Finding Lovely

Grab the lights and ornamentsChristmas tree season is upon us.

But before you dive in tinseling yourtannenbaum, there are a fewtree decoratingmistakes to be aware of.

Here are the common errors and a few savvy ways to avoid (and fix) them.

Christmas tree with lights near a fireplace with stockings

Finding Lovely

But what often leads to your fir’s demise is thelights.

“More is more when it comes to sparkle,” Callery says.

“Think ‘mini winter wonderland,’ not ‘half-lit motel sign.’

Tree with white and green ornaments

Finding Lovely

If there are empty spots, don’t be afraid to add another bunch of bulbs.

Want more design inspiration?

“you better take the time to individually fluff each branch,” she says.

Red decorations on an artificial Christmas tree

@houseofharvee/ Instagram

Doing so not only boosts the aesthetic appeal of your tree, but it makes decorating easier, too.

O’Malley agrees, and notes that it leads to a tree that appears “flat and monotonous.”

Instead, opt for a group of smaller decorations on these branches.

Christmas tree with star, snowflake, and round ornaments

@thehouseonhillsidelane/ Instagram

In doing so, O’Malley says you “create a natural flow and ensure the tree feels balanced.”

If you skip this part, you risk having a tree that looks unfinished and slightly off.

“Your tree is not a mullet,” Callery says.

Gold and red Christmas tree decorations

Casa Watkins Living

“It shouldnt be business on top and party on the bottom.

confirm youre decorating evenly all the way around!”

But by hanging upeveryone you own, your tree can look like a hodge-podge of clashing styles.

Christmas tree under a garland with lots of ornaments

Emily Henderson Design/ Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

“Your tree is not a scrapbook of Christmases past,” Callery says.

“Stick to a theme or color palette for a cohesive look.”

“A bare tree base can ruin the vibe,” Callery says.

Christmas tree in living room corner with all white decorations

@luckyplot13/ Instagram

For artificial trees, this is even more important for creating something that looks realistic.

Christmas tree in living room with basket base

@kirsten.diane/ Instagram