A Simpler Kind of Christmas

Every year, without fail, we find ourselves trying something a little different with our Christmas décor. Sometimes we lean into tradition, sometimes we experiment, and sometimes, like this year, we choose to pare everything back. For 2025, simplicity became our theme. Not minimalism in a stark sense, but a gentler, calmer approach to decorating our home for the season.

Of course, some traditions are too precious to change. Our Christmas tree has been up since the beginning of October (yes, we are those people), standing tall and twinkling proudly from its corner. There are garlands at the doorways, adding that familiar and festive touch. And the gift-wrapping ritual remains untouched: every present nestled under the tree is wrapped in recycled paper, this time using an old roll of Florence Broadhurst wallpaper I decided to repurpose. It has become a small but meaningful tradition to wrap our gifts in reclaimed paper.

We also made sure to stock up on the essentials: Panettone for breakfast (or throughout the day, let us be honest), and a few bottles of bubbly for the toasts that inevitably happen, planned or not. But we did make one noticeable change. We stepped away from the classic red and gold palette for our baubles and adopted a pink and green attitude. A new colour scheme felt refreshing, a gentle reminder that even cherished traditions can evolve.

Still, among the things that shift each year, one element always stays exactly the same: remembering whose birthday celebration this truly is: our Baby Jesus. Amid the lights, the wrapping paper, the sweets, and the sparkle, that quiet grounding reminder is what makes Christmas feel whole.

And perhaps that is the beauty of holiday decorating. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Whether you choose sparse or luscious, decadent or monochrome, vintage or ultra-modern, the only rule that matters is this: let it bring joy. Let it make you and your family smile when you walk through the door.

Three Basic Tips for Decorating This Christmas

1. Choose a colour theme and stick to it

Whether traditional or unexpected, a cohesive palette instantly brings harmony to your space.

2. Mix old treasures with new ideas

Incorporate keepsakes, recycled materials, or sentimental ornaments alongside fresh touches to create depth and meaning.

3. Focus on one main statement

A beautifully decorated tree, a lush garland, or a festive table setting can carry the whole room without needing lots of extras or unnecessary spending.

James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information. Learn more from James' knowledge via his FREE online shows James Bought A House (a renovation) and James Bought A Guest House (a brand new build).