Decorating for a Rustic Christmas
Why not decorate for an old-fashioned rustic Christmas this year? Does the modern consumer-based Christmas bore you? Tired of the bright, flashing lights and the pop culture creeping into your good old traditional holiday spirit? Here are a few decorating ideas to help you go rustic this year.
Put Away the Colored Christmas Lights
Flashing, colored lights just don't scream 'rustic.' Get the plain white kind for your tree and your house if you don't want to give up on lights entirely. While you're putting away the colored lights, get rid of any other flashing, bright, overly large, or plastic decorations. The light in a rustic setting should be soft white or yellow light. Anything that doesn't work with that lighting shouldn't be part of your rustic decorations.
Pine Cones, Candles, and Stars are Key
Need a little more light, or just a little more decoration? Candles are the way to go! Long, tall, white candles especially can bring out the rustic feel in your home (note: exercise caution while lighting candles. Never leave lit candles unattended). Other objects to focus on are pine cones, and anything made out of wood—stars in particular. Hang wooden stars on your tree as ornaments instead of the usual round ones. Any other simple wooden, straw, or glass ornaments work as well. They often sell these types of ornaments at German markets. Many cities host them every year. Instead of Santa figurines, strategically place a few pine cones around your house.
When in Doubt, Stay Simple
Rustic Christmases aren't characterized by expensive, extravagant decorations. Avoid decorations that are made out of plastic. Stick to simple wood, metal, or even glass. Wreaths are encouraged. You can incorporate red ribbon, pine cones, or candy canes, but remember to stay simple and natural. Too much is not a good thing!
