Nothing says “holiday magic” quite like a beautifully dressed Christmas tree and a warm home filled with colorful holiday décor. This thought generally conjures an image that’s instantly recognizable, comforting, and evocative of childhood nostalgia and happy holidays of years past.
When you think back, you probably remember the holiday decorations that were stored in a box in the attic. Every year around Thanksgiving, the box came down and those favorite ornaments, dressings, and possibly even the Christmas tree itself emerged. The memories created are part of what makes the holiday season so great; hanging your favorite ornaments with family, being lifted by dad to put the star on top of the tree and stealing a candy cane or two off a branch when mom wasn’t looking.
While it’s important to cherish your memories, it’s equally as vital to recognize the need for change, to grow, and to create new memories with your own kids. Integrating new traditions and decorations that will be unique to your own family and household is a great place to start. An ideal first step in this process is to choose a new Christmas tree that will be the centerpiece for all other holiday activities.
Choosing the Perfect Tree
When it comes to choosing a Christmas tree, the first question to ask yourself is if you want a real or artificial one?
The rewards of a real tree are universally known. Fresh-cut trees have a wonderful aroma, a natural shape, and vibrant coloration. It’s hard to fully replicate the real thing if you have your heart set, but the benefits don’t go much further than this and after a few days the downsides start coming into play.
Artificial trees have way more benefits when you break it down. The initial cost is oftentimes less, and there’s no need to replace it year after year, only to throw it away a few weeks later. This in turn makes these trees an eco-friendly choice when compared to the cutting down of trees and all the issues that come with it. Additionally, artificial trees require no watering, are much cleaner since dried up pine needles won’t constantly be falling off and are designed to securely hold ornaments (instead of hoping the real branch you hung your favorite ornament on won’t snap).
In short, when you’re over the muss and fuss of a real tree (or simply don’t have time for one) an artificial tree is an excellent maintenance-free solution for home or at the office.
The Wide & Colorful World of Artificial Trees
With the multitude of artificial tree options nowadays, you can get a tree that really expresses your personal style. Whether you prefer the look of a traditional evergreen, a modern pre-lit slimline, or something that’s untraditional - there’s a type of tree for nearly everyone.
Traditional
There’s nothing quite like the look and feel of a traditional tree. When you combine a natural vibrant green with the texture of a real spruce or pine it can be hard to tell real from artificial. A premium quality artificial tree is timeless and will look amazing for years to come.
It’s no secret that dealing with lights is a hassle. Cords being tangled and knotted (even when you swore you more careful putting them away last year), testing bulbs and looking for the one that’s affecting the whole string, and then trying to drape them around your tree exactly right to avoid any negative space; simply put, they’re a pain. If this sounds a bit too familiar, then perhaps a pre-lit artificial tree with classic white lights is the best choice for you. It will evoke a nostalgic feeling without all the trouble of stringed lights. Perfectly placed year after year, if traditional is your aim (with as little fuss as possible) a pre-lit tree is the way to go.
Though you may love the traditional look of an artificial green spruce, you may still find yourself wanting a little something extra. If this sounds like you, then there’s a good chance you’d love an artificial pine tree with pinecones. The realistic look will have your friends and family wondering when you had time to go out to the forest to chop down your tree. And fret not, this type of tree is often available with a pre-lit option to make your holidays a bit more stress free.
If you think finding a traditional looking artificial tree that’s the definition of “extra” is impossible, think again. An artificial snow-flocked pine tree may be the perfect choice for you. Featuring branches covered in faux snow, the illusion of a freshly cut pine is perfectly created. Every time you look at it, you’ll have a hard time not envisioning an indoor winter wonderland right in your living room.
If you’re still feeling a bit blah over these trees, then maybe traditional isn’t for you. Keep reading to learn about other kinds of artificial Christmas trees options that may pique your interest.
Modern
Sure, big full trees may create a feeling of nostalgia, but if that’s not your thing it’s OK. If you consider yourself to be more modern and streamlined, then an artificial pencil fir maybe more your style. Slim line trees are great when you're short on space or just prefer a sleek look. But fear not, the natural characteristics of these trees are just as realistic as a traditional artificial tree, so you don’t end up feeling like you skimped on quality for convenience.
Many times, a modern look calls for more lighting options than just classic white. Give yourself a variety of lighting choices with ones that change and rotate between white, pastel colors, and bright colors. Strobe them or stay in a single setting - the point is you’re in control and you have options to fit your every whim.
Non-Traditional
When a classic green tree just isn’t your style, no matter how modern, but you still enjoy celebrating the holidays, explore a non-traditional colored tree. These unique trees can range in color from a bubbly pink to an edgy black and everything in between. A colorful tree is an effortless way to unleash your personal style. Though perfect for a specific Christmas theme, don’t limit these trees to just one holiday. Get the most for your money by letting the kids decorate a pink tree for Easter or Valentine’s Day. Perhaps a black tree for Halloween, Witchmas or Día de los Muertos sounds perfect for your home. Take a bold step forward and think outside the box when it comes to your holiday décor.
Classic Decorating with a Ceramic Tree
A ceramic Christmas tree is one of those vintage décor trends that’s coming 
back with style. These decorations are often smaller in size and have a classic appeal with bright coloration that makes for a joyful addition to any space.
A bonus feature to these figurines is that some have a 2-in-1 option with lights that can be changed out between white and multi-colored and interchangeable stars in different colors. Ideal for practically any space, from the mantle over your fireplace to the corner of your desktop at work, a ceramic Christmas tree is quintessential holiday décor. Just ask your parents or in-laws.
Wrapping it Up
While it’s always good to remember the traditions you grew up with, it’s key to let those memories help shape a new way of celebrating that best fits you and your new life with your own family. Whether you choose to keep the traditional décor or want to go a more modern route finding the perfect artificial Christmas tree to build your new holiday festivities around doesn’t have to be an ordeal. Just decide on which tree evokes the feeling you want to convey and go for it!