If time is short, focus on a few key areas: the front door, foyer, mantel and dining table
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Candlelight
Candles are Richmond’s holiday decorating obsession and an absolute non-negotiable, she says. There’s nothing more welcoming than a room bathed in flickering candlelight.
You can group pillar candles of different heights on trays or on top of cedar boughs for a striking display. Or tuck single candles into beautiful vases or under glass cloches, filling the base with faux snow, cranberries and miniature ornaments, she says.
LED candles are a wonderful alternative, as they’re safe for kids and pets.
“Pro tip — don’t use scented candles on the table or your delicious turkey may taste more vanilla than you’d like,” she says.
Go green and get crafty
For those who love natural elements in their homes, you can use cedar boughs, bare branches or potted evergreens, says Richmond. These add texture, fragrance and life to any space.
Even a sprig of rosemary tucked into a napkin ring can make a table feel festive, and don’t overlook dried citrus slices, as they’re versatile as tree ornaments or elegant centrepieces when displayed in a glass bowl, says Richmond.
If you’re decorating with kids, window clings and fun stickers work well on mirrors and glassware.
“Hang delicate paper snowflakes and string lights in your windows,” she says.
Everyday items as showstoppers
You likely already have some serving trays, pottery bowls and vases, so these are great as the base for seasonal displays, says Richmond. Fill them with ornaments, pine cones or wrapped gifts. For a personal touch incorporate family photos or handwritten notes into your wreaths or centrepieces.
Even your favourite mugs or teacups can become charming planters for small succulents. These make lovely decorations and double as thoughtful gifts for guests, says Richmond.
Effortless, yet high impact
If time is short, focus on a few key areas: the front door, foyer, mantel and dining table, says Richmond.
A simple wreath hung with a ribbon on a mirror, potted evergreens on a console table, or a bowl of ornaments can make a big impact. Layer in candles and warm string lights to create a cosy, festive vibe without too much effort, she says.
Sustainable decorating tips
Sustainability is front of mind for Richmond when it comes to decorating, she says. She reuses decor year after year, switching up its location and combining it with natural elements like greenery.
For gift wrapping, you can use recycled newspapers, fabric scraps, or reusable velvet ribbons instead of traditional paper and bows.
For advent calendars, consider making your own, reusable versions, she says.
“One of my son’s favourites was the ‘Santa Clause is Coming to Town’ tree — this phrase just happens to have exactly 25 letters! I made simple bags, stencilled a number on one side and a letter on the other, and filled them with assorted treats and family activities to do throughout the month,” says Richmond.
Where to go for budget-friendly decor
“Exploring Vancouver’s vintage stores can lead you to unique and nostalgic Christmas decorations that add charm to your holiday decor. I once found old brass name plates from an old filing cabinet that made for the perfect place name cards/napkin ring combo,” she says.
Colours to love this season
Richmond says she loves unexpected colour combinations at this time of year, not being the biggest fan of red. This year, warm tones like brown, soft taupe and muted mauves, paired with metallic copper, feel fresh and elegant, she says:
“When you decide on a colour scheme, keep it constant throughout your home and balance the non-traditional colours with the natural beauty of pine and cedar.”
A pared-back holiday approach
Richmond and her family are heading into a renovation, so won’t be doing a lot of hosting these holidays (holes in the walls etc):
“I’m pairing it right back to basics with all natural decor. Loads of cedar swags, my favourite magnolia and eucalyptus wreaths, vases with branches, pottery with a few of my favourite ornaments … and so many candles. I’m looking forward to the simplicity this year,” she says.