The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course… decorating your home to create that warm and inviting space for you and your loved ones. The thing is, costs can quickly add up if you’re not being careful. However, the good news is, decorating for the holidays doesn’t have to be expensive! In this post, I”ll go over some decor ideas on a budget, including DIY projects and affordable purchases to help you create a festive vibe without breaking the bank!
Thrift Store Finds: Unique (and festive) Decor on a Budget
One of the best kept secrets for budget holiday decor is.. your local thrift store! These stores often have unique items that can add character to your home and yes that also includes holiday season decor!
Tips for Thrift Store Shopping:
- Glassware: You can include vintage (or just a bit older) glass ornaments to add to your Christmas tree, candle holders can also add a touch of class.
- Fabrics: Look for festive tablecloths, fabric scraps, or even old holiday sweaters that can be repurposed into throw pillows (thrifty and creative!)
- Seasonal Decorations: Don’t overlook old decorations that are probably sitting in a box somewhere in your basement or garage. Items from past holidays can be transformed into modern decor.
DIY Holiday Decorations: Get Crafty!
Before you go out and buy new decorations, take a look first at what you already have. Upcycling items you already have can be a fun and budget-friendly way to level up your holiday decor.
Upcycling Ideas:
Old Christmas Cards: Take old holiday cards and turn them into garlands or wall art by cutting them out into festive shapes and stringing them together.
Jars: Turn your empty jars into holiday candle holders with a little paint or some twine wrapping and a tea light.
Fabric scraps: Cut up old linens or clothes and turn them into a holiday decoration. Even that red plaid shirt you got in the back of your closet can make a great table runner!
Empty Jars: Turn empty jars into candle holders by painting them or wrapping them with colorful strings.
Affordable Holiday Purchases
If you do decide to buy a few new items, there are many affordable options available. Here are some budget-friendly purchases:
Budget-Friendly Places to Shop:
Dollar Stores: Many of these carry a nice selection of holiday decorations, from ornaments to festive table settings and at very low costs.
Big-Box Retailers: I know both Target and Walmart are just two of many stores that carry seasonal decor at reasonable costs, especially when on sale.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like Etsy and Amazon have many items that are made by hand or in sets
Create a Festive Vibe with Lighting
Lighting will make any room feel warm and cozy for the holiday. There are plenty of budget-friendly lighting options to set the tone in your home.
Budget Lighting Ideas:
String Lights: String Lights can make all the difference especially during the holiday season. Place them along windows, above doorways, or even down a mantel for a magical winter look. Find them at a reasonable price at craft stores or online marketplaces like Amazon.
Candles: Make your home warm and aromatic with inexpensive tea lights or scented votive candles. Set them out for an added holiday effect.
DIY Lanterns: Make your own lanterns by decorating paper bags and placing LED tea lights inside for a warm, soft glow that will make your home feel festive and cozy!
Seasonal Scents on a Budget
Budget-Friendly Scent Ideas:
Simmer Pots: If you don’t want to use candles, simmer water with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus peels on the stove to fill your home with holiday aromas.
Essential Oils: Use a diffuser with holiday-inspired essential oils like pine, cedarwood, or cinnamon for a refreshing scent.
DIY Potpourri: Create your own potpourri by drying citrus slices and mixing them with spices for a lovely seasonal scent. Add cinnamon for a little spice!
Embrace Nature in Your Decor
Bringing elements of nature into your holiday decor can be both beautiful and budget-friendly. Natural decor pieces are guaranteed to give your home that winter time rustic charm.
Nature-Inspired Decor Ideas:
Evergreen Branches: Take branches from evergreen trees, like pine or cedar trees, and use them in garlands or centerpieces.
Holly and Berries: Use holly branches or even berries for various arrangements or to adorn the wreaths.
DIY Wreaths: Make your own wreath out of a foam or wire base, then glue on natural items like pinecones, berries, and dried citrus fruits.
Budget-Friendly Holiday Table Settings
Source: PhotoHector Manuel, Styling-Buffy Hargett Miller
Consider hosting holiday gatherings; this table setup screams festivity and holiday charm. Here is how you can have a beautiful table without spending too much:
Simple Table Setting Ideas:
Mix and Match: Use a mix of different glassware and dishes you may have in your cupboard, aim for festive or colorful tableware
Natural Centerpieces: Make special centerpieces using fruits of the season, nuts, or branches put together in a bowl or placed on a tray.
Homemade Place Cards: Simple homemade place cards created from card stock or scrap wrapping paper create a personal touch into your table presentation. You can even write down names of your loved ones and guests who will be attending your holiday dinner.
It really doesn’t have to cost a fortune to decorate your home for the holidays. A little bit of creativity and resourcefulness can result in a festive atmosphere that reflects your style without breaking your budget. From second-hand store finds to DIY projects, there are endless options to celebrate this time of the year affordably. Unleash your inner decorator and have fun making your home a joyful and inviting place for the holidays!
