says, 'Imagine being offered a new opportunity over the festive season, just because of where you placed your tree!' Here, she advises, you can also go mad with all the red decorations you may like, sticking to Feng Shui Christmas decorating rules, as it will support the area.

'Put simply: Placing your tree in the South or Southeast is like setting your home’s money engine to “turbo” while giving your reputation the equivalent of a red-carpet spotlight,' she continues.

Why You Should Avoid the North (No Matter How Cute It Looks There)

Feng Shui consultant Suzanne also has strong feelings about placing the tree in the North of your home. 'The North sector of a home is connected to the Water element, which governs career and life path,' she says. 'Water is powerful, but it’s picky about what you mix into it.

'Your Christmas tree is a strong Wood element. In the elemental cycle, Wood drains Water. Place your tree in the North, and you tip the balance into a conflict that can show up as:

• Money leaking instead of growing: 'This could look like the oven ceasing to work whilst you are cooking the duck fat potatoes' for your Christmas party recipes.
• Career setbacks or stagnation: 'A retrenchment on Christmas Eve is not ideal.'
• Feeling directionless or overwhelmed: 'A lack of desire to head back to the office on December 27.'

Essentially, warns Suzanne, 'It’s basically the Feng Shui equivalent of pouring soil into your swimming pool. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.'

And, more generally, adds Max, when it comes to keeping Feng Shui energy flowing in winter and creating good Feng Shui in your home, a large tree placed in the North of your living room can create a symbolic imbalance, potentially disrupting the smooth flow of career energy.

'In short, the North benefits from openness and movement,' she explains. 'Introducing a dense, heavy object like a Christmas tree can create a sense of obstruction in a place where flow is important.'

Why a Blocked Tree Makes for a Difficult Christmas

Even in the perfect gua, a poorly placed tree can change or sabotage the energy of your home, leaving you needing to fix your home's traffic flow, which becomes even more of an issue if your tree blocks walkways or doorways, and disrupts Qi.

This blocked Qi, Suzanne advises, can cause stress, irritability, stagnation, and unexpected delays or obstacles in life.

'Your tree should feel like an invitation, not an obstacle course,' she says. 'If you’re having to sidestep it like you’re dodging a startled reindeer, the Qi is definitely struggling, and no one wants to sit in the doorway to open their gifts.

'In essence, your tree will go where there is space, but there are plenty of things you can do to enhance your prosperity and luck for the season by way of decorating to support your home's natural energetic blueprint.'

It's also important to keep in mind, reassures Max, that a Christmas tree is only in place for a few weeks each year, so it's important not to worry if space limitations make it difficult, or impossible, to swerve the places you should always avoid putting a Christmas tree and position it perfectly.

'Enjoy your tree wherever it fits best, and simply restore balance once it comes down,' she says. 'If you want to intentionally boost good fortune for 2026, try a jade plant or three pieces of lucky bamboo in the Southeast to support prosperity, or red flowers in the South to strengthen confidence, recognition, and positive visibility.'

These, explains Max, are small touches that can help refresh the energy of your home long after the decorations are packed away come January.

Feng Shui Christmas Tree Essentials

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

For a little inspiration, Kourtney Kardashian's Christmas tree placement is approved by Feng Shui experts.

Classic dishes will always earn a spot on my holiday table, but I'm keen to serve up a few surprises this Christmas. It might sound risky, but I have a trick up my sleeve: Shea McGee's pork tenderloin recipe, which calls for a rather unexpected ingredient that I know my guests will love.

While the Christmas hosting countdown might not seem like the time to experiment, Shea's recipe combines a few beloved flavors to produce a hearty, indulgent dish. The secret? Hot honey and apple butter – a combination that's eternally tempting, undeniably comforting, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

'I love hot honey on everything,' says Shea in a recipe video shared on her Instagram. The marinade is, she explains, 'the best part of this dish. You can do a quick marinade for 30 minutes, but I think overnight or at least three hours is ideal.'

To ensure the dish is packed with as much flavor as possible, Shea even sets half of the marinade aside to use as a dressing once the pork is cooked.

You might expect to see a hot honey and apple butter marinade on a comforting fall menu rather than a holiday spread, but Shea's recipe feels like a timeless choice to me. I'll never say no to the sweet-and-spicy delights of hot honey, and I'm happy to indulge in harvest-inspired flavors long after winter sets in.

Plus, as Shea notes in her pork tenderloin recipe post on the Studio McGee blog, the recipe is 'a complete, no-sides-needed meal which comes together quickly – perfect for this wonderfully busy stretch of the year.'

Once the meat has been marinated, Shea sears it on the burner while roasting chopped shallots, potatoes and apples. She then adds the pork loin to the vegetable mixture and places everything back in the oven.

'You can finish this dish in two ways: in more of a salad form, or you can create a beautiful presentation on a platter,' Shea explains. In the video, she arranges slices of pork loin on McGee & Co's scalloped Veridien serving platter before adding chives, arugula, and that all-important hot honey dressing.

'This dish is comfort food with a kick,' concludes Shea on her blog. 'It's effortless, elevated, and exactly what this time of year calls for.' I know my holiday menu is about to get an upgrade – and who doesn't love a touch of spice during the Christmas season?

Shea McGee's Hot Honey Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 (1 ¼ to 1 ½ pound) pork tenderloins
• For the marinade:
• ½ cup hot honey
• ¼ cup apple butter
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves
• 3 tsp kosher salt
• For the vegetables:
• 1-pound yellow baby potatoes
• 1 Honeycrisp apple
• 3 shallots
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• To serve:
• 1 cup arugula
• ¼ cup finely minced chives

Method

• To make the marinade:
• Combine the hot honey, apple butter, vinegar, and ¼ cup of the oil in a bowl. 
• Finely mince the garlic, then add to the marinade along with 3 tsp salt.
• Mix to combine. Set aside a ½ cup of the marinade for serving.
• To prepare the meat:
• Use a fork to prick the pork tenderloins several times on each side, then place them in a bowl or disposable plastic bag. Add the portion of marinade and toss to coat.
• Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
• To prepare the vegetables:
• Preheat your oven to 425°F.
• Slice the baby potatoes in half, core and slice the apple into eighths, and peel and halve each bulb of the shallots.
• Toss the vegetables with the remaining 2 tbsp oil and remaining 1 tsp salt, then add to an 18 x 13-inch sheet pan, making sake sure each potato is face-down.
• To cook:
• Roast the vegetables for 23 to 25 minutes, or until the tops of the onion and apple start to deeply char.
• Meanwhile, warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the tenderloins from the marinade and sear both sides until golden (about 4 minutes each or 8 minutes total).
• Nestle the tenderloins onto the sheet pan with the vegetables and place it back into the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are extremely tender and the meat's internal temperature is 140°F.
• Remove the pan from the oven and let the pork rest for about 5 minutes.  
• To serve:
• Slice the tenderloin and serve it on a platter surrounded by potatoes, apples, and shallots.
• Top with the minced chives, a pile of arugula, and use the remaining marinade to drizzle over the dish as a dressing.

Shop Everything You Need to Make Shea's Pork Tenderloin

Looking for more festive recipes? Check out Lucinda Scala Quinn's modern guide to the Feast of the Seven Fishes – it's a glorious way to kick off your Christmas celebrations.

Preparing a home for Christmas can quickly feel overwhelming. Between decorating, tidying, and creating a cozy atmosphere, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of tasks – and risk missing the festive fun altogether.

That’s why having a solid checklist makes all the difference. From sprucing up key living spaces to adding those finishing touches to Christmas decorating ideas that make your home feel merry and bright, our thorough guide ensures nothing important is forgotten, no matter when you start your prep.

This isn’t just any checklist – it’s the only one you’ll actually need. Follow it, and you can transform your home efficiently, reduce stress, and fully enjoy the holiday season in style.

How to Prepare Your Home for Christmas

Declutter First

Before bringing your Christmas tree ideas to life, or embarking on a winter deep clean, you need to employ some of the best decluttering methods to create space and set a good foundation to add your decor. And, it's never too late! You can tackle them with our lunch break decluttering method and focus on the most important areas first.

When decluttering and organizing your home for Christmas, I also recommend using the ski slope organizing method. Using a laundry basket, such as the Joseph Joseph folding laundry basket from Wayfair, collect up items as you work back and forth across a room until you reach the door. The basket then makes it easier to carry items back to their homes, stopping you from getting distracted and also tackling a lot of surface clutter at once.

You don't have to gut your whole home, especially when we are already so busy. Instead, the experts suggest focusing your effort on key zones and categories to help prepare your home for Christmas without decluttering when you feel overwhelmed.

1. Entryways

Clutter doesn’t make for a particularly festive first impression. Organizing an entryway so there’s space for your belongings, as well as those of your guests, makes for a much warmer welcome, suggests Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized.

She says, 'This is the first impression of your home, and it's about to get a lot of traffic with visitors coming and going. Put away shoes that are out of season, organize your coat rack, and create a spot for guests to drop their bags. It's a small area, but it makes a huge difference in how your home feels during the busy holiday season.'

If you’re dealing with a small entryway, you might also want to consider removing non-functional furniture for the festive season, particularly if you’re incorporating extra Christmas hallway decorations or temporary entryway storage ideas, such as baskets, hooks, and racks.

Brenda Scott, professional home organizer and founder of Tidy My Space, adds, 'Creating a "drop zone" where everything has a place eliminates the mess because you now know exactly where stuff goes properly and quickly. Make it work for you and the others in your home. Make it achievable for little ones, too. Putting lower hooks or open-top baskets from Target with their names on can give them a sense of accomplishment and relieve you of having to do everything.’

Leaving children out of age-appropriate chores is one thing people with tidy homes never do.

2. Children's Spaces

If you have children or grandchildren, the run up to Christmas is a great time to streamline any of your toy storage ideas and make playroom ideas ready to receive new toys. Plus, donating them ahead of time means other families in need can pick up great finds for their loved ones in time for the big day, promoting generosity and sharing. Not to mention that introducing children to chores is great for early-development and will serve them for the rest of their lives

Diane Quintana, certified professional organizer in chronic disorganization and owner of DNQ Solutions, says, ‘Ask them which toys they no longer want. Their response may surprise you. If they want to donate a toy, please let them, even if it's something you or their grandparents gave them. You may want them to keep it, but I'm hoping you allow them to let it go.'

According to cleaning and organization expert Michelle Hansen, owner of Practical Perfection, decluttering toys before Christmas also has the added benefit of providing present ideas. ‘You can filter wish lists a little to focus on items they don’t already have, and include practical items as well – a new coat to replace the one they’ve grown out of or a new set of coloring pens, for example’, she says.

Plus, as professional organizer Ter Avest points out, a streamlined playroom makes it easier to keep things tidy when guests stop by during the holidays, likely laden with gifts. A good toy organizer unit from Amazon helps while encouraging tidy play.

It’s a great opportunity to explain the concept of donating toys to children in need, and allowing them to feel good about their part in the process. When donating, consider the condition and where will make the best use of it:

• Gently used condition: Avoid donating broken or heavily worn items.
• Complete sets: Make sure all puzzle pieces, game cards, or building blocks are there.
• Easy to clean: Wash plush toys and ensure everything is in good, clean condition before donating

• Local charities and shelters: Many community organizations welcome toy donations year-round.
• Hospitals and pediatric clinics: Check if they accept toys for play areas or young patients.
• Community toy drives: Schools, churches, and local organizations often run holiday toy drives.
• Online gifting groups: Platforms like Buy Nothing or Facebook Marketplace allow you to donate toys directly to families in your local community. Joining your local town's free item groups will also help you shift toys quickly.

3. Household Linens

Laura Price, founder of The Home Organization, says, ‘Organizing your linen closet is a sensible idea pre-Christmas – it’s so much easier to grab and change sheets between guests if you're not rummaging through a huge mountain of tatty or mismatched items!

'Get rid of any towels or sheets that are past their peak, then bundle bedding sheets together with matching pillowcases folded into sheets and duvet covers,' to keep everything accessible and easy to find.

These labeled linen organizing boxes from Amazon can make finding what you need easier, while making your shelves look prettier, too.

4. Living Spaces

With Christmas comes guests, and they will spend the majority of their time in the living room. Then there are all the gifts: at first neatly under the tree, then afterwards in piles around the room until everything gets put away, which can, realistically, take a couple of days.

