Holiday Décor

A Classic Christmas at Home: Holiday Décor Must-Haves

I’m thrilled to share my favorite holiday décor must-haves that will help you create a classic Christmas look this holiday season!

With these tips and pieces from our holiday collection, available now on ashleychilders.com, you can transform your space into a cozy, elegant winter wonderland. Shop each look below!

Decorating the Christmas Tree 🎄

Your tree sets the tone for the entire holiday season. This year, I started with a 12-foot tree, and here’s my go-to method for achieving that timeless Christmas magic.

1. Weaving Ribbon for Fullness:
   I used two luxurious 4-inch ribbons—one in ruby red velvet and one in sage green—woven through the branches from top to bottom. Ribbon adds fullness and creates a soft backdrop for ornaments.
2. Layering Ornaments:
   Start with large ornaments tucked deeper into the branches for dimension. I used gold embossed onion-shaped ornaments, mercury glass pinecones, and gilded metal mistletoe.
3. Adding Medium-Sized Ornaments:
   For balance, I included smaller mercury glass pinecones, ruby red teardrops, matte brown balls, and antique metallic pieces. My favorite touch? Frosted caramel ornaments tied with ruby ribbons, perfectly matching the tree’s ribbon.
4. Finishing Touches:
   LED clip-on candles and frayed cream bows complete the look, adding a traditional and charming glow.

A Nostalgic Holiday Mantel

My mantel is a nod to my childhood, inspired by the way my mother used to drape garlands. I started with four Willow Pine garlands (each 73 inches long) secured with sturdy 3M hooks.

• Garland Styling: I wove a 2.5-inch ruby velvet ribbon through the garland and added copper fairy lights for a magical twinkle.
• Stockings & Bells: I hung two stockings and accented one with a cluster of golden bells for sparkle.
• Candles & Magnolia Branches: Chiseled candlesticks and magnolia branches bring a natural, elegant touch.

Holiday Bells That Make Magic

Our handmade holiday bells are crafted by a family-run Amish workshop in Pennsylvania. Each bell is made from solid brass with hand-stitched leather straps, making them beautiful heirlooms that sound as magical as they look. I added a Bell Keeper’s Strap to accent the mirrored armoires next to the fireplace, creating little festive moments throughout the space.

Cocktail Table Styling for the Season

For a subtle holiday touch, I placed Cypress Sprays in a vase on the cocktail table and draped a velvet ribbon over our Bell Stitch Strap. A few Mercury Glass Ornaments in a vintage bowl and a Daphne Oil Candle added warmth and charm to the tablescape.

Decorating the Staircase and Entryway

Continuing the classic theme, I swagged Willow Pine Garland along the staircase with loose, floppy brown velvet bows backed with silk. I also added our largest Sleigh Bell Strap for an authentic holiday touch.

In the entryway, I styled the table with our Alabaster Ring Bowl with Mercury Glass Ornaments and placed a Daphne oil Candle on a stone riser. I added holiday stems to our Fluted Vase, and a small Leather Bell Strap completes this holiday vignette.

Classic Christmas in the Kitchen

In the kitchen, I draped Willow Pine swags over the windows, accented with olive velvet ribbons and Golden Bell Clusters. I added more garlands on the floating shelves and tied Silk Ribbons to pottery and glassware.

The island features magnolia branches, brown ornaments, and our Arch vase and pedestal—a simple yet elegant way to keep the holiday vibe flowing from the great room into the kitchen.

Holiday Moments in the Great Room

To finish off the great room, I arranged Cypress Sprays in a wide-mouthed vase, creating a lush, eye-catching display. Ruby red taper candles and our Eight-Bell Strap adds the final festive touches.

On the other side of the room, I placed clipped magnolia and Cypress branches in the Livingston Vase for another holiday moment.

Deck the Halls and Create a Home You Love

If you’re looking for more Christmas inspiration, explore the complete holiday collection on ashleychilders.com. For more design inspiration and holiday festivities, connect with me on Instagram and Pinterest!

Remember, good design is for everyone! This season, take time to deck the halls with joy and create a home that inspires you. Have fun decorating and fall in love with where you live—one room at a time!