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Smart Holiday Decorating Tips and Tricks on a Dime

Writer's picture: Sheron OlivineSheron Olivine

The holiday season which is upon us, is a time of joy, love, warmth, giving and togetherness. It's also a time when many of us want to transform our homes into cozy, festive spaces. However, the costs associated with decorations can quickly add up. Fear not! With a little creativity, resourcefulness and some crafty know-how, you can achieve an inviting holiday atmosphere without breaking the bank.


In this blog post, we'll unveil ten (10) of my favourite tips and tricks for decking the halls, creating a magical ambiance without straining your budget.


1. Bring the Outdoors In:

Embrace the beauty of nature by incorporating elements from your surroundings. Pinecones, evergreen branches, and holly twigs can be collected from your backyard or local park and transformed into stunning centrepieces, wreaths, and garlands. E.g. Spray paint pinecones in festive colours, sprinkle with glitter, and string them together to create a charming garland. A coat of metallic spray paint can also add a touch of elegance. These natural elements not only exude rustic charm but are also incredibly budget-friendly.


2. Repurpose and Upcycle Everyday Items into Holiday Treasures:

Before you rush out to buy new decor, take a second look at what you already have. A fresh coat of paint, some glitter, or a few added embellishments can breathe new life into old ornaments, wreaths, or figurines, giving them a fresh and festive appearance. Additionally, mason jars, old sweaters, and even wine corks can be upcycled into delightful holiday decor. E.g. Mason jars become enchanting candle holders, sweaters can be transformed into cozy stockings, and wine corks can be fashioned into charming wreaths. These repurposed creations not only save money but also infuse your decor with character and sentimentality.


3. Create an Enchanting Ambiance with Fairy Lights:

Fairy lights are an affordable and versatile decor element that can instantly transform any space. Drape them over mantels, wind them around stair banisters, frame doorways, create a twinkling canopy above your dining area or nestle them within wreaths. The soft, twinkling glow evokes a sense of enchantment, making your home feel like a winter wonderland. Invest in energy-efficient LED lights to keep costs low.


4. Festive Mason Jar Lanterns:

Gather some empty mason jars and transform them into enchanting lanterns. Simply add a layer of Epsom salt or artificial snow at the bottom, place a tea light candle inside, and secure the lid with a ribbon. These twinkling luminaries create a cozy, rustic ambiance in any room.


5. Incorporate Holiday Pillow Covers:

Give your living space an instant holiday makeover with DIY pillow covers. Swap out or add holiday-themed pillow covers, blankets, and throws to instantly transform the look of your living space. Look for affordable options in stores or consider making your own covers for a personalized touch by sewing or using fabric glue to attach holiday-themed fabric to existing pillow covers. This simple trick allows you to switch up your decor seasonally without investing in entirely new pillows.


6. Rustic Burlap Table Runner:

Enhance your holiday table setting with a handmade burlap table runner. Cut a strip of burlap to fit your table, and stencil or paint on festive designs. This charming addition brings a touch of rustic elegance to your dining space.


7. Candlelight Magic Holiday Pieces:

Candles are an affordable way to add warmth and ambiance to your holiday decor. Place them in glass jars, mason jars, or on decorative candle holders. For a touch of festive flair, consider wrapping them with cinnamon sticks or tying them with a ribbon. Another option is to fill a clear glass vase with fresh cranberries and water then add a floating candle on top. This simple yet striking centrepiece not only exudes holiday charm but also brings a burst of colour to your table.


8. Thrift Store Treasures:

Thrifting is a goldmine for unique, budget-friendly holiday decor. Look for ornaments, lights, and even artificial trees that can be easily spruced up with a little creativity. With some paint and imagination, you can turn second-hand finds into stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces.


9. Decorate and Celebrate with Edible Decor:

Why not incorporate a wonderful two-in-one decor that can be enjoyed? Fill glass bowls with colorful holiday candies or create edible decorations like popcorn garlands, gingerbread ornaments, and dried fruit wreaths that can be relished by your family and guests. Plus, these tasty decorations not only look charming, they're a cost-effective way to infuse your home with the delightful scents of the season.


10. Instant Festive Flair with Printable Art:

Whether it's vintage-inspired holiday cards or modern typography, printable art provides an instant festive makeover for your home. Spruce up your walls and frame holiday-themed printables, family photos, or even pages from old books to create a festive gallery. This cost-effective decor idea allows you to customize your space with personal touches that celebrate the holiday spirit. Search for websites offering free or low-cost printable artwork that can be easily framed or hung.

CONCLUSION

Decorating for the holidays doesn't mean sacrificing beauty or holiday spirit nor must it be a costly endeavor. With a little creativity and embracing these smart and budget-friendly tips and tricks, you can create a festive ambiance that will warm hearts and create lasting memories. Remember, it's not about how much you spend, but the love and thoughtfulness you infuse into your holiday decor. Embrace the opportunity to add your personal touches and watch as your space transforms into a holiday haven.


Happy decorating! Create your holiday decor that is both beautiful and budget-friendly.

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Next week, I will talk about Tips for Saving Money on Overseas Travel.

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