The experts at Treetime (my go to spot for holiday decor!) spilled the beans on how to achieve that effortless, catalog feel when it comes to decorating your Christmas tree.
And you can do it too!
The secret? Trimming in a specific order.
After using their same techniques on our tree, it was surprisingly easier than I thought! Since I know a lot of you are decorating and getting your tree this weekend, I hope this comes in handy.
P.S. If you aren’t doing one of the steps, just skip it!
Here it is…
ONE // Lights: Our tree has built in lights but if you are adding your own, TRUST ME ON THIS. Wrapping lights around each branch and weaving them in and out makes for the best ‘twinkle” effect. I know it’s tempting to just get it over with and do a few quick few loops around the tree {AKA my husband!}. But taking the time to do it this way puts an “ooooomf!” into your ambiance. Also, Treetime begins every tree by wrapping a strand up the trunk. You get this three dimensional sparkle you can’t quite put your finger on. It’s SO beautiful. You can see it here!
TWO // Ribbon: Loosely scatter your ribbon bundles around the tree. This will be your “road map” for the remaining steps. Take a step back to see the entire look. Is there a hole? Do they look evenly distributed? Adjust accordingly and once you get it just right….tie them on! We used a total of seven ribbon loops.
Pro Tips: 1. Use ribbon with wire edges so they hold their shape and last for years! 2. Fold the end of your ribbons to create nice ends. 3. We used a “one loop method” recommended by Treetime to get the most out of your ribbon. Make a loop and sinch it with garland ties.
THREE // Picks: So I wasn’t totally convinced about picks until I got them! Guys. They add so much richness and texture. We layered three picks – leaves, berries and a poinsettia but any amount will do. Place your picks above each ribbon for the perfect look.
FOUR // Twigs: Twigs make your tree even more dimensional. If you look closely you’ll see we hung ornaments on them too! Lightly drape these evenly around your tree.
FIVE // Garland: We added this thick white felt garland c/o White Elephants Design. The white really makes the colors of the ornaments and ribbon POP!
I love my custom door ornament by Catherine Sullivan Designs (sadly sold out!). Be sure to take a peek around her holiday boutique because her items are STUNNING and one of a kind! Also, I have to give special attention to my new cuff by Goldbug Collection – a Charleston based jewelry company who’s just darling! A wonderful gift idea.
SIX // Ornaments: The magic touch! When you hang ornaments think from front to back too! Place some inside near the trunk all the way to the edge of the branches.
P.S. Click here to see the rest of our home and my four favorite Christmas pajamas I actually own!
Photos by Chicago Andrea Creative
A huge thank you to Treetime for collaborating on this post!
