I really am a “tree hugger”…I admit it—a Christmas tree hugger! (A shoetree hugger too…but that’s a post for another time.) I LOVE my trees. This year I put up 3: front door, living room (where we spend Christmas morning), and downstairs.
It truly is amazing how the traditional Christmas tree has gradually evolved. People really are making the effort to decorate their Christmas trees to reflect the family’s personalities (or sometime’s just Mom’s).
There are so many tree options out there! Fake trees, fat trees, skinny trees, pencil trees, black trees, white trees, upside down trees, half trees (yes, they did), real trees—pine trees, scotch pine, spruce trees, and on and on and on….
How Do you Decide? When are you putting it up? Ribbon? No ribbon? Horizontal? Vertical?
Not really “elemen-tree” decisions!
Clients are spending more time analyzing their spaces and deciding what tree(s) will work best for them. Where is it going? Placement is very important for balance. How Big? Scale and proportion. Pre-lit? Adding your own lights? On a timer? How about the decorations? Matchy matchy? Do they flow into your space? Rustic? Modern? All kids decor? Personal? Budget?
Artificial trees: Some cons to keep in mind—can be expensive, not recyclable, takes up storage space. Pros—they can come pre-lit, easy to set up, can last years. They are somewhat “perfect.” Also flame retardant.
Real trees: Cons include maintenance! Watering, sheds needles every day, some real trees can carry allergens, they’re heavy and hard to transport. Pros—smells wonderful (NOTHING like it), can be recycled, no storage space required.
Whatever your tree tradition (if any), allow time to unpack, “fluff” (extremely important) and decorate…enjoy the ambiance! The tree, room and style will steer you. Invest the time…it’s worth it! People love Christmas trees!
TRENDING for 2017
Remote-controlled Christmas trees (found some at Costco and Balsam Hill): you decide if you would like all clear lights, coloured lights, or both! Also tree toppers: let your creative spirit apex! And don’t forget to take a picture.
I’m already thinking of next year…aren’t these super-modern Christmas trees gorgeous?!
Generally helpful suppliers for all things Christmas tree:
Don’t get overwhelmed…have some fun! And now that you all know I’m a tree hugger who loves Christmas trees, I’ll reveal one other little secret: my favourite tree is still a palm tree.
Merry Christmas, everyone!
