I can’t believe we’re about to celebrate our first Christmas in our new house. Last spring we were only beginning to consider a move to Seattle, and now we’re settled in and making holiday memories. Celebrating holidays at home makes a new place feel like yours, and Thanksgiving here with family was wonderful. I expect Christmas will feel even more special.
Even though I’m a bit behind on some tasks, my favorite holiday decorating is simple and effortless. I love using fresh greenery to bring the season indoors. A few wreaths, swags, and sprigs of foliage, combined with twinkling lights and one or two Christmas trees, are all I need to make the house feel festive and welcoming.
Over Thanksgiving weekend we started decorating and it was so much fun. Our house isn’t completely unpacked yet, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying the season. We picked up a fresh tree from a local nursery and hung two fragrant wreaths I received from Harry & David. The wreaths smelled so good I could hardly wait to put them up.
The wreath above our coffee station is the Winter Wreath, handcrafted at Creekside Farms in California. Its eucalyptus and fir base is accented with natural elements like artemisia, tallow berries, pinecones, and thistle. It’s perfect for hanging on a door or wall and should hold up beautifully through the holidays.
The wreath above our entry cabinet is the Lavender Herb Wreath. It smells divine and is grown without pesticides or herbicides, which I appreciate. It’s both fragrant and visually lovely.
My family was here while I unpacked and everyone loved the wreaths. They not only smell amazing but arrived in perfect condition and still look great.
Hanging the wreaths was especially fun since we haven’t put much on the walls yet. They helped make the rooms feel cozier, and natural elements always add texture and warmth.
We also ordered an adorable real mini Christmas tree that arrived pre-lit and set in a decorative pot. It’s compact and charming—an idea that would make a lovely gift. Every year I send gifts from Harry & David, a tradition from my grandparents. This year I’m considering wreaths and mini trees along with their classic gift sets.
I recently created a printable holiday checklist for Harry & David to help keep holiday tasks organized. With so much going on this time of year, a checklist is a helpful way to stay focused.
This week we’ll be decorating our main tree, which I’m really looking forward to. Christmas is approaching fast—are you ready? I’m not completely, and that’s okay. Some years I’m prepared early and some years I’m not. I’m not stressed though; I’m happy to be settling in and taking the time needed to make our house feel like home.
I’m working on another update to share more progress on setting up the house, including our newly painted bedroom. Even just with fresh paint, the bedroom is shaping up to be one of my favorites.
Furniture and accessory sources:
Herringbone wood cabinet
Wood and metal cart
Dipped stool
Hanging mug rack
Find more of my furniture, lighting, and accessories in my shop.
*This post was created in partnership with Harry & David. All opinions are my own.