In the esteemed words of Snooki… the party’s here!
Woop woop—the tree is up. This year, now that Clara’s a big girl who can handle real ornaments (we did place a few shatter-proof ones at the very bottom just in case), we decided on a gradient from white to hot pink to red. It feels festive and playful—boom goes the dynamite.
We also keep a collection of meaningful, special ornaments that we save for our tabletop tree. We started that tradition last year and loved it so much that it’s becoming annual. We’ll share that mini tree once we set it up—trying not to get it until we’re ready so it survives through the season.
Back to the main gradient tree: we thought it would be fun to let the color deepen as it approached the floor. Since we already had plenty of white ornaments from an old silver tree and soft pinks from previous years, plus some handmade ones from last year’s craft projects, we only needed to pick up a few hot pink and red ornaments. A couple of sales and a few dollars later, the look was complete without breaking the bank.
Full disclosure: my husband originally wanted a simpler white-to-red scheme, mixing in silvery pinks we already owned. I talked him into adding hot pink, and I’m glad I did—the extra color makes the gradient pop and gives the tree personality.
We placed each of the four colors in horizontal bands: white at the top, then light pink, hot pink, and bright red at the bottom. To tie everything together and add a little whimsy, we tucked inexpensive candy canes into the branches where the colors matched.
For the tree skirt we used faux sheepskins from Ikea, which gives a cozy, layered look without the fuss. We also hung a small bicycle ornament we found at Target that felt right with the playful theme.
We decided to go without a topper this year. We prefer to wait until we find one we truly love instead of forcing something that doesn’t fit. For now the tree feels complete without it.
At night she glows so nicely—I’ve already started calling her Glowy Glowerson. The lights and the gradient ornaments create a warm, cheerful atmosphere that’s perfect for the season.
I’m a list person, so here’s what remains on my holiday to-do list. Crossing things off gives me a silly little endorphin rush, and I admit I’ll sometimes cross items off just for the satisfaction if time runs short. Here’s what’s left:
- set up the big tree (gradient, baby!)
- get a live tabletop tree again—our new idea for the ornaments should be fun
- decorate the mantel, built-ins, and entryway console
- hang the outside lights and decorate the front porch
- shoot a Christmas picture of Clara and Burger for our annual holiday card
- make an advent calendar for Clara—still planning this one
- shop for and make gifts on our list (about half done already)
Thinking back through past years is fun, too. We’ve decorated many ways over time: white and silver themes, citrus- and dried-fruit ornaments one year, and green, pink, and silver combinations another year. Those old looks inspire us and remind us that holiday decorating can change with the seasons and our family’s tastes.
Last year’s tabletop tree, filled with homemade ornaments from a craft challenge, was a highlight and added a personal touch to our holiday décor. The big tree from last year featured paint-chip ornaments and colorful ribbons—practical choices when you have a toddler around and want to avoid fragile decorations.
It all feels pretty festive. How are you getting into the holiday spirit? Are you early and excited, or holding off until a particular date before you start playing Christmas music? Do you make lists just for the joy of crossing things off? Are you crafting homemade gifts, food, or advent calendars this year? I’d love to hear what traditions you’re keeping or starting.
Psst—if you’re still hunting for holiday project ideas, look through galleries and roundups of seasonal projects for inspiration.
Update: We’ve also put together a list of favorite holiday décor finds—many budget-friendly—so it’s easier to find pieces that give your home that cozy, festive feeling without a big price tag.