Want to keep holiday decorating SIMPLE?
I do too. As the holidays approach, decorating can quickly feel overwhelming. We often say we want to simplify, yet the urge to add more festive pieces is strong. You don’t have to become a strict minimalist to keep things simple—what matters is creating a warm, magical feeling in your home that honors tradition without piling on clutter.
Below I share ways I make the season feel special while keeping decorating easy, practical, and beautiful. These ideas aim to be reusable, low-maintenance, and storage-friendly while still delivering that cozy, festive atmosphere.
Seven versatile pieces I use for Christmas and winter decorating—and why I love them
1. Candles
Candles instantly create atmosphere. Battery-operated window candles and moving-flame tapers are especially useful: they give the glow of real candles without the worry of open flames, and they work beautifully in windows, lanterns, and on mantels. Choose candles with timers or remote controls to make them effortless to enjoy every evening.
2. Lanterns and wall sconces
Lanterns and candle sconces are classic, year-round decor that become extra festive in winter. Fillable lanterns let you swap seasonal elements—pine sprigs, ornaments, or string lights—so the same piece works all year. Wall sconces add vertical interest and can be styled with different candle colors for a fresh seasonal look.
3. Realistic faux cedar or pine garlands, wreaths, and small trees
High-quality faux greenery gives you the fresh, organic look of real foliage without the mess, allergens, or short lifespan. Garlands and wreaths are versatile—drape them on mantels, staircases, windows, or doorways, and add lights or ribbon for extra sparkle. They store compactly, can be reused year after year, and make decorating quick and consistent from season to season.
Small faux trees and table arrangements are great for adding pockets of winter charm in rooms that don’t have space for a full tree.
4. Quirky pieces
A few whimsical or unexpected items add personality and a sense of wonder. Small decorative animals, bowls, or figurines can hold seasonal accents—faux berries, wrapped candies, or sprigs of greenery—and be moved around the house. These pieces work year-round and become especially charming during the holidays when filled with seasonal details.
Choosing items that serve a purpose—storage for small objects or a place to drop keys—keeps decor functional as well as pretty.
5. Festive stars
Hanging stars—Moravian-style or star-shaped lights—bring an immediate sense of magic outdoors or in. They’re memorable, often fold flat for easy storage, and can stay up through January if you like. Timed or plug-in versions add convenience, and placing stars in windows or on porches creates a warm, welcoming glow your neighbors will notice too.
6. Cozy blankets
Layering with throws is an easy way to refresh furniture and add seasonal color or texture. Thinner throws, Turkish towels, or scarves are lightweight and easier to store than bulky blankets. Drape them over sofa backs, chairs, or the foot of a bed, or use them as table coverings. They add comfort and visual warmth without needing much space.
7. Pillow covers
Pillow covers are one of the simplest, most storage-friendly ways to change the look of a room seasonally. Swap covers for winter patterns, plaids, or textures and store them flat on a shelf or in a basket when not in use. Pair seasonal covers with your regular pillow inserts so you can refresh your space quickly without investing in extra bulky pillows.
Having a few go-to seasonal covers makes transitions between holidays effortless and keeps storage needs minimal.
Simple, intentional decorating saves time, money, and storage space while still making your home feel cozy and magical for the season.
Our annual Christmas Shop is available and filled with curated items we love for the season. It’s designed to help you find thoughtful, easy-to-use pieces that bring holiday warmth without the clutter.