For many families, the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree is an annual tradition. The trek to select a full evergreen officially kicks off the season. Followed by the sound of carols and the smell of cookies, (finding) and decorating the tree usually brings loved ones together to reminisce over old trinkets and tunes. Whether real or fake, fussing over the lights and fighting over the top piece is always part of the fun. However, the mission to pick, pack and perfect isn’t for everyone. Whether short on time, space or holiday cheer, trade decorating the tree for decking the halls. If you’re interested in spending the holiday season sans tree, check out some other ways to get into the Christmas spirit.
Off the Hook: a twist on the tradition
Forget the fillers and pick your favorite ornaments to display. From cabinet handles to chandelier parts, hang a handful of pieces in fun, open and unconventional places. Make sure to find the balance between in view and out of the way.
Sticks and Cones: apply the DIY trend to make a wreath
Find a festive friend or sign-up for a local workshop to craft and create. Keeping with the hands-on (green) theme, building a wreath is a good alternative to decorating a tree. In a more compact way, the activity provides holiday goers the chance to not only spruce up their space, but also express their individuality.
To save money and involve members of the family, invite little (or furry) ones to take a hike or a walk around the block to gather materials: berries, pinecones, florals and greenery.
From Dough to Door: organize a cookie exchange
If keeping to the kitchen is more your style, get into the Christmas spirit by stocking up on ingredients and snacking as you go. Whether pulling out baking sheets to try a new recipe or stick to your staple sweet treat, take your foodie skills to the next level by organizing a cookie exchange. A good reason to get the gang together to indulge and celebrate over the holiday break, organizing a cookie exchange over a potluck will create less mess, less stress.
Jingle All the Way: create a holiday playlist
While pairing a seasonal drink with a baking session is a fan favorite, more and more, kitchen creators are adding a pinch of flavor outside of the mixing bowl. Whether to play on the commute or in the background, creating a holiday playlist is a December must-do. From Bing to Bublé, a diverse collection of the repeat originals and covers is all you need to be merry.
Sign, Sealed, Delivered: send Christmas cards via snail mail
Throw it back to the days of pens, papers and post-its. Rather than sending the same text to your friends and family on the day-off: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! (insert emoji), take the time to write a personalized card to the ones who form your inner circle. By sending snail mail and spreading best wishes, you’ll be sure to put a smile on a face or two.
Quick tip: to get into the holiday spirit from the get-go, pick up an advent calendar to follow along every day of the month.