How to Decorate a New Christmas Tree on a Budget

If you moved into your first new home this year and purchased your first full-sized Christmas tree, you may be shocked at the expense of decorating a new Christmas tree. Ornaments, lights, tree toppers, and tree skirts all add up and can put a strain on your holiday budget. Here are some tips on how to decorate your new tree without breaking the bank.

Use Cheaper Alternatives to Ornaments

Ribbon and fake flowers are often less expensive than ornaments and can go a long way to fill out your tree. Tie bows around tree limbs or thread holiday ribbon through the limbs. You can run ribbon vertically or horizontally. A big ribbon bow makes a great tree topper. Red or white silk poinsettas look elegant on a Christmas tree. Cut off the flower heads and set them on the limbs, or wire them around the branches. Buy them in a bush instead of individually to save money.

Buy Balls in Bulk

Home stores often sell ball ornaments in bulk packages that include a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. You may not like the generic look of ball ornaments, but you can definitely get more bang for your buck if you go this route. You can slowly replace the cheaper ball ornaments over the years with other ornaments that you collect.

Have a Party

If you are watching your budget, having a party might not be an option. But, if you are already having a holiday party, ask each guest to bring an ornament. When the guests arrive, they can help you decorate by hanging their ornament on your bare tree. If you have a lot of family and friends, this is a great way to personalize your new Christmas tree.

Get Crafty

Making ornaments is a great option if you are crafty or have kids. There are thousands of Christmas ornament craft ideas on the Internet. Or visit your local craft store for ideas. It can be inexpensive to make quality ornaments, and the sentimental value of having a Christmas tree filled with handmade ornaments makes it well worth the time and effort. You may even begin a tradition and make a new ornament with the kids every year.

Shop After the Holidays

If your new tree is quite bare this year, go shopping after Christmas when stores slash prices. You can usually find lights, ornaments, and other holiday decorations reduced at least 50% Christmas day. Then, pack your new items away and look forward to decorating next year.