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When I was young, decorating the tree was something we always looked forward to!! My brother and I always wanted to help hang ornaments, and mom was very careful in guiding us.  Here are some of the tips she instilled in us right from the start. 

Step 1: Know what you’re working with

Just like knowing your ingredients for baking a cake, you need to know the ingredients that are going to make your tree the centerpiece of your holiday.  So first, I lay out all of the decorations by size and color so that I can visualize the overall theme of the tree. I used some spheres my mom gave me, chandelier ornaments, a traditional set (kringle express set), and these cute Mercury glass birds.

This is the moment of inspiration for me.  I turn on my holiday tunes, and start to have fun!  

Step 2: Start with the BIG picture

I place the large ornaments on the tree first. They are the ones that really “anchor” the overall look of the tree. They are also the ones that fill in any empty spaces and give your tree a luxurious look. I nestled  a set of the Snowy Owl Feather Figurines in the center of my tree this year. You don’t see them from far away, but they add a nice element of surprise when people come close and discover the owl looking out at them!!

You don’t see this little guy until you get up close to the tree! He becomes a wonderful discovery for guests and children. 

Remember to space your ornaments out on the tree to cover as wide a range as possible.  Try not to hang the exact same ornaments near each other.  

Step 3: Add the smaller decorations

Since Christmas is a celebration, I think the tree should have lots of ornaments – it should feel like a wonderful party!  Fill in all the spaces between the large ornaments, and let the them “mingle” with each other.  Since my Bethlehem Lights tree was 9’ tall I worked on a section at a time, but always stepped back to see the overall effect. 

I love the way the stars glisten!!

I chose to hang some birds on branches and others on the decorative picks. 

Tip: Decorate the tree without the lights on.  It will give you a better view of where the decorations are being placed. 

Step 4: Find room for your special/heirloom pieces

We all have ornaments that hold special meaning for us, and I think its important to include them in your tree.  Last year I purchased some of the bee ornaments from Joan Rivers.  This year they have an extra special meaning for me, so I found the perfect spot on my tree for them. 

Step 5: Enjoy your tree!

Nothing is more magical than sitting back on the sofa and watching your tree glisten.  I am beyond delighted at the way the tree turned out!! But - I’m still not done decorating.  I have to find the perfect topper and a Nativity.  I’m on the search this week, and will let you know once I’ve decided.

Thanks for reading!! Let me know how your holiday decorating is coming along.  Follow me on Facebook and we can continue the conversation there. 

XOXO

Alberti