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.