So, usually, the week before Christmas, I use a small living room decluttering checklist to declutter my living room of anything I don't need or won't use over the holiday period. For example, coffee table books can be put away to make room for a tray of snacks or board games, and non-festive decor can make way for cocktail glasses or seasonal touches.

There are items to get rid of in your living room, so while decluttering and tidying, I make sure to set these aside for donation or the trash. Therefore, it can be helpful to have a sturdy trash bag handy, such as the Hefty Strong Large Trash Bags available at Amazon.

In other words, I try to set the space up as cozy, welcoming, and pretty, but with room to breathe.

5. Gifting Categories you Have Put on Wishlists

If you have made a holiday wishlist or have a good idea of what you might be expecting as gifts over the holiday season, then you should also get a start on these categories to make room for an influx of new items. This might mean decluttering a closet or a dresser drawer, for instance, if you think some new clothes might be on the horizon.

‘When you open a cupboard or closet and feel overwhelmed by the amount of belongings in front of you, it’s time for a good edit, especially if new things are incoming,’ begins Ashley Murphy, co-founder and CEO of NEAT Method. ‘Even an organized space can look visually cluttered if you have more belongings than fit comfortably in the space. Remove and donate those items that haven’t been used in the last year for seasonal items or the last six months for everything else.’

When decluttering these categories, it might be a good idea to put anything you are clearing out in a box or bag to one side in storage, just in case you don’t get the replacements you were looking for. Leave the donating until after the holidays.

6. Crockery and Dinnerware

Go through the plates and make sure all the sets are together, matching styles and sizes. Even making sure a set is grouped can change the aesthetic of your cupboard and help you distinguish what you do not need.

It also pays to get rid of what you no longer use or love. 'Minimizing what you have will give you control,' says Dilly Carter, professional organizer and founder of Declutter Dollies. 'Less stuff means less cleaning and less tidying.'

If you rarely host over the holiday season, then investing in an exquisite cutlery set may not be on the cards. Many of us buy items we use for one day that then take up space we don’t have. Only buy what you have room to comfortably store. To stop clutter before it starts, we recommend borrowing or renting a silverware set from friends, family, or from partyware and events rental boutiques.

Prepare the Kitchen

You're likely using your kitchen for festive baking and cooking, and streamlining this process can start with decluttering certain supplies to make space for the essentials.

1. Clear Kitchen countertops

If you’re organizing a kitchen in readiness for entertaining, you’ll need as much surface space as you can get. You’ll want it looking neat as guests will end up in the kitchen to socialize in the heart of your home. The less there is to tidy away, the better.

Kate Ibbotson, APDO member and founder of A Tidy Mind, says, ‘It sounds counterproductive, but if you want to clear space on your counters, start by organizing kitchen cabinets that are hard to reach. Items you find in there are often bulky and less-used, so getting rid of or moving them outside of the cooking zone will then free up temporary space for those countertop items you use more regularly.'

Then, declutter your countertops by taking everything off, and sorting through item by item. You can also add kitchen space on demand with the chic Yamazaki Pull-Out Counter Tray from Amazon.

2. Clear out the pantry 

Start your meal planning by clearing pantry ideas and taking inventory of what you already have.

Tina Priestly, owner and CEO at Ready, Set, REFRESH, says, 'Good pantry organization ideas create space for holiday treats and make it easier to locate what you need when cooking.'

• Declutter and take inventory: Declutter and remove outdated, unused ingredients to make space to stock up on holiday baking and festive meal essentials. Donate unopened, non-perishables to those in need
• Create seasonal zones: Arrange items into categories such as baking ingredients, canned goods, snacks, beverages, and festive treats. This will make them easier to locate.
• Incorporate storage solutions: 'Opt for airtight containers such as the OXO airtight containers from Target, to preserve the freshness of baking supplies, nuts, and other perishables,' advises Muffetta Kruger, founder of Muffetta’s Domestic Assistants. 'Prioritize accessibility by storing frequently used items at eye level and within reach and in manoeuvrable storage options, ensuring easy access while preparing those delightful Christmas recipes.'
• Use the FIFO Method: To prevent items from getting lost in the back of your pantry or letting them expire, implement a rotation system. Place older products in front and new purchases in the back.

3. Manage Cold Food Storage

Just as with the pantry and kitchen cabinets, it's important to clean and declutter the refrigerator and organize the freezer to make way for the extra food, meal prep, and Christmas leftovers storage.

I take the chance to clean the refrigerator, too, using the number one bestselling Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray Cleaner and Degreaser available at Amazon, and a microfiber cloth, such as the MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, available at Walmart.

To make this easier:

• Take everything out: Professional organizer Kristin MacRae says, 'Starting with a clean slate will give you a clear vision of how to organize your refrigerator. Treat it just as you would any organizational project in the home. Empty the entire space, declutter, categorize, organize, and contain!' Throw out anything that has expired.
• Remove excess packaging: You have a lot to store in the refrigerator when entertaining family and friends, and sometimes the store packaging takes up unnecessary space. Consider if there's anything in the fridge that could be taken out of its cardboard box to create extra space. To avoid last-minute panic, cut out any nutritional info (e.g., does it contain nuts, dairy, or gluten?) and the use-by date and tape it to the container or packaging.
• Know what can be left out: Know what not to store in the refrigerator, and you'll instantly free up space for the turkey or nut roast. Many root vegetables, for example, are happy in a cool dark cabinet to make more space in the fridge for meat.
• Avoid buying too much: During the holidays, try to make meal plans each week so you are only purchasing what you need. It will prevent excess items from being stored in the refrigerator. 

4. Clean Essential Appliances

The appliances that work overtime throughout the festive period could do with a little love before the chaos of hosting over Christmas sets in.

That's why Lydia Hayman, our in-house kitchen editor and appliance expert, shares her cleaning tips for sprucing them up and getting them ready for action:

• The oven: The all-important Christmas dinner simply wouldn't work without an oven. After all, you can't exactly fit a turkey into even the best air fryer. To deep clean your oven, start by cleaning the oven racks by soaking them in hot soapy water. We recommend using Dawn Ultra Liquid Dish Soap, available at Walmart to do so. Lydia says, 'While they soak, scrub the oven walls with a paste made of baking soda and water, or oven cleaner.' The Great Value Heavy Duty Oven Cleaner available at Walmart will do nicely if you're happier with a commercial cleaner. 'Let it sit for a while to loosen grime, then wipe everything down with a damp cloth to finish. It is always best to clean an oven before Christmas, and tackle cleaning the glass oven door for a clear view of your Christmas party recipes, holiday feast, or Christmas cookies, to prevent overcooking or burning.'
• The microwave: Over time, microwaves get splattered with sauces, grease, and crumbs. A dirty microwave not only looks unappetizing but can also affect the flavor of reheated food. To clean it, fill a microwave-safe bowl with water, and add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Heat the bowl for three minutes or more to loosen grime with steam, and finish by wiping down the interior with a soft cloth sprayed with Method All-Purpose Cleaner available at Amazon to remove residue and leave a streak-free finish.
• The range hood: Forgetting to clean your range hood isn't just unsanitary – it's unsightly too. If you can remove the filter, do so and soak it in hot, soapy water. While that's soaking, use a degreaser (such as the Method Lemongrass Cleaning Products Kitchen Degreaser Spray Bottle available at Amazon) to scrub the hood and fan, especially those awkward corners. Then, rinse everything and dry thoroughly before reassembling the filter.
• The coffee machine: It's important to clean your coffee maker ahead of time to prep for extra cups for guests, says Lydia. To clean a Nespresso machine, clean a Ninja coffee maker, or indeed, any other kind of caffeine appliance, run a brew cycle with equal parts water and white vinegar to descale the machine. Then, rinse it through thoroughly with two cycles of plain water.
• The dishwasher: 'A dishwasher that goes wrong can be the most frustrating thing to happen at Christmas, when you’re stacked with washing up,' Lydia warns. The Affresh dishwasher cleaning tablets from Walmart are the quickest option for this. Simply empty the filter, throw one tablet in the base, and run a cycle.

5. Check Your Tools

Evaluate tools and utensils for signs it's time to replace your pans and other baking equipment, removing any items that are broken or worn out it can affect the quality of your cooking.

Check whether the baking utensils are warped or the bottom part of the pan starts to peel off, they will lead to uneven baking with or warring results affecting the flavor and appearance of the food. It is recommended to replace them with new quality pans for better baking results.

Decorate Without Adding Clutter

As beautiful as festive decorations are, they can start to feel like clutter. Whether that's on surfaces and countertops covered with twinkling displays, or storage boxes pulled out of storage, it can be difficult to manage the Christmas chaos.

So, to decorate for Christmas without getting overwhelmed, it is worth taking some steps after decluttering your home of everyday mess, to make your home look curated, and avoid it all becoming a heap of festive mess.

• Replace home decor, don’t add to it: APDO's president and founder of Sorted! Siân Pelleschi says, 'Consider this a swap rather than an embellishment on what you already have. When you're decorating for Christmas, I always suggest taking down those items that you have out year-round.'
• Work with less: Siân says, 'Go for less to start with and then add as you see fit – remember that it is okay not to use every single bauble if your tree isn’t big enough.' It makes it a great time to declutter your decor, too. Remove any items you don't gravitate towards, or that are looking worse for wear. For those you love but don't have space for this year, don't fret. 'Maybe you have different themes or styles you want to try each year,' Siân adds. 'It’s a great opportunity to try new styles.'
• Keep decor away from functional areas: Avoid putting decor anywhere that is going to be in your way. If you use the stair banister to walk up and down the steps, avoid hanging decor here. If you have a small space, get a tree that fits the scale of that space so that you're not squeezing around it. Keep things like kitchen Christmas decor to a minimum, too.
• Stay true to one style: Visual clutter is just as bad as physical clutter – especially at Christmas, when we layer lots of decor and lights in one space. We suggest picking a color palette and sticking with it. This ties everything together and creates a cohesive look that feels intentional, rather than chaotic.

Prepare the Guest Spaces

How you prepare the space may depend on how many guests are staying and how long they are staying, but the basics to are always the same – from common cleaning tricks to ensuring guests have suitable storage and privacy.

• Clean: Work through a pre-guest cleaning checklist to prepare bedroms for guests. Target areas such as beneath the beds, baseboards, and door frames, high touch points such as light switches and door handles, and the mattress if it not been used in a while.
• Make space in storage: It is important to clear away some space in guest bedroom storage to allow guests to hang or fold clothes away during their stay – even if it is just for one night.
• Wash guest bedding: Guest linens that have been folded at the bottom of a cabinet or sat out on a bed unused can begin to smell musty over time, meaning doing laundry should be a priority on your to-do list, says Maria Mooney, cleaning expert at Truly Free. This also helps to eliminate dust mites that might set off guest allergies, she explains.
• Add some festive touches: For a truly nostalgic touch, add in a Christmas stocking at the end of the bed filled with goodies to welcome your guests in – a Christmas card, some self-care items such as relaxing face masks, sweet treats, and a pair of fluffy socks or slippers to use around the house make for the perfect Christmas welcome.
• Ensure guests have spare essentials: When staying in someone else's home, it is easy to feel awkward asking for some extra essentials, such as toothpaste, so ensure they are laid out ready for the guest to use as they need them. It can be handy to also include a piece of paper with all the important info about the house,e such as the WiFi password and details about where to find other essentials around the home, such as the coffee maker, as well as instructions on how to use it.
• Ensure guests stay warm: When styling an inviting guest bedroom, opt for high-quality bedding that will keep your guests warm and cozy. Cotton flannel bedding [available in complete sets at Brooklinen] is a good option for this. Add in extra blankets for guests to adjust their comfort level as needed, and consider including a heater and fan, as one of the main things making a guest bedroom less comfortable is a lack of options when it comes to temperature. The Dyson Hot+Cool Jet Focus Heater and Fan from Amazon offers the best of both in one sleek device.

Securing Your Home

It’s no secret that homes are attractive to burglars, especially during the holidays with the promise of gifts beneath a tree, so what can you do to protect your property when you’re not there?

