Themed Christmas trees are a popular choice today. A themed Christmas tree takes decorating to the next level, creating a focal point in a room to be admired throughout the Holiday season. Once the decision to create a theme tree is made, there are a few considerations to factor when choosing a theme.
Choose the type of tree that will best showcase your theme.
The tree itself will serve as a canvas for the theme. The size, shape and style of tree can influence the type of theme you choose. A petite tabletop tree does not work well with a theme that features many larger ornaments. Likewise, a thick seven-foot tree may be too dominating for a minimalistic theme of white lights and red bows. No matter which tree you choose, real or artificial, its size and shape can add or detract from its themed decorations.
Choose where the themed tree will be displayed.
Location, location, location! It is an important factor in holiday decorating. Location can inspire a theme for a Christmas tree. For example, a formal sitting room may inspire a matching formal tree themed in colors to complement the room's decor. Another formal theme that works well is a Victorian theme. There are many Christmas tree decorations available for this theme at stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels Crafts and other stores that sell holiday items.
A tree in a media/television room could easily be decorated in a Hollywood/Entertainment theme. Select ornaments that depict or have characters from your favorite or classic movies. Hallmark carries many of these. Use catalog retailers like Oriental Trading to find other Hollywood themed items that can be added to the tree with the aid of florist's wire.
A Christmas tree tucked into the corner of a home's kitchen or dining area could be decorated in a culinary theme. Cooking-themed ornaments are available including rolling pins, chef's hats, mini cookie-cutters, utensils and even mini appliances. Add bows or ribbons to accent or match the room's color-scheme for a finished look. For a tree topper, tie a ribbon and bow around two wooden spoons and secure to the topmost point.
If the tree is for a business, match the tree's theme to fit the business. A tree in a veterinarian's office can be decorated with bows featuring paw prints, ornaments in various dog and cat breeds and even pet treats that can be removed and presented to each furry visitor. The dentist's office can decorate their themed tree with toothbrushes, little boxes of floss, mini-toothpastes and even tooth ornaments made from cardstock or felt.
Inspiration for a Christmas tree theme can be found in many places.
When searching for tree theme inspirations, begin by looking at what makes you and/or your family happy. Chances are your Christmas tree will be on display for at least three to four weeks, therefore the tree theme should bring joy to you each time you look at it. If a specific theme does not immediately come to mind, look to magazines, books and online sources for inspiration. Magazines like Good Housekeeping, Family Circle and Martha Stuart Living have colorful holiday issues filled with many great ideas.
If you are considering a formal, winter wonderland theme look for inspiration in bridal magazines. A tree bedecked in cool whites, silvers and all that glitters will add a touch of elegance to most rooms. If you are having trouble deciding on one theme, consider decorating the tree with a Special Memories theme. This is perfect for a family tree. Choose, as a family, to decorate only the tree with objects, ornaments or decorations that have special meaning. These would include homemade items, ornaments received as gifts from loved ones or friends, souvenirs from trips or ornaments that commemorate a special occasion or milestone.
Remember that certain themed trees will continue to look appropriate for weeks after December 25. A tree themed with snowflakes and snowmen in blues and silver is a winter theme and can be left on display through January. However if you choose to create a tabletop Advent calendar tree, it becomes more date sensitive and will look odd still standing on January 15. An Advent calendar tree can be made by purchasing plastic ball ornaments that can be opened and filled with a treat. Each ornament must then be numbered, one for each day during Advent. Add strings of glittery beads for garland and the tree is complete. Allow the kids to have fun opening each ball on its corresponding day and finding the hidden treat.
Set a budget.
It is easy to go overboard with spending during the holiday season. By setting a budget before you do anything else regarding your tree and its theme, you can save time, trouble and worries about extra debt. Do not despair. Many decorations including ornaments, tree skirts, tree toppers and light sets can be purchased for minimal cost online and through retail stores sales specials. Set your budget early. If you choose your theme earlier in the year, you may also be able to hunt for ornaments and decorations at garage sales and flea markets. Many venders at flea markets sell like-new Hallmark ornaments for a fraction of their original cost.
Choosing a Christmas tree theme should be fun and hassle free. Whether you choose a theme that is whimsical, elegant or personal, take the time to plan and consider all the options.