It’s that festive time of year when the doorstep and the house call to be decorated. I am changing things up this year after using the same decorations for several years in a row. It is a year to refresh. I have to say that I like to do different types of “themes” throughout my house. I like to have a more organic look for the front porch and then an elegant look inside our entryway. Once inside we have another spot in the house with our home-made looking decorations and Christmas tree. They are all my favorites and each give a different feeling. Since this post is particularly about the front porch I want to offer you some tips that I have used for decorating:
1.) I always try to include things in my design that add warmth and is inviting to our guests. The front porch is the first impression and I want people to feel welcome. Using organic materials is a great way to do this.
2.) Lighting. I opt to use soft white lights and candle light to soften my entrance and keep things simple and not over done. I love the look of the lanterns. They add interest and can be used year-round. They add that soft glow and warmth and I use the battery-operated candles. You can find them at Pier One.
3.) I used boxwood bushes from my local greenhouse or Home Depot. I embellished them in my existing pots with branches, fresh greens and large pinecones.
4.) I used various elevations to add interest and depth. I used the same tree slices and wood slabs from this year’s Fall Porch Refresh. These can be cut or sold very inexpensively. You can also use crate boxes to add variety to your elevations.
5.) Holiday colors. I prefer to use traditional holiday colors for my front porch. I love the colors of Christmas and I never tire of them. I used a large ribbon to wrap through some of the greens and around the lanterns. Nothing says Christmas like brilliant reds and lush greens. In more formal areas of your home feel free to experiment with nontraditional colors.
Keep in mind when decorating outside to use the materials around your yard such as tree slices and birch trees, greens and other branches. It makes things warm and friendly while still being beautiful. I love pulling into my house and seeing the traditional reds and greens. It makes me smile because it tells me it is Christmas! And who doesn’t love Christmas? I’m always open for trying new things in my holiday décor, please share some of your favorite ways you decorate for the season!
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