What's your favorite way to decorate for the holidays without going overboard? Share a specific decoration or tradition that brings you joy.

Question

Discover the art of festive decoration through the lens of seasoned experts who reveal how to strike the perfect balance this holiday season. Gain practical, expert-backed tips to beautify any space without tipping into excess. This guide offers a treasure trove of insights for tasteful, expert-curated holiday decor.

Amaury Ponce · Answer

One of my favorite ways to decorate for the holidays without going overboard is by using natural elements from the trees we work with every day. As a certified arborist with over 20 years in the industry, I've developed an appreciation for the beauty that trees bring to every season. During the holidays, I love incorporating fresh pine branches, holly, and acorns into wreaths and centerpieces. Not only does this bring a warm, rustic feel to the home, but it also connects my family to nature and the work we do year-round. I'll often use leftover wood from tree removals to create handmade ornaments or small wooden decorations, which add a personal and meaningful touch to our holiday decor.
One tradition that brings me the most joy is setting up a beautifully lit tree in our front yard using energy-efficient LED lights. After years of trimming and shaping trees, I have an eye for choosing the perfect one that will stand out without looking excessive. My team and I also take pride in ensuring that outdoor decorations don't harm the trees by using soft ties and avoiding nails or staples that could cause long-term damage. Seeing the tree glowing at night reminds me of the importance of our work and how trees bring life and beauty to every season. It's a simple but meaningful way to celebrate while staying true to my passion for tree care.

Andrew Osborne · Answer

One of my favorite ways to decorate for the holidays without going overboard is by using natural elements from the garden to create a festive but elegant atmosphere. I love making fresh wreaths and garlands using cuttings from native Australian plants like eucalyptus, grevillea, and bottlebrush. These not only bring a beautiful, earthy aesthetic to the home but also fill the space with a fresh, crisp scent that artificial decorations just can't match. Over the years, I've perfected the art of blending different textures and colors, using my horticultural expertise to select plants that will hold their shape and color throughout the season. For example, adding sprigs of rosemary and lavender not only enhances the look but also brings a subtle, calming fragrance that makes the home feel even more welcoming. This approach is simple yet impactful, proving that holiday decorating doesn't have to be excessive to be beautiful.
A tradition that brings me joy is setting up a feature display in the garden, something that evolves each year based on what's in bloom. Since I have a deep understanding of seasonal plant cycles, I design a small but striking arrangement using flowering plants like red and white kangaroo paws or potted Christmas bush to create a festive focal point. I also use soft solar lighting to highlight certain plants, giving the space a warm and inviting glow in the evenings. The best part is that nothing goes to waste; after the season ends, the plants remain in the garden, continuing to grow and thrive. This method reflects my philosophy that holiday decorating should complement nature rather than compete with it. By using my years of experience and knowledge of plants, I've found ways to celebrate the season in a way that is both sustainable and visually stunning.

Ketie Zhang · Answer

As an interior and floral design expert, I find that simplicity and intention go a long way when decorating for the holidays. One of my favorite approaches is to focus on natural elements like fresh greenery, pinecones, or seasonal flowers, which bring a sense of warmth and authenticity to any space. For instance, I love creating a handmade evergreen garland infused with festive touches like dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, and ribbon accents--it's understated yet impactful. This tradition not only adds to the ambiance but also fills the home with a subtle, holiday-inspired fragrance. When decorating, I always ask myself, "Does this piece add meaning or joy?" If the answer is yes, it belongs. Thoughtful curation makes all the difference and ensures your space feels intentional, not cluttered.

Alex Cornici · Answer

I absolutely love the subtle yet festive touch of string lights. There's something magical about the soft glow they emit, warming up the room and highlighting small details, no matter where you place them. Whether wrapped around a staircase, laid gently across a mantel, or even tucked into a clear vase to brighten up a corner, these lights bring a cozy ambiance that's hard to match. They're versatile enough to complement any decor style without making the space feel overly busy.
Another holiday tradition that holds a special place in my heart is hanging handmade ornaments. Each year, my family and I spend an evening crafting new ornaments, which are often simple yet filled with character—like salt dough figures or tiny knitted mittens. Displaying these on the tree not only adds a personal touch but also brings back lovely memories every year as we decorate. It's a wonderful way to celebrate creativity while keeping the holiday spirit alive and well.
In the end, holiday decorations don't need to be extravagant to feel special. A few twinkling lights and some cherished homemade ornaments can fill your space with plenty of holiday cheer.