• Create the illusion of an occupied home: Most will avoid entering homes that have what K. Campbell, Principal at Blue Glacier Security & Intelligence, calls ‘occupancy cues’. These include ‘cars in the driveway, lights turned on in the house, a loud television or music, and the absence of mail and packages piling up.’ 
• Don't let mail pile up: A mailbox stuffed with uncollected mail is the Achilles heel of many homes during the holidays, as Kirk MacDowell, Home Security Expert at Batten Safe, points out: ‘It is common for burglars to look in mailboxes. If they look in your mailbox and can see a few days of mail or see packages on your doorstep, it is a tell-tale sign that someone is out of town and away from their home.’ So, if you are going away, have a neighbor or friend pick up your mail and packages (which could also be stolen if they’re left out on your porch for several days).
• Secure all doors: Lock up properly before a vacation. Double-check all locks, not just doors. An unlocked door is pretty useless at protecting your home from a burglar, and that includes a door that has old locks that are easy to pick or pry open with a credit card. As an experiment, try it yourself: if your lock is easy to tamper with, replace it.
• Hide valuables: While you can’t change your whole home decorating scheme, drawing the curtains and blinds if you have valuable furniture, artwork, or accessories on display is always a good idea. Move wrapped gifts out of view of the window, too.
• Keep your social media accounts private: ‘Do not post about going on vacation or post photographs of being on vacation until you return. Criminals monitor social media to find homes where people are on vacation. Avoid bragging about expensive gifts, too.
• Be discerning when choosing a home security system: Many modern security cameras (there’s a wide selection on Amazon) with remote access features come with speakers and even video streaming that will allow you to talk to whoever is outside your door, even if you’re not there. Wireless doorbells such as the eufy subscription-free doorbell at Amazon can also give you some protection, although it will be limited to the area around your front door. 

Create a Cleaning Strategy

Leaving cleaning until quite late in the season might sound stressful, but it ensures your home is spotless when guests arrive, and saves you time repeating bigger cleaning tasks.

You will have already tackled guest spaces and kitchens by now, so this is for all the other rooms that may be feeling a bit neglected through the holiday rush. Deep cleaning before Christmas ensures a tidy home to rest in over the festive period, and will make the festive clear-up easier afterwards.

• Clean windows inside and out: Cleaning windows is usually a task people leave for spring and summer, but wiping them down in winter (especially if there has been snow or rain) will help to increase natural light in the darkest months of the year.
• Use a lint roller on furniture and lampshades: Dusting lampshades might seem a little excessive, but for a time of year when the sun sets early and we spend most of our waking hours in the dark, it makes a lot of sense. Dusting lampshades is not always easily done with a grippy microfiber cloth, however, so I use a reusable lint roller such as the Reusable Sticky Picker Set Cleaner Lint Roller available to Amazon to run over the lampshades in my house and clear them of dust and settled hair.
• Clean out fireplaces and log stoves: If you are lucky enough to have a working fireplace or log stove in your home, then you will likely have had the chimney swept when preparing your home for fall. Before Christmas, however, it is a good idea to do a quick check of the hearth and clear out any collected soot or ash.
• Launder table linens and polish silverware: Christmas dining room decor looks fantastic when done well, but is often improved by having fresh table linens, napkins, and polished silverware.
• Vacuum carpets: For a quick carpet odor fix, Forrest Webber, cleaning expert and founder of Bear Brothers Cleaning and The Trade Table, recommends cleaning a carpet with baking soda. He advises sprinkling some baking soda on the carpets and giving them a quick vacuum after 15 to 30 minutes, using your best vacuum. 'It's a simple way to keep the space fresh, even with all the extra foot traffic,' he continues. You can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the baking soda and let it infuse for an easy fragrance boost.
• Clean up tree needles daily: If you have a real Christmas tree, vacuum around it every day to stay on top of falling needles. Use a tree skirt to help catch any dripping sap or water spills. Should sap get onto your flooring, rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer works well for efficient removal. For sap stuck on fabric, use an ice cube to freeze the sap and harden it, then gently scrape it off with a butter knife.

Last Minute Hosting Prep

If you are finding your home increasingly overstimulating in the run-up to Christmas day, but don’t have much time to spare between final preparations and seeing family and friends, professional home organizers have your back.

These four tricks can help to establish order over any parts of your home that have slipped during the run-up to guest arrivals.

1. Use The Two-Tub Trick

Barbara Brock, professional home organizer and home stager, begins, ‘If time is of the essence, and it’s necessary to declutter quickly, you don’t have time to edit. It’s important to remove items quickly to limit visual clutter and make a home look organized fast, even if it isn’t.

‘I suggest having an empty tub handy to put unnecessary items in. You can then quickly remove items and put them in a closet to be edited later. The first major pre-Christmas decluttering rule is to prioritize what rooms people will be going into – these are the rooms you want to focus on first,’ Barbara suggests.

Alternatively, grab clear and dark bags. In the clear trash bag put items that you want to keep but don't have time to sort and put away. In dark trash bags, put items that can be thrown away.’

2. Clear Flat Surfaces

When you only have a few minutes minutes to spare, we highly recommend focusing on your home’s flat surfaces as part of your Christmas hosting prep countdown – counters, coffee tables, consoles – anything you could put a drink down on should be clear.

Jamila Musayeva, etiquette expert, agrees, ‘Have as much as possible open space in the kitchen counters so that you can fill it up with used dishes later on easily and proceed to entertain your guests without having to make space. Empty a couple of shelves or an area of the cupboard to store incoming food items or serving platters. Clear countertops of non-essentials to give yourself plenty of workspace.

‘The entryway is your business card so to speak. It is your first impression. Make it count and work on it in advance,’ Jamila adds. ‘Get rid of all unnecessary items. Spend 10 minutes clearing it out – store out-of-season items, neatly arrange what’s necessary, and create a space for guests’ belongings. A tidy entry sets a welcoming tone.’

You might even want to take away some of your decor to help cut clutter when decorating this Christmas. This holiday period is usually one of excess, but it is possible to have too much of a good thing when your home looks like Santa threw up on it. Besides, it makes cleaning around holiday decor ten times easier.

3. Clear Bathroom Clutter

It is a good idea to use the guest scanning method to prepare for guests. This means walking around your home as if you were a visitor and seeing what you spot – especially in spots like the bathroom.

Jo Hayes, founder and international etiquette coach at EtiquetteExpert suggests, ‘Get[ting] rid of excess bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the shower or bath. These can make the bathroom look cluttered and messy, and attract mold. Do a stocktake of bathroom cabinets, clear out anything unused or unnecessary and make sure toilet paper is well stocked and stored within easy reach.’

It never hurts to clean your bathroom in 30 minutes or less if you can fit it into your schedule, either.

4. Bag Up Gifts

A tree with presents piled up beneath it can look great in the movies, but in real life when we have to share this space with this mountain of boxes, it can quickly get overwhelming.

To keep the area around your Christmas tree neat (and make it easier to keep your home clean with a real Christmas tree), we recommend strategically using gift bags, available in sets from Amazon, to split presents up into recipients. Your gifts all stay together under the tree, but on a smaller footprint, helping to make your living space less visually overstimulating.

5. Make a Schedule

It’s easy to get distracted by present-opening and socializing, so putting together a schedule is sensible if you want to ensure Christmas dinner actually makes it to the table! Be sure to allow yourself some time out of the kitchen to enjoy the day with your family, that’s what it’s all about, after all.

What to Shop

Then, when the festivities are over, start with the tiny ways to reset your home after Christmas to return to normality without burning yourself out.

For design enthusiasts, Shea McGee is like our Mrs. Claus. She has a way of making even the simplest festive detail feel impossibly chic and oh-so easy to copy –⁠ and this year, it’s her velvet-trimmed asymmetrical Christmas mantel that’s quickly stolen the show.

After plenty of begging in the comments on her holiday home posts, the designer has finally given us the tutorial we've been waiting on: how to make a bow for our Christmas mantels (and trees and wreaths) the Shea way.

In Studio McGee's latest Instagram video, a blink-and-you'll-miss-it tutorial, she shows us how to perfect her loopy bows for an elaborate yet effortless Christmas vignette. So, if you’re looking to recreate her chic look at home, this little ribbon detail might be your new favorite styling trick.

A few weeks ago, in this Christmas decor video, Shea showed how she brought the entire Christmas mantel to life.

‘I wanted this really huge statement off to one side of my mantel,' Shea explains in the video. Layering up five (yes, five!) garlands to build up her display, she then pulled lengths down to one side to create an asymmetrical design that helps to balance the proportions of her impressive stone fireplace.

To the right of the mantel, she hangs five of McGee & Co.'s McCallister Stockings using Command hooks from Amazon, and finishes the look with a big ivory bow.

While Shea doesn't totally break down the ribbon-tying step-by-step in the video, it's actually pretty easy to follow along. She uses a wide, 4-inch ivory velvet ribbon –⁠ this 4" Ivory Velvet and Satin Wired Ribbon from Etsy is a near match, while Wayfair's Raw Edge Velvet Ribbon gives a slightly more rustic look –⁠ which has enough body to hold its shape while still draping beautifully.

Rather than tying a traditional single bow, Shea appears to make two large, loose bows separately, each with generous loops and long trailing tails. 'Just decide how many loops you want, shape them with your fingers, and it comes together effortlessly,' she advises in the caption.

Then, she stacks them together and secures them with an extra piece of ribbon, creating one ultra-full bow with twice the movement and texture that gets tucked up under her foliage (presumably with another Command hook!).

Against the depth of the greenery, which looks like the McGee & Co.'s Pinecone and Berries Faux Garland and the Norfolk Pine Faux Garland layered together, and her roaring fire, the ivory bow is the perfect finishing touch to add some romance and drama.

The beauty of this method is how adaptable it is. Because the bows are tied individually, you can play with the size of the loops, the length of the tails, and even the direction the ribbon falls –⁠ perfect whether you're dressing a mantel, a wreath, or tying long velvet strands to trail of the branches of your Christmas tree.

Shop the Look

So if you’re looking to add a touch of softness or a hint of romance to your holiday decor this year, consider the bow trend. You can find an edit of 24 pretty bow pieces to shop here, and if you're after more Shea-approved ideas, check out Shea's outdoor Christmas bows for extra drama.

Leftovers, some will argue, are the best bit of the Christmas day menu, and this Christmas ham recipe will deliver on the day and beyond – a majestic, clove-studded baked ham with its chilli and marmalade glaze that is actually a cinch to put together. Cook it in the stock a couple of days ahead of time, ready to glaze on the day.

Christmas Ham with Chilli and Marmalade Glaze

Ingredients (serves 8-10 with leftovers)

• For the ham:
• 4 kg gammon joint (about 8.8 lb) uncooked ham on the bone
• 2 tbsp soft dark brown sugar
• 4 whole cloves
• 1 tbsp whole black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• Water to cover (about 2.5 liters/10 ½ cups
• For the glaze:
• 2 tbsp thin-cut marmalade
• 2 tbsp ginger preserves
• 1 red chilli, deseeded & finely sliced
• 1 tbsp soft dark brown sugar
• Large pinch (about ¼ tsp) ground allspice
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp cider vinegar
• 2 tsp cornstarch or all-purpose flour
• 3 tbsp whole cloves

Method

• Put the ham in a large casserole or saucepan, big enough to hold it comfortably. Add enough water to just cover – approximately 10½ cups – along with the brown sugar, 4 cloves, peppercorns and bay leaves. Bring to the boil slowly, skimming off and discarding any scum with a large spoon. Simmer very gently for 1 hour 50 minutes. Leave to sit in the hot cooking liquid for 20 minutes. Drain then cool slightly.
• Carefully remove the skin with a knife, leaving a good layer of the ham fat behind. Score the fat in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife (our Cookery Editor reviewed the HexClad Knives and highly recommends them), being careful not to cut into the ham itself. At this point, the ham can be cooled completely, then wrapped and chilled for up to 2 days before leaving at room temperature for 30 minutes and continuing with the recipe.
• The glaze – excluding the cloves – can also be made up to 5 days ahead of time and kept in the fridge until needed. Preheat the oven to gas 6, (or 375°F convection). Combine all the glaze ingredients in a small bowl and spread thickly over the scored fat. Press the pointed end of a clove firmly into the criss-cross join between each scored diamond, repeating until the top of the joint is completely studded.
• Sit the joint on a rack, nestled in one of the best roasting tins lined with aluminum foil (to make the tin easier to clean afterwards). Add about ¾ cup of water to the roasting tin and bake the ham for 30 minutes, until the glaze is well-caramelized.
• Rest for 10 minutes before carving into thin slices.

