We all look forward to the beginning of December. Shop windows are decorated, enticing us inside to explore their wares. We start seeing Christmas trees of all shapes and sizes: some decorated simply; others are covered with birds and ribbons, shiny baubles and anything that you could put on a tree.

In our family, the Christmas tree always sat in one of the windows of our front room, with curtains open so that passers-by could see the tree lit up at night. Old decorations would be pulled out of their storage boxes, and new glistening ornaments were placed prominently, to be admired.

We always had little fairy lights, strands of coloured globes. We thought the lights looked so beautiful; every year we would debate whether the lights should be set to remain alight, or flicker on and off.

Working in retail, over many years I have decorated many trees. For one of my favourite Christmas windows, we erected a tall white tree, dripping with white fairy lights and shiny red baubles. Our concept was snow, trying to recreate a white Christmas.

Another year, a client wanted a forest of black trees, so we installed a cluster of short and tall trees in the window display. Of course, we had plenty of sparkling lights, and our trees were covered with silvery stars and glass baubles.

If you’ve decided to use a single colour for your tree and its decorations, use different size ornaments made of various materials. Some people like a coordinated look, perhaps using one or two colours, and then coordinating the gift wrap and ribbons for the presents placed under the tree.

If you wish to try something different, what about mixing your metals, using silver and gold decorations and baubles all over a green tree? Regardless of the colours you choose for the decorations, your tree will be lifted with the sparkle from strands of lights.

Enjoy your moments decorating the tree and keep in mind it may be seen from many angles, and don’t argue too much about whether the lights should stay on, or flicker on and off!

Wishing a safe and merry Christmas to all.

Published in the December 2023 Issue of The Trentham Trumpet