Every year when December rolls around, I feel the same mix of excitement and overwhelm: How do I make my home feel festive without buying everything in sight? And where do I even start?
My living room felt a little flat, my entryway needed some love, and every corner seemed to be begging for a bit of Christmas magic. So instead of overthinking it, I started small, adding simple layers, cozy textures, and a few standout seasonal pieces.
And honestly? That’s all it took to make everything feel warm, inviting, and “holiday-ready.”
If you’re craving the same cozy transformation, these Christmas decorating ideas are easy to recreate using pieces you already own (and a few fun additions from the Decor Steals holiday collection). They’re perfect for entryways, trays, mantels, dining tables, small spaces, and picture ledges (and totally approachable, even if you’re decorating on a budget).
1. Start with a Cozy, Festive Entryway
Your entryway is the first moment of holiday magic your guests see, so keep it simple but intentional. Try adding seasonal artwork, a mini wreath, and a textured basket on a bench (if you have one in that space). If you have always wanted a board and batten wall, it’s easier than you think to DIY. Check out this post where @ourwiscohome goes through how to make one and @the_penton_farmhouse shares inspiration on how to style it through the seasons!
Pro Tip: Layer faux greenery with bells or ribbon for instant Christmas charm. You can also wrap faux garland in the shape of a wreath and hang it from a peg on a board and batten wall like I did.
Get the Look (on a Budget)
- Arched Winter Angel Wall Art, Set of Two | Switch-a-Print Series
- Oversized Merry Christmas Metal Wall Sign with Reindeer
- Willow Woven Lidded Basket with Vegan Leather Strap
- Vintage-Inspired Reclaimed Wood Folding Bench
- Heirloom Garden Bench
- Georgian Chest Entryway Storage Bench (This one is great to hold all of those winter hats and mittens!)
These seasonal entryway pieces always go fast during December, so don’t wait!
2. Create a Cozy Christmas Mantel with Layered Heights
A beautifully styled mantel instantly elevates your home. Start with a garland, then mix in wooden houses, lanterns, bottle brush trees, and LED candles. Check out how beautiful @my.curated.cozy holiday mantel is!
Get the Look (on a Budget)
- Let Heaven & Nature Sing Canvas Wall Art
- 52 Inch Tall Vintage-Inspired Lifesize Santa Cutout | Santa Friends Collection
- 20 Foot Real Mixed Pine Cedar Christmas Garland
Why This Works
- Varying heights keep it dynamic
- Layering adds warmth and depth
- Candlelight = instant cozy vibes
Quick Specs
- Ideal for rustic farmhouse Christmas décor
- Works with real or faux fireplace mantels
- Perfect spot for small stocking stuffers or mini décor
3. Dress Up Your Dining Table with Unique Statement Pieces
A festive riser or tray is the easiest way to make your dining table holiday-ready. Add LED candles, ribbon, ornaments, or mini trees for even more excitement. Our friend @birchlanebyjennifer outdid herself with this stunning tablescape!
Get the Look (on a Budget)
- Vintage White Scrollwork Metal Sleigh with Curved Runners
- Whimsical Santa Face Christmas Mug, Set of 2 (more vintage look)
- Santa 15oz. Figurine Coffee Mug (more modern look)
- 6 Foot Long Pre-Lit Faux Pine Garland
Additional Tablescape Statement Pieces
- Santa Claus 3-Tier Metal Serving Stand | 42 Inch Festive Showstopper - We used this to make a ginormous hot cocoa bar…the kids LOVED it!
- Cast Iron Reindeer Utensil Caddy with Wood Compartments | Christmas Kitchen Organizer - Use it for utensils or create a mini hot cocoa bar!
- Multi-functional Sleigh Ice Bucket Beverage Cooler - Doubles as a ice bucket!
- Carved Wooden Christmas Platters, Pick Your Style
- Three-Tier Feminine Farmhouse Display Stand
Quick Specs
- Easy to decorate or fill with pieces that fit your style and home
- Works on long or round tables
- Adds texture + color instantly
4. Style Trays, Baskets & Everyday Items with Holiday Cheer
The secret to Christmas decorating? Use what you already have. Tiered trays, risers, cake stands, and cutting boards can all become little festive moments. Add a mug + mini tree + greenery + tiny sign = instant cozy vignette.
Get the Look (on a Budget)
- 17 Inch Rustic Dough Bowl with Handles | Farmhouse Centerpiece
- Distressed Iron Intricate Cut Out Round Display Stands, Set of 3
- Rustic Pedestal Compote Display Stand, Set of 2
- Pine Wood Risers, Set of Two
- Timeworn Curved Frame Tiered Tray
- Tabletop Round Wood Serving Tray with Cloche
- Candles
- Holiday Mugs
- Bottle Brush Trees
Micro-Benefits:
- Budget-friendly
- Great for kitchens & coffee bars
- Makes small spaces feel intentional
- Can be used year round
- Check out this charcuterie tree tutorial to style on your trays at your next gathering!
5. Repeat Elements for a Designer Look
Use “sets” of items—three trees, two lanterns, matching colors—to create a cohesive, professionally styled look. Below are a few of my favorite decor sets!
Get the Look (on a Budget)
- White-Washed Wooden Village Houses with Star Cutouts, Set of 5
- Antique Inspired Cone Santas, Set of 3
- Vintage Christmas Village Luminary, Set Of 3 - Make these fit your style! Check out how @ourwiscohome DIYed these into 3 different style houses here.
- Christmas Village Cutout Metal Lantern with Handles, Set 3 - These double as unique gift holders. Check out our @ourwiscohome used them as decor and gift holders here.
Quick Specs
- Works in any room
- Ideal for coffee and side tables
- Makes even affordable décor look high-end
Final Thoughts: Christmas Decorating That Feels Magical…Not Overwhelming
You don’t need to redecorate your entire home to make it feel festive. A few layered textures, some greenery, a touch of twinkle, and thoughtful styling can transform your space into a cozy, joyful holiday haven.
Want More Ideas Like This?
We share new steals, styling inspiration, and customer favorites every single week at the Decor Steals Journal, so don’t miss out. Also, each day we have 3+ new steals (1 extra if you sign up for emails and SMS), so don’t miss your chance to grab those here!