If you love the idea of a marmalade glaze, but would prefer to serve turkey for Christmas Day, try this wonderful recipe for a mulled marmalade-glazed turkey, which is equally showstopping.

As we hurtle into mid-December, many of us are now all consumed by Christmas preparations. This either brings you much, much joy or a surge of dread. If you find yourself in the former category, then you will know that wrapping gifts is almost as much of a joy as giving or receiving them. There is something almost meditative about the process; with Christmas music on and a glass of mulled wine in hand, it can take even the biggest scrooge to a cosy state of festive cheer.

When it comes to picking wrapping paper, many of us are only too aware how the plastic-heavy, glue and glitter-covered, non-recyclable wrapping paper of days gone by is pretty horrendous for the environment. That said, for some of us, the idea of wrapping our presents in reusable cloths or fabric, whilst extremely wholesome and very laudable, is just not realistic. I think it's better to have one or two beautifully chosen, beautifully packaged, and beautifully wrapped presents than a glut of gifts chosen with haste over heart. So, which paper to choose?

For Christmas decorating, many of us don't think about the Christmas gift wrap until the very last minute, and oftentimes, the best has sold out, and only the dregs remain. So, I have been scouting out the most beautiful designs that have caught my eye this year to help with your Christmas preparation, and have compiled them here in this edit. You can thank me later.

Set some time aside to wrap your presents, switch on the radio, and pour yourself something utterly delicious. My top tip? Wrap your gifts on top of an ironing board. This will save your back from aching and your feet from tingling, and you can lay out all your bits, tape, pens, paper, and ribbon.

The Best Christmas Wrapping Paper

Usually, at my house, all of the tags come off the presents almost as soon as they are placed under the tree, either the cat swipes them off with glee, or as more presents pile up, they simply drop off. If this rings true for your family too, then use a gift tag label, like these simple kraft paper stickers.

Remember, Christmas is a time for family, love, celebration and merriment, so as beautiful as your wrapping may (or may not) be, it's the thought that counts, and if that means wrapping your gift in a bin liner at midnight on Christmas Eve, so be it.

Festive gatherings often revolve around the dining table, and a thoughtfully balanced Christmas table layout can make every guest feel welcomed and at ease. From establishing a strong foundation to layering with intention, subtle techniques can elevate your table beyond conventional Christmas table decor ideas.

To inspire effortless yet refined settings, we’ve invited professional hosts to share the strategies they rely on each festive season. We’ve also curated a selection of exquisite pieces you can incorporate to bring their expert advice beautifully to life in your home.

1. Start With a Grounding Base

While it can be easy to prioritise Christmas decorations on the table, this can lead to items feeling utterly out of place. Starting with an intentional base will help you anchor the items on your table, giving them a clear home.

‘Begin your layout with a sturdy base element that anchors each place setting. A charger plate creates visual weight and immediately establishes a festive foundation,’ says Carine Krawiec, entertaining expert and founder of Maison de Carine. Charger plates (like these olive wood charger plates from Williams Sonoma) mark where each place setting begins and ends – which is especially useful for large or formal dinners.

As well as charger plates, a crisp table linen in a block, seasonal colors like snowy white, forest green, or rich burgundy (the Kate Aurora Tablecloth from Target is spill-proof) will also provide a unified background, as well as preventing scratches and shielding from spills.

2. Layer Dinnerware Purposefully

When serving Christmas food – whether it’s a fabulous, full dinner or a fun, antipasti spread – it’s important to mix and match dinnerware in a balanced way, and you can combine heirloom pieces with more affordable buys to achieve an expensive-looking tablescape for less.

Also, think about allowing breathing space for patterned festive pieces to stand out. ‘Pair pieces with ample negative space, such as an airy dinner plate (the Mainstays plate from Walmart is a chic choice), with something bolder or more detailed, such as a heavier, more saturated salad plate,’ Carine explains. ‘This contrast adds depth without overwhelming the eye and ensures each element has room to shine.’

Try layering differently shaped and sized dinnerware before hosting begins, and play around with the arrangement. This way, you’ll know where to place your dishes perfectly or a spread that fits together effortlessly.

3. Prioritize Comfortable Spacing Between Guests

While there’s something charming about the whole family gathering closely around the table, a perfectly balanced layout works best when each guest has a little breathing room.

'This helps prevent the table from feeling cramped, especially during a large holiday meal, allowing guests space to cut, pass dishes, and settle in comfortably,' says Carine.

'Allow roughly 24 inches between the centers of each plate,' adds etiquette expert Nick Leighton, co-host of the podcast Were You Raised By Wolves?. 'If your table permits, you can even extend this to 28 inches.'

Thoughtful spacing also ensures that plates, glasses, and serving dishes are evenly and attractively arranged, creating a table that feels both elegant and effortless.

4. Only Set the Pieces You Need

Designing the most luxurious table setting possible doesn’t mean layering on every piece of silverware you own. Simply setting the pieces you’ll need for the meal you’re having will not only make your table look more refined, but will also save clear-up time afterwards.

‘Not serving soup? No need for a soup spoon then,’ says Nick. ‘If the table is starting to feel cluttered, you can bring additional cutlery or glasses out during the specific course they’re needed for.’

For example, dessert forks (the Laguiole French Forks from Home Depot are stylish and dishwasher safe) can be held back until it’s time for dessert, and laid down discreetly while your guests take a break.

5. Keep Glassware Simple

Glassware with glittering patterns and playful motifs can certainly set the tone for a sparkling evening. However, it’s best to keep these pieces for arrival aperitifs or post-dinner tipples.

‘If you're hosting guests who pay attention to wine, opt for clear, uncolored glassware. Transparent glasses allow the true tone of the wine to show through – something connoisseurs appreciate,’ Carine explains. They also brighten the table, allowing more light to travel through, making the table airier and more inviting.

A timeless wine glass silhouette, with a curved bowl, a slender stem, and a stable foot (the ZWIESEL GLAS Classico Wine Glasses from Pottery Barn come in a range of wine type shapes), will add elegance without drawing attention away from the food or the decor. For non-alcoholic drinks, highball glasses (such as the Riedel Spey Highball Glasses from Williams Sonoma) are also a classic choice.

6. Choose Low centerpieces

For festive gatherings where you want conversation to flow, choose low or minimal centerpieces to keep lines of sight clear.

‘Arrangements that sit below eye level ensure guests can see and speak to the people across the table,’ Carine says. ‘Opt for low Christmas table garlands, small clusters of the best candles, or short vessels to maintain ambiance without interrupting connection.’

These understated elements add texture, color, and a festive touch, all while keeping the table layout open. If you aren’t sure if the decor you have chosen is too high, simply take a seat in front of it and check whether you'll be able to see the person sitting opposite you clearly, or not.

Shop the Essentials for a Balanced Festive Tablescape

Now you know how to lay your Christmas table in a brilliantly balanced way, you can focus on the rest of your home such as how to decorate your kitchen countertops for Christmas.

Whether it’s a simple strand of lights or a full-on floral display that turns heads, outdoor Christmas decor has a way of setting the scene long before guests even step inside. It’s the first impression – a cheerful nod to festivities and a chance to share a bit of holiday spirit with everyone who passes by.

The beauty is, you don’t need an elaborate setup to make your exterior feel magical. A well-placed wreath, twinkling string lights, or a touch of greenery around the door can transform a facade instantly. Of course, if you love to lean into the more expressive side of decorating, there are plenty of creative ways to decorate your home for the holidays.

To help you strike that perfect balance between jolly and stylish, we’ve gathered 10 expert-approved outdoor Christmas decor ideas. Whether your style leans classic and understated or colorful and full of personality, these tips will inspire you to create a welcoming, joy-filled entrance this holiday season.

10 Outdoor Christmas Decor Ideas for 2025

From classic Christmas style to more unique and modern displays, our outdoor Christmas decor ideas have something for everyone – no matter the style of your outdoor (or indoor) space.

1. Start with a Stylish Door Wreath

A beautifully styled Christmas front door sets the tone for your entire display, and a Christmas wreath is the easiest way to make an immediate impact. Whether you prefer something full and traditional or a more minimal design, a thoughtfully chosen (or handcrafted) wreath creates a warm, festive welcome long before guests cross the threshold.

'I love making a wreath, it’s so much more meaningful than buying a ready-made one,' says designer Kailee Blalock from House of Hive Design Co. 'When you craft it yourself, you can weave in the same ornaments, textures, and ribbon that you’re using on your Christmas tree, which creates a cohesive moment from the porch to the living room.'

You can forage your own foliage to create a wreath from what's growing in your own backyard. This not only means it's an almost free way to make your Christmas decor, it also creates a lovely, cohesive link between the colors and textures of your backyard and the wreath on your door.

If you don't fancy getting crafty and making your own design, then there are plenty of shoppable options to consider – from classic round shapes like the Orange Spice Live Wreath from Williams Sonoma to Terrain's Faux Mixed Evergreen Star that can be layered up with berries and ribbons.

2. Deck Your Doorway with Garlands

If you want to extend your festive foliage decorations beyond your front door, then Christmas garland ideas are perfect for creating a cohesive outdoor display. Draped over an entryway, wrapped around porch columns, or stretched across a portico, they instantly frame your home with texture and warmth.

Designer Kathy Kuo loves the architectural impact garlands bring. 'I adore timeless outdoor Christmas decor that frames a home’s exterior, highlighting its shape and architectural details,' she says. 'Think wreaths hung on the windows and front door with garland and twinkle lights wrapped around their edges; front steps lined with glowing lanterns and tiers of planters, each one overflowing with holiday greenery. It’s this kind of classic approach that makes a home feel incredibly festive, inviting, and a touch nostalgic without being over the top.'

Fresh foliage garlands offer a wonderfully organic feel, especially when filled with pinecones, berries, or fragrant touches like dried oranges and cinnamon sticks. Faux designs, meanwhile, have come a long way and are ideal for those who want a durable, low-maintenance option that still looks lush. You can also pick up pre-decorated versions, like Orange & Eucalyptus Faux Garland from McGee & Co. that looks deceptively real.

3. 'Outdoor-Scape' with an Al Fresco Tree

Christmas trees aren't just for indoors. Whether real, faux, or cleverly crafted from branches and foliage, an outdoor Christmas tree adds instant height and festive drama to a porch, pathway, or front garden.

Gisela Graham loves to decorate beyond the front door. 'We all know at least one person who decorates their front garden every Christmas, but this festive season, ‘outdoor-scaping’ has hit the big time and become a proper trend.'

'I’m a big fan of adding a touch of magic to your front door and porch area – after all, it’s the first thing visitors will see and is the perfect place to extend a visual welcome,' Gisela continues. 'So, if you’re fortunate enough to have the space, grab an extra tree this year and get creative with plenty of outdoor decorations, or make your own from faux or real foliage and lots of red berries. If the area is not under cover, though, be sure everything you use is weatherproof and tightly secured.'

A pair of potted faux fir trees like Pottery Barn's Winchester Fir Walkway Trees - Set of 2, flanking the doorway, will instantly elevate your entrance. For something more fun, decorate with weather-resistant ornaments or clusters of berries or foliage to echo your indoor scheme. Complete the scene with lanterns or battery-operated candles along the steps to add a soft, welcoming glow.

4. Get Creative with Twinkling Lights

Nothing transforms a home quite like outdoor Christmas lights. Whether you’re working with a sprawling front garden or a city stoop, twinkling lights have an unmatched ability to bring instant atmosphere, warmth, and a hint of magic to your exterior decor. They can be subtle or show-stopping, traditional or contemporary.

For those decorating smaller spaces, Gisela Graham champions a creative, concentrated approach. 'If space is tight, you can still create a winter wonderland - but all on your front door! Wreaths, garlands, foliage, and battery lights are simple to pop up using gardening wire to attach them to door knockers and knobs or hang them from removable sticky hooks. You can be as OTT or minimalist as you like, just give your imagination a free hand and have plenty of festive fun,' she suggests.

If you prefer a more classic, cohesive scheme, designer Laura Williams of Living Oak Interior Design suggests sticking with white lights for a timeless look. 'I love a classic white light display along the trim of a house and throughout the trees and shrubbery. Continuing the white motif with understated, white light decor is my favorite. I also love to add beautiful wreaths with neutral or holiday colored bows on windows and the front door.' These warm white Battery-Operated Starry Lights from Amazon have over 500 positive reviews.

