Elevate Your Holiday Decor: 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid, According to Interior Designers

by Peter September 30, 2023

written by Peter September 30, 2023

5 Common Holiday Decorating Mistakes to Avoid, According to Interior Designers

Decorating with Faux Garland

While faux garland has become increasingly popular, interior designer Jennifer Hunter advises against using it in favor of real greenery. Real greenery provides a more sophisticated aesthetic and fills your home with a refreshing scent. However, keep in mind that greenery can dry out quickly, so mist it regularly to maintain its freshness and festive appearance throughout the holiday season. If you plan on hosting a holiday gathering, purchase your greenery closer to the event to ensure it looks its best when guests arrive.

Limiting Your Color Palette to Red and Green

Red and green are traditional holiday colors, but don’t feel confined to using only these hues. Interior designer Timala Stewart emphasizes that you can incorporate other colors to create a festive atmosphere. Experiment with off-white and silver for a minimalist look or blue and white stockings for a grandmillennial style. Choose color combinations that reflect your personality and complement your existing home decor.

Ignoring Your Personal Style

Tiffany Leigh Piotrowski, founder of Tiffany Leigh Design, encourages you to embrace your individuality when decorating for the holidays. Don’t abandon your preferred styles and colors just to follow trends. Even if your home is primarily decorated in neutral tones, don’t shy away from a vibrant Christmas tree adorned with colorful ornaments and lights. Embrace the magic and nostalgia of the season by incorporating elements that make you happy. If you’re looking for inspiration, Magnolia’s Holiday Collection offers a blend of festive cheer and nostalgic charm.

Mixing Themes

Interior designer Shannon Murray Petruzello advises against mixing different decorating themes. Avoid combining tartan with winter wonderland items or pastel hues with traditional red and green. Choose a cohesive theme and stick to it throughout your home to create a more impactful and harmonious look. Consider the current style of your home and select a theme that complements it.

Clustering Too Many Candles

Stewart warns against clustering too many candles together, especially near greenery, as this poses a fire hazard. Instead, opt for battery-operated, flameless candles to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Scatter them on the mantel, place them in a non-working fireplace, or line them up on the windowsill to add ambiance and charm to any room. Flameless candles are also versatile, allowing you to enjoy their warm glow throughout the winter season and beyond.

Additional Tips for Creating a Festive and Safe Holiday Decor

Use a variety of textures and materials to create visual interest and depth.
Incorporate natural elements such as pinecones, greenery, and berries for a touch of organic beauty.
Layer different lighting sources to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
Don’t overcrowd your space with decorations. Leave some breathing room to avoid a cluttered and chaotic look.
Consider the scale of your decorations in relation to the size of your home and furniture.
Pay attention to the placement of your decorations to ensure they don’t obstruct pathways or create tripping hazards.
Unplug all lights and candles when leaving the house or going to bed.
Keep flammable materials away from heat sources and open flames.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.