Let the Decorating Begin: Five Steps to a Great Holiday Exterior

Canadian House and Home

You can achieve a festive holiday look for you home in five simple steps.

The first step is a great wreath at the front door.  I like the silvery leaves and white berries of this wreath below.  A great natural wreath can also provide a wonderful aroma as you approach and enter a home.

Martha Stewart

I like the combination of greens and small golden bells on this wreath.

Martha Stewart

The next step is a garland.  Garlands look great around a front door, or wrapping columns, or even draped over the whole house like the photo of Aerin Lauder's home below.

Martha Stewart

House and Garden

The next step is to decorate a pair of urns, a single urn, or even a window box.  These elements look great in a summer garden, but also provide a way to bring life to a winter landscape.  I love these pretty stone urns with mixed greens.

Canadian Gardening

Canadian Gardening

Pocket Full of Posies

Pocket Full of Posies

The fourth step is to add a whimsical element. This little holly sprig and velvet ribbon are so simple, yet have a big impact.

The fifth step is to add a Christmas tree in the landscape.  I love the idea of looking out through a snow covered lawn to a distant tree, glowing with lights. 

Pottery Barn