Timeless Christmas Decor Ideas

A complete shopping guide to timeless Christmas decor. Includes statement greenery, table setting ideas, gift wrap, Christmas trees, and more.

Just in case you are wondering…I am not crazy!

But yes, I am featuring a Christmas shopping guide, and it’s still two months until the big day. Here’s the deal…there is a worldwide situation right now that is causing delayed shipping and out-of-stock items. (True story: I recently ordered a pillow from Walmart. It was shipped in a timely manner, but sat in a FedEx hub for 10 days. I’m seriously not kidding!) Believe me, I know the frustration of falling in love with something, only to learn that it’s sold out. I’m definitely not ready to start any holiday decorating, but we all should think about it…and plan ahead. Every year, I try to post my seasonal decor ideas in advance, so the inspiration is there for you in time to do your own decorating. This year is a different story, because I would need to be sharing those posts right now. So I’m doing the next best thing. Here is a rundown of my favorite holiday decor items, along with new treasures and festive elements. I’ll show you how I’ve used them in the past, and share the ideas I have for Christmas 2021.

*Affiliate links included. Click HERE for my disclosure statement.

A RECIPE FOR TIMELESS CHRISTMAS DECOR

Pillows

This is an area where you should, if possible, repurpose pillows you already have. I can’t help myself, and I buy a new set of holiday pillows almost every year, but I reuse pillows from my existing collection as well. If your pillow collection needs an update, here are my timeless favorites.

Statement Greenery

Faux pine garland has come a long way in recent years. It’s no longer stiff or prickly, and you can get the most amazing, life-like garland just about anywhere. I love cedar garland, but my current favorite is Norfolk pine. I got two garlands last year, and before I could even share it with you, it sold out. It came back in stock over the summer, and I purchased two more. It’s currently sold out again, but I’ve found a few substitutes that are just as beautiful. Take a look at the shopping guide below to see your choices.

Throw Blankets

Although I adore neutral colors, I always incorporate a pop of red at Christmas. There is just something about it that completely puts me in the mood! Throw blankets rank right up there with pillows for their ability to add seasonal color to any decor style, especially if you want to add red. My favorite way to display them is to pile them up in a basket. Equally easy options are to drape one over the back of a chair, hang a collection on a blanket ladder, or simply place one at the end of a sofa.

Wrap it Up

Wrapping presents is one of my favorite things about Christmas. One of the secrets to actually enjoying the process is making sure not to wait until the last minute! I have a memory seared into my brain of a Christmas morning many years ago. Our kids were very small, and we lived in our first little house. I was so unorganized that I had to wrap presents before we left for my parents’ house that morning. I can vividly see myself on the floor, wrapping a big box. It was right then and there that I swore I would never put myself in that position again…and I never did. As you all know, some years it’s easier than others! Here are my best tips for wrapping up Christmas with ease.

• Take inventory of your supplies right now, and then purchase what you need.
• Gather your supplies and keep them in a specified space. As you shop and purchase things, wrap the gifts right away.
• My best tip for coordinating your wrapping paper is to start with a roll of simple kraft paper. Add another roll of a pattern that you love. After that, find festive ribbon that coordinates with the patterned paper…because no matter what kind of ribbon you buy, it will go with the kraft paper. In the end, all your presents will be wrapped in two papers, with lovely ribbon and bows.
• For more detailed information about wrapping Christmas gifts, click HERE.

The OSP 2021 Christmas Decor Plan

For our front porch, I think I’ll be using a pair of red plaid pillow covers (from 2 years ago) for the white rockers. (I am still thinking about that one!) I’ll be adding my vintage sled again, and these lanterns. I ordered this wintery doormat, and plan to use last year’s mini trees in planters, flanking the door. I’m not sure of the accessories yet, but I’ll definitely be repurposing something I already have.

For the interior, I’ll be again using these Christmas tree pillow covers from last year. For the sofa, I ordered this pillow, and will be adding it to a mix of pillow covers I already have. The pine garland I used last year is still sold out, but HERE is something very similar. I’ll be stacking festive throw blankets, and bringing out my tabletop trees. I love the little white houses I got last year, and of course, I’ll try to work in some ribbon someplace!

At the end of the day, decorating your home for the holidays should be fun and relaxing, not stressful and time-consuming. By planning ahead, you will avoid that “last minute” rush to get everything finished and ready for your family. Don’t forget that if you are an email subscriber, you have access to the free OSP Home for the Holidays Christmas Planner. Just visit the Members Only Library to snag your copy. If you aren’t a subscriber, but would like to join us, fill out the form at the end of the post. (FYI: the gift tags pictured above are included with the Christmas planner.)

To see our 2020 Christmas porch, click HERE.