With all the choices out there in the world of Christmas decorations, just stay true to yourself and let your home dictate your holiday décor.  Some of us love lots of netting and glitzy ornaments,  and then there are others, like myself, that love a more simple and natural look. Save money and shop in your own yard. You will be amazed at the abundance of natural greenery that you will find.  Boxwood, holly, cedar and most other evergreens will work.

For those of you who don’t have time to wonder all over your landscape, shop at your  “mom and pop” garden centers for  plenty of fresh cut evergreens during the holiday season.   Look for fresh boxwood, eucalyptus branches, variegated holly, cedar, spruce and so many other choices.

Eucalyptus branches arranged  in an old iron urn become a masterpiece on a dining room table.  A crown of English Boxwood branches adorning the head of a lion sculpture is stately, yet so simple.

Garland cascading down a stairway dressed with deer antlers and pinecones whispers Merry Christmas.

Even pinecones suspended by silk ribbon in a window are all you need to suggest that the holiday season is upon us.

Landscape shrubs in glazed containers are the perfect choice to decorate a mantel piece.  Use topiary Blue Spruces in glazed pots to add balance.  If you add fruit, such as tangerines, the pop of orange makes for the perfect tree skirt.

Less décor netting and oversized ornaments and more natural materials is the perfect way to make your Christmas decorations stand out amongst years past.

Happy Holiday and Live Life to the Fullest,

Chris Olsen