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Decor on a dime
Getting your home ready for the holidays doesn’t have to mean redecorating your entire house. Adding small accents to your living space is an affordable and tasteful way to create some festive flair in your home.
“I think decorating for Christmas should be easy, fun, and affordable,” says design expert and TV personality Debbie Travis. “It’s not about decorating every area and surface in the home, but keeping it focused and decorating only the key impact areas.”
Here are some ways to save on decorating this holiday season
Try bargaining for your tree
Haggling for a Christmas tree is pretty common practice. Don’t be afraid to offer less than asking price – the proprietor will probably ask for a bit more than your offer, and hopefully you can meet in the middle. Saving a few dollars on your tree will feel great, and hey, every buck counts!
Repurpose decor items you already have in your home
“I like to repurpose as much of my year-round decor for the holidays as I can,” says Sarah, author of the blog Thrifty Décor Chick. “I reuse urns and fill them with them with poinsettias, fill trays or baskets with garland, or fill cloches or candleholders with ornaments and other Christmas goodies.”
Forgo a trip to the florist
Arranged flowers can cost you a bundle, so why not make your own holiday arrangements? Gather fallen evergreen branches from your yard or a local park, purchase some winterberry branches to mix in and display them in a large vase on your table. They’ll also look great in a collection of classic Mason jars decorated with a piece of tartan ribbon.
Invest in some holiday decor staples
“My must-haves for holiday decor are pretty simple -- garland and lights,” says Sarah. “I use inexpensive garland for a spot like the mantel, then fluff it with sprigs of more realistic greenery, maybe add something sparkly and then the lights. The look of full greenery lit up from within is stunning!” Find some basic staples like these that’ll give any room a festive look. Budget bonus: You’ll use them year after year.
Go for the unexpected
“Be creative and use ornaments and decor in different ways to add personal and unexpected touches to your holiday decorating,” advises Debbie. “Hang clear or silver ornaments with ribbon to your chandelier or hanging lights -- adds such a sparkly look to holiday dining!”
Stylish entertaining on a budget
A holiday party doesn’t have to be a four-course meal and an open bar. “It's possible to entertain on a budget,” agrees Joy, author of the blog Joy the Baker. “The holidays are the best time of year to get together and share the love. There’s no reason that should break the bank.”
