So you’ve had your first Christmas out of your parents’ house. Or maybe it’s your first chance to live in your newly purchased first home when, suddenly, Christmas comes around.

You suddenly realise, this year, “the buck stops with me”. This year, you’re in charge of decorating for Christmas.

Where do you begin?

You may have some obvious and not-so-obvious questions and some not-so-obvious answers. Either way, the team at Homevalue is here to help you answer some of the questions you may have about decorating for Christmas in this new space.

 Let’s start by saying there are no wrong or right answers to aesthetic questions because, guess what? It’s YOUR space, after all, and you have every right to express yourself.

Nevertheless, there are some cues and practical considerations.

When Do I Start Putting Up Christmas Decorations?

There is a continuum of start times.

• The norm? Most people don’t start decorating in Ireland until early December.
• The latest? You could start the week or fortnight before Christmas.
• The earliest? If you are enthusiastic, wait at least until a week or two after Halloween.
• In other parts of the world, like the United States, waiting until after Thanksgiving would be optimal.

There is, of course, the related question:

How Long Should My Decorations Stay Up For?

• The norm here in Ireland is to observe the 12 days of Christmas and keep your decorations up to honour the very Irish Festival Nollaig na mBan, also known as Little Christmas. This will be celebrated on January 6th, 2025.
• The Earliest? Some among us just can’t wait that long, so some homes in Ireland may remove their Christmas Decorations the week after Christmas. Or the day after New Year’s before we return to work and school.

Best Start-Up Kit for Christmas Decorations?

Again, there are no hard and fast rules and countless imaginative, sustainable, and even homemade ways to inject a festive feel with the simplest of interventions.

Nevertheless, if you are looking to invest in your very first Classic Christmas Kit, then here are some of the essentials

1.   Classic Christmas Tree

If you still need a Christmas tree, source a real one in early December or buy an artificial one anytime before Christmas.

 If you’re considering sourcing an artificial Christmas tree, we will discuss some of your options and the benefits of owning an artificial Christmas Tree here.

Do you need some handy advice when decorating your tree? Check out our blog on how to dress your Christmas Tree like a pro.

Budget Tip: If you wish to source a natural Tree, try supporting local Irish tree farms for good-quality trees at affordable prices. If opting for an artificial tree, use pre-lit versions that save money and time on installing extra lighting.

Find our latest range here.

1.   Christmas Wreaths

These are typically made of holly, ivy, and pine cones naturally from florists, foraged forest materials, or bought ready-made from artificial foliage.

We’ve got some suitable natural-looking styles in stock, didn’t you know? This year, find them in our latest catalogue of naturally styled or ornamental Christmas wreaths and garlands.

3 . Candle To Welcome Mary and Joseph 

This is a very Irish tradition! On Christmas Eve, many Irish households place a candle or candle-like light display in the front window to symbolise our welcome to Mary and Joseph and other travellers who may be passing during Advent.

This was also a signal to any passing priest that this would be a Catholic home.

Nevertheless, the symbol itself has become a decorative mainstay in its own right, as it evokes a festive, welcoming feel to the front of any home.

4. Nativity Scene Display  

The Nativity scene display is occasionally decorative in any Irish home during Christmas. Many variations span traditional figurines to modern minimalist or even homemade displays.

This is a lovely tradition for any home with young children, as it is the perfect way to introduce and illustrate the story of Christmas to the little ones.

5. Mistletoe

Unlike the last 2 Christian-inspired decorations, Mistletoe, like Christmas trees and Garlands, harks back to our Druidic, Celtic, or Pagan Yuletide traditions.  This is another form of bringing greenery, life and nature into the home to illustrate the significance of the Winter solstice and celebrate the coming rebirth of nature in the new year ahead.

Mistletoe became a sacred symbol of vivacity and fertility to the Druids because it blooms in the trees even during the harsh winters.

What Are the Trendy Colours for Christmas Decorations?

Reds, greens, and gold are always classic for many Irish homes.

If you seek guidance on more contemporary colours or combinations in vogue each season, check out our latest guide on the trending decorative themes for Christmas in 2024 in our Homevalue blog this season.

• You could go for a more muted look, bringing in Natural Neutrals, Forest shades and Earthy Tones for a more Scandinavian or cottage-core-inspired Christmas.
• You could also go in the opposite direction, aiming for opulent jewel tones and metallic embellishments for a more maximalist decorating style.
• There are no hard and fast rules if you wish to celebrate a kitsch and retro Christmas, too. Go for all the bright neons, glitterball accents or bright technicolour decorations you can find

It’s all good—just remember to keep the odd splash of red and have some sparkle during the season.  

