As a family-run business, Christmas is one of our favourite times of year, both in our shops and at home. Decorating the home is a cherished part of December and a wonderful way to start the run-up to the big day. We caught up with Claire, our Visual Merchandising Director, to pick her brain on how to style your Christmas tree thoughtfully this December.
When I think back to my childhood, our family tree was a glorious chaos of Christmas cheer. It had everything but the kitchen sink thrown at it from tinsel and baubles, to Christmas crackers and party popper streamers, all crowned by a rather scruffy yet much-loved fairy perched proudly on top. To this day, that same fairy graces my
tree. She may not be the prettiest decoration, but every year when I place her on top, she brings back those feelings of joy and nostalgia from Christmases past.
People imagine that, because I work in Visual Merchandising, my Christmas tree must be styled to perfection, with each ornament placed with calculated precision. In truth, nothing could be further from it.
For my husband and I, decorating our Christmas tree is a trip down memory lane. It’s full of pieces that tell our story, with keepsakes from loved ones no longer with us, gorgeous little treasures we’ve found on our travels, and new additions we’ve picked up to mark each passing Christmas and our life together. We are always on the lookout for a unique decoration for our tree and continue building our story.
It isn’t perfect, but it’s perfectly ours.
Here are some thoughts on how you could create your own eclectic tree:
Start with sentiment, not symmetry
An eclectic tree is all about storytelling. Begin by unpacking your decorations and taking a moment to remember where each piece came from. Don’t worry about matching colours or perfect placement, let your tree evolve naturally as you rediscover old favourites and introduce new treasures.
Choose what speaks to you
Let go of any strict theme and decorate with pieces that mean something to you. Purchase ornaments that spark moments of joy or simply make you smile. It’s those personal touches that bring warmth and character to your tree.
Layer texture and tone
Play with textures. Think glossy baubles, matte ceramics, burnish metallics, jewelled decorations, berry sprigs, flowers, feathers and ribbon. Choose a few tones that reappear throughout (like gold, red, or natural woods) to keep it feeling cohesive but never too ‘done’.
Top it your way
Whether it’s a traditional star, a much-loved family fairy, a beautiful big bow, or something entirely unique, your tree topper should make you smile.
Let your lights do the storytelling
Warm white fairy lights add a nostalgic glow and a touch of magic. Wind them deep into the branches first, then work your way outward so they highlight your decorations, like spotlights on special memories.
Step back and let the memories shine
The magic of an eclectic Christmas tree is that it tells your story. Once it’s dressed, sit back with a hot drink, turn on the tree lights, and enjoy the glow - not of perfection, but of love, laughter, and all the memories hanging from those branches.
Shop our festive collection, including Christmas tree decorations, at your local Vinegar Hill store.