7. Add Some Twinkle Lights

These aren’t your daughter’s dorm room lights. Today’s twinkle lights are tiny, energy-efficient LEDs on a flexible copper wire you can wind around doorways. Or ball them up and put them inside a clear vase or large jar. Don’t have a fireplace, or at least not a functional one? Create your own “fire” with twinkle lights, dry logs, and some greenery. If that sounds like too much work, just toss them in a wicker basket with some shiny holiday ornaments.

If you buy Starry String Lights, be forewarned that everyone who visits your house will demand to know where you got them. Restoration Hardware sells them in cool or warm and varying lengths. You can get them on Amazon.com as well, and they’re quite affordable.

 

 

8. Make an Easy Window Display

Impress visitors with your holiday cheer before they even get inside. With some festive grosgrain ribbon in shiny cranberry, emerald green, or metallics, you can string up any of the following in your front window:

  • Candy canes (real or plastic)
  • Holiday ornaments (monochrome or multicolor)
  • Cut-out stars
  • Holiday cookie cutters

You can either attach the baubles to the window valence or tack them into the ceiling.

 

 

9. Turn a Glass into a Candle Holder

Mason jar, small clear vase, or short glass? Check. Cranberries? Check. Votive? Check. That’s all you need for this holiday decorating idea: a sleek, cheery centerpiece for your dining table. Of course, you can gussy it up with spruce or pine sprigs and a vanilla-scented candle if you wish.

 

 

10. Make It Smell Festive

Speaking of scented candles, it’s tempting to stock up on products in holiday scents like “fresh evergreen” or “peppermint candy.” But you can also DIY for a fraction of the cost. A big pot of simmering fruits and spices will give your home that unmistakable holiday aroma for hours.

Jillee of One Good Thing recommends putting 1 sliced orange, 3 cinnamon sticks, 1 cup of cranberries, 2 teaspoons of cloves, and 2 teaspoons of nutmeg in a saucepan. Cover everything with water and bring it to a low simmer. If you have rosemary, lemon, bay leaves, or an apple, you can substitute one of those too. When the water starts getting low, just add some more.

 

 

I hope these simple holiday decorating ideas help you get in the spirit! Most importantly, don’t stress, and focus on spending quality time with your loved ones.

What are your go-to holiday decorating ideas? Share your secrets below!

 

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Portland Remodeling and Design for Kitchen, Bathroom, & Home