Denise Murray · Answer

One of my favorite unique holiday traditions is the Scandinavian "Julbord," or Christmas buffet. The buffet is an incredible spread of food which has everything from cured salmon to warm spiced wine that gives a sense of community among family and friends. We gather around the table, taking time to savor each dish, share stories, and reflect on the year. 
Last year, I hosted a "mindful holiday feast," inspired by the Julbord. I included dishes that were both nourishing and festive, like mushroom-based hors d'oeuvres and mulled cider, and encouraged everyone to share something they were grateful for during the meal. It turned the evening into something truly memorable.
Traditions like these remind us to slow down, celebrate culture, and connect with those around us. It's less about rushing through a meal and more about experiencing it together.

Alexsandr Borkin · Answer

My favorite way to decorate for the holidays is keeping it simple yet meaningful. One tradition that always brings me joy is creating a centerpiece for the dining table. I use everyday items like candles, fresh greenery, and a few ornaments. 
One year, I added cinnamon sticks and dried orange slices to the greenery--nothing fancy, but the warm scent and natural textures instantly made the room feel festive. It's such a small detail, but it sets the tone for gatherings and makes the space feel welcoming without feeling overdone.
I also love swapping out small accents around the house instead of redecorating entirely. For instance, I'll add holiday-themed throw pillows to my sofa or hang a wreath on the front door. One year, I made my own wreath using leftover branches from our tree and tied it with ribbon. That simple project made me appreciate how holiday decorations don't have to be store-bought or extravagant to stand out.
For anyone looking to decorate without going overboard, focus on areas that matter most to you--whether it's the dining table, entryway, or living space. Elevating small details creates a festive atmosphere without overwhelming your home, and it always brings a sense of joy to the season.

Tyler Hull · Answer

I spend my days making homes look their best, and when the holidays roll around, I keep my own decorating simple but meaningful. My favorite way to bring in the season without overdoing it is by wrapping my front porch columns with warm white lights and fresh garland.
A few strands of lights and real greenery make a home look festive without feeling over-the-top. I use 100-foot spools of warm LED lights and thick cedar garland, which holds up well even in the cold. It takes under an hour to put up, costs less than $100, and makes the entire house feel inviting. The best part? When the lights reflect off the snow, it gives off a soft glow that makes winter nights feel a little warmer.

Hayley McAteer · Answer

1) I've helped plenty of renters create festive spaces without risking their deposit. One favorite trick is framing mirrors with adhesive LED strip lights and adding frosted snowflake decals to windows.
Mirrors reflect the light, making the space feel bigger and brighter. It's quick, affordable, and renter-safe. Everything peels off cleanly after the holidays. Simple, high-impact, and stress-free.
2) Deep navy and gold have been my go-to for years. It's elegant, festive, and totally unexpected. I've used navy table runners, velvet pillows, and gold accents like candlesticks and ornaments to create a cozy, luxe vibe.
This combo works because navy is rich and moody, like a winter sky, while gold adds just the right amount of sparkle. It feels fresh and timeless without screaming "holiday."

Danny Niemela · Answer

When it comes to holiday decorating, I skip the over-the-top displays and focus on something that completely changes the mood--swapping out all the everyday lighting for warm, holiday-friendly fixtures.
For one month, I replace bright white bulbs with softer, amber-toned ones and swap standard lampshades for deep reds, greens, or textured fabrics like linen. In the main living areas, I'll bring in a few battery-powered lanterns, place flameless candles on the mantel, and use dimmable bulbs to set a cozier tone. It instantly makes the space feel warmer without adding clutter. I've done this in my own home for years, and clients love the idea when they want a festive feel without plastic decorations or tinsel everywhere.

Shehar Yar · Answer

My favorite way to decorate for the holidays without going overboard is by focusing on simple, meaningful touches that create a cozy and festive atmosphere. One specific tradition that brings me joy is creating a minimalist wreath for the front door, made from fresh greenery, pinecones, and dried orange slices. It's subtle but adds a natural, welcoming touch that doesn't overwhelm the space.
Inside, I like to use string lights and candles--not too many, but just enough to create a warm and inviting glow. I also add a few handmade ornaments on a small tree, keeping the design clean and elegant. This approach allows me to enjoy the holiday spirit without clutter, creating a calm, peaceful environment that I truly enjoy.

