The magic of Christmas doesn't happen overnight. It's crafted with careful planning and attention to detail. As Christmas décor experts, we know creating the perfect atmosphere takes time, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. Starting 14 October, we’ll guide you through each decorating step, sharing professional tips to make the process enjoyable and stress-free.
Why Start Planning Early?
The secret to a stress-free Christmas season is getting ahead of the curve. By breaking down your Christmas preparations into manageable weekly tasks, you'll avoid the last-minute rush and actually enjoy the festive season. Plus, early planning means better deals, better selection, and more time to perfect those finishing touches that make your home truly magical.
Week 10 (October 14-20): Choose Your Christmas Tree
Choosing your Christmas tree is one of the most important decisions of the season. Whether you're decorating a spacious living room or a cosy apartment, finding the right size and style sets the tone for your festive display. Start by ordering your Branch Sample Kit. It's the best way to experience our tree quality firsthand, and we'll credit the cost towards your tree purchase.
Key tasks:
- Order a Branch Sample Kit to compare tree quality and styles
- Measure your space, including ceiling height
- Consider pre-lit trees to save time
- Watch for early-season sales
Decorating Tip: Take a photo of your space before ordering. This helps you visualise how different tree sizes will fit and ensures you choose the right height and fullness for your room.
Read: How To Choose a Tree Using the Branch Sample Kit
Week 9 (21 to 27 October): Plan Your Entryway Decorations
Your entrance sets the first impression of your Christmas home, whether it's a grand entryway or an apartment door. A thoughtfully planned display of wreaths and garlands can enhance any space, from front verandahs to hallway landings. Taking time to measure your area and plan your design ensures you'll have the right decorations to create a festive welcome that suits your setting.
- Select a wreath that fits your door’s size
- Choose matching garlands for railings and door frames
- Plan your lighting layout
- Consider battery-operated or plug-in options
Decorating Tip: Measure your door and surrounding space before ordering your wreath. A properly sized wreath makes a big difference to your home's kerb appeal.
Week 8 (28 October-3 November): Prepare Holiday Lighting
As Halloween decorations come down, it's time to plan your Christmas lighting, whether for a full outdoor display or a window-focused arrangement. A well-designed lighting plan can work beautifully for any space, from sprawling yards to balconies or window displays. Planning now gives you time to test all your lights and make sure you have the right equipment for your setup.
- Design your lighting layout
- Order lights and outdoor decorations
- Purchase timers and extension cords
- Map out your power sources
Decorating Tip: Use landscape lighting to highlight architectural features and add depth to your display.
Week 7 (4-10 November): Organise Gift Planning
Gift-giving is a cherished part of the Christmas tradition, and early planning makes it more enjoyable for everyone. Starting your shopping now gives you time to find meaningful gifts for both local and long-distance giving. It's also the perfect moment to plan your wrapping approach and delivery schedule, ensuring presents arrive on time no matter the distance.
Key tasks:
- Create your gift list with budgets
- Order advent calendars before December
- Start collecting gift sets
- Set up a wrapping station
Decorating Tip: Choose wrapping paper that complements your tree's decorations for a polished, cohesive look.
Read: Holiday Gift Guide: Expert Tips for Thoughtful Christmas Gifting
Week 6 (November 11-17): Take Advantage of Early Sales
Early Christmas sales are starting, and savvy shoppers know it's worth browsing now no matter where they are. Many retailers offer pre-season deals both online and in store, often with a better selection than later in the season. This timing is especially important if you need to organise delivery of larger items like trees or outdoor decorations.
Key tasks:
- Order your main Christmas tree
- Select your preferred lighting options
- Consider accent trees for other rooms
- Take advantage of pre-season pricing
Decorating Tip: Consider adding a second, smaller tree in your dining room or entryway to create a cohesive feel throughout your home.
Read: Best Times To Buy an Artificial Christmas Tree: A Guide to Balsam Hill Sales
Week 5 (November 18-24): Begin Exterior Decorating
Now is the time to start preparing your outdoor or window displays, tailored to your local weather and living space. If you're in a cooler region, installing lights and decorations now makes the process much easier. For warmer areas or those decorating balconies and windows, you have more flexibility, but starting early ensures everything is ready to enjoy throughout the festive season.
Key tasks:
- Install outdoor lighting
- Set up lawn decorations
- Order fresh greenery
- Test all electrical components
Decorating Tip: Create layers of light by combining string lights with spotlights and pathway markers for a warm, inviting glow.
Week 4 (November 25-December 1): Start Indoor Decorating
With November drawing to a close, it's the perfect time to focus on your indoor Christmas decorating, whether you're styling an entire home or creating a festive corner in a smaller space. These last days of November offer a great window to bring your vision to life. Starting now gives you time to adjust and refine your display without feeling rushed.