5. Add a Festive Bow (on Everything!)

Sometimes the simplest details have the biggest impact, and this year, the Christmas bow decor trend has made its way al fresco. Whether tied around a wreath, added to lanterns, or large and dramatic on a front door, a bow instantly introduces charm and color.

'This holiday moment at the greenhouse felt playful,' says Lauren Sullivan of Well x Design, who decorated her backyard with plenty of playful bows this Christmas. 'The red bow on the sheep was an obvious must, and we added hanging lights along the ridgeline inside to make the space feel festive without overdoing it – just a few evergreens, ribbon, and a sense of whimsy.'

Consider experimenting with scale and texture to suit your indoor scheme – velvet bows for a luxe, traditional look; burlap for a rustic theme; or satin in unexpected Christmas colors like deep plum or forest green. Tie them to porch railings, planters, mailbox posts, or even outdoor sculptures (like sheep!). Alternatively, the Brass Bow Wreath Hanger from Terrain kills two trends in one AND makes hanging your wreath a breeze.

6. Fill Planters with Poinsettias for Color

Poinsettias are one of the most iconic holiday plants, and using them outdoors is a simple way to introduce Christmas color to your exterior. Tucked into planters, grouped on the steps, or arranged in your wreath, their rich red leaves instantly brighten a winter landscape and bring some traditional cheer.

They’re also incredibly versatile – mix them with evergreens for a classic look, or pair them with white cyclamen, ivy, or winter berries for a more layered arrangement. If you want to make your planters a touch more festive, lighting can enhance their impact once the sun sets. Michael Meiser, president of Lumilum, suggests highlighting key features in the garden to create a warm, atmospheric glow.

'If your backyard has features you want to show off, use LED spotlights to highlight its best bits, giving a striking appearance to the area during the festive season,' says Michael Meiser. 'For a less intense alternative, weave warm colored bulb fixtures or lanterns into your plants or shrubs to create warmth that emanates from amongst them – giving your whole garden that warm, cozy feeling.'

7. Greenery Makes a Timeless Display

Fresh greenery is one of the most timeless ways to decorate outdoors for the holidays. Whether you have a sprawling porch or simply a front door to frame, evergreens instantly bring texture, depth, and a natural elegance that feels appropriate well beyond the Christmas season.

Designer Bethany Adams is a fan of this classic decor. 'I really love to decorate with fresh greenery outside,' she says. 'It lasts for months in the cold temperatures, and unlike anything specifically related to Christmas (like inflatable reindeer), it exudes a sense of wintery cheer that can extend long past January 1.'

A foliage swag is a great way to add a touch of greenery, and these 4 Pack Christmas Teardrop Swags from Walmart come complete with their own velvet bows.

'Overscale foliage works beautifully outdoors since generous evergreens and winter stems bring natural fullness, and a sense of quiet luxury,' Lauren Gilberthorpe agrees. 'Planting winter foliage near the entrance gives a subtle nod to the season and continues to look beautiful well into the New Year. Scent at the front door makes a real difference, too. A wreath adds presence and introduces the natural fragrance of pine or eucalyptus, or dried citrus. It is a simple detail that makes arriving home feel special.'

Whether you keep the look purely green or add pinecones, eucalyptus, or berries for interest, festive foliage offers a quick, easy, and timeless way to dress your exterior with style.

8. Use Thrifted Ornaments for a Collected Feel

Thrifting some unique vintage Christmas decor is a wonderful way to give your home a collected, characterful feel. Their patina, retro colors, and unique finishes bring a sense of nostalgia that new pieces often can’t replicate. Whether scattered around a doorway, tucked into planters, or gathered in a decorative bowl on a porch table, vintage ornaments add oodles of charm and personality.

Alexis Vitale of Vitale Design Group, who styled this cheerful entryway above, says: 'Holiday cheer doesn’t need to be overdone – just a few thoughtful touches. Jumbo vintage ornaments set a joyful tone at the entry, while minimal trees add quiet elegance,' Alexis explains. 'A naturally arranged mailbox accent completes the look, bringing warmth and a hint of organic beauty right to the curb.'

To adopt a similar look, hunt for oversized baubles at thrift stores, flea markets, or estate sales – imperfections only make them better. Mix metals, finishes, and soft tones for a sophisticated palette, or lean into classic reds and greens for something more traditional.

9. Decorate with a Collection of Festive Figures

Another popular choice for outdoor Christmas decor ideas is eye-catching festive figures. But, we aren't talking garish light-up Santas or blow-up elves, you can get incredibly tasteful outdoor decor that sets a festive, yet tasteful scene.

Rattan deer, woven snowmen, twinkling warm white angels, and wooden nutcrackers are all popular choices for 2025, bringing an organic look to porches and front gardens. Many designs now incorporate subtle lighting, offering a gentle glow that highlights their form without overpowering the rest of your display. They’re decorative enough to make a statement during the day, yet magical once dusk settles in.

This Rattan Snowman from Pottery Barn has not only been crafted from beautiful rattan, but they lights up too adding stylish decoration to your space throughout the day and night. There's also a delightful rattan gingerbread collection, too, if you want something slightly more whimsical.

10. Add Window Wreaths for an Unexpected Display

Windows deserve decoration too, and a wreath positioned (inside or outside) on each window creates a totally elaborate and unexpected display – and it's surprisingly low effort for the impact it leaves.

In Shea McGee's holiday home decor reveal, the designer showed (in a 14-minute-long holiday house tour) off her window wreaths to great effect. ‘The exterior this year is a little bit different than I’ve done in years past in that I went really large with the wreaths on the windows, and then I did a massive one on my garage,’ she explains in her video. Her wreaths appear to be real, but you can pick up the McGee & Co. 32" Grandis Pre-Lit Faux Wreath half price in their holiday sale.

Whether you choose classic evergreen wreaths with red ribbon for a timeless holiday feel á la Shea McGee, or go for more modern styles with minimalist foliage or metallic accents, window wreaths offer an easy decor idea that adds festive cheer both indoors and out.

Shop Outdoor Christmas Decor

FAQs

Bringing festive charm to your outdoor spaces doesn’t have to mean over-the-top displays or inflatable scenes that dominate the lawn. Often its the quieter, considered touches that create the most welcoming impact. If you're looking for more stylish ways to decorate your home for Christmas, take a look at our designer-approved holiday decorating themes for 2025.

They’re the tastemakers, the trendsetters, and the home decor visionaries. Interior designers know just how to make a space come to life, so you can only imagine that when it comes to giving gifts, they know exactly which home decor products can make a home sing with style.

So, on the hunt for some chic gifting inspiration, I asked top interior designers to share their go-to home decor gifts for this year. From coffee table books and candles to oil dispensers and linen napkins, these gifting ideas are both chic and thoughtful.

‘The key is to think of what someone may not splurge on for themselves – something that will bring a smile every time they see it or that they didn’t realize they couldn’t live without,’ interior designer Karina Plotko advises when choosing gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

If you’re struggling to come up with clever Christmas gift ideas – or even if you think you’re a gift-giving pro – give these designer-recommended picks a read. After all, the experts know what they’re talking about, so you can count on their ideas to be the kind that people will actually want to receive.

Whether you’re shopping for the friend who loves to host, the one who loves a styling moment, or even the one who has everything, these designer-approved picks prove that the most memorable presents are the ones that elevate the everyday. And you're looking for a more curated collection of host gifts, check out our gifts under $50 – all hand-picked by our Head of Living.

When Christmas day arrives, there's no denying that dinner is the main event, but I spend just as much time thinking about breakfast. And after a recent video from Joanna Gaines, I've been inspired to create the ultimate Christmas morning tablescape – with a cozy, rustic twist, of course.

In a post shared by Magnolia Table, I caught a glimpse of Joanna's Christmas table decor ideas in the form of a charming breakfast setup. Magnolia's holiday treats were the star of the show, laid out carefully on heirloom floral plates, while hot cocoa was served in petite bow mugs, and a cedar mix garland provided the finishing touch. Perhaps it's down to my recent obsession with Little Women-inspired table decor, but I can't wait to recreate Joanna's festive breakfast table.

With all the excitement that Christmas day brings, breakfast offers a rare moment of pause – which is why I'm determined to channel Joanna's warm and nostalgic style. From Magnolia's subtly festive tableware to Joanna's simple greenery centerpiece, this tablescape puts a relaxed and welcoming spin on classic holiday decor, and I know it will set the tone for a magical celebration.

While I love the blend of plaid linens and floral dinnerware, I'm just as tempted by Magnolia's deep red embroidered scallop-edge napkins, fern green plates, and antique white eyelet tablecloth. Joanna has long since mastered the art of styling traditional colors on any holiday table, and she's my ultimate source of inspiration – whether I'm hosting a morning gathering or a lavish Christmas dinner.

Below, you can shop for everything you need to recreate Joanna's breakfast table setup, from centerpiece accessories to drinkware and plates. I'll be starting with the petite bow mugs and antique gold flatware to really tap into Joanna's Little Women-inspired Christmas table ideas.

Shop Joanna Gaines' Festive Breakfast Table Look

Looking for recipe inspiration this holiday season? I'm busy perfecting Joanna Gaines' cinnamon rolls so I can serve up the perfect Christmas breakfast.

Once the tree is up, the wreath is hung, and the goose is ordered, the house often still feels as though it needs a little more. I have never really warmed to festive-themed cushions; they have always felt a bit gimmicky and naff, and overly sweet designs have never been my thing. Unlike our American friends across the pond, here in Britain, we tend to be a bit nervous about our Christmas decor and our biggest fear, I think, is that it might be too gaudy or twee. The result of this nervousness, though, can often mean we decorate in a way that feels entirely predictable, bland and lacking any cheer whatsoever.

So, when it comes to Christmas decorating, I think we could all do with taking inspiration from one of this year's defining trends: dopamine decor. If we are feeling restrained and self-conscious around Christmas, then all hope is lost. We should embrace the fun, the festive and the outright kitsch.

Here are my picks of the most beautiful Christmas cushions I have my eye on right now. Throw them on the sofa or that reading nook in the corner, and pop them away on 6th January. A small joy, but one that can really make the whole room feel so much more festive.

Nostalgia-core is the defining Christmas trend this year, and these cushions perfectly capture the desire for familiar, playful, and heartwarming patterns. That said, when it comes to styling festive cushions, less truly is more. You don’t need to drape every surface in them; one or two carefully placed pieces will always feel more intentional and elegant than an avalanche of cushions. Add them to your sofa, favourite armchair, or even at the foot of the bed. The trick is to let them enhance your existing décor rather than compete with it, choosing colours and textures that sit harmoniously alongside what’s already in your home.

Shop Our Favourite Christmas Cushions

As with all seasonal decorating, the true joy lies in the little details that make your home feel warm, inviting, and unmistakably festive. Cushions are one of the simplest ways to dip a toe into holiday styling without overhauling the entire sitting room. They allow you to play with patterns and textures, add a touch of comfort on long December evenings, and quietly announce that the season has arrived. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about bringing them out each year – like the soft-furnishing equivalent of unpacking the Christmas baubles.

And if you discover a cushion you adore, cherish it. Store it carefully, keep it safe from wayward mince pies, and let it return each December as a joyful, enduring holiday tradition.

‘What do you mean there’s only three Mondays till Christmas?’ reads the text on Emily Henderson’s latest Instagram reel, debuting her 2025 holiday mantel. The look is every bit as charming and classic as you’d expect – save for a few delightfully off-script seasonal decisions. Hence the caption: ‘Anyone else having a playful, whimsical, Scandi, cozy, sentimental Christmas???’

We should certainly hope so. Scan left to right across Emily's generously sized, white-painted Christmas mantel, and you’ll spot ombré green tabletop trees and mossy flocked reindeer mingling with… blue. Yes – blue-embroidered Schoolhouse stockings and even a blue gingham bow tree topper from Anthropologie. The blue-and-green, rather than the usual red-and-green, gives these familiar festive motifs a much-needed refresh.

And it’s not just color – elsewhere, holiday classics see other sorts of shifts. Evergreen garland might line the mantle, but along the ceiling beams Emily has draped cascading wooden beads – a breezy, boho-adjacent Christmas trend we’ve been loving all season. The look echoes the wooden nutcrackers (from Michaels) anchoring each end, lending the whole room a handcrafted, faintly folkloric charm.

