Deck the Halls Sustainably: Eco-Friendly December Holiday Decor Tips
The December holidays bring joy, celebration, and a beautiful opportunity to infuse our homes with warmth and cheer. While decorating is a cherished tradition, it doesn't have to compromise our commitment to sustainability. This holiday season embrace eco-friendly decor and create a festive ambiance while minimizing the environmental footprint.
Pinecones being used as table decor with ambient lighting
Nature's Bounty
Incorporate nature into your decor by utilizing items like pine cones, evergreen branches, and holly berries. These natural elements not only bring a rustic charm but also reduce the need for store-bought decorations. Collect pinecones during a walk in the woods, or repurpose fallen branches for a stunning centerpiece. Complement these with LED candles to create a cozy and eco-friendly ambiance. Just imagine that warm and cozy pine smell around your home, no need for a candle when you’ve got the real thing!
Upcycled Ornaments
Instead of buying new ornaments, consider upcycling items you already have at home. Transform old fabric scraps, cardboard, or even bottle caps into unique ornaments by painting, stitching, or embellishing them creatively. These personalized decorations reduce waste and add a personal touch to your holiday setup. You can also make an event of it, have some friends over, and ask everyone to bring something to create with (and to bring enough to share)!
Wreath with plant leaves, branches, and dried fruit
DIY Wreaths and Garlands
Craft your own wreaths and garlands using recycled materials like old newspapers, fabric scraps, or even dried citrus peels. These handmade decorations not only look charming but also serve as a sustainable alternative to store-bought options. Get creative by adding cinnamon sticks or dried flowers for a fragrant and eco-friendly touch. This is another aromatic element that can be added naturally to your home, instead of a candle or room spray!
Rent or Borrow Decor
If you're looking for specific decorations you might not use frequently, consider renting or borrowing them. Many communities have resources or local organizations that offer holiday decor rentals, reducing the need for buying new items that might end up stored or discarded after the season. Also, look into thrifting decor elements, and bring new life to what someone may have already gotten enough cheer from!
LED colorful lighting on a roof top
Sustainable Lighting
Opt for energy-efficient LED lights to illuminate your home. LED lights consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, reducing your electricity bill and environmental impact. Consider solar-powered outdoor lights to add pizazz to your garden without increasing your carbon footprint.
Edible Decorations
Get creative with edible decorations that not only look festive but can be a snack for later too. String popcorn or cranberries to create garlands, make gingerbread ornaments (the smell is amazing) or decorate your table with bowls of seasonal fruits like oranges and apples. After the celebrations, these treats can be consumed or composted, minimizing waste.
Lantern surrounded by pinecones and holly berries
Minimalist Approach
Embrace a minimalist decor approach by focusing on quality over quantity. A few thoughtfully chosen, durable decorations can make a striking statement without excessive waste. Invest in timeless pieces that can be reused year after year, reducing the need for constant replacements. Lanterns can be great reusable decor because they allow for creative liberty. Take a simple lantern and jazz it up with a few pinecones for the December holidays. When it’s over, feel free to find other objects that match the next season or holiday!
By adopting these sustainable decorating practices, we can celebrate the December holidays in a way that honors both the festive spirit and the planet. Embrace eco-friendly decor as a meaningful way to spread joy while caring for the environment, and let sustainability shine brightly alongside our celebrations. Happy Decorating!