The holidays are approaching, and it’s the perfect moment to think about Christmas decorating. I’m sharing my top three decorating staples that we use every year, plus a simple holiday decorating secret that keeps things joyful and manageable.
I prefer simple, festive decor that feels warm without overwhelming the home. I like to decorate early so I can enjoy the season and the people in it, not spend the whole time fussing with decorations. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, I stick to my top three items that give the house a festive, welcoming feel with minimal effort.
Below are the three Christmas decorating pieces I always start with. Even if I don’t add anything else, these make our home feel holiday-ready.
1. Battery-Operated Window Candles
I always begin the season with battery-operated window candles. They’re already up at our house and every evening we remark on how cozy they make the home feel. We love this particular style for its realistic glow and user-friendly features. They’re a reliable, low-maintenance way to add a warm, traditional touch to the exterior and interior without fuss.
2. Hanging Stars
Hanging stars bring a touch of magic to our home and have become a tradition since we moved in. Their gentle movement in the breeze and their twirling in snowfall create a charming, storybook atmosphere. Neighbors often stop to comment on the display—combined with the window candles, the stars help create a memorable, festive scene.
You can read more about the tradition of hanging stars in other posts and resources that explore their history and charm.
3. Faux Cedar Garland
Faux cedar garland is a favorite because it looks realistic without drying out or shedding needles. I like decor that adds beauty without extra upkeep, and faux garland does just that. For outdoor spaces I sometimes use fresh garland for the scent and natural softness, but faux garland is excellent for indoor use since it stores easily and stays attractive year after year.
Related Post: How to make Christmas garland look full and festive offers simple ideas and tips if you want to refresh your own swags.
My holiday decorating secret
Choose a few meaningful pieces that can become seasonal traditions you look forward to each year. Christmas decor should feel joyful, not burdensome. Pick items that you love to display, that are easy to store (or require no storage), and that you can enjoy for more than a few weeks.
We leave our stars and window candles up for several months because they bring consistent happiness and a sense of tradition. They’re the decorating moments we talk about all year and the highlights we look forward to when the season returns.
Related Post: Consider simple, versatile pieces for Christmas and winter decorating that create warmth without extra effort.
