Deck the Halls: My Favorite Christmas Decorations

Christmas is on its way, and I’m officially deep into decorating mode! Around here, decking the halls isn’t just about sticking to a theme or color scheme – it’s about creating a warm, cozy holiday home with a touch of Southern charm, some sparkle, and a hint of humor. Think twinkling lights, heirloom ornaments, and enough greenery to make a garden jealous. So, grab a cup of cocoa and settle in as I share some favorite decorations and traditions that make Christmas in my home a truly magical time.

First, let’s talk trees – the literal centerpiece of holiday décor. I’ve always been a fan of a well-dressed Christmas tree, and there’s something about a big, beautiful tree full of memories that really warms the heart. A Southern Christmas tree is never without plenty of sentimental ornaments, from the glass balls passed down from my grandparents to the ones handmade by the kids over the years. I make sure to layer in a mix of old and new, balancing those shiny heirloom beauties with whimsical finds, from little woodland critters to glittering bows. And yes, you guessed it – I absolutely load up on garlands and ribbons! Nothing adds that Southern elegance quite like wide ribbons cascading down the tree, carefully curled to look both effortless and fancy.

Garlands

Speaking of garlands, I like them everywhere: draped over the mantel, wrapped around staircases, framing the front door, and even as accents on mirrors and shelves. If I could garland my mailbox, I probably would. The trick is finding the balance between a natural look and a little bit of glamour. I’m talking lush greenery – think pine, cedar, and magnolia leaves – with a few pops of red berries or tiny golden ornaments. And since we’re in the South, I have to sneak in a few pinecones, which are easy to gather from outside. They’re perfect for adding an earthy touch, plus a spritz of cinnamon oil on them makes the whole house smell like the holidays.

Now, any self-respecting Southern porch is going to be dressed up for the season too. A wreath on the door is a must, and if it’s got magnolia leaves, all the better. Magnolia leaves are practically Southern holiday royalty, and their shiny green and brown leaves have a unique charm that’s all their own. I add a few red ribbons, maybe a tiny bell or two, and it’s ready to greet everyone from the mailman to Santa himself. I’ve been known to hang matching wreaths on each window facing the street, tied up with big red bows. There’s just something so welcoming about it, and it’s a nod to the old tradition of decorating every window that makes the house look festive, even from afar.

For my mantel, I like to keep it traditional with a twist. Stockings are hung, of course, and everyone has one – even the dog. I usually try to mix in a few Southern-inspired elements here, like a small bundle of cotton stems or a tiny rocking horse. I love using glass candleholders in varying heights along the mantel, filled with candles or fairy lights to create that warm glow when the lights are low. I’ll usually add a vintage touch too, like an old lantern or a weathered wooden sled. It’s those tiny details that make each Christmas feel connected to the past and present.

One thing I love to do for a bit of sparkle is to add touches of gold and silver in unexpected places. I might put a bowl of vintage Christmas ornaments in the center of the dining table or add a few glittery ornaments to the garlands. A tray filled with pinecones, small ornaments, and candles can make an instant tablescape that’s as Southern as sweet tea. A little shimmer goes a long way in making everything feel festive without overdoing it.

So Many Lights

Christmas lights are, of course, essential. While some people love the multicolored look, I tend to stick with the soft white lights – they just have a classic feel. I put them everywhere: in the tree, along the porch, woven into garlands, and even in jars and lanterns around the house. If you’ve never tried stringing lights along the fence or in your front yard trees, it’s worth the effort! And don’t forget the pathway lights – there’s something enchanting about walking up a softly lit path on a chilly December night. It’s the kind of small touch that makes the season feel magical.

Now let’s talk tablescapes – the little flourishes that make each meal feel like a special occasion. I always set up a little Christmas village on the buffet, complete with tiny houses, snow-covered trees, and a few miniature animals here and there. It’s like having a tiny holiday scene right at the table! And let’s not forget the place settings: a simple white plate with a sprig of rosemary tied with twine or a small ornament at each seat is a charming, festive detail. It’s small touches like these that make each dinner feel like a celebration.

For a fun, Southern twist, I like to incorporate citrus here and there – oranges and lemons are lovely in a big, festive bowl and smell so fresh! A clove-studded orange here and there on the table not only looks nice but adds a cozy scent that pairs well with pine and cinnamon. Citrus garlands are also surprisingly pretty, with dried orange slices on twine strung up along with greenery. I think it adds a bit of Southern charm with a vintage twist.

One of the best things about Christmas decorating is how it’s an invitation to slow down, take in the lights, and remember what the season is all about. Sure, it’s about making things look beautiful, but it’s also about creating memories with family, laughing as you untangle lights, and sharing old stories as you pull out each ornament. Sometimes, the best decorations aren’t the store-bought ones – they’re the ones with a little story behind them, the ones we unpack every year with a mix of nostalgia and excitement. It’s part of what makes Christmas in a Southern home feel so rich and warm.

By the end of it all, my house may look like a winter wonderland met a Southern charm factory, but that’s the way I like it. It’s more than décor; it’s tradition, warmth, and a little sprinkle of magic. And that’s really what Christmas is about. So whether you’re stringing up lights or fluffing up garlands, here’s to a holiday season full of warmth, laughter, and just the right amount of sparkle.