Expert tips on styling your home this festive season

The most wonderful time of the year can also be the most hectic. If time doesn’t allow for fresh ideas around Yuletide styling, don’t despair; it need not be stressful or expensive.

“Christmas decorating doesn’t have to be perfect,” says designer Kristy Sadlier from Norsu. “It’s lovely not to recreate the same look every year.”

We asked the experts for simple ways to make an impact through decoration, and where to pick up beautiful decor you will love for years.

The tree

For many, trimming the tree is the official start of the festive season, but the age-old question remains – should it be an authentic tree or faux?

“A real tree has that beautiful fresh smell, but the upkeep can be overwhelming, so select a tree based on how much effort you are prepared to put in,” says stylist Aimee Tarulli.

“Don’t overload with decorations – let the beautiful greenery come through and dress with lights for twinkle.”

For a low-maintenance tree that looks like the real deal, head to Balsam Hill or Temple and Webster.

No tree, no problem, says designer Greg Natale. “I personally don’t have a Christmas tree,” he says. “I prefer a branch of holly or poinsettias.”

The decorations

The ceremonial unboxing of each decoration, with Dean Martin crooning in the background, is a special event for many families and a reminder of Christmases past.

Each carries nostalgia, from grandma’s vintage Santa sleighs to the kids’ happily imperfect homemade baubles.

“I am a collector of decorations and am sentimental about keeping old ones,” says Kate Gordon from Robert Gordon, who adds that nostalgia and handmade rule in her house.

“Our tree never looks coordinated!” she says, laughing. “Each one brings back memories, and don’t worry whether the tinsel matches the baubles.”

Adding to your collection creates memories to come. Look for antique-style glass baubles from West Elm or paper origami styles from Norsu and Country Road.

Pop-culture-inspired ornaments, such as La La Land’s pearl-wearing Harry Styles, will appeal to the teens, and whimsical vintage style ornaments from Papaya are child’s play.

Tarulli says decorating the tree goes beyond baubles.

“Beautifully wrapped presents underneath will not go unnoticed,” she says. “Select two wrapping styles for consistency and add contrasting ribbons.  Look for neutral tones in wrapping, and avoid the shiny papers.”

The lighting

Whether you go all-out with lit-up reindeer or twinkling fairy lights through your tree, lighting adds joy and ambience.

Instead of overhead lighting, light your space with candles and lamps.

“I’m always looking for interesting candle holders as a way to play with light, which is how I came up with my Blitz range,” Natale says. “You can use the tapered end, pillar end, or both side by side.”

Weave delicate fairy lights over your outdoor dining setting and pepper your windowsills with battery-operated votive candles.

“I like to cluster vases filled with twinkle lights from Bunnings and switch on as guests arrive,” Sadlier says.

The table

“Table setting is an art,” Natale says. “Use a table runner or cloth as a base, then bring in dinnerware, napery and accessories.

“Candles, serveware, and flowers reflect you, whether you are playful or more classic.”

Keep your palette earthy with ceramic ornaments by Robert Gordon and linens by Cultiver or Bed Threads, or choose a classic gingham set from I Love Linen.

Kip & Co.’s Bush Christmas linen range features pink, red and cream florals that elevate a neutral palette or complement a more colourful one.

“Bonnie + Neil have gorgeous, colourful designs,” adds designer Lauren Li. ”Add sprigs of holly or layer with rustic wreaths.”

Gordon says the table is the perfect opportunity to be creative.

“I run vignettes down the centre with mini trees, fresh pine, tealight holders and glass baubles,” she says. “I love foraging for pine branches for that lovely Christmas smell.”

Spruce up your styling with florals or foliage in vases with varying lengths at the front and back for volume and height.

“Arrange branches in a clear glass vase and add coloured food dye to the water,” Sadlier suggests. “It adds instant impact.”

She adds that reimaging what you have is the most stressless approach to styling.

“It’s okay to use your everyday white plates and cutlery,” she says. “Tie a velvet ribbon around your napkins or add colourful glassware or fun bonbons and hats. It’s about having fun and joy regardless of budget or time restraints.”