I have to admit it. While I’m normally the one saying “too soon” as Christmas candy hits the grocery store aisles in September, I’m all for embracing the holiday season a bit earlier than usual this year at home and beyond.
It’s true there is no shortage of holiday decorations you can buy in stores and online, but sometimes it’s the simple touches that make the season really come alive. Here are a few easy (and inexpensive) ways to add some cheer indoors when you’re ready (whether quarantining alone or with your family):
1. Bring Nature Inside: A few years ago, I discovered a corner on my dog walks in the neighborhood that was consistently littered with beautiful pinecones. After a few morning and afternoon strolls, I eventually amassed a gallon-sized bag full of them. I have since added them around a tall pillar candle in one of my large glass hurricanes or simply sprinkled them along a bit of (faux) greenery I have draped down the center of my dining room table (see above). For bonus pandemic fun, consider finding a scenic hike where you can stay distanced, get some fresh air and do your collecting on a nice fall/winter day!
2. Holiday Memories on Display: Take a few hours to stroll down memory lane and go through your digital and physical archives of photos from years past (stylish example below). Purchase inexpensive frames from Michaels or Ikea (or use ones you have laying around) and clear a sideboard, console, dresser or other long flat surface to display loved ones and cherished memories. If you lack frames or horizontal spaces, simply string a wider festive ribbon vertically or horizontally (you can use decorative pins, Command strip hooks or otherwise to hang on the wall or affix to bookshelves or other taller furniture pieces).
3. Strings and Rings: Harken back to your kindergarten days by popping popcorn and stringing it to make garlands (for your tree/doorway) or will the arrival of 2021 with a countdown chain made of paper rings. You can even write something you are grateful for in 2020 (as challenging as it may seem) on each ring or focus on the future with your wishes for the new year. Get creative and tear away!
4. Channel Your Inner Clark Griswold: While you definitely should not skimp on illuminating the outside of your home this season (or any year), you can bring the lights inside. Find a blank wall in your home and create your own light installation with simple light strands and Command Strips made for easy removal. It could be a star, giant gift box or otherwise…use your imagination.
5. Showcase Holiday Cheer: In addition to sending holiday cards to friends and family near and far, don’t forget to show off (even if just for you) the ones you received. As in idea #2, use ribbon to display the greetings (just use straight pins or small clothespins to affix your cards to them).
Let me know if already do one or more of these, try a new idea this year, or if you have other simple but spirited ways to bring the holidays inside…Happy Holidays!
Amber Harris is the owner of At Home DC, an interior decorator and a licensed real estate agent with Keller Williams Capital Properties working with clients in DC, Maryland and Virginia.