'You influenced me to buy those faux Target candles on your mantle and OMG they’re fab!’ one commenter gushes, referring to the ribbed LED tapers designed by Joanna Gaines for Target. Flickering in shiny silver holders, they set the stage for the most tender touch of all: Terrain’s Advent Stocking Garland, which Emily recently revealed she filled with candy and small ‘kindness prompts’ for her kids.

‘It’s not the ‘Ralph Lauren’ vibe I planned,’ she quips in her blog post – but this happy accident is so much more. Ahead, everything you need to surprise and delight your tartan–clad friends and re-create this slightly whimsical, slightly Scandinavian, fully charming holiday mood.

Get the Look

If your inspiration hunt extends beyond Emily’s characterful Portland home, look to Waco, Texas, where Joanna Gaines has crafted another farmhouse mantel worth obsessing over. We broke down five JG-coded Christmas decorating lessons to help you replicate the magic.

There's no better gift than one that keeps on giving, like living plants. There are lots of classic holiday plants you can gift this month, but I personally think unique potted plants to gift for Christmas are much more exciting.

Of course, traditional Christmas plants like poinsettias will always be a joy to receive, but the best potted plants to gift for Christmas are those more unexpected. From potted fruit trees to striking houseplants, there are so many unique living gifts to give this year.

To help you choose the perfect pick for your green-fingered loved ones, I've compiled my top six potted plants to gift, alongside some tips you can pass on to care for them successfully – spoiler: they're all straightforward to look after.

6 Potted Plants to Gift for Christmas

The best potted plants to gift for Christmas don't just include holiday houseplants, it also includes additions for container gardens. Here are six beautiful choices I promise anyone will be happy to receive:

Beautiful Gardening Accessories to Accompany a Plant Gift

FAQs

Are There Any Potted Vegetables You Can Gift?

Some of the best potted vegetable plants to gift are those that have ornamental value, like dwarf varieties of tomatoes and peppers – though these are technically fruits. For example, this Fire Pepper Plant from Walmart is a good choice for growing indoors on a kitchen windowsill.

For even more inspiration on potted plants to gift for Christmas, have a look at our guide to poinsettia alternatives.

There’s something unmistakably British about hanging up a Christmas stocking in anticipation of Old Saint Nick. Whether yours was hand-knitted by a doting grandparent or faithfully pulled from the loft each December, the ritual of placing it at the end of the bed or by the fireplace never loses its magic. It’s one of those heart-warming acts that feels steeped in memory – a Christmas tradition passed through generations and one that deserves to be celebrated year after year.

Stockings sit at the very heart of classic Christmas decorating ideas. They carry stories, childhood excitement, and the promise of small delights to come – and with the big day drawing nearer, it’s certainly not too late to choose a beautiful new one for this season. After much searching (and a great deal of festive joy), we’ve curated the most charming, timeless, and truly beautiful designs – stockings that honor heritage while adding an extra touch of wonder and style to your home.

So, if you’re refreshing your festive decor or simply want something extra special waiting for Father Christmas on the twenty-fifth, now is the perfect moment. Below, discover our edit of the most gorgeous Christmas stockings available in the UK right now – selected for their craftsmanship, character, and ability to bring even more warmth and joy to the big day.

The Christmas Stockings We’re Loving This Year

Once you’ve chosen your perfect stockings, it’s time to think about the display – knowing how to hang stockings can transform them into a true festive focal point. I love arranging stockings along the mantel at varying heights or draping them along a staircase with pretty ribbon for a layered, playful effect.

For a more classic look, hang them evenly spaced on hooks or stocking holders (Command hooks from Amazon work beautifully). Don’t be afraid to mix textures and colours – combining velvet, linen, or patterned stockings adds extra charm. Done thoughtfully, your stockings become a curated piece of holiday décor, drawing the eye and making Christmas morning feel even more magical.

Whatever your style, the perfect Christmas stocking is more than just a holder for treats. Add a personal touch with embroidered initials, a delicate hand-tied ribbon, or a small seasonal charm to make each stocking feel truly one-of-a-kind.

In my house, it's not Christmas without some heritage cookware on display in pride of place. Whether it’s for serving up a cozy winter stew, a decadent dessert, or as part of your Christmas table decor ideas, Le Creuset is my go-to brand as it always adds a touch of French class and elegance.

The Le Creuset Christmas collections are even more covetable, and I’ve just stumbled upon the most magical cast iron pieces in the Le Creuset clearance section. Yes, you read that right. While the brand's best cookware is known for investment-worthy quality and prices, I've found some irresistible holiday deals that I just can't gatekeep.

From the stylish embossed holly designs to the green, red and white and gold colorways these pieces are guaranteed to bring some festive joy to the table, and they're a great way to deck out your kitchen countertops for Christmas, too.

From the best Dutch ovens to the cutest cocottes to elevate single servings of festive sides and desserts, and saucier pans for perfect gravy, you can always rely on Le Creuset to deliver hard-working yet beautiful pieces that you'll get out year after year.

With the season of giving in full swing, there’s no better time to treat yourself, your loved ones, or your home to these timeless treasures. They'll last a lifetime (and more) if you look after them.

Shop the Le Creuset Christmas Sale

Imagine stuffing stockings with a striking Le Creuset Christmas mug, or serving holiday guests with the iconic cast iron cookware. These pieces are too good to miss out on at these knock-down prices.

From their legendary durability to this season's whimsical French Noël designs, the Le Creuset Christmas pieces check every box in my guide on how to choose the best cookware. Whether you’re cooking, hosting, or gifting, each item feels like an investment in joy for years to come – the sale is simply a bonus!

For some, Christmas is about eggnog, mulled wine, and indulgent cocktails, or a table laden with stuffing and roast ham. If you have a sweet tooth like me, however, Christmas means one thing: baked treats.

While it feels like I've spent the fall in hibernation, making pots of soup and watching Joanna Gaines' new cooking show, I'm desperate to start baking festive treats now that December is finally here. And as a devoted fan of all things Magnolia, the only way to kick off the holiday season is by trying out Joanna Gaines' sugar cookie recipe. It's simple, speedy, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – and I know it's about to claim top spot in my Christmas baking rotation.

I've been baking sugar cookies every winter for as long as I can remember, but that doesn't mean I'm not willing to try out a new recipe. (Joanna Gaines' baked oatmeal was an unexpected addition to my breakfast routine this fall, for example.)

Joanna's sugar cookies call for all the standard ingredients, alongside a splash of milk to loosen the dough and a hint of vanilla extract for depth of flavor. Plus, no sugar cookie is complete without a generous amount of frosting, and Joanna's recipe includes her signature vanilla buttercream. Add sprinkles and you can even make cookie sandwiches, which are my preferred sweet treat during the holiday season.

I have no doubt that her sugar cookies will be a hit – especially since I already swear by Joanna Gaines' cinnamon roll recipe. (I've even invested in Magnolia's flat cookie sheet and vintage-inspired green mixing bowls so I can feel just like I'm baking in Joanna's modern rustic kitchen.) Below, I've shared exactly how to bake Joanna's sugar cookies, alongside all the Magnolia bakeware to shop right now.

Joanna Gaines' Sugar Cookie Recipe

Ingredients

• For the cookies:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 2½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp milk
• For the vanilla buttercream:
• 9 ounces (2 sticks plus 2 tbsp) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3¾ cups powdered sugar
• 1½ tbsp whole milk
• 1 cup of sprinkles to decorate (optional)

Method

• Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar on medium high until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
• Beat in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract on medium speed until combined.
• Whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt in a separate bowl. Slowly add this mixture into your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until thoroughly incorporated.
• Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheet using a cookie scoop or large spoon (approx. 1½ tbsp dough per cookie).
• Bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow the cookies to sit on the pan for 3-5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
• To make the frosting, cream the butter in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mixing on high speed until light and fluffy (about 3 to 4 minutes).
• Add the vanilla and continue to mix on high speed for about a minute.
• Reduce the speed to low and slowly add in the powdered sugar, approx. ¼ cup at a time. Add the milk and continue to mix slowly until smooth. When the mixture is smooth, increase the speed to medium, mixing until fluffy (about 2 more minutes).
• To assemble your cookie sandwiches, set the cookies up in pairs. With the bottom of one cookie facing up, use a small scoop to place about 2 tbsp of buttercream on this side of the cookie, and place the second cookie on top.
• Sandwich them together, pressing just enough to spread the filling to the edges. Repeat this process with the remaining pairs, and roll the edges of each cookie sandwich in sprinkles if you wish.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Shop Joanna Gaines' Sugar Cookie Essentials

If you really want to bake like Joanna Gaines, I'd say you need to invest in her trusted appliances. I'm hoping I find the Hearth and Hand with Magnolia KitchenAid stand mixer under my Christmas tree this year, though I'm also a huge fan of Joanna Gaines' Kitchenaid Go hand mixer from Target.

We decorate the rest of the house, so why not our kitchen countertops? After all, we spend a lot of time in the kitchen prepping for the festive feasts, so we may as well make it feel as joyful as possible, right?

The best part about Christmas decor ideas is that there’s no shortage of spaces to transform with some festive magic, from mantels and stairways to doorways and dining tables.

Our favorite Christmas countertop ideas involve embracing the kitchen as a gathering space for friends and family, integrating functional cookware and serving platters as eye-catching centerpieces, and creating a multi-sensory experience with lighting, scents, and nature-inspired pops of color.

No matter your festive aesthetic (tapping into the Ralph Lauren trend, Scandi chic, or the rustic Little Women-inspired look), don't forget to deck out your kitchen – islands, shelving, countertops – too. Check out these simple, yet sophisticated expert-approved Christmas countertop ideas to add some merriment to your festive workspace.

9 Chic, Yet Simple Ways to Deck Out Your Kitchen Countertops

The last thing you want is extra clutter around when you're catering for the masses over the holidays. These expert-approved Christmas kitchen countertop ideas will keep your workspace clear for the festive food prep, while adding a festive vibe and turning your kitchen a welcoming hub to gather in.

1. Decorate on Multiple Levels

Even when you’re focusing on Christmas countertop ideas, you don’t have to limit yourself to one corner of the room – or even stick to one level.

‘I love using vertical moments in a kitchen for holiday decor,’ explains Linda Hayslett of L.H. Designs. ‘Hanging décor from unexpected spots in the kitchen, like the edge of open shelving or even the range hood, adds a welcoming, lived-in charm. It brings the holiday spirit up into the vertical space so the counters stay functional, but the whole room still feels festive.’

From draping garlands across a kitchen mantle to hanging decorations from ceiling beams, there are plenty of ways to add excitement and send the gaze traveling upwards. You can even get inspired by Chrissy Teigen’s Christmas shelf decor and nestle some Nutcracker figurines (like these from Macy's) and tabletop Christmas trees, next to cookbooks on high kitchen shelves. If you are hanging decor above the stovetop, avoid a fire hazard by ensuring that nothing drapes too close to the hob.

You can even bring stockings into your kitchen, like Hayslett did in Serena and Lily’s Pacific Palisades Holiday House a few years’ back (pictured above). Get the look with these blue and white Walmart stockings which echo vintage blue and white tableware. ‘Stockings on a hood or garland draped over a shelf adds a layer of softness and surprise, and it breaks up all the hard finishes in a really beautiful way. It’s unexpected in a kitchen, so it feels chic and intentional, not kitschy.’ Perfect for adding coziness, without crowding that all-too-precious countertop real estate you’ll be using for meal prep.

2. Choose Display-Worthy Functional Cookware

When it comes to Christmas counter ideas, think about styling your space with objects that are practical as well as festive. There’s something harmonious about having items on display that don’t get in the way of the kitchen counter’s primary function as a prepping, cooking and serving space, like these whimsical-yet-practical Santa’s Sled salt and pepper shakers (Pottery Barn).

‘The best Christmas countertop decor blends beauty and function, bringing in purposeful elements that still feel special (particularly important in small kitchens where countertop space is at a premium),’ says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

‘I like to swap out everyday essentials for similar versions with a holiday twist – a polished brass utensil holder, tea towels with green embroidery, or a pretty pewter soap dispenser that makes everyday chores feel a little more luxe.’

Looking for inspiration? Check out Le Creuset’s beautifully embossed Holly collection. These pretty stove-to-countertop pieces, from mini white and gold cocottes to large chef's ovens, will bring a wonderful festive feel, and you'll get them out year after year.

