One of my favorite parts of the holiday season is – of course – the decor. Outdoor Christmas decorations set the tone for all the holiday spirit that awaits guests inside the house. I like to keep the holiday season going through New Year…or even February. It can just be too cold and dark to take down all the lights and ribbons so soon. You should keep your decorations up as long as they give you joy.
By Elle Bachkosky || December 17, 2025
Let me start off by saying we love living organics; the more living organics, the better. I’m not just talking about you and your lovely family, I’m talking about real wreaths on the front door & windows, real garland over the doorway and strung out over the railings. Why? Its both sustainable and smells so good. Also, you don’t have to store them – whats not to love?
Here’s a list of more certified Holiday Decorating Faves from your fave (and Pillar Interiors founder), Kate Duncan:
1. Nutcrackers
My husband received a nutcracker each year from his parents on St. Nicholas day. I love this tradition and getting to see all the ‘years’ of holiday cheer. His collection of nutcrackers has become OUR collection of nutcrackers, and it’s so fun to display them in a new way every year!
2. Gift wrapping as an art form.
Getting presents wrapped and seeing them under the tree is one of my favorite ways to ‘decorate’. Having fun with ribbons and little accessories on each gift brings so much life to a room. Have fun with this!
3. Lighting
In my opinion, there can never be enough twinkling lights and candles. My preference is warm white light, since colored lights can feel like a distraction from the more important staples of the holidays, like the tree, garland, and house silhouette.
4. Pops of color amongst the greenery.
Reds and oranges and browns, oh my! Have fun with it, and change it up each year!
I hope we were able to get your creative juices flowing a bit better, but all these tips shouldn’t lose you on the real reasons for the season: renewal, family, love, and peace. Take this time to recharge, hold your loved ones close, eat lots of good food (send me the recipes) and have a happy holiday!
Nutcracker photo courtesy of Kate Duncan. Other photos courtesy of Pinterest.
