Here at Victoria Whitelaw we have decorated hundreds, if not thousands, of Christmas trees. Every year we transform our beautiful stores as well as homes and businesses throughout Melbourne with stunning Christmas trees and festive decor. It’s safe to say we have learnt a few tricks to executing a perfectly styled Christmas tree and we’re thrilled to share our tips for decorating your Christmas tree like a professional this holiday season.
Create a solid foundation
Whether you prefer a fresh or artificial tree, the key to a picture perfect Christmas tree is to choose one that is abundant with full branches.
If opting for a fresh pine tree this year, choose one with healthy branches and a classic cone shape which tapers at the top.
If using an artificial tree, choose a high quality, luxurious tree which will be an investment for years to come. Work systematically, fluffing out each branch as you go, stacking branches from bottom to top, giving you a full and abundant base to work from.
Ensure the Christmas tree stand is sturdy and assembled correctly so the tree doesn’t fall over. This can be weighted with (hidden) sandbags or bags of rice if the tree feels top-heavy.
The more lights the better!
Masses of sparkling fairy lights are what give your tree a luxurious feel. For this reason we advise you to use twice as many sets as you think you will need. The more the better!
It is important to put your strands of lights on before adding any decorations and ornaments to avoid them getting tangled together. Make sure the bulbs are visible on outer branches but also twinkling from the depths of the tree. Be careful to ensure there is no cable visible by tucking and winding it along the branches.
Build a collection of ornaments
If you like to change your colour scheme every year, have a set of base decorations in neutral colours such as metallics, white, and wood which you can easily add colour to. Store the different coloured decorations in labelled containers for easy access in years to come.
The more decorations on your Christmas tree, the more magical it looks. Collect a combination of high-quality ornaments and inexpensive shatter-proof baubles which can be purchased in large packs.
Use a variety of decorations and ornaments on your tree to create contrast and depth. Think different shapes and sizes as well as varying textures such as glass, wood, glitter, mirror, metallics and picks. Even faux flowers can look at home on a Christmas tree!
Add some new Christmas decorations to your tree each year. This is a good way to build up your collection of quality ornaments and ensure your tree looks slightly different every year. Collecting a new ornament for each member of the family every Christmas can also become a lovely family tradition.
Decorating tips for a luxe look
Don’t decorate the sides of the Christmas tree which will be hidden if your tree is standing next to a wall or in a corner. Instead concentrate on heavily decorating the visible sides for a luxe look and take into consideration which side of the tree will be viewed the most.
Ribbons are a beautiful way to add colour and interest to your Christmas tree styling. Tie bows on to the tips of the branches or wrap a ribbon garland around the tree before you’ve hung any other decorations.
Hang larger focal ornaments first and add the smaller decorations around these. Concentrate your larger ornaments on the lower branches adding a few higher up the tree.
Hang decorations both on the tips of the branches and deeper within the tree to create depth, and when decorating your tree, regularly step back and ensure the tree is visually balanced.
Add the finishing touches
Cover the base of the tree with a Christmas tree skirt, fabric, blanket, pot, galvanised bucket, or basket to hide the stand or trunk and give a lovely base for the gifts to sit on or around.
Wrap your presents early and place them under the tree so the tree looks complete. Choose one or two different types of matching paper and ribbon finished with gift tags for a complementary look.
Continue your chosen colour palette and theme into other areas of the house in the way of garlands, wreaths, table centrepieces, stockings, candles and other Christmas décor items.
We invite you to visit our beautiful stores in South Yarra, Brighton, and Armadale to pick out some gorgeous, high quality Christmas tree decorations to add to your collection. Armed with a selection of beautiful ornaments and our expert tips, you will be decorating your Christmas tree like a professional this holiday season.
View our Christmas Collection – Door wreaths, table centrepieces, festive floral gifts, and more!
