Decorating the Christmas tree is one of the loveliest festive rituals – a moment to pause, get cosy, and turn your home into something truly magical. To help yours look its best this year, our Seasonal, Home & Visual Experience Manager, Mark, has shared his tried-and-tested styling tips. His team creates all the beautiful display trees you see in the garden centre, so he really does know what makes a tree stand out.
Here’s how to get that professional, balanced, and beautifully festive finish at home.
Start with a High-Quality Tree
Whether you choose real or artificial, the tree itself makes the biggest difference.
Artificial trees:
Choose one that’s sturdy, long-lasting and full in shape.
Spend time fluffing and shaping each branch — gloves and long sleeves help!
We have a range of sizes and styles in store, including slimmer trees for tighter spaces.
Real trees:
Non-drop varieties are brilliant if you want minimal hoovering.
We have a brilliant selection of premium trees.
Give the trunk a fresh cut and keep it watered to prevent early needle drop.
Pick the Perfect Spot
Consider where the tree will shine without overwhelming the room. Corners, bay windows and areas with space to step back and admire it all work beautifully. Avoid squeezing your tree into a tight space — it needs room to breathe and look balanced.
Lights First (and use more than you think)
Lights create the atmosphere, so take your time here.
Start at the bottom and work up.
Push lights slightly into the branches to give depth and a soft inner glow.
Hide visible leads by tucking them behind branches.
Make sure the bottom branches are lit so the tree looks full from top to bottom.
Pro tip: Step back and squint. If you see any dark patches, adjust accordingly.
How Many Christmas Lights Do You Need?
To achieve your perfect festive look, it helps to know roughly how many lights to use per foot of your tree. This ensures even coverage and a warm, welcoming glow.
5-Foot Tree – 500–750 lights
6-Foot Tree – 600–900 lights
7-Foot Tree – 700–1,050 lights
8-Foot Tree – 800–1,200 lights
9-Foot Tree – 900–1,350 lights
These are just guidelines – decorating your tree is personal, so feel free to use more or fewer lights depending on the effect you want.
Divide Your Tree into Sections
A really helpful way to decorate without getting overwhelmed is to view your tree in top, middle and bottom sections. Style each section individually.
You can also divide the tree into quadrants — this keeps similar decorations from ending up right next to each other.
Decorate All the Way Around
Even if your tree sits against a wall, decorate the sides. It creates a much more natural, full look and helps avoid the “flat front” effect.
Use a Triangle Pattern for Baubles
This is one of Mark’s favourite tricks. Place larger baubles in a loose triangle shape, then fill in with medium and smaller pieces. It balances colour and shape instantly.
Start with your biggest ornaments.
Tuck a few slightly deeper into the tree to add depth.
Avoid overcrowding – give each piece space to shine.
Stick to a Simple Colour Scheme
If you want a polished, coordinated look, limit yourself to three colours (you can mix tones and textures within these). This keeps everything harmonious and visually satisfying.
Not sure where to begin? Our decoration themes in-store make it easy to build a complete look.
Child-Friendly Decorating
If you have little ones, hang some of their favourite decorations at their eye level so they can join in. It makes the tree feel more personal and keeps delicate pieces out of reach.
2025 Styling Trends to Try
Bows, Bows, Bows
Bows are one of the biggest trends this year.
Tie your own using wide ribbon (velvet, satin, organza).
Use pre-made bow decorations for an easy, uniform finish.
Place a few larger bows slightly deeper into the tree for added depth and softness.
Alternative Toppers
Stars are classic, but 2025 is seeing more personality-filled toppers:
Large statement bows make a modern and tidy alternative.
Festive animal toppers (mice, robins, woodland creatures) are perfect for children’s or playful family trees.
Finish With a Skirt or Collar
A tree skirt or collar neatly finishes the base of your display.
• Skirts (faux fur, fabric, or knitted styles) add softness.
• Collars (wicker, metal or rattan) give a clean, structured look.
They hide the stand, frame your presents and help the tree feel complete.
Make an Evening of It
Pop into our Farm Shop for treats, then stand back and admire your work with a glass of something you enjoy. Once the lights dim and the tree glows, it all feels worth it!