As a December baby, you’d think Christmas tree decorating would be my ultimate joy each year. But with everything going on in the world, I haven’t always felt inspired to create the dreamy holiday aesthetic I love. This year, I decided to break that cycle. I put a little extra effort into refreshing my tree and stepped away from the traditional designs I’ve used in the past.
Looking back on nearly 20 years of Christmas trees made me giggle—and sometimes scratch my head—at my past designs. It reminded me how meaningful and fun it can be to make something uniquely beautiful, even on a budget. For less than $100, I transformed my trusty 7-foot tree into something modern, rustic, warm, and elegant.
Here are my favorite budget-friendly upgrades and how I got my tree to its happy place:
1. Dried Oranges
I ordered these fragrant beauties from Amazon, and they were surprisingly easy to turn into ornaments. They bring a pop of vibrance and an earthy elegance to the tree. Plus, the subtle citrus scent adds a cozy holiday vibe.
2. Tweed String
I had a stash of this from previous projects, and it worked perfectly to add a rustic, creative touch to my ornaments. It’s a simple way to elevate your tree design.
3. Velvet Yarn
As an artist, I’m obsessed with texture, so I used some leftover velvet yarn to make elegant bows. The soft sheen of the velvet added a sophisticated flair.
4. Gold Ornaments
Reusing ornaments from previous years was a game-changer. I stuck to a monochromatic gold color scheme this year, which created a calming and cohesive look. In the past, I’ve used a rainbow of colors, but this minimalist approach was so soothing.
5. Wooden Ornaments
I ordered pre-drilled wood slices from Amazon and turned them into ornaments using my tweed string. These natural, earthy pieces were a beautiful addition, and I might even paint them next year for a fresh twist.
6. Pampas Grass
This was my favorite addition! I’ve been obsessed with pampas grass for years, so I had plenty on hand. I split the stalks and tucked them into the tree for a whimsical, airy effect.
7. Dried Roses
I opted for faux roses that looked aged and dried. These added a pop of color and an elegant touch. I found a batch of 24 realistic-looking roses for just $18 at a local supplier.
8. A New Tree Base
This was a game-changer! I swapped the usual base for a woven basket I found at Ross for $18. These bases are trendy and can be pricey online, so checking discount stores can save you big bucks.
9. White Lights
I ditched the colorful lights this year (though my husband and son proudly took them to their man cave!) and opted for classic white lights. They gave the tree a timeless and serene glow.
10. Ornament Tools
All you need is scissors and a bit of creativity. I even used a hair crochet needle to thread strings through some of my ornaments. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy tools to create a stunning tree.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling bored with your Christmas tree decor or want to try something different, I hope these ideas inspire you. Adding natural elements like wood, dried oranges, flowers, or pampas grass can completely transform your tree without breaking the bank.
Would you try any of these tips? Let me know what you think!
Happy holidays and see you next time!
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