HOW TO DOWNSIZE CHRISTMAS DECOR

The comments and suggestions I receive are often related to downsizing. Here are a few ideas for downsizing Christmas decor. And still, enjoy and celebrate the Christmas spirit and season.

When we think about downsizing, we often get overwhelmed by the basement or attic full of Christmas trees and decades of ornaments. Who remembers the popular dough-shaped ornaments?

The key to downsizing Christmas is to focus on the understated but classic elements that warm our homes and celebrate the season.

Downsizing starts with subtle holiday decor and a minimalist strategy. Think simple wreaths, neutral-colored ornaments, and understated yet elegant accents.

HOW TO DOWNSIZE CHRISTMAS DECOR

This sounds like the title of a Hallmark movie.

The key to a downsized Christmas is to keep the monochromatic or metallic tones for ornaments and wreaths.

If you stick to the basics, it helps you weed out the trendy or tired ornaments.

Tip: Donate or gift the excess ornaments to family and friends.

Just as some of us are downsizing, other family members will want to fill their trees with a mix of new and family ornaments.

IDEAS

GARLAND AND ORNAMENTS: A glass bowl or a tray with greenery (real or fake). Monochromatic bulbs add warmth to a dough bowl or basket. I like to pair clear, white, and/or red ornaments ornaments. Scroll below for how I carry the red and white theme.

2. WREATHS If you have more than one wreath, use one for the door and the second one for a centerpiece.

Because wreaths are low profile, you won’t have to deck and weave to talk to your sister or brother-in-law.

I found this wreath last January at Homegoods in the clearance aisle. It came with battery-operated lights. Never underestimate the clearance aisle.

Following my own advice, I might downsize to a seasonal favorite boxwood wreath and add a wired bow. It is simple and subtle.

BOXWOOD WREATH WITH A NAUGHT OR NICE WOOD BLOCK SIGN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

3. Christmas Stockings: Over the years, I kept our four-legged family members ( who are living their best lives over the Rainbow Bridge).

Stockings work well to fill in the gaps in our tree. I smile every time I pull the stockings out of the storage bin to hang on the Christmas tree.

HANG CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS ON THE TREE OR HEARTH

4. Petite Trees: I found the cutest potted faux trees at Hobby Lobby. I use them separately or group them together. They are lightweight and easily fit in a storage bin.

FAUX POTTED CHRISTMAS TREES WITH PINECONES ON SIDE TABLE

Poinsettias, real or fake, are also a way to add a little seasonal red cheer to a rental.

5. WIRED RIBBON

Ribbon is one of the most undervalued decor staples. The ribbon is lightweight and does not take up space. Everything looks better with a little wired ribbon.

A stack of books or plates makes for festive Christmas decor without breaking the budget or your back (hauling it into the kitchen). I found this wired ribbon on sale.

Candy canes are a fun way to keep with the red and white theme.

6. Christmas Music

I grew up with Christmas carols playing on the Stereo Console cabinet in the living room. My memories include Bing Crosby and Perry Como on the record player ( I mean stereo console). Now, I have a Spotify Christmas playlist.

7. Outdoor Lights

Wrap a strand of lights around the railing or a potted plant.

If you read this blog post you know why I love holiday theme inflatable yard decor.

Temporary Downsizing

These holiday downsizing ideas work for all of you who live in a rental or 600-foot condo. Celebrating the season comes in all sizes and budgets.

Currently, my three kids are renting. These newlyweds plan to move to our basement until they find an appropriate-sized yard for their 70-pound Berner puppy.