Minimalism doesn't have to equal blank white walls and empty bare table tops (unless you like that sort of thing...because that's cool too!). I think its possible to make your house look festive and inviting without compromising your ideals.
The nice thing about decorating the minimalist way is that it doesn't involve going to the mall (less stress), it costs nothing and you get to make memories with your loved ones in the process. Also, my husband is happy that he doesn't have to drag zillions on boxes out of the crawl space every year!
As easy as it is to go overboard, with a few good strategies in place, it's easier to keep things simple.
Identify what parts of your home you want to decorate.
Think about which areas you spend the most time in and where decor will be best enjoyed. A Santa themed toilet seat cover may be cute but how much enjoyment are you really going to get out of that? Try to choose areas that won't interfere with your everyday life. For example, it's probably best not to put a glass bowl of temptingly beautiful Christmas tree balls on the coffee table, right at eye level of your toddler. Ask me how I know.
We chose to focus on the areas of our home where we gather most often as a family and when we have friends: the living room and the dining room. I chose a few areas of those rooms that I thought could use a little extra flair and that's where we put our decorations. In our living room we put up the tree and decorate the mantle. In the dining room we have a centrepiece on the table and our nativity display. This way we have added some holiday cheer to our home without over doing it.
Why buy it when you can make or find it?
Buying decorations can be time consuming and expensive. Not too mention, you've got to store all of that stuff for 11 months out of the year. Seems kind of silly, doesn't it? We have some decorations that we use each year (Christmas lights, ornaments that have been handed down or that the kids have made, a Christmas tree skirt, etc.) but we try to keep it to one or two boxes.
Making decorations can be a great way to save money and its a fun way to spend time together. What better way to spend an evening than stringing popcorn in front of the fire?
In true minimalist fashion, try to find ways to avoid buying materials. Look around your house and in your backyard for things that can be used. You'd be amazed at what beautiful decorations you can make without ever leaving your property!
Check out my Natural Christmas Decor pin board to get some great ideas!
Follow Kalista // When We're at Home's board Natural Christmas Decor on Pinterest.
