HOW I DECORATE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
and the sources for my mantel garland
Photos by Lisa Petrole
I typically wait until around Thanksgiving to put up holiday decor, but this year I was feeling the itch early, so figured I’d go for it and have it up for a few extra weeks. This is the time of year where we tend to spend most evenings at home in front of the fire, and our living room naturally becomes the heart of it all.
The mantel and tree are where I focus most of our holiday decorating, then layer in smaller touches throughout the dining room, kitchen, and other secondary spaces…garland with lights draped across the console under our television, another winding down the kitchen stair railing, a few simple wreaths outside. My approach is pretty simple and not overly ornate, just enough to make the spaces feel festive and extra cozy, and to make sitting in front of the fire a little more special.
Holiday decorating isn’t about a total transformation for me but more about layering warmth and texture into what’s already there. I rely mostly on fresh & faux greenery (one of the few times I’m not against faux, especially if you’re early to holiday decorating) and candlelight to shift the mood. My mantel garland, which I’m asked about every year, is a mix of cypress, juniper, and Norfolk pine. The layering of multiple garlands and stems allows for an extra full and more realistic look.
Each year I take a slightly different approach to the decor to make it feel new, but usually find myself using ribbon in new colors or new ways each time. It’s an easy, seamless way to bring in color, texture, and a bit of festivity without competing with what’s already in the space. I’ll use it as a tree topper, tie bows as ornaments, or add it to sconces and candlesticks.
My ornaments are a mix of personal and vintage pieces in mostly neutral and metallic copper and silvers. I’ve always loved the look of old clip-on candles for the tree, a nostalgic detail that brings a little magic.
Beyond that, I lean into cozy throw and elevated everyday essentials like embroidered tablecloths, vintage glassware, or more decorative dinner plates, and always lots of candlelight. A few thoughtful swaps and layers go a long way in making home feel especially cozy and festive.
