A Christmas tree is the centrepiece of many homes at Christmas. If you want to style yours like a professional, we’re here to help. In this guide, we share expert decorating tips that will elevate your tree and create a spectacular focal point for your home.
Build a Theme
Before you start decorating your Christmas tree, choose a clear theme to guide your design. This might centre on a specific colour palette, a treasured collection of ornaments, or a style that reflects your personal taste. For inspiration, browse designer blogs, home décor websites, or Pinterest for ideas. Creating a simple mood board can also help you visualise your look and select decorations that work beautifully together.
Fluff and Shape the Tree
Fluffing and shaping the branches takes a little time, but it is essential for creating a full, lifelike tree. Use these tips to make the process easier and more effective.
- Ask family or friends to lend a hand.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands while working.
- Refer to your tree’s product photo to help recreate the intended branch style.
- When fluffing each branch, start with the inner tips and work your way outward.
- Shape the tree section by section, beginning at the bottom. For taller trees, fluff the top section on the ground before attaching it to avoid using a ladder.
String the Lights
Before adding lights to your tree, check that each strand is working properly. Start at the bottom and work your way up, weaving the lights in and out of the branches for even coverage and a warm, balanced glow.
If you have a Balsam Hill pre-lit Christmas tree, you can skip this step entirely. Many of our trees feature Easy Plug® technology, where the light connections are built directly into the trunk. This means you only need to plug your tree into a wall socket and it’s ready to shine.
Divide the Tree into Sections
View your Christmas tree in clear sections: top, middle, and bottom. Style each section individually, starting at the top and working your way down. You can also divide the tree into quadrants to prevent placing similar decorations too close together. Step back every so often and check your tree from different angles to make sure your lights and ornaments are evenly spaced.
Dress the Tree
Learn how to decorate your Christmas tree like a professional with these ornaments and décor layering tips.
Start With Classic Ornaments
Choose classic ornaments in a timeless colour palette such as silver, gold, white, red, or green. These colours pair well with a wide range of decorations, making it easy to refresh your theme each year while keeping your tree cohesive and elegant.
Mix Ornament Shapes and Sizes for Depth
Choose ornament sets that are designed to work beautifully together for an effortless, refined look. Start with your larger pieces and position them deeper within the foliage to create dimension. Then, hang smaller ornaments on the branch tips to build a layered, balanced display.
Style With Ribbon
Elevate your tree by adding carefully placed ribbon. Wired ribbon is ideal because it holds its shape and is easy to style. Choose two ribbons in different widths or finishes and layer them to add texture and depth to your display.
Fill Gaps With Interesting Details
Picks and sprays are an easy way to fill any sparse spots on your tree while adding extra texture and depth. For a natural look, choose berry, flower, or pinecone picks. If you prefer something more refined, go for crystal or pearl accents to create an elegant finish.
Finish With Intentional Details
Thoughtful finishing touches elevate the entire look of your tree. Choose a tree topper and tree skirt that complement your theme, as these coordinated accents add a sense of polish and pull your display together beautifully.
Add a Tree Topper
Complete your display with a tree topper that ties your whole theme together. For a more designer look, try creating your own. Bundle picks into an elegant arrangement or use floral wire to secure a few ornaments before adding extra stems for height and drama. A custom topper gives your tree a unique personality and makes your display feel truly one of a kind.
Complete the Look With a Tree Skirt or Collar
Finally, create the perfect backdrop for your presents with a Christmas tree skirt that complements your theme. For a unique touch, consider using a decorative tree collar as a stylish base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Style a Professional Christmas Tree?
To make your Christmas tree look like it was styled by a designer, begin with the right foundation and a cohesive decorating theme. A high-quality Christmas tree from Balsam Hill features realistic branches, lush foliage, and easy assembly — the perfect blank canvas for polished, elegant decorating.
Step 1: Fluff the Branches
Take your time shaping and spreading each branch tip. Balsam Hill trees combine True Needle® (PE) foliage with classic PVC for a full, natural look that adds to the professional finish.
Step 2: Add the Lights
Layer your lights from the inside out, weaving them along the branches to add depth and sparkle. Pre-lit Balsam Hill Christmas trees come with evenly spaced bulbs, saving you time and ensuring a balanced glow.
Step 3: Layer Ribbon or Garland
Use wide ribbons or garlands in cascading or spiral patterns. Tuck the ribbon into the branches instead of wrapping it around for a more polished effect.
Step 4: Place Ornaments in Groups
Start with the largest ornaments, followed by medium and smaller ones to fill in gaps. Distribute different shapes, colours, and finishes evenly across the tree.
Step 5: Finish With Picks and a Tree Topper
Floral picks, sprays, and a striking topper add the final designer touch.
By starting with a Balsam Hill Christmas tree, you’ll have a realistic and elegant base that makes professional-level decorating easy and enjoyable.
What’s the Correct Order for Decorating a Christmas Tree?
Follow this order for best results:
Start with the lights, weaving them in and out of the branches for an even glow. Add ribbon or garland next, draping it evenly around the tree. Then, hang your ornaments, beginning with the largest and finishing with the smallest. Make sure decorations are balanced and well-distributed. Finally, place the tree topper and finish with a skirt or collar around the base.
What’s the Best Way To Hang Ornaments on a Christmas Tree?
A well-decorated tree uses ornaments to create balance and interest. Place larger pieces deeper into the branches and use smaller ones to fill in the gaps. Mix different sizes, textures, and finishes for depth. Ensure lights are spaced evenly, reaching into the tree for a soft, glowing effect. Add a personal touch with sentimental or heirloom ornaments, and use tree picks or sprays to cover any sparse areas.
How Do You Add Ribbon to a Christmas Tree Like a Pro?
Choose wired ribbon that complements your colour scheme and cut it into shorter lengths. Begin at the top, creating loops and tucking the ribbon into the branches every 30 to 45 centimetres, twisting as you go to create a cascading effect. Add large bows at key points to enhance the design. For extra depth, layer multiple ribbons in different textures and widths. This method gives your tree a polished, professionally styled appearance.
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