For the past few years I’ve kept my Christmas decorating intentionally simple. I’m not someone who goes overboard with decor or DIY projects; lately I prefer more presence and less planning, and I enjoy reusing items I already own. That approach saves time, reduces clutter, and makes the season feel calmer.
In fact, I hardly store any holiday decorations anymore. I use so few pieces that they usually fit on a shelf or in a small basket, which makes it easy to set things out each year. A handful of items, some greenery, and a little rearranging is usually all I need to make the house feel festive.
I still admire the vintage ornaments and elaborate vignettes I see online—they’re inspiring and beautiful. But I’m not in a season of collecting more things. Staying mindful of our budget and living with two curious puppies means I don’t want lots of fragile or extra decorations around. Simple choices just make more sense for our household.
One thing I keep returning to is how much I reuse the same little bits year after year—like these cardboard letters. Maybe it sounds boring, and maybe next year I’ll try something new, but I appreciate the contentment that comes from using what I already have.
These cardboard letters from JoAnn’s have been dependable favorites. One year I embellished them with washi tape; this year I swapped the “O” for a small boxwood wreath I found at West Elm. Another year I left them plain—cardboard’s charm is in its simplicity.
Next year I might paint them or try new washi tape. Or I might retire them and choose something different. Either way, they’re a reminder that real joy at Christmas doesn’t depend on elaborate decorations—simple, ordinary items can feel meaningful and festive.
After using them for several seasons, I joke that they’ll soon be “vintage cardboard letters.” Their familiarity makes them feel like part of our holiday tradition, even if they’re just humble pieces of cardboard.
Today is the final day of the five-day Holiday Housewalk at Jen Rizzo’s, and I’m happy to take part in the festive sharing of seasonal ideas.
Have you been enjoying the Christmas house tours?
I’m excited to share my front porch and a fun project next week.
*The “Joy to the World” print shown here is part of Jones Design Company’s holiday art collection.
