Holiday Decorating, the Sustainable Way.

It’s that time of year again and many of us are are spending time joyfully decorating our homes. Before running out to big chain retailers for more decorations, consider a few of these tips to deck your halls this year. Don’t get us wrong, we love our store bought decorations as much as anyone else, but we also try to work in a few seasonal touches that reduce our footprint and save us money.

Candles and greenery are a great way to add festive touches to any space.
  1. Candles are a great way to add comfort and visual décor. Arrange tall candles on top of your mantle or table for a warm glow, or purchase a soy-wax candle that smells fantastic and is clean burning and non-toxic. Pictured above is a table at Annie’s house where she includes numerous natural elements and candles. Some of our favorites can be found at Lineage Goods.
  2. Try your hand at making your own decorations! A homemade wreath or garland can be a special focal point in your decorations. Bonus points if you can make this into a fun family or holiday gathering party to enjoy with others! If you are intimidated at the thought of making homemade items, YouTube can be your go-to guide. Here is a great tutorial on making a wreath.
  3. Opt for natural decorations and don’t be afraid to forage. Here in Virginia, there are plenty of species that add holiday charm around your home. Tuck your finds into a wreath, garland, or in a vase for some natural and seasonal beauty. Some of our favorites are magnolia leaves and seed cones, pinecones, and holly berries. Aside from foraging, a bowl of clementines with cloves or even a few pieces of cut firewood wrapped in festive ribbon can cozy up your space.
  4. Purchase quality, simple pieces you can customize each year with your evolving style. A simple sign made of quality materials can be customized with various ribbons, bows, and greenery.
  5. When decorating a tree or lighting up your windows, choose LED Christmas lights to use less energy.
  6. Think beyond visual decorations and awaken your senses with a stovetop potpourri. Annie’s favorite recipe calls for a few sliced oranges, fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and cloves that gently simmer on the stove. This warm blend aromatics can make your home instantly feel warmer and cheerful.
A holiday potpourri is a great way to add comfort and warmth this holiday season.
  1. Save wrapping paper and frame it! Sometimes wrapping paper is just too beautiful to throw away. Try framing some of your favorite pieces for a beautiful holiday piece or even make a collage.
This wrapping paper was too beautiful to be tossed. After cleaning up the edges and mounting it in a frame, it’s now a beautiful piece that can be reused for years to come.
  1. Don’t be afraid to shop for vintage or thrifted pieces! Pre-loved pieces can add instant character to your home. In Harrisonburg, we enjoy perusing Heartworn Vintage, Gift & Thrift, and Green Valley Auction for unique holiday finds.

 

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Related Posts

Now hiring: Office Manager / Bookkeeper

Now hiring: Office Manager / Bookkeeper

Now hiring: Office Manager / Bookkeeper Gaines Group Architects is growing again. We believe strongly in being in ...
Guest Blog: Assemble a Falls Prevention Team and Put Your Best Foot Forward

Guest Blog: Assemble a Falls Prevention Team and Put Your Best Foot Forward

Assemble a Falls Prevention Team and Put Your Best Foot Forward Falling is so common among older adults that many ...
Shenandoah Valley Partnership, supporting economic growth

Shenandoah Valley Partnership, supporting economic growth

The Shenandoah Valley Partnership brings together local government, education, and business to increase economic ...
Dementia Friendly Design Guide

Dementia Friendly Design Guide

Over the years, we have been grateful to learn more about dementia and dementia-friendly design through our ...
Ribbon Cutting at 910 E. High St Charlottesville Office

Ribbon Cutting at 910 E. High St Charlottesville Office

Our Charlottesville office has moved back downtown and we celebrated with a ribbon cutting. This Charlottesville ...

Discover more from The Gaines Group Architects

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading