How to Decorate a Christmas Tree

Maybe you’re overwhelmed by the Christmas decorations you’ve amassed, maybe you’re a first-time tree decorator, maybe you’re just stumped (no pun intended) by decorating every time the festive season rolls around. Whatever brings you here, have no fear – we’re here to help with a simple step by step guide to decorating a Christmas tree, and we’ve thrown in some ideas for Christmas tree decorations as well. Grab a mug of something mulled, set the bells jingling on the radio and let’s do this.

Gather your essentials

Christmas Tree

Research has shown that real Christmas trees have a smaller carbon footprint than artificial ones so try and get hold of a fresh one if you can. Even better if it’s locally grown – that way you avoid emissions from importing. If you do need an artificial one for whatever reason, try and get a second hand one and make sure you use it year after year to avoid it releasing carbon at landfill. Oh – and don’t forget to measure up before you handover any money, you don’t want to be chain sawing in your living room.

Lights

It’s not Christmas without softly twinkling lights. A good rule of thumb is 10m of lights per foot of tree – and be sure to get LEDs (they’re more energy efficient, so more purse and planet friendly). Don’t forget if you’re powering them with the mains, you’ll need your tree to be close to a socket as well, you don’t want to be shuffling your masterpiece around after decorating it!

Decorations

This is what brings character and personality to your festive set up. Whether they’re beloved handmade bits and bobs, delicate glass beauties or baubles passed through the generations now’s the time to get them all out.

Tree topper

Who earns the right to crown the tree? Maybe a classic angel or star? Maybe a t-rex? Maybe David Bowie? The choice is yours.

Choose the right spot

Deciding where to place your Christmas tree is crucial. Make sure it has enough space to shine, and don’t forget about access to electric and accessibility (you don’t want to have to army crawl to turn off the lights!) If you’ve got a real tree, make sure it’s nice and stable so it won’t tumble over.

Prepare the branches

f you’re working with an artificial tree, those branches will need a little TLC after spending months squashed in a box. Gently separate and shape each branch to give your tree a fuller, more natural appearance. For real trees, gently space out the branches if needed – be delicate to avoid shedding too many pine needles.

Light it up

Now the magic really begins. The first thing to go on should always be your lights in case they need spacing and tweaking once up. To get that perfect glow, you’ve got two options: you can either wrap them around the tree from top to bottom, or drape them back and forth across the front. If your tree is a focal point in the room and visible from all sides, you’ll want to go all the way around. For trees nestled in corners, you can save a bit of time and length by focusing only on the visible areas.

Pro-tip: Always keep the lights on while you’re placing them. It’s much easier to see where the gaps are, and you’ll avoid any dreaded tangles.

Add the long drapey decs

If you’re a tinsel or bead fan now’s the time to add these. Follow the same process as with the lights, aiming for gentle loops that hang between branches.

Add your baubles

Start with your largest baubles first – think of these as the anchor pieces. Place them evenly across the tree, with more concentration towards the bottom. Then, work your way up with medium and small-sized baubles. Aim for a balanced look with evenly spaced ornaments rather than clusters. And don’t be afraid to step back every now and then to check your progress from different angles.

Add your extra special ornaments

Now it’s time to give those extra special ornaments their moment in the spotlight. Whether it’s a beloved family heirloom or a DIY project from years gone by, these decs are the perfect charming finishing touches. Place them in prime position where they can be admired by all.

Fill in the gaps

Take a step back and give your tree the once-over. Are any branches looking a little bare? Use your smaller baubles or extra tinsel to fill the gaps. And remember, it’s okay if a bit of greenery shows through.

Voila, you’re done! Turn up the music and do some rocking around your beautiful tree!

And remember, if you’d like to bring some floral festive flair into your home, our expert florists are here to help. From winter wreaths to Christmas flowers and fabulous festive plants, we’ll deliver a touch of magic right to your door.