3. Try Unexpected Ways With Foliage

There’s nothing wrong with sprucing up a counter with some festive mini-trees (we're going all out on tabletop trees this year) or fabulous blooms in a vase. Then again, if you want to keep your countertops functional and not over-crowded, why not get a little creative when it comes to decorating with greenery in the kitchen?

As founder and CEO of Flowerbx, Whitney Bromberg Hawkings, advises: ‘Hang a wreath where you’ll actually enjoy it,’ instead of sticking it in the same place on your front door yet again.

‘Hanging one above the sink or on an interior cabinet instantly brings festive character into a space you use every day. It feels unexpected yet functional – a simple way to bring a Christmas atmosphere into the room without taking up counter space,’ she explains.

You can avoid using up counter space for garlands and other foliage displays by draping them across window ledges or wrapping them around pendant lights hanging from the ceiling.

4. Add Sparkle to Your Sideboard

Who says Christmas ornaments are only for our trees? You can hang ornaments from ceiling beams, display them in glass jars, or style them alongside some treasured keepsakes, which Austin-based interior designer Bambi A’Lynn Bratton of Bambi A’Lynn Interior Design, likes to do.

‘The holiday season is the perfect excuse for me to pull out my favorite silver pieces that hide in a cabinet most of the year! I'll display them – like my silver tea service – as kitchen counter decor all season long, especially when I'm hosting events like a ladies' brunch or dinner for eight,’ she says.

‘To give things a festive feel, I like to tuck in a few shiny round ornaments here and there. Silver and sparkle is such a simple way to add color and shine to your countertops and make your kitchen feel special for the holidays.’

The Heritage Silver Entertaining Collection from Pottery Barn has an array of classic pieces, from trays to wine chillers that will become family heirlooms.

5. Bring Warmth and Texture With Wood

There are certain things you should never place on a kitchen countertop, but a chopping board most certainly isn’t one of them.

‘I love anchoring a kitchen countertop centerpiece with a beautiful wooden board and placing a moody vessel with large foraged greenery from the yard,’ says Laura Williams of Living Oak Interior Design. ‘Surrounding would be beautiful, neutral bottlebrush Christmas trees at varying sizes and tones – adds a cozy, understated holiday vibe.’ These bottlebrush trees from Walmart are ideal.

Designer Marie Flanigan of Marie Flanigan Interiors layers greenery, seasonal touches like bowls with berries or a vase with foraged branches, then adds a ‘beautiful wooden board or stone tray’ as the finishing touch to her kitchen counter decor.

This helps ‘ground everything and keep the counter feeling intentional rather than cluttered. The result is festive but unfussy, a quiet nod to the season that feels warm, organic, and perfectly at home in a working kitchen. I love styling a kitchen counter in a way that feels collected, natural, and truly lived-in,’ she explains.

6. Give Herbs a Spotlight Moment

We love a deceptively simple decorating idea that’s timeless and contemporary at once. For a minimalist take on Christmas countertops, all you need is a statement bowl and some fragrant herbs, like pine-evoking rosemary. Bonus: you can also sprinkle some on all of your slow-cooking roasts this season.

‘I keep a big vessel of rosemary on our counter in December. It’s used in so many Mediterranean winter dishes – from Hanukkah-roasted chicken and potatoes to Christmas roasts – so the scent feels naturally warm and festive,’ says Elizabeth Krueger Design’s Elizabeth Krueger.

‘It brings in a touch of greenery and a subtle nod to both holidays without overwhelming the space.’ Use an organic vessel like West Elm's Takara Teak Wood bowl, which has a distinctive and rustic 'live' edge', to display your herbs in.

7. Create a Feast for the Senses

One of the quickest and easiest ways to elevate your countertop is by styling with the season’s foodie treats: citrus fruits, chestnuts, winter berries, pomegranates. (This can help minimize waste since your decor doubles as a snack.)

‘I always start with a big ceramic bowl piled high with clementines. This time of year you can find them with their leaves still on, which I think is one of the small beauties of the season,’ co-founder of PORTA NYC, Alice Russotti, says. She finishes off her counter with a vase of paperwhites and an atmospheric candle.

Designer Lauren Carlucci of Lauren Carlucci Studio recalls a similar kitchen counter aesthetic with nostalgia: ‘Growing up, my mom always filled the kitchen with oranges studded with cloves. Our kitchen countertops were never without potted paperwhites, my favorite. We also kept a large bowl of chestnuts we’d collect on walks, which became its own quiet tradition.’

8. Make it an Inviting Space to Gather

Just because you’re working with limited counter space doesn’t mean you can’t go all out when it comes to more traditional or maximalist decor, whether you want to embrace the Little Women trend or opt for something bursting with tartan and texture. (We’re looking at you, ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic.’) Creating an inviting and welcoming space encourages easy conversation (and lots of midnight snacking).

‘The holiday is the perfect time to dress anything up. Adding a bit of ribbon or layering some evergreen foliage on which rest your homemade scones,’ advises designer Scot Meacham Wood. ‘I love using a three-tiered cake plate as the centerpiece of our kitchen. It serves as the focal point for tea service, homemade scones, and related morning snacks.’ This Spode tartan cakestand from Macy's is ideal for getting the look.

9. Give Everyday Items a Festive Glow-Up

Your kitchen doesn’t need to be decked out in tinsel and Nutcrackers to feel festive. For a sustainable take on Christmas countertop ideas, use everyday items in unexpected ways.

‘One of our favorite ways to make kitchen countertops feel more festive during the holiday season is to use planters, as they are versatile and can be used for many purposes (holding plants or not),' says Ali Qari, founder of sustainable furnishings retailer, Urban Natural. 'For the holidays, it’s fun to put paperwhites or amaryllis bulbs in them to add some greenery to your kitchen. Or instead, try using them as candle holders,’

Bergs Potter pots (available from Magnolia), made from Italian terracotta, ‘balance heirloom qualities with Scandinavian design, allowing them to feel at home just about anywhere.’

10. Curate an Ambient Lighting Scheme

A pair of candles can create a calming, festive glow that makes your whole kitchen feel cozier and more elegant right away.

‘For holiday decor, we love a warm, subtle seasonal candle with a little evergreen and tobacco note,' Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett of KOBEL+CO explain. Try the luxe Trudon Ernesto Leather and Tobacco Candle from Saks. 'Dining by a taper candle in the kitchen during the winter months adds a romantic flair to the cold, dreary weather,’

‘No Christmas countertop is complete without copious amounts of candlelight. Tiers of taper candles in antique gold candle holders will imbue any kitchen with the perfect dose of holiday magic,’ adds Kathy Kuo. Stock up on taper candles from H&M Home, which come in festive burgundy, more subtle browns, and white.

Festive Buys for Decorating Your Christmas Kitchen Countertop

There are plenty of Christmas countertop ideas to try this festive season and the next, as well as tips you can use year-round (integrating herbs and foliage, using organic materials, showcasing cookware that doubles as art, to name a few). And if you want more festive inspiration, we chatted to designers about how to try tinsel Christmas decor – the unexpected 2025 trend.

Now that December is here, I can finally start decorating for Christmas. Despite the decorations going up earlier and earlier every year, I am a traditionalist and have to wait until December before a fir comes anywhere near my home. So I have patiently waited, watching all my favorite designers decorate their homes, and now that it’s time to do my own, the inspiration is abundant.

This year, I’m being inspired by the iconic designer Shea McGee and her charmingly decorated holiday home. For me, it's the perfect balance of chic yet charming, and it nails the trend for a nostalgic Christmas without going too kitsch.

In a recent Instagram post and video shared to the designer's website, Shea gave us a glimpse into the design of her home for the holiday season, and it’s nothing short of spectacular. All sorts of holiday decor ideas like evergreen garlands, bows, and other festive decorations adorn both the exterior and the interior of her home, making the space feel as warm and welcoming as can be.

As Shea walks us through the home, I couldn't help but take note of the many holiday design ideas that she's implemented to make each room come to life with seasonal charm. A grand porch display, a welcoming entry, even an intricately embellished 10-foot-tall tree – all of these ideas and more just radiate timeless festive energy that I, for one, want to try out in my own home.

5 Design Lessons We're Taking From Shea McGee's Holiday Home

Although there are tons of design ideas to take from the 14-minute-long holiday house tour that Shea's uploaded to the Studio McGee website, I've pulled out five that I'd consider to be the most easily replicable. With these ideas, your Christmas home will look as stunning as Shea's in no time.

1. Create a Grand Exterior Display With Classic Decorations

Before even setting foot inside Shea's home, we're greeted with the most stunning exterior decor display, featuring an array of wreaths, garlands, and mini evergreen trees. These outdoor Christmas decorations are rather traditional, and Shea's kept the styling minimal by adding just a few red bows here and there. So what makes this exterior holiday display so grand? Its scale.

‘The exterior this year is a little bit different than I’ve done in years past in that I went really large with the wreaths on the windows, and then I did a massive one on my garage,’ Shea explains in her video. The large size of these wreaths makes an impressive impact – not only on the windows themselves, but on the overall vision of the home. Paired with long strands of garland that wrap the porch columns and frame the front door, the wreaths aid in developing a design scheme that's as striking as it is visually appealing.

Shea's exterior decor is proof that you don't need to go crazy with your outdoor holiday display – quite the opposite, actually. With a few simple and slightly oversized wreaths (like this Artificial Pre-Lit Fir Christmas Wreath from Target), some complementary bushy garlands (like this Mixed Evergreen Foliage strand), and a few red ribbon bows here and there, your Christmas porch will look just as classic and timeless as Shea's, with a hint of grandeur.

2. Allow the Entryway to Set the Tone

As soon as we're brought into Shea's house, she stops us in the entryway. Complete with a console table decorated with all sorts of charming objects, this display 'sets the tone for my Christmas vision this year,' Shea explains.

It's a healthy mix of old finds and new pieces, colorful details as well as sleek metallics. To make the scene come to life, Shea incorporated a miniature evergreen tree that's been cleverly placed in a Chinoiserie ginger jar (like this one from McGee & Co.) and decorated it with glistening gold pears. ‘I always like to have a tree in my entryway on the tabletop, and instead of doing an eclectic mix of ornaments, I went all in on these gold pears,' the designer says. These Gilded Pear Ornaments may be sold out on the designer's website, but this Sugar Pear Glass Ornament from Crate & Barrel can help you achieve a similar look.

Also on her entryway table is an assortment of vintage silver picture frames (like these Blanche Pewter Frames from her site) filled with black and white photos of her family and some silver bow taper candle holders to match. These silver details tastefully contrast the gold fruit hanging on the tree to create a distinctly warm and unique setup.

Rather than a meticulously curated assortment of perfect decorations, this tabletop display of Christmas decor feels layered, collected, and full of character – just like the rest of the holiday decor in Shea's home. It teaches us that sometimes the best holiday displays are the ones that value authenticity over perfection.

3. Use a Tall Tree to Anchor the Room With Festive Flair

The Christmas tree is usually the focal point of any holiday decor display, but Shea’s tree is the ultimate show stopper – not only because of its size, but because of its decorations, too. At 10’ tall, this Grandis Fir is McGee & Co.’s tallest artificial tree to date. With its height and its elaborate decorations, this tree tastefully grounds Shea's living room with festive style and sets the tone for the room itself.

As for the tree's design, Shea and her team started by incorporating an unusual addition – hydrangeas. ‘I love my hydrangeas so much. They bring me so much joy in the summer, and now they’re going to bring me joy through the holiday season,' the designer explains as she fills gaps in the tree with McGee & Co.'s Green Hydrangea Stems.

After the flowers, Shea added clip-on candles (like this set of 10 from Grandin Road), garland strands (McGee & Co.'s Batavia Brass Garland is sold out, but the Petite Gold Garland is still in stock), and ornaments. Because she wanted to create a warm palette, Shea chose baubles in shades of brown, tan, and red. She added some personality pieces, too – including this Greenhouse Ornament and a set of Stoneware Ginger Jar Ornaments. Finally, Shea tied long red ribbons in bows around the tree to stylishly drape over the entire display.

Because of its substantial size, Shea's tree acts as an anchor for this Christmas living room. If you don't have the space for a 10' tree in your home, take inspiration from Shea's decorating and incorporate flowers, garland, neutral baubles, and personality ornaments on the tree, as well as long ribbons to top off the entire look. This will help your Christmas tree feel like the statement piece it deserves to be.

