When it comes to holiday decorating I always tell my friends that I have good news and bad news. The good news: I purchase all of my holiday decorations on the day after Christmas. I save a bundle and I don’t have to fight crowds this time of year because all of my shopping is done a year in advance. The bad news: when I do go into stores this time of the year I have to use every ounce of willpower I have so as not to give in to the temptation of stocking up on all of the cute items that are currently on display. I resist the urge to spend, spend, spend, but am still left wondering if they items will still be there the day after Christmas. So why am I sharing my holiday ritual with you? Because, frankly, I’m beginning to reevaluate it.
I’m not paring down my decorating—I still believe setting a beautiful holiday table can set the tone for a memorable party or gathering—I’m just discovering that there are still cheap and easy ways to decorate without having to purchase all your items 335 days in advance.
The following are tips that can help both the advance-shopper and the procrastinator:
1. Decide on a theme and a budget. Choosing a theme will help you stick to your budget. For example, if your theme is “A White Christmas” you shouldn’t be tempted to pick up a centerpiece in the shape of Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer.
2. If your budget is really tight get creative—you can shop for free in your own backyard. Collect pine cones or branches, spray-paint them, and presto, you have decorations for place settings or a natural centerpiece.
3. Another budget buster: a holiday table cloth. I saw the cutest snow angel table cloth on display at a local store yesterday—the price: $50. YIKES! If you are sticking to a budget ditch the table cloth and opt for a table runner instead—-they are considerably cheaper.
4. Paper goods are inexpensive and stores are loaded with plates and napkins with wonderfully festive designs. And, don’t worry about the impression disposable place settings will leave on your guest–anyone who has hosted a holiday party knows when it comes to speedy clean up every little bit helps.
5. Learn the art of mixing-and-matching. Go shopping, and then incorporate a few new items with all the goods you have collected over the years.
6. Candle centerpieces. They are inexpensive and festive. In addition to choosing candles in traditional reds and greens, pick a few gold and silver ones to brighten your holiday table.
7. Silver and mirrors accentuate elegant place settings. Add dashes of silver with seasonal candleholders or with a bowl that holds a festive centerpiece.
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