Living | Simplicity in holiday decor

Embracing holiday decor in a more natural way has been my style in recent years. Less just seems to be more.

I'll usually start adding seasonal touches by potting florals. Mid-November seems to be right in terms of timing for Christmas blooms. Amaryllis are my go-to for the holidays. Paperwhites though are equally as nice. Both are seasonal classics that are no fuss and such a joy to watch grow.

Next up is fresh greenery, which I love to add to the fireplace mantel and throughout the house. I'll wait until at least mid-December for this. Choosing real over artificial is not just for the aesthetic, but also for the beautiful scent. Pine, cedar... I mean they are all great choices.

Red Amaryllis

Along with gathering up the greenery, the tree or star of the show if you will, is chosen. In recent years a locally sourced Newfoundland tree has been the winner. Newfoundland trees are lovely. Rarely are they perfect in shape, which I find suits our home and style best.

For lights on the tree, I'll always choose clear. I also keep ornaments to a minimum now that the kids have grown. Sometimes, just pine cones are added. This year, I may get a bit fancier with some bows. We'll see.

A Newfoundland Christmas tree

For the outside, I also choose fresh greenery. Adding a locally made wreath to the door, bough and ribbon to a planter. It's simple, but feels like enough to welcome the winter season. For timing, early December seems about right, but I'm flexible with that.

Seasonal wreath - locally sourced

 I also embrace what comes naturally each season, branches full of berries and then my favorite decoration of all, snow.

Neighbourhood trail in Winter

Welcoming the season naturally

While I opt for simplicity in decor, I still feel the magic of the season in traditions like nature walks, brunches and dinners, visiting local cafes, putting together a puzzle, making a gingerbread house, baking or seeing a local play.

Winter themed puzzle

What about you? How do you add festive touches? is it in small ways or do you prefer maximalism in your decor? Where do you find the magic of the season? I feel that what really matters is that you stay true to you and yours and what makes the heart happy during the holidays.

Cheers to the season.