4. Create an Asymmetrical Mantel Statement

Shea gave us a sneak peek of her asymmetrical Christmas mantel a few weeks ago, but in her latest Christmas decor video, she went into further detail explaining how this setup came to be.

‘I wanted this really huge statement off to one side of my mantel,' Shea says. Because her mantel is already so large (it's almost as tall as the designer herself!), the proportions of her decorations were an important consideration. That's why she chose to layer three garland strands to build up the display, making it appear much more substantial. She finished the look with a large, draping white bow that ties the scene together.

Instead of playing it safe and stringing a singular strand of garland across your Christmas mantel this holiday season, use Shea's asymmetrical display as inspiration to try something new. With a couple of strands of garland (like McGee & Co.'s Pinecone and Berries Faux Garland and the Norfolk Pine Faux Garland) and a spool of white velvet ribbon (like this White Velvet Wired Ribbon), you can make your very own rendition of Shea's asymmetrical Christmas mantel.

5. Use Extra Decorations to Style a Second Tree

While the main tree in Shea's house is decorated with a specific, classic Christmas look, the designer decided to feature a second Christmas tree in her craft room for personal ornaments that might not fit the aesthetic of the main tree.

‘[This tree] is where I put all of my handmade ornaments and lots of the playful, charming, and colorful ornaments that we’ve collected over the years,' Shea explains. The tree is adorned with lots of handmade ornaments made by her children, along with other, more personal decor details. To create a sense of cohesion amongst these handmade pieces, Shea leaned into the playful theme by adding colorful bows onto branches around the tree itself. Even with all of the child-made decor, this tree still looks very sophisticated and charming.

If you're focused on creating an aesthetically pleasing Christmas tree display in your living room, that might mean that some of your more personal, sentimental ornaments get neglected. So, if space permits, take a page out of Shea's playbook and consider setting up a smaller tree in a different area of your home (perhaps a hallway, a playroom, or a reading nook). Decorate this tree with the nostalgic, sentimental, handmade ornaments that speak to your family's story – just like Shea has done.

Shop The Look

Shea McGee's home decorated for Christmas is a clear demonstration of how timeless Christmas decorating ideas can make for the most impressive holiday displays – whether that be large wreaths, substantial garland displays, or tall trees brimming with classic ornaments and decorations. So thank you, Shea, now I know just how to decorate my home for the holiday season.

Whether it’s nostalgic candy-cane red, the freshness of green and white, or a totally unexpected Christmas color combo, stripes have a way of bringing instant cheer to a space. This season, I'm leaning into the pattern’s playful spirit more than ever, using it to add character, color, and a touch of fun to my Christmas decorating.

Decorating with stripes is a wonderfully versatile Christmas theme. Depending on what you pick up (and your interior design style), they can feel traditional or contemporary, tailored or whimsical, depending on the palette and scale. A slim ticking stripe can soften a Christmas tablescape with cottage charm, while a bold plate or striped shade brings confidence to a mantel or credenza. Layer stripes subtly or go all out – either way, they offer a fun alternative to the usual holiday motifs.

But don't just take my word for it. Both H&M's holiday shop (hurry, it's selling quickly!) and Anthropologie's bow-tastic collection are filled with sugar, spice, and everything striped, while designer faves from across the pond like Addison Ross and Matilda Goad are embracing year-round stripes that will be the envy of your guests long past the holidays.

Below, I’ve gathered 22 of my favorite finds for every budget – a collection of charming, thoroughly festive stripes ready to bring personality and playfulness to your holiday home.

The Round is Homes & Gardens' collection of the must-have pieces shaping styles, trends, and ideas. It brings together thoughtfully curated products that express a single moment – offering readers inspiring ways to style their homes through seasonal themes, emerging looks, and everyday pieces.

Christmas prep is officially in full swing, and if you’re anything like me, you’re suddenly very aware of how your home looks from the sidewalk. The right outdoor lights can instantly elevate your home's warm holiday welcome for guests and wow neighbors.

I’ve spent the past few seasons getting hands-on with smart lights to see which ones actually make decorating easier – especially with all the ways that smart tech is redefining outdoor Christmas decorations.

So when I saw that Philips Hue’s Festavia string lights were discounted by more than $50 for Cyber Week, with full app control and music sync, they instantly jumped to the top of my Christmas wish list to easily make my festive display more eye-catching than ever.

Get A Polished Outdoor Display In Minutes With Philips Hue's Discounted String Lights

If the idea of smart lights makes you think of complex hubs and confusing apps, the Festavia String Lights will be a pleasant surprise. Once they’re plugged in and paired – which takes a few minutes via Bluetooth – you’re essentially just choosing where to drape them.

This can be across a porch railing, around a doorway, or woven through a small tree, and the app does the rest. And if you’re still figuring out your layout, it’s worth seeing what outdoor Christmas decorating ideas are approved by designers, then use the lights to bring those looks to life.

I’ve used similar app-controlled lights at home, and what struck me most was how easy the day-to-day routine became. Instead of wrestling with timers or unplugging cables in the rain, I could simply tap my phone to turn everything on at the same time.

So when it comes to lighting a porch for Christmas, you're given heaps of customization, but setting up and controlling them is as simple as can be.

Because you can dial the brightness and color temperature up or down, it’s also much easier to avoid that over-lit, slightly chaotic look. A warm white glow along the railing, with just a few subtle color accents, will help you avoid tacky outdoor Christmas lights while still feeling festive and fun. Instead of guessing, you can slide your finger on the app until everything looks calm and cohesive from the street.

The strings also lend themselves to a more considered color scheme. Once you’ve chosen your overall direction – minimal, modern, traditional, or nostalgic – you can use them to echo your favorite designer-approved Christmas decorating ideas outside.

For example, if you’re going for a more elevated, editorial-style look indoors, the ability to fine-tune each bulb’s shade means your exterior can match that mood instead of feeling like an afterthought.

And as you can adjust every bulb from your phone, it’s easy to experiment with more unusual palettes than the classic red-and-green. If you’re tempted by unexpected Christmas color schemes for 2026 – think soft pinks and light blues – Festavia lets you try them on your porch without committing to all-new decor.

If you don't like it, simply change the colors in a couple of taps, and you’re back to warm white or candle-like amber.

I'm also a fan of how these string lights frame a front door. Wrap them loosely around a wreath, or let them cascade down one side of the porch for a more relaxed look.

If you’re rethinking your front-door styling this year, use them to highlight your favorite Christmas wreath ideas or to give extra presence to one of the clever looks if you have any Christmas wreath alternatives.

While these are marketed as Christmas lights, they’re honestly too useful to pack away in January. A warm white setting works beautifully for spring and summer evenings outdoors, whether you’re hosting friends or reading on the porch.

If you’re currently deep in Christmas planning mode and want something that feels both on-trend and future-proof, the Festavia String Lights are a smart buy. They're stress-free, give you the power to tweak your display as much as you like, and help your home look more polished than ever.

The Philips Hue Festavia String Lights are discounted to $71.99 for Cyber Week.

What to Shop

Planning the rest of your festive display? These will help you along the way.

All prices correct at time of publication.

For more festive inspiration, see the ways smart lights can elevate indoor Christmas gatherings and save on energy.

I love to create storied tablescapes during the holidays, and there are plenty of ways to bring the cozy charm of old to the Christmas table. This year I'm chanelling the Nancy Meyers-inspired tableware trend – starting with a holiday tree napkin set I just discovered at ALDI.

You might not expect ALDI to be your first port of call for stylish table linens, but trust me, this set looks just like something from a classic holiday movie. With an intricate Christmas tree motif and a rich forest green hue, they perfectly encapsulate the sense of warmth and understated sophistication that defined the Nancy Meyers aesthetic. Plus, at just $9.99, they're a budget-friendly way to embrace the trend.

Can't get to an ALDI? This deep green Tannenbaum Napkin set from West Elm has a similar look, with a winter berry border, and I've shared more of my favorite nostalgia-fuelled festive linens below, too.

Since Nancy Meyers-inspired design is all about warm tones, classic prints, and a sense of lived-in luxe, it feels right to turn to heirloom pieces and antique finds. However, ALDI's holiday napkin set proves that elegant, nostalgic decor can be found in the most unexpected places – and at an unbeatable price, too. (Though if you're after more alternatives, I'd say the Elrene holiday napkins from Macy's are a safe bet, while Pottery Barn's holly embroidered napkins are ideal for a more neutral look.)

To me, it isn't so much about a look, but a feeling that inspires me to create the kind of joyful holiday table that I recognise from my favorite feel-good festive movies. I've kick-started my collection with vintage wine glasses and delicate floral dinnerware – I was thrilled to pick up a set of Spode x Morris & Co. dinner plates from Wayfair recently – but ALDI's table linens provide the perfect way to elevate my setup.

While I love the forest green shade of ALDI's holiday tree napkin set, it isn't the only piece I've got my eye on. The matching holiday tree placemat set would really complete the festive look – but for a more minimalist scheme, I'd go for the cream holiday deer napkin set or the charming gingerbread holiday placemats.

Shop More Nancy Meyers-Inspired Table Linens

Looking for more ways to bring cozy elegance to your table this season? Try the Little Women Christmas trend – I'm moodboarding warm, rustic Little Women table decor ideas already.

One of my favorite ways to bring my Christmas decor to life is by using real plants, foliage, and flowers. From a wreath full of seasonal foliage, to my latest obsession, festive kokedama.

Kokedama is a Japanese tradition, offering an alternative take on hanging baskets by growing plants in moss balls and elevating them from ceilings, pergolas, and and other structures. By selecting Christmas plants to make kokedama, you can make living hanging ornaments for your home, or just place them in the center of the table for your holiday get-togethers.

There are quite a few festive kokedama ideas I've seen, but just three plants stand out as the most eye-catching. Here, I've compiled my top festive kokedama plants, alongside tips on making this holiday DIY a success.

3 Festive Kokedama Plants

The beauty of kokedama is that it can be done with nearly any plant, so essentially any Christmas plant can be used. However, I think the following three are the best options, easiest for beginners, and will instantly infuse a festive feel to the home.

If it's your first time making kokedama, make sure to stock up on these essentials. Or, use a kokedama kit (from Amazon):

1. Poinsettia

There's no better holiday houseplant to turn into kokedama than poinsettia.

With vibrant red bracts (or modified leaves), these plants have become synonymous with the Christmas season. For me, being able to style my poinsettia a bit differently is key to uplifting my indoor plant display at this time of year.

This is where poinsettia kokedama comes in. Just like looking after a poinsettia, it's important to keep it hydrated, warm, and in a bright position.

Failing to do so will lead to your kokedama quickly fading and your poinsettia dropping leaves.

You should therefore soak the moss ball in water when it feels dry (be aware that hanging it will cause it to dry out more quickly) and ensure the room temperature stays between 60-72°F.

Find a poinsettia at Walmart to turn into kokedama, or purchase a moss ball planter (from Amazon) to create the look of kokedama for minimal effort.

I particularly like the idea in the image above where LED lights (like these warm white string lights from Amazon) have been used to embellish the kokedama. You can also add other festive touches like pinecones or dried orange slices.

2. Hyacinth

Even though hyacinths are spring bulbs, they are one of the most popular indoor bulbs to force for Christmas.

There are so many ways to grow hyacinths indoors for the holidays, including growing them as indoor bulbs in water.

Hyacinth kokedama is another unique take. Even if you don't hang up your kokedama, you can display it as a centerpiece for Christmas Day. The bright bloom emerging from moss provides an effective, natural tablescape.

It's best to make a hyacinth kokedama by first forcing it in soil (with this hyacinth bulb forcing kit from Walmart) and then turning it into kokedama by wrapping its root ball in moss (with this moss sheet from Amazon).

3. Orchid

Orchids are some of the extravagant plants to turn into kokedama, and you can give it a holiday twist with Christmas orchids.

Alongside the popular moth orchid houseplant (form The Sill), there are a number of orchids that bloom at Christmas time, ideal for turning into festive kokedama.

Some of the best picks include Star of Bethlehem orchid and Mayflower orchid.

Follow orchid care advice to look after your orchid kokedama. This includes regularly misting your kokedama moss ball to hydrate roots. You can use a glass plant mister (from Amazon) for this.