How to Style a Cozy, Rustic Christmas Tree
Hey there! I've been waiting patiently for the clouds to roll out so I could snap some photos of the house all decked out for the holidays. After what feels like an endless string of grey days, the sun is finally out, and I couldn't be happier.
Ironically, the gloomy weather is exactly why I'm using such a bright, natural palette for my decor this year!
A New Home for the Tree
This is the first year we've moved the tree into the family room by the fireplace. In previous years, it sat in the living room, but having it right where we hang out most has made it so much more special.
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I knew from the start I wanted a rustic tree base. I was on the hunt for a wooden box or container to skip the traditional tree skirt this year. After striking out at the stores (everything was either too expensive or just not "it"), I was about to build one from scratch.
Then, fate stepped in! At our local flea market, we found a vintage galvanized tub for only $10. We immediately knew it was the perfect "stand" for a rustic look.
Pro Tip:
If your tree stand is slightly larger than your container, don't give up! Mr. RLC had to make a few minor adjustments to the base to get it to fit snugly, but the industrial-meets-farmhouse result was well worth the effort.
The Ornaments: Wood, Denim, and Nature
Once the tree was secure in its tub, the fun began. I wanted a look that felt effortless and organic, so I leaned heavily into natural materials.
Handmade Touches: The embroidery hoop ornaments I made back in October were the first to go on. They set the tone for the entire natural palette.
Wooden Accents: I found some plain wooden ornaments at Michael's that worked perfectly alongside wooden deer silhouettes, stars, and snowflakes.
Chalkboard Style: I hung several wooden chalkboard ornaments from Target. I haven't decided if I'll write words on them yet—I kind of love the simple black-and-wood contrast as-is!
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| Flocked Christmas Tree |
Textural Fillers: To give the tree that "collected" feel, I scattered deer antlers, denim stars, and even cotton balls (they look just like snow!) throughout the branches.
The Finishing Touches
To tie everything together, I topped the tree with a 3D galvanized star to match the vintage tub at the bottom. While the tree came with a few pinecones, I tucked in a few more for extra dimension.
Of course, a tree isn't complete without some personality.
Get the Look
This was my first time attempting a fully rustic theme, and I am officially a convert!
It was so effortless to decorate, and the result feels incredibly cozy.
Have you ever tried a rustic holiday theme?
I'd love to hear what natural elements you use!
If you want to see how I styled the rest of the room,
For more Christmas DIY ideas, check these out:
goregous!
ReplyDeleteI love it! Natural just appeals to me, and I love the tub it is sitting in! Cristina you photos are so pretty, amazing work!
ReplyDeleteYour tree looks beautiful and so many lovely ornaments. I did a neutral Christmas living room and tree plus dining room two years ago and really loved it. I am thinking next year that I may go that route again.
ReplyDeleteOh I love, love, love it.
ReplyDeleteYour tree is so pretty, and I love the galvanized tub you found to hold it...Perfect!!
ReplyDeleteMary Alice
Our home is full of rustic decor, so our tree always has rustic touches to it. We always have fun, family ornaments though!
ReplyDeletexoxo, SS
The Southern Stylista
It's absolutely gorgeous Cristina! I want to do rustic for my next year's theme so I'm taking pointer from you! Love it!
ReplyDeleteIt is so pretty! I like the addition of the galvanized tub and star and the grain sack bench and your rustic packages. Just lovely! One year I decorated my tree with dried hydrangeas from my garden, birds' nests, clusters of red berries and snowy pine cones. That was my favorite tree ever. I wish I still had hydrangeas so I could do it again.
ReplyDeleteSue P.
Your tree looks beautiful! I admire your decorations. I will definitely try some of the ideas. Thanks! With the white colour your home looks so clean and bright.
ReplyDeleteNow that picture belongs in a magazine!!! Just stunning my friend! Have a great weekend.
ReplyDeleteJust stunning! Your photography is magazine-worthy! Love, love, love it all!!!!
ReplyDelete:) Linda
Wow, I love the flocked tree and the monochromatic color scheme...so pretty!
ReplyDeleteThe tree is so soft and pretty. I love the calming neutral color scheme!
ReplyDeleteHello, I'm in love with your tree and I'm attempting to decorate mine similar to yours. Do you mind sharing where you purchased your tree and galvanized star? So happy I found your blog! Looking forward to what you do this year.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping by! I bought the tree last year over at Walmart, It's a Pre-Lit 7.5' Winter Frost Pine Artificial Christmas Tree, Green, Clear lights. $125 before taxes.
DeleteThe galvanized star is from Michaels, they must bring it again this year. Good luck with them!
Thank you so much for replying, I'm honored :) Your tree is picture perfect and belongs in a magazine. I searched online and they no longer sell your tree, fingers crossed they sell a similar one to yours. One more question. What did you add to the tree are they brown branches of some sort? I can't make if out in the photo. Thanks
ReplyDeleteYou're so sweet, thanks! Search under "Flocked Christmas Trees" that's how this type of tree is commonly called. I saw very similar ones but a bit pricier. No, I didn't add branches, only the ornaments, some extra pine cones and a long piece of ribbon/thick jute rope.
DeleteThanks again :D for replying. I would have never thought of using thick jute rope, I'll have to try that. So the hunt begins for an affordable flocked Christmas tree. Hope you have a blessed day.
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