Is There Such A Thing As Too Much Christmas Decor?

You probably noticed that it began looking a lot like Christmas this year before the Halloween candy was gone. Whether you had a Christmas rush of your own or are adamant that the starting point is sometime in December, those who celebrate typically know how they like to decorate: simple and small or over the top. Some of us even love to fully embrace our inner Clark Griswold, but is there a point when it becomes too much? We asked the experts, and here’s what they said to keep in mind.

Consider Your Typical Design Style

Some experts say it depends on your non-holiday aesthetic. “How you decorate for Christmas really comes down to personal style and the feeling you want in each room of your house for the holidays,” says Tina Priestly, a home organization expert and CEO of Ready, Set, Refresh. “While some individuals prefer to keep things simple, others enjoy going all out and making everything festive. Finding a balance that suits you is the key.”

If you tend to lean toward the less is more look, you can add a splash of sophistication by placing just the right pieces in the right places. Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director at BHDM Design, encourages people to take a more subtle approach by using pieces reminiscent of pine trees or wood tones to celebrate serenely. “Hints of red still have their place in a more natural palette. Yes to red berries; no to red ribbon. I love to throw birch logs and pine branches in the mix, too.”

Prioritize What Brings Your Family Joy

Texas designer Audrey Konkel emphasizes personal taste and family tradition when decorating for the holidays. “The holidays should be what makes you and your family happy,” she says. “If that means you decorate with every surface covered in mini-trees and presents or create a more simplified, traditional display—do what brings you joy.” 

Katie Hendricks, an organizational expert who started Masterfully Managed, believes homes with children may want an extra dose of magic. “Those with children also know that making your home a joyful, cozy environment around the holidays can be such a fun tradition for the family and can bring so much excitement to the holiday season for kids,” she says.

Break It Down Room by Room

Priestly takes a room-by-room approach to balance festive touches with function. Think about the use of each room, the number of people who will be in each room, and your tolerance for the added visual attraction. A balance of all three helps dictate the decor plan.

For gathering spots, she suggests leaning toward a classy yet cheerful design. “A large Balsam Hill Christmas tree adorned with glittering lights and vibrant decorations can be the center of attention,” she says. She suggests adding pops of color and warmth to the dining room table, and holiday-themed pillows and blankets for more private living spaces. Those observing Hanukkah may consider a menorah on the kitchen table, the mantel, or both. Adding blue and gold accents adds a festive touch to any room.

Keep Saftey Top of Mind

Safety is also important when deciding which and how many decorative items will work for your home. Konkel has a toddler, so her family keeps it simple, limiting the number of ornaments and keeping other decor at counter height to avoid accidents. “Holidays can bring a lot of stress; your interior space should bring you a sense of calm and holiday happiness.”

The Bottom Line

No matter which way you lean, know you aren’t alone. Want to go all out? Then shine on.

Designer Tracy Metro loves to see scenes that are fun and full of flair. “I’m pretty sure there is no such thing as too much holiday décor. “The only time it gets to be a bit much is… wait a minute. Nope. One can never go too crazy for the holidays. It’s the holidays! Have fun with it. Be over the top! It’s not like it’s your house all year long,” she says.