Christmas is one of the most joyful times of the year, and outdoor decorations play a big role in that cheer. This season I used lots of fresh greens to dress my front door and fill the pots and urns by the entry. A white, lighted tree outside became the finishing touch and really made the display sing.
I don’t have a large yard or vegetable garden to tend, so this is the season when I pour my energy into holiday decorating. It’s the memories—both old and new—that make Christmas feel special each year. As soon as it feels right (and before the neighbors get too curious), I start dressing the house inside and out. Having friends and family over inspires me to try new arrangements and to welcome everyone in a way that feels warm and familiar, even if just for an evening.
Watch all about my outdoor Christmas decor.
This year I used fresh garlands to frame my doorways. I like garlands with a mix of textures and tones, then add a few personal touches to make them my own. First, I made sure each hook could support the weight—Command hooks are ideal since they’re simple to remove later. I strung the lights ahead of time so I could judge how much light I needed and where to attach it. Then I tucked magnolia leaves and boxwood sprigs into the garland, securing them with short twists of wire. A few shatterproof ornaments and some pinecones completed the look and turned a store-bought garland into something custom and seasonal.
The urns by my entry needed minimal fuss but wanted a cohesive theme. I used concolor fir and princess pine to create a base that read almost like a wreath, then filled and softened the arrangement with magnolia, boxwood, and scattered pinecones. A simple silver gazing ball on one urn added a reflective accent that catches the lights and adds depth to the display.
Small details make the display feel intentional: varying textures, a mix of foliage, and a few weatherproof ornaments. The white tree in the urn anchors the scene and gives a clean, bright focal point that works well with the deep greens and rustic pinecones. It’s a small investment of time that yields a big seasonal payoff.
The holidays pass quickly, and adding fresh-cut greens and simple accents is an easy way to lift the spirit of the season. These touches are quick to assemble, unpretentious, and they bring the outdoors in—right at the welcome of the house.
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