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Rummage for secondhand decs
In the lead-up to Christmas, my son and I head to the charity shops in search of secondhand decorations. Most shops redecorate their stores for the season; they are a treasure trove of options. Not only is this a super cost-effective way to decorate, it creates a tradition and adds character, charm and authenticity. Our favourite Christmas runner is a beautiful vintage tapestry we found while out searching in Hertfordshire. It depicts a traditional scene with children playing in the snow, sleighs, outdoor Christmas trees and decorated houses. I love its simplistic charm and good, old Christmas family fun.
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Invest in a fancy candle – and scatter pine cones
The first thing I buy is Ralph Lauren’s evergreen, juniper and redcurrant-smelling Christmas candle (£70) as it immediately transports me to Christmas Eve. Every bowl is full of pine cones and leftover baubles. Mini acorns and pine cones are scattered along the dining table. And I use brown paper wrapping for presents, with luggage tags and thick rope or wired ribbon.
Taper candles for a centrepiece
For my table decor, I always buy some Danish taper candles (£8 a pair) in Ice Latte or Toffee shade, from my local interiors shop, Abode Living in Brighton. I like the candle shape – nice and minimal – and they’re good quality, so don’t burn too fast. I also decorate the table with clusters of fresh clementines that I buy from my local fruit and veg shop (Fiveways Fruit), as they sell the lovely ones with leaves still on.
Buy a meaningful bauble
Every year I buy a Christmas decoration for each family member to add to our tree. Last year for my sons it was a robot and David Bowie, and my husband got a hot sauce. Buying something personal to them that we can cherish and reuse year after year feels really special. Over the years, we’ve built a meaningful collection that holds a lot of memories – and makes for a Christmas tree unlike anyone else’s.
Create a tablescape
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