In the collective imagination inspired by seasonal movies, the lovestruck couple wearing matching bobble hats, trudge through snow-covered New York streets pulling a plump Christmas tree behind them. They arrive to their cute apartment, where they spend joyful hours decorating the tree with heirloom baubles in beteween sips of marshmallow-filled hot chocolate. The reality, for most of us, is far form an American fairytale and a bit more like a nightmare of the fairy lights as we haul boxes down from the attic, ob the top off the tree because it's too big, and berate ourselves, once again, for not doing a better job with the decorations. But this year, with some advice, we can all end up with a beautiful-looking specimen that blends perfectly with our décor and living situation. Of course, choosing between a real or artificial tree is the first step, considering if you prefer the picture-perfect tree which will not droop throughout the season or the smell and memories which can be made when choosing one.
Anyway, the ten top Christmas tree tips according to famous interior design experts are the following:
1) When deciding between a real or artificial tree consider room temperature and whether you want picture-perfect symmetry or natural shapes and pine scent.
2) Measure the space and allow at least 15 cm between the top of the tree and the ceiling.
3) If you're keeping it real look for a tree with good colour, shape and scent that is not too densely branched and has a straight trunk, and water it regularly. If going artificial, make sure you have enough space to store the tree when festivities are over.
4) Decide a theme and colour scheme on your decorations if you wish, matching with the interior colour scheme of the room where it is placed, without forgetting the children. Personally I've sticked to gold, which I find an everlasting classic.
5) Place the tree in a low-traffic area for safety reasons to avoid bumping and toppling it over.
6) It's a great idea to invest in some beautiful pieces and add to the collection every year as they can be passed through the family and make great gifts for the next generation.
7) If your tree is not pre-lit, add lights first, 100 for every 90 cm of tree height, starting from the top, and draping them in a circle, front and back, layer by layer until you reach the bottom and trying to hide cables behind the branches. Moreover, if you need to use a multi-socket extension lead run it down the centre of the tree, so it will not be seen when the tree is decorated.
8) Position the tree topper then weave garlands, bows and ribbons down the tree if you're using them.
9) Add focal points with big, oversized baubles decorations.
10) Fill in with ornaments and balls, remembering to place the larger ones towards the bottom, medium in the middle and smaller ones on top.
Now, it's up to you to create you ideal Christmas tree, and perhaps, the selection of beautiful Christmas trees I chose for you will stimulate your creativity.
