If you are not going away on holiday this Christmas, you may want to make your home fun and festive.
A Christmas tree with twinkling lights placed in one corner of the living room adds festive cheer.
Despite having origins in Paganism, the tree is one of the best known Christmas decorations.
For Pagans, evergreen trees are a symbol of life and immortality.
Selecting the ideal tree and lights can be a challenge.
You can choose between an artificial tree, a natural one, a thorn tree or a tree made of twigs.
Choose what best suits your sense of style, pocket and needs.
When decorating a natural tree, place it on a stand filled with water.
It's easiest to put the lights on first, then the ornaments.
Red, green and white are traditional colours used to decorate trees.
You should keep your adornments simple.
Too many items will just make your surroundings look cluttered.
Items like candles, flowers, crackers, pictures, C hristmas balls, bells, small gifts wrapped in colourful paper , stockings, cards, bows, ribbons and even sticky mirrors can be placed strategically to reflect the festive spirit of the season.
You can create your own decorations by making patterns out of cardboard , paper or cloth that you can cut out into attractive shapes and hang up.
It is also important to pay attention to outdoor decorations.
A life-size figure of Father Christmas and lights around trees outside can increase the mood.
And remember: when the festivities are over it is important to pack your decorations safely away to avoid having to buy more next year.
WHERE TO BUY DECORATIONS
- Your nearest Pick n Pay
- Shoprite Checkers
- Game stores
- Africa Origins for Christmas crackers. Call 022-492-3813
- Display Solution. Call 011-465-4278
- JoJo Wire Metal Sculptures for unique wire sculptures. Call 021-557-7734
- Siyakatala South African Craft for hand-made products. Call 021-762-4236
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