When it comes to Christmas trees, there seems to be two definite camps: “memory trees” and “theme trees”. Memory Trees are those that are a compendium of ornaments collected over the years, each with unique sentimental value. It’s Hallmark ornaments and the stuff you made in grade school. Setting up the tree is about delighting in each memory, recalling the joy of Christmases past, and marvelling over the time that has gone. It’s a celebration of spirit.
Other trees, theme trees– are all about the aesthetic. It’s color-coordinated, where ornament-finding is like looking for the perfect pair of shoes to go with your New Year’s Dress: it’s a challenge. I am in the theme tree camp, inspired as a kid by the marvels of the “department store” christmas trees. I set about in pursuit of obtaining the skill sets necessary for creating such divine works of art.
Now, one of my main inspirations comes from the lovely, talented, and amazing Martha Stewart. Her trees are works of art from the whimsy of a child to all the more divine:
Cute kid-inspired tree, perfect for a little one’s room for Christmas
I love how this tree looks inspired by the victorian-era style.
I also love Preston Bailey’s holiday style– when decorating for an event, Preston recommends that if you’re stumped, pick a color and echo that throughout the event– always brilliant advice, because sometimes it can feel so challenging to come up with the overall look, but at least with color, you can have a solid space to begin. I love these tabletop trees Preston designed, ooh laa laa:
Prefer the look of red? Well, how about these lovelies also by Preston Bailey:
I find inspiration everywhere when it comes to decorating for the holidays. At home, my theme this year was a naturalistic rustic christmas in shades of copper, green, and gold. My tiny tabletop tree is encrusted with copper leaves, copper and chocolate brown ornaments, antique gold flocked pinecones, and a variety of woodland birds. Crystal encrusted pears and apples completed the look.
All in all, Christmas decorating is supposed to be about having fun and commemorating the season. So, how did you decorate your tree this year? Leave a comment and let me know!