Take a look at our blog “Christmas is a Vibe! Seasonal Decorating Tips For all the 5 Senses”

.

How Can I Decorate for Christmas Sustainably?

In our Christmas blogs, we’ve put together a convenient guide. Start here with “7 Simple, Sustainable Christmas DIY Decor Ideas.”

When it comes to decorating for their first Christmas, most  Irish people want to know how to make their homes feel warm and inviting. Incorporating candles, throws, and rustic or natural touches will help your home feel festive and authentically Irish while paying homage to nature.

If you need more tips for creating a cosy festive atmosphere at home while also being environmentally friendly, check out our guide in this blog, “Create a Festive Feel at Home with This Sustainable Christmas Checklist.”

We’ve got some great crafting ideas for the kids, too—head to our blog,” Need Eco-Friendly Ways to Keep the Kids Busy This Christmas? Try Our Crafty Festive Decor Ideas!”

How To Decorate For Christmas on a Budget?

Start sourcing products to take advantage of early offers, discounts and Black Friday deals. If you’re organised, you could even start buying decorations after Christmas when they’re often on sale.

 Starting early helps you spread the cost over a few weeks.

You can also give yourself extra time to make DIY decorations.

The recent Cottagecore trend encourages us to consider making our decorations, such as paper chains or ornaments made with crochet, dried fruits, or other crafts like felt.

Using natural materials like pine cones, branches, and berries is not only a good way to keep things sustainable but also easy on the wallet! 

Many people look for ways to reflect their Irish heritage in their decorations, such as using holly, ivy, Celtic symbols, or Irish-made crafts.

What’s the best way to hang Christmas lights?

Are you looking for advice on the safest and most aesthetically pleasing ways to hang lights inside and outside your home this Festive season?

Head to our “Ultimate Homevalue Christmas Lights Buying Guide.”

How can I keep my Christmas Tree Fresh?

Do you have questions about tree care, watering, and avoiding early needle drop, which is typical for those using real trees?

Here are 10 Quick tips to help you care for your Christmas tree and keep it fresh throughout the holiday season:

1. Choose a Fresh Tree

When buying a real tree, look for one with vibrant green needles that don’t easily fall off when you run your fingers through the branches.

2. Trim the Base

Cut 2-3 cm off the bottom of the trunk before placing the tree in water. This opens the pores and allows the tree to absorb water more effectively.

3. Place in Water Immediately

After bringing your tree home, put it in a stand with water as soon as possible. Don’t let the cut trunk dry out.

4. Keep it Hydrated

Check the water level daily and ensure it never drops below the base of the trunk. In the first week, a tree can drink up to 2 liters a day!

5. Avoid Heat Sources

Keep your tree away from radiators, fireplaces, or direct sunlight. Heat will dry it out faster, causing the needles to drop.

6. Use LED Lights

Choose cool LED lights instead of traditional bulbs. They’re energy-efficient and generate less heat, which helps preserve the tree.

7. Don’t Overload with Decorations

Avoid heavy ornaments that could weigh down the branches and cause them to bend or break.

8. Mist the Tree

For extra freshness, lightly mist the branches with water every few days. Avoid spraying near electrical lights or outlets.

9. Sweep or Vacuum Regularly

Even a well-cared-for tree will shed some needles. Cleaning up regularly will keep your space looking festive and tidy.

10. Recycle or Replant

After the holidays, check if your local council offers tree recycling or chipping services. Alternatively, consider a potted tree you can replant in your garden!

How can I make my Christmas Decorations last longer?

Here are a few tips to help your decorations last:

• Store them in a cool, dry place
• Use plastic storage containers to protect them from dust and damage
• Inspect your lights for any damaged bulbs or cords before storing them

How to store Christmas decorations after the holiday

With limited storage space in many Irish homes, storing decorations, especially fragile items and string lights, will prove challenging.

We’ve got a handy piece of advice in our blog, ”Easy Ways to Store Your Christmas Decorations With These Smart Storage Solutions.”

Now that you have invested in your decorations ensure they are in good condition for the following year. These items could be future heirlooms loaded with festive memories waiting to be made.

Now, go forth and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating Christmas in your new home!