This season, instead of dragging out the decorations and throwing them any old place just to get them up… how about you take a “less is more” approach and enjoy your efforts? Here’s my method for creating some Zen holiday spirit.

1. Pick Your Colors.

One or two colors is best, or a variety of shades of the same color.

Set the backdrop: For decorating a flat surface, use large artwork, or architectural elements to set the background and add height.  (Avoid overly busy designs in the art, as it will be distracting.) Make sure you’re staying within your color palette.

For fool-proof coordination - use ornaments and holiday decor in the same color family as your existing paint or upholstery fabrics.

2. Start Layering

Place tall items first. Do not set in an evenly spaced straight line.  Groupings are best.

Add a mix of candle sizes in different heights and widths.  I used a mix of real flame (be careful!) and battery operated candles. Strings of lights also work well. (It’s easier to wrap your garlands with lights before hanging.)

Start to add in greens of various size and shape leaves.  I used the clippings from my Christmas tree.  Layer in the big branches first to fill in the big open spaces. Fill in with wide, flat leaf greens like magnolias, twiggy branches, and colorful small fruits and berries.

3. Get Personal

Layer in a variety of ornaments in different shapes and sizes, grouping similar ornaments for a bigger impact. Don’t forget to add in a specialty item that is meaningful to your holiday season - this is how you make it personal! - small framed photos of family, cherished antique ornaments, or small handwritten letters to Santa. Are you an avid reader? Add some small books to your vignette. Love to garden? Decorate with fruits and vegetables. Maybe travel is your thing - print tiny maps of places you’ve visited and frame them as ornaments. The key is to dig deep about who you are and what you love and think about items you can use to represent those characteristics. There are no wrong answers!

Add decorative elements to the greenery such as bows and ribbon.

Tuck in some more greenery to fill in any remaining holes in your design.  

4. Live in the Moment

Take your time and enjoy this process. Light some candles, play some background music. Pour yourself a glass of Prosecco.

Spend some time as you add each layer to reflect on why you’re decorating for the Holidays in the first place.

Cheers! And a very merry season to you and yours!

Need some help finding your Zen at home? Schedule a Zoom call to learn how I can help you!