Key tasks:
- Set up and shape your tree
- Add lights, ribbons, and ornaments
- Finish with a topper and a tree skirt or collar
- Arrange wrapped presents
Decorating Tip: For a professional look, start from the inside of your tree and work outward when adding lights and ornaments.
Week 3 (December 2-8): Style Your Holiday Spaces
Your tree is decorated, and now it's time to extend the Christmas magic throughout your home. Focus on creating beautiful vignettes and adding festive touches to mantels, tabletops, and shelves. This week is ideal for styling the areas that draw attention and make guests feel welcome.
Key tasks:
- Design mantel displays
- Create tabletop vignettes
- Arrange holiday collections
- Add decorative candles
- Style shelves and surfaces
Decorating Tip: For visual interest, create varying heights in your displays using candlesticks, cake stands, or decorative boxes.
Read: Where To Start Decorating for Christmas
Week 2 (December 9-15): Ready Your Home for Festive Gatherings
Now is the time to prepare your home for festive entertaining and those special Christmas moments. Whether you're hosting a formal dinner or a casual catch-up, focus on creating warm, welcoming spaces for family and friends. It's also a good moment to start thinking about how you'll organise your decorations for easy storage after the season.
Key tasks:
- Set up holiday tablescapes
- Arrange serving and buffet areas
- Create cozy conversation spaces
- Add fresh greenery accents
- Organize storage solutions for after the season
Decorating Tip: Create conversation areas with comfortable seating and good lighting for holiday gatherings.
Read: Perfect Christmas Table Settings: Who Goes Where and Who Gets What
Week 1 (16-22 December): Add the Final Festive Touches
These final days before Christmas are ideal for adding those last special touches to your gift collection. There's still time to find the perfect presents and stocking fillers for everyone on your list. Be sure to place your orders by 18 December to ensure delivery in time for Christmas with free delivery.
Key tasks:
- Order last-minute gifts and stocking stuffers
- Place gift boxes and bags under the tree
- Check all lights and timers
- Double-check holiday supplies for next week
Decorating Tip: Create a dedicated wrapping station with all supplies handy for those final gifts and a cozy spot near the tree for Christmas morning celebrations.
Christmas Week (December 23-25): Time for Christmas Magic
The magical moments you've been planning for are finally here. Your home is beautifully decorated, the gifts are wrapped, and it's time to enjoy the celebrations with family and friends. These special days are all about creating memories and cherishing Christmas traditions.
Key tasks:
- Set up Christmas Eve cocoa station
- Arrange fresh cookies and treats
- Light candles and adjust timers
- Fill stockings
- Take family photos
Decorating Tip: Turn on your tree lights first thing each morning and enjoy them throughout the day. It creates a warm, festive atmosphere for all your Christmas activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions about Christmas decorating.
When Should I Start Decorating for Christmas?
Many people decorate right after mid-November, but you can start as early as it suits your schedule. The key is having a plan in place before you begin. Our 10-week guide helps you prepare everything you need so that when you're ready to decorate, the process is enjoyable and stress-free.
How Do I Choose the Right Size Tree for My Space?
Measure your ceiling height and subtract at least 15 centimetres for clearance (plus any tree topper height). For width, measure your space and allow at least 15 centimetres between the tree and walls or furniture. Our Branch Sample Kit helps you evaluate tree styles and quality before deciding.
What’s the Best Way To Store Christmas Decorations?
Invest in proper storage solutions designed specifically for Christmas items. Store ornaments in compartmented boxes, wrap lights around spools or pieces of cardboard, and use protective bags for wreaths and trees. Always store in a cool, dry place and label everything clearly.
How Many Lights Do I Need for My Tree?
A good rule of thumb is 100 lights per 30 centimetres of tree height for a classic look. You can use up to 200 lights per 30 centimetres for a more brilliant display. Pre-lit trees take the guesswork out of lighting and ensure even coverage.
How Do I Create a Cohesive Christmas Decorating Theme?
Start with a clear vision and colour scheme. Whether you prefer traditional red and green, summer whites, or modern metallics, choose decorations that complement each other. Consider your existing home décor when selecting your theme.
What If I Live in an Apartment or Small Space?
Focus on impact in key areas. Consider a slim or pencil tree, door decorations, and window displays. Vertical decorating, like over-the-door garlands or wall-mounted accents, maximises space while keeping things festive.
When is The Latest I Can Order for Christmas Delivery?
Place your orders by 18 December for guaranteed Christmas delivery. However, we recommend ordering earlier for the best selection and to give yourself plenty of time to decorate at a relaxed pace.
Remember, this timeline is a guide – feel free to adjust it to your schedule and needs. The key is starting early and tackling tasks systematically. Following this organised approach, you’ll create a beautifully decorated home and have time to enjoy the holiday season with family and friends.
Read More Holiday Decorating Tips & Ideas
Visit these links for more tips, guides, and ideas on Christmas decorating.