Deck the Halls

(Family Features) Among the most treasured of holiday delights is, as the carol says, decking the halls. It’s the perfect excuse to pull out the bling and bring an aura of festivity and fun to your home, whether it’s for your personal enjoyment or setting the stage to celebrate the season with loved ones.

All you need is a little imagination and some design inspiration to create an inviting holiday home, both indoors and out.

Shopping at stores recognized for a wide assortment of quality furnishings, such as Pier 1 Imports, will give you a variety of decor that fits every style at an excellent value. Trim your tree beautifully and learn how to artfully incorporate wreaths and garland into your holiday home decor with Pier 1 Imports’ additional tips for a Christmas as merry and bright as you make it.

A tree worth gathering ’round

As the focal point of your holiday trimmings, your Christmas tree should reflect your personal style and make a statement about your holiday spirit. Start by choosing the right theme or look for your tree, from traditional to glamorous to fantastical. Ultimately, you can carry this theme throughout every element of the tree, from the ornaments to the gift wrap to other accents sprinkled throughout.

To get started, select a pre-lit tree in the shape and style that best matches your vision: noble fir or pine, in slim or full silhouettes, the options go on. Be sure to spend some time fluffing branches for a more natural look, or choose one of Pier 1 Imports’ new memory trees with self-shaping branches that let you start decorating right away with the fastest setup ever.

Begin decorating by placing large elements. Weave garland through the tree branches first. Then start tucking larger ornaments and decor into the branches, placing evenly throughout. Fill in open spaces in the branches with smaller ornaments and floral picks. Keep adding until the branches are filled. Crown your tree with a decorative topper that fits your theme to add height and an extra personal touch.

Adorn the base of the tree with a coordinating tree skirt or collar, and remember, you’re not quite finished until the presents are under the tree. Bundle your gifts with high-quality wrapping paper, gift bags, tags and bows that also fit your theme for a cohesive, finished look from top to bottom.

Creative uses for traditional trimmings

Don’t let your vision for a festive holiday home stop at the front door. Wreaths and garlands can actually bring a stylish touch to your holiday decor from the outside in.

You can create a wintery landscape in your home by decking your halls, tables and more with inspired Christmas wreath placements. One idea is to nestle a hurricane in a berry wreath for a burst of color and texture; the candlelight will lend an air of cozy comfort.

Home is where the hearth is, and a well-adorned mantel is a must. Make a stunning wreath the star of your fireplace display, and incorporate a supporting cast of berry garland and even a woodland creature or two to help make your look complete.

Actually, repurposing garland in different locations throughout your house is another inventive way to infuse Christmas spirit. From staircases to bookshelves to headboards, cleverly installed garland sends a message that you have a passion for the season.

You can even use a shimmering Christmas tree garland as a table runner for a simple but elegant touch of joy. Add a natural touch with a garland crafted of pinecones, or go for glamour with golden accents.

Make your holiday merry and bright with a hint of starlight and sparkle. As you explore decorating ideas, remember to add a lighter touch with hanging ornaments, embroidered accents and candleholders. After all, Christmas is the perfect time to let your inner light shine.

Decorating Room by Room

Living room: Add a touch of frost to your room with inspiration from a wintery wonderland. Shining, snowy accents, along with plush pillows and a faux fur throw, create a warm, inviting space.

Mantel: Who says a fire always melts snow? While your hearth heats your home, keep your holiday accents crisp and cool, with plenty of snowflakes, trees and wreaths to go around.

Staircase: Think beyond the tree and loop garland and festive lighting, such as Glimmer Strings from Pier 1 Imports, around your banister.

Dining room: Craft your own centerpieces with a few essential ingredients. A pretty mixture of evergreens, woodland creatures and metallic pillar stands shines in the soft glow of candlelight.

Bedroom: Create a welcome retreat within your bedroom with an elegant headboard, bright bedding and seasonal accents – everything you need to settle down for a long winter’s nap.

Outdoors: Take your holiday party out to the patio. Lanterns filled with LED candles, soft pillows and garden stools offer all the festive features of indoor decor but with the durability for outdoors.

Find more ideas and garland to fit your personal style at pier1.com.