A touch of glamour for your Christmas Tree?

Decorating the Christmas tree is one of my absolute favourite parts of the Christmas season. Every year, I get so excited to pick out the perfect tree—usually one that’s slightly too big for the living room (hence the mark on my ceiling from last year!). There’s something so special about gathering around with family, untangling the fairy lights, and hanging each ornament with care. This year, I’ve been inspired to add a more sustainable twist to my decorating traditions. If you’re looking for ways to make your Christmas tree both beautiful and eco-friendly, here are some simple yet delightful ideas to try.

1. Handmade Ornaments from Natural Materials

There’s a unique charm in handmade decorations, and choosing ornaments made from natural materials like wood, clay, or recycled paper adds a rustic elegance to your tree. Wooden stars, carved figurines, or clay ornaments can be handcrafted by artisans or even made at home. Not only do they look beautiful, but they’re also much kinder to the planet than plastic alternatives. These ornaments can be used year after year, becoming a cherished part of your Christmas decorations.

Tip: Look for decorations made by local crafters or small businesses that focus on sustainable practices. These ornaments often have a story behind them, making your tree feel even more special. I love Etsy for this, and missed out on a hand-knitted Baby Yoda last year! Gutted.

2. DIY Natural Decorations

If you enjoy a bit of crafting, why not make your own decorations using natural materials? Dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, pinecones, and even sprigs of rosemary can add a lovely, organic touch to your tree. These elements bring a cosy, fragrant warmth to your home and are completely biodegradable. You could even make it a fun family activity to gather materials on a winter walk and create your own unique ornaments.

Tip: Thread dried orange slices with twine and hang them up as simple, elegant ornaments. They not only look beautiful but also fill the room with a lovely citrus scent.

3. Upcycled and Recycled Decorations

Get creative with upcycled decorations by repurposing materials you already have at home. Old fabric scraps can be turned into rustic ribbon garlands, while recycled paper can be folded into delicate stars or snowflakes. These decorations add a personal touch to your tree and help reduce waste. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about giving new life to something that might have been thrown away.

Tip: Use old magazines or newspapers to make paper chains or origami ornaments. It’s a fun, mindful activity that brings a bit of nostalgia and creativity to your Christmas décor. 

4. Biodegradable Garlands and Lights

Garlands and lights are a must for any Christmas tree, but they don’t have to be wasteful. Swap out plastic tinsel for biodegradable options like garlands made from natural fibres, popcorn, or cranberries. As for lights, choose energy-efficient LED options that save on electricity and last longer than traditional bulbs. These small changes can make a big difference in reducing your environmental footprint.

Tip: Make a popcorn and cranberry garland for a vintage, homely feel. It’s simple, sustainable, and looks charming draped across the tree.

5. Beauty Baubles: Decorations That Double as Gifts

Give your tree a touch of glamour with a gifted Beauty Bauble. These are eco-friendly ornaments that are filled with small gifts, like lip balms or mini moisturisers. Beauty Baubles are a wonderful way to combine decoration with gifting—perfect for those who like to treat themselves or surprise a loved one. They add a playful touch to your tree while also encouraging sustainable, thoughtful gifting.

Tip: You can buy beauty baubles ready-made or create your own using reusable or biodegradable ornaments. It’s a great way to add a bit of luxury to your Christmas tree without compromising on sustainability. They also make great gifts for yourself!

Bringing More Meaning to Your Festive Traditions

By incorporating some of these sustainable decoration ideas, you can transform your Christmas tree into a celebration of both beauty and eco-consciousness. It’s all about making small, mindful choices that add up to a more thoughtful holiday season. Whether you’re crafting your own decorations, supporting local artisans, or adding a few beauty baubles for fun, each step helps to create a more meaningful and memorable festive experience.

So, this year, as you place your fairy lights on your tree, consider a more sustainable approach. It’s a lovely way to keep the spirit of Christmas alive—full of joy, creativity, and care for the world around us.