How to Decorate a Real Christmas Tree

How to Decorate Your Christmas Tree Like a Pro

When it comes to the holiday season, few things feel as magical as the glow of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. It’s the heart of your holiday home, a centrepiece where memories are made. 

But let’s face it: tree decorating can be intimidating.

From selecting the right ornaments to balancing lights and ribbons, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed–especially when you’re a beginner.

That’s why we’re here to help!

With just a few easy-to-follow steps, you’ll not only transform your tree into a showstopper, but you’ll also feel confident in your decorating skills. By the time you’re done, you’ll know how to style your tree like a pro, even if it’s your first time.

 

Start with a Real Christmas Tree

Now, if you want to create the ultimate festive atmosphere, starting with a real Christmas tree is key. Nothing compares to the natural beauty and rich, nostalgic scent of a real tree. A real Christmas tree instantly fills the room with holiday spirit, making every moment feel even more special.

Beyond its appearance, a real Christmas tree offers a sensory experience that an artificial one just can’t match. The fresh, evergreen fragrance is what memories are made of, reminding everyone of those classic, cozy Christmas mornings.

For the best selection and quality, look no further than the Real Christmas Tree Elves. They specialize in providing stunning, fresh Christmas trees that will elevate your holiday decor and create an unforgettable experience for your family.

 

Fluff Out Your Branches

Whether you’ve chosen a beautiful real Christmas tree or a prelit artificial one, the key to a polished, professional look starts with fluffing out the branches. This step is often overlooked, but it makes all the difference in giving your tree a full, inviting appearance. A scrunched-up tree, with branches that haven’t been fluffed, can leave your decorations looking sparse and underwhelming.

Taking the time to separate and shape each branch creates a fuller, more balanced look, allowing your ornaments and lights to shine. Think of this step as laying the perfect foundation before adding your decorative touches–it’s what takes your tree from average to show-stopping!

 

Opt for Natural Decorations

When it comes to decorating your tree like a pro, consider opting for decorations made from natural materials like wood, dried oranges, or pinecones. Not only do these elements bring a unique and timeless charm to your tree, but they also blend seamlessly with the organic beauty of a real Christmas tree. 

Natural decorations are often lightweight, making them easier on your tree’s branches. Whether you’re going for a rustic look or something more minimalist, these decorations add warmth and authenticity to your holiday display, ensuring your tree feels both stylish and thoughtfully curated.

 

Consider Adding a Ribbon Garland

If you’re looking to elevate your tree’s style, consider adding a ribbon garland. While it may take a little practice and a few tries to get it right, the result is well worth it. Ribbon garlands offer an elegant, sophisticated look that instantly makes your tree feel more professionally decorated.

For beginners, here’s a simple tutorial: Choose a wide ribbon in a color or pattern that complements your ornaments. Start at the top of the tree, loosely tucking the ribbon into the branches as you work your way down in a cascading pattern. Don’t worry about perfection–natural folds and twists give it a more dynamic and polished appearance. Before long, you’ll have a beautifully draped ribbon garland that adds dimension and elegance to your tree.

 

All About Lighting

Lights are the foundation of a beautifully decorated tree. They set the mood and create that magical holiday glow that brings your tree to life. Proper lighting is key to balancing the look of your tree, ensuring your ornaments and other decorations pop without overwhelming the tree.

When adding lights, start from the base and work your way up, wrapping them around each branch to create an even distribution. This ensures that your tree is lit from every angle.

To keep your real Christmas tree safe and looking its best, opt for LED and low-heat lights. Not only are they energy-efficient, but they also prevent your tree from drying out, helping it last throughout the holiday season while staying fire-safe.

 

Round it Out with a Tree Skirt

No Christmas tree is complete without a tree skirt to tie the whole look together. A tree skirt not only adds the perfect finishing touch but also hides the base of your tree and creates a clean, polished appearance. It’s an essential detail that ensures your tree feels decorated from top to bottom. 

You’ll love how a tree skirt keeps your gifts looking neat and tidy, transforming the space under your tree into a beautifully organized display. Whether you choose a classic design or something that matches your decor, the right tree skirt helps your tree look picture-perfect for the holidays.

 

Don’t Forget the Topper!

The Christmas tree topper is the crowning touch that completes your tree’s look, making it the final step in decorating like a pro. Whether it’s a classic star, angel, or something more personalized, the topper is there to bring balance and height to your tree.

When choosing the right topper, consider the overall theme of your tree. If you’re going for a traditional look, a glowing star or angel fits perfectly. For more modern or festive themes, think outside the box with unique or handmade toppers that reflect your personal style. The topper not only adds visual height to your tree but also helps tie all your decorations together into one cohesive, festive display.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of Christmas tree should I use–real or artificial?

A real Christmas tree offers an authentic holiday experience with its natural beauty and fresh scent, while an artificial tree can be more convenient and reusable. Both options can be decorated beautifully, but real trees bring a unique atmosphere to your home.

 

How many lights should I use for my Christmas tree?

A good rule of thumb is to use about 100 lights per foot of tree height. If you prefer a brighter look, you can add more, but be sure to distribute them evenly for a balanced appearance.

 

How do I properly fluff my Christmas tree branches?

 Fluffing branches is crucial for a full, polished look. Simply spread out each branch, starting from the bottom and working your way up, to create space for decorations and give the tree a more natural shape.

 

How do I add ribbon garlands to my tree without making them look messy?

Start at the top of the tree and loosely tuck the ribbon into branches as you move downward. Allow natural folds and twists to occur, which creates a cascading effect. Don’t overthink it–natural imperfections give your garland a dynamic look.

 

What type of decorations should I use for a real Christmas tree? 

Lightweight, natural decorations such as wood ornaments or dried fruit are ideal for real trees. They add a unique look and are easier on the branches, preventing them from sagging under the weight.

 

How do I choose the right tree topper? 

Your topper should complement the overall theme of your tree. A traditional star or angel works well for classic designs, while unique, personalized toppers can match more modern or whimsical themes.

 

Is a tree skirt necessary for my Christmas tree?

Yes, a tree skirt helps cover the base of the tree and creates a clean, finished look. It also helps keep your gifts looking neat and organized, enhancing the overall presentation of your tree.