Holiday Decor: Spend Less & Enjoy More

Have you noticed that retailers start displaying their holiday decorations and merchandise earlier and earlier each year? Some people welcome the early holiday cheer, while others like myself; feel there is too much Christmas to soon. A scientific poll of 1,000 American adults, 73 percent agree with the statement that “it is annoying that the holiday shopping season has gotten earlier.” Forty-eight percent strongly agree. Just 21 percent disagreed. But, if you are a gung ho ho ho shopper and into the themed holiday decorating then this time of year is definitely your best bet for great deals on all things “holiday”.

What To Buy and When

Remember when the best deals came after the holiday? Obviously this is still true for items like Christmas cards and holiday wrapping paper. But now, retailers are introducing their holiday discounts early to ensure their stock is sold out by Christmas and, you don’t have to wait and purchase after the holidays only to pack them away for the next 11 months before you can use them.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

The holiday season with its purchasing, wrapping and celebrating substantially increases the amount of waste we generate. However, there are many opportunities for the consumer to reduce, reuse and recycle their remnants of holiday cheer.

Before you buy anything new, take stock of what you already have, what you can still use and discard the rest. Social media sites such as Pinterest can give you great ideas on how to repurpose your current decorations.

Save your holiday decorations for reuse next year. Donate your old decorations to local schools, churches or other non-profit organizations.

Don’t shy away from Do It Yourself holiday faire. YouTube videos are all you need to execute professional-looking centerpieces, bows, table décor, etc. Use natural ornaments such as pinecones, shells, dried flowers or berries to transform your old ornaments and adorn your home or office with refurbished centerpieces and wreaths.

What are the new trends in holiday décor?

One of the hottest trends in holiday decorations is black and white. Not only is black and white timeless, it is also the perfect backdrop to add any color, especially red and green. Use black and white and highlight your Christmas wreath, your table runner or your Christmas tree. Everything will look classic and elegant with a touch of black and white.

LED lights are overtaking incandescent bulbs on trees and homes. Remember, if you decide to upgrade your lights, LED also come in a bluish and yellow white.

How about using a winter theme instead of traditional Christmas decorations. If you use this more generic theme you can leave your decorations up much longer without your neighbors wondering why Santa is still on your roof in Feb.

Lastly, instead of scattering small decorations throughout your home why not decorate one or two areas of your home with larger pieces. Your fireplace mantel and your entryway can be used to show off your personal style.

Where to Shop for Holiday Décor

Decorating for the holidays can be very expensive. There is a way to create a beautifully decorated home for little or nothing. Craft stores and big box stores usually offer 40 percent off coupons with stores like Bed, Bath & Beyond offering 20 percent off certain holiday items. Dollar Tree is one of the best places to holiday shop on a budget. They carry decorations for every holiday including Christmas and Thanksgiving. Other retailers that should be considered are Kirkland’s, Pier 1 Imports, Jo-Ann, Big Lots, Sears, and Target.

I hope these ideas bring some cheer into your home this holiday season! Remember, dressing up your home will set the stage for your family’s holiday celebrations.

Source by Patrick Redo