How Decorating Early Lights Up Your Spirit and Your Space

As the holiday season approaches, a special kind of magic begins to stir in our hearts and homes.

For many of us, the act of decorating for the festive period is far more than just putting up a tree or hanging lights—it’s a ritual, a celebration and a chance to transform our space into a cozy, joyous, love-filled sanctuary.

Each ornament, each twinkling light, each festive song and each garland placed thoughtfully around the home adds to the warmth and love that defines the season. Decorating goes beyond setting a holiday mood; it creates a backdrop for love, cherished traditions and unforgettable memories.

It becomes a way to connect with those around us and to honour the stories and traditions that make the holidays extra special.

For some (like me 🙋🏻) , this magic begins as early as November, when decorations come out of storage and the home gradually transforms into a winter wonderland or a tropical oasis depending where in the world we are located.

There is a science of decorating early.
Decorating early may be frowned upon by some, but there is actually science behind why putting up decorations sooner can fill our hearts with joy and wonder. 💭 Studies suggest that decorating can have a powerful effect on our mental health. When we adorn our spaces with festive décor, we are inviting joy and comfort into our lives.

Neuroscientists explain that holiday decorations can tap into the neural pathways of the brain, especially those associated with nostalgia, anticipation, love and positive memories. The lights, colours and familiar holiday symbols spark a psychological response that brings us back to cherished moments with family and friends, evoking a sense of childlike excitement and security.

Decorating early not only allows us to stretch the festive season but also extends the countdown to excitement and wonder—a joyful experience in itself. This period can serve as a counterbalance to daily obstacles in life, reminding us to pause, savor, and lean into the magic of the season. Some psychologists even say that holiday decorating can help combat seasonal blues, bringing light and cheer to the darker, colder months.

“Holiday decorations aren’t just about aesthetics. They are like an invitation for joy and comfort to take up residence in our homes.”

Curating a colour theme to create holiday magic can be an art in itself. Colours impact our moods, so selecting a palette that resonates with you and aligns with the season can create a sense of harmony in your space. Classic reds and greens bring a nostalgic warmth, while wintery blues and silvers evoke a sense of serene, snow-kissed wonder. For a more modern twist, earthy tones like deep greens, creamy whites, and wood accents can create an inviting and natural holiday vibe.

Choosing a theme isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels aligned with your unique holiday spirit. From the table settings to ornaments on the tree to the throw blankets on your couch, small details add up to make a cohesive, beautiful setting where everyone feels welcome and at home. These choices also reflect your creativity, allowing you to turn your home into an extension of yourself—a reflection of your personality and your hopes for the season.

Wild Tip: Try experimenting with a new accent colour each year. This small shift can make familiar decorations feel fresh and give you a fun new look to enjoy.

There is something truly magical about building traditions and collecting ornaments over the years. Each one tells a story, bringing memories back to life when the time comes to decorate the tree. A wonderful tradition to start is adding two new ornaments each year—one that symbolises a personal milestone or family memory, and another that represents something meaningful about the current year.

Imagine unwrapping an ornament bought on a family trip to a special place, a handmade piece that reminds you of a loved one or a small token that represents a big life change. Over the years, your tree becomes a tapestry of memories, each ornament a small piece of the love and life you have lived. In this way, the tree is more than just a decoration; it’s a symbol of family and togetherness, with each piece adding to the narrative of your lives.

Wild Tip: Add handwritten tags or ribbons to new ornaments with the date and a brief note about their significance. This is a small touch that turns your tree into a time capsule of love and memories.

You might also like to consider adding a handmade ornament from a loved one, a small symbol of a significant achievement, or even a quirky, fun piece that reflects a family joke or memory.

This tradition invites us to slow down and cherish the experiences and connections we have built throughout the years. When we pull these ornaments out each holiday season, we’re reminded of moments of joy, growth, and love all woven into the branches of our tree.

“It’s not what we have in life, but who we have in our lives that matters. Holiday traditions, like decorating, remind us of this truth.”

Decorating early can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some wild tips and tricks to help you get started:

Start Small:Begin with one area, like the mantel or your front door, to ease into the decorating process.

Layer Your Decor: Build up your decorations gradually, starting with foundational pieces like garlands or wreaths, then adding lights and ornaments over time.

Incorporate Nature: Bring the outdoors in with pinecones, eucalyptus, or even sprigs of rosemary to add a fresh, natural touch.

Plan a Decorating Party: Turn decorating into a fun event with family or friends. Play holiday music, enjoy festive treats, and make memories while you decorate together.

DIY Decorations: Create your own ornaments or garlands for a personal, creative touch. This is a great way to involve kids and make your decor unique.

Extend the Magic: Use fairy lights or battery-operated candles to create a warm glow in unexpected places, like bookshelves or the kitchen counter.

Rotate Your Decor: Bring out only some of your decorations at the start of the season, and rotate in others the holidays approach. This keeps your space feeling fresh.

Decorating for the holidays is an act of celebration, a way to welcome in the warmth and joy of the festive season. Whether you start early or prefer to wait, let your decorations reflect your heart and your story. Fill your home with symbols of love, laughter and all the beautiful memories you have created.

This season, may your space—and your spirit—shine bright with the magic and love of the holidays. May your decorations be a source of joy, a reflection of love, and an invitation to celebrate the simple yet profound beauty of connection and togetherness.