Nothing marks the Christmas season like putting up your decorations. And for most people, the tree is at the heart of the holidays. After all, it's the focal point of the decorations and the place everyone gathers around on Christmas morning.
But as much as your tree design is about the Christmas decor you introduce, how you approach decorating it is just as important. Designer Shea McGee has proved as much, taking to Instagram to share her own 'order of operations' when placing her tree decor. And the good news is, it is really easy to follow.
Here, we take a closer look at her step-by-step process – it's guaranteed to not only make decorating easier, but it's a tried-and-tested way to create a collected and more personalized look.
Everyone has their own process and favorite order to decorate a Christmas tree. For some, it's a step-by-step process, while for others, it's a case of adding things as they come out of the box. But if you want to create a balanced look, a more considered approach may be beneficial.
'When building a tree look, there are a few steps that I always follow to create any look, regardless of color and texture. There's just an order of operation when decorating your tree that always works,' says Shea.
Start with the garland
Starting with the largest decor pieces offers a great base for the rest of the design. And for Shea, the garland is the best place to start.
'I start with the garland...because it allows you to really see the space and you're not fighting the ornaments as you're building. This year, instead of just doing one style of garland from top to bottom, we alternated this really cute brass garland, which has this textured bead on it and a brass chain detail, with a wood [one],' she explains.
'I think that I love to mix more glam elements with organic ones and this is a really good example of where that mix comes together. We're building a base that allows us to make sure that these big pieces are spread out evenly throughout the tree.'
Wood details add a more organic element to your Christmas tree decor. This beaded garland is simple in style but adds plenty to your design.
We love metallic details, especially at Christmas. This gold beaded garland is a lovely alternative to the brass one used in Shea's video.
If you prefer a more decorative garland – especially if you are decorating a more sparse tree – this gold-finished cone garland is a classic choice.
Add the baubles
No tree is complete without ornaments – and baubles are a festive staple. Simple and round in design, the colors and textures you choose set the tone for the overall aesthetic of your Christmas tree.
'Up next, I would add my solid colored ornaments – what I call baubles. We have these velvet ornaments here in this really beautiful color palette of soft blues and browns. We have a new color palette that incorporates greens and reds, and we've mixed them together,' says Shea.
Try to decide on a Christmas color scheme that feels cohesive with the style of the room the tree will be in – it's about adding holiday cheer without feeling like the festive additions feel out of place. That doesn't mean you can't get creative, though.
'You could pick a tighter color palette if that works better with your style, but here we were going for a mix of shades and you can see that they really do a lot to add some interest to the tree,' she explains.
'And I forgot the icicles. I would also put those on at the same time as my bauble ornaments because they are something that I plan to go everywhere and want evenly dispersed.'
The mix of colors in this set of baubles captures the essence of an elegant Christmas design.
If you're opting for a more pared-back color scheme this year, this warm neutral selection is perfect.
Velvety textures are the perfect addition to a Christmas tree – these flocked baubles come in a traditional color palette.
Finish with the more detailed ornaments
The final step in the tree decorating process is the detailed, more unique ornaments. These are the pieces that make the tree stand out and feel more personalized – perhaps they are unique shapes or more delicate glass designs that add a different layer to the tree.
'We have these picture frames that we've done all over the tree. I would make sure to personalize with old photos and new because, I don't know about you, but I love to walk around my tree and just remember all the happy times that we've had together as a family and this is a good conversation starter as well,' says Shea.
This step is crucial for anyone who likes to collect a more eclectic mix of ornaments over the years – from vintage baubles to heirloom decor, these are the pieces that add character and that personalization that captures what the holidays are all about.
Another charming frame design, this ornament is a lovely way to add a personal touch to your decor.
The ridged design of this ornament gives it a vintage feel, adding a different texture when paired with baubles.
More decorative ornaments give your tree character and interest – these leaf designs are a charming choice!
Paper tree decorations are a classic (and more sustainable) choice. This set features four holiday designs.
Introducing a variety of shapes and materials creates that layered feel – this glass finial ticks both boxes.
Bring in another organic element with these wooden tree ornaments. They add contrast to the more metallic details.
Taking a moment to really think about the order in which you decorate your tree will make a huge difference. Your tree decor will look more balanced and have more personal details that capture the spirit of the festive season.
