Christmas and Hanukkah Decorating Ideas

We are just a few weeks away from Hanukkah and Christmas, and if you celebrate either, it's time to start decking the halls with holiday cheer! The earlier you begin decorating, the more time you have to enjoy the decor (at least that's my philosophy).

Maybe you don't love decorating for the holidays because you don't know where to begin, what to display or you are tired of your decorations and need a few new ideas to make this year different than the last.

Well, it's your lucky day because I have a few ideas up my sleeve that will help make your decorating a bit easier.

First, start small. Select an entry table, buffet table, coffee table or mantle and decorate that space only to get started. Find a spot that you see often so you can appreciate your hard work!

Next, gather your decor items. Bring them all into the room and group likes with likes. Here's my list of favorite holiday decor items:

faux snow * bells * mirrors * sparkly garland * pine cones * wrapped candy * ribbon * metallic containers * ornaments * candles * evergreens * lights

How you mix these decor items is up to your inventory, desire and space. If you are limited on supply and space, I recommend clustering many items into one display versus spreading them out. There is decorating power in numbers!

Love the look of metallic pieces but don't have any? Find secondhand items at a local flea market or Goodwill and spray-paint them with metallic spray paint!

Embrace the colors in your home and use them as inspiration for your holiday decor. This blue railing shown in photos is just calling out for a little more blue!

A final tip: Vary the height, texture and scale of items in a display,  and you are on your way to lovely holiday decor! What is your favorite holiday decorating item and how do you use it?

Happy decorating!