Quick, easy, last minute Christmas decorations

Forget labour intensive, complicated Christmas decorations that take days to make and are difficult to put away at the end of the year. If you live alone, or you’re not expecting any big family celebrations this year, simple Christmas decorations will come in handy. Let us talk you through some simple options that don’t compromise on effect!

Light it up

Candles, light chains or light decorations are exactly what you need in your interior to get that Christmas feeling. Atmospheric lighting is key – think candles, warm-toned fairy lights, and simple decorations like light-up hanging stars or lanterns. Go electric where possible – you can get really good electric candles that last year after year, require minimum effort, and aren’t too fake looking.

Nature in a vase

Don’t feel like putting up an entire tree this year? Arrange some twigs, branches, pine and holly sprigs in a vase instead. Either forage on a country walk, or buy from a florist. There are even great artificial options in most shops these days, some with lights included! Arrange a few simple fairy lights, perhaps some glittery baubles, and you have a great alternative to a very labour intensive, expensive, tree.

Wreaths

If you have any twigs left over from your vase decoration, use them to make a simple wreath for your door. That way, you get a hit of Christmas every time you enter the house! How to make them? You can find plenty of guides online, or even wreath-making sets that come with everything you need. Generally speaking, you will need to twist the twigs together, secure with binding wire and fix with string, perhaps adding ribbon or other decorative touches. If you’re not in a DIY mood, most shops will sell pre-made wreaths of mistletoe or pine, and they look fantastic regardless! You can always add your own touches such as bows or berries like dried rowanberries or rosehips.

DIY table centerpieces

Prepare a moss candle holder for your festive table. Pile moss into a wooden or ceramic bowl, stick metal candle holders into it, perhaps some holly or other festive looking berries, and add candles – the perfect table centrepiece! Be wary of fire hazards – the moss will dry, so either choose pillar candles that are well above it, or go electric.

Paper decorations

If you don’t feel like buying Christmas decorations, make them out of paper. It’s really easy, and if you have young kids, they will really enjoy it! Cut strips of coloured paper about eight centimetres long and fasten them together to make a paper chain. Remember paper snowflakes from your school days? They’re easy too, and can look really effective!

Christmas aromas

Christmas definitely wouldn’t be complete without some festive scents! Pile whole cinnamon, star anise and cloves into a decorative bowl. If you place the bowl near a warmth, such as a heater or stove, the spices will smell wonderful. You can also light Christmas scented candles, for a really easy way to make the space feel instantly festive.