I can’t believe we’re about to celebrate our first Christmas in our new house! Last spring we were just beginning to consider moving to Seattle, and now we’re settled in and making it our home. Celebrating holidays here has already helped the house feel more like ours. Thanksgiving with family was wonderful, and I expect Christmas will feel even more special.
Even though it feels like I’m running late on a few things, my favorite holiday decorating approach is simple and effortless. I love incorporating natural greenery—wreaths, swags, and sprigs here and there—along with some twinkling lights and one or two Christmas trees. That combination is usually enough to make the home feel festive and welcoming.
Over Thanksgiving weekend we started decorating and it was so much fun. Our house isn’t completely arranged yet, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying the season. We picked out a fresh tree at a local nursery and hung two beautiful wreaths I received from Harry & David. They smelled so good that I couldn’t wait to display them.
The wreath above our coffee station is the Winter Wreath, handcrafted at Creekside Farms. It has a fragrant eucalyptus and fir base and is accented with artemisia, tallow berries, pinecones, and thistle. It works well on a door or wall and should last through the holidays.
The wreath above our entry cabinet is the Lavender Herb Wreath. It smells delightful and is grown without pesticides or herbicides, which I appreciate. It’s attractive and adds a lovely scent to the room.
My family visited while I unpacked the wreaths, and everyone was as taken with them as I was. They arrived in perfect condition and still look fresh and beautiful.
Hanging wreaths was especially satisfying since we haven’t hung many things on our walls yet. They helped cozy the rooms and bring natural texture and warmth into the space.
We also ordered an adorable real mini Christmas tree that arrived already decorated with lights and set in a decorative pot. It’s charming and would make a lovely gift. Every year I send gifts from Harry & David—a tradition from my grandparents—and this year wreaths and mini trees are top picks alongside their classic pears and treats. Their selection makes it easy to find a thoughtful last-minute gift.
I created a holiday checklist for Harry & David to help keep things organized during the busy season. Lists help me focus when there’s a lot to manage, and I find a checklist really useful this time of year.
This week we’ll be decorating our tree, which I’m excited about. It’s surprising how quickly the holidays arrive—some years I’m fully prepared and other years I’m not. This year falls into the latter, but I’m not stressed. I’m enjoying settling in and giving ourselves time to make the house feel like home.
I’ll share another update soon about our progress setting up the house, including our newly painted bedroom. Just the paint has already made the room feel like it might become one of my favorites.
Furniture and accessory sources:
Herringbone wood cabinet
Wood and metal cart
Dipped stool
Hanging mug rack
Find more furniture, lighting, and accessories in my shop.
*This post was created in partnership with Harry & David. All opinions are my own.