David Bui · Answer

But honestly, the thing that brings me the most joy isn't a specific decoration, but a little tradition. Each year, I invite a local potter to my office, and we have a little ornament-making workshop for my team and their families. It's a fun, messy, creative way to reconnect outside of work and lets everyone personalize their own little piece of the holiday season. Plus, I get to sneakily keep a few of the wonky, charming ones they make!

Craig Focht · Answer

When it comes to holiday decorating, I skip the clutter and go for something immersive--bringing in fresh seasonal scents to make the home feel like the holidays the second you walk in.
I swap synthetic air fresheners for real elements that bring the season to life. A simmer pot on the stove with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, and cloves fills the house with a warm, nostalgic aroma. Fresh pine branches in a simple vase bring in that crisp winter scent, and a few beeswax candles add a subtle honey-like fragrance. It's an easy, natural way to make a home feel festive without overloading it with decorations. Best part? No storage bins, no tangled lights, just a welcoming space that smells like the holidays.

Nitya Seth · Answer

I find holiday decoration most beautiful when focused on creating personal and straightforward elements that do not become excessive. String lights provide me with a favorite solution to build cozy home atmospheres. The home atmosphere transforms instantly into festive warmth by hanging these lights from windows, mirrors, and shelves. The minimal gesture produces the maximum visual effect.
Our family keeps decorating a tiny festive tree on a table. This holiday decor setup requires minimum space while generating all the joyous holiday mood in our home. Two or three handmade decorations and meaningful non-commercial ornaments complement my Christmas decorations. We celebrate through this easy approach, which avoids the overwhelming feeling of excessive clutter.
Lastly, we always light a few holiday-scented candles in the evenings. The dim lighting and pleasant aromas including cinnamon and pine create an appealing setting in our home. The small addition produces big happiness for me because it enables our family to celebrate the season by taking time for each other. The small decorative steps enhance the holiday spirit while avoiding an overwhelming sensation.

Victor Hernandez · Answer

When you've seen as many storm-damaged homes as I have, you start to appreciate the little things that make a house feel like home. Holidays are no exception, and for me, it's all about lighting.
Honestly, nothing sets the holiday mood better than warm, soft lighting. Instead of going all out with inflatable decorations or covering every inch of the house in string lights, I keep it simple. A few lanterns with LED candles on the porch, a single string of warm white lights along the roofline, and a lit wreath on the door. It creates a cozy, welcoming feel without turning my house into an airport runway. On top of that, it's low-maintenance--no tangled wires, no high electric bills, just an easy setup that works every year.

Hyacinth Tucker · Answer

(1) One unconventional holiday decorating hack I love is using removable adhesive hooks or command strips to hang lightweight garlands, fairy lights, or wreaths. You can even attach ornaments to the hooks directly for a modern, floating effect. Another trick is to wrap door frames or window sills with ribbon or greenery, which instantly adds a festive vibe without touching the walls. For table or shelf decor, fill clear glass vases with ornaments, fairy lights, or pinecones for a high impact, damage-free display.
(2) For unexpected yet festive color combinations, I love pairing navy blue and gold for a chic, wintry feel or blush pink and silver for a softer, modern holiday look. Emerald green and champagne is another stunning combo that feels luxurious and celebratory. These palettes move away from the traditional but still bring the warmth and charm of the season.

15 Tips for Decorating for the Holidays Without Going Overboard

15 Tips for Decorating for the Holidays Without Going Overboard

Embrace Nature with Handcrafted Tree Decorations

Create Sustainable Garden Displays with Native Plants

Curate Meaningful Decor with Natural Elements

Illuminate Spaces with Versatile String Lights

Host a Mindful Julbord-Inspired Holiday Feast

Craft Simple, Aromatic Centerpieces for Gatherings

Wrap Porch Columns in Lights and Garland

Frame Mirrors with LED Strips for Renters

Transform Ambiance with Warm, Holiday-Friendly Lighting

Design Minimalist Wreaths for Subtle Festivity

Organize Pottery Workshops for Personalized Ornaments

Infuse Home with Natural Holiday Scents

Decorate Tiny Trees for Maximum Joy

Create Cozy Atmosphere with Strategic Lighting

Use Removable Hooks for Damage-Free Decorating