Read our Blog for some last minute Christmas decorating ideas.

Approximate reading time 3 minutes.

Are you really back to normal or running a bit behind schedule with your holiday decorating? For some, getting back to previous habits and schedules has been a challenge. If you are one of those not up to full speed and in need of little prodding for fine-tuning or completing — or maybe even starting — your holiday sparkle, here a few ideas.

As you survey your house, hone in on the spaces that visitors will see first. Set the stage with your entryway — make it fabulous. Add some touches that make it glitter—add some glam.

Next, turn your attention to the living room or the room(s) where family and guests will gather. Make them warm, celebratory, and full of reminders of holiday joy. When you’re limited in time and inspiration, concentrate on spaces where most of the hosting and holiday activities will take place.

When adding color with your holiday touches, red, gold and silver are great colors that can be incorporated at the beginning of the season and even last until spring.

Don’t overlook smaller places that can have an added touch for the holidays. Replace that display of family photos with some holiday nick knacks. Windowsills, armoires, and yes, even bathrooms deserve a little touch of holiday magic. And, don’t forget to add some holiday spice to the guest room.

Shine, glow, sparkle.

Accessories are the jewelry for your interior decorating, even more so during the holidays. Ornaments aren’t just for the tree. A simple holiday accent can be created by placing ornaments in a crystal bowl or glass urn. Round glass balls can even be used as table place cards when you write each guest’s name on them.

Christmas place card holders from The White Company.

Soft glowing light is complementary to you and your holiday guests. Once you’ve turned the lights down low, bring out the candles by the boxful. From tall and tapered to short and stout, candles set a celebratory tone. Grouping candles in odd numbers and varying heights can add interest or consider displaying them on a silver platter for even more light and shine.

Mirrors, picture frames, and metallic vases will help your room sparkle and shine. Don’t be afraid to mix it up with lots of different metals.

Be natural.

When looking to Mother Nature for inspiration for adding holiday cheer, think beyond the obvious poinsettias. Fill vases with bouquets of fresh flowers in addition to the usual holly. Consider beautifully shaped topiaries covered with pepper berries. Or how about draping your dining room chandelier with a pine garland or holly.

Stroll down the produce aisle of your grocery store for some simple and unique holiday decorations. For example, spray paint walnuts and gourds in silver or gold and display them in a decorative basket. Or fill a crystal bowl with red and green apples. Simple and festive.

Set your own style!

Above all, make your holiday décor reflect your family’s personality. Are antique toys a personal passion? Are you a dedicated beachcomber? Try incorporating your passions or your children’s or grandchildren’s into your holiday tree design and other aspects of your decorating.

Do not be afraid to give your festive decorating an unexpected feel, a feel that relates personally to those who will use the space most often. Sometimes simple fits your style. It’s the holidays so don’t over complicate it.