Featured Image: Robert Adams
I’ve always been obsessed with Christmas, thanks in part to an enthusiastic dad who looked forward to the holiday all year long, and growing up in a storybook small town that is now, quite literally, the setting of Hallmark holiday movies every year (more info if you want to visit).
When it comes time to deck my tree, my skills stop at hanging a few sentimental ornaments I’ve saved from childhood or collected as souvenirs and adding some pretty white lights. With Ralph Lauren Christmas trending this year, may it be the year of leveling up.
Robert Adams, owner of Tis the Season in Cartersville, Georgia, has been running his year-round Christmas shop for more than 20 years, helping families and designers across the Southeast nail that picture-perfect holiday look. If you’re also ready to level up your tree this year, here’s what he recommends.
The Big Trend for 2025: Vintage Nostalgia
Before we get into technique, Adams called the overarching trend for this season: vintage nostalgia is back. Think classic red and green color schemes, nutcrackers lined up on mantels, reindeer figurines, and bells—all the stuff that feels like your grandparents’ Christmas, but elevated. If you’ve been leaning minimalist for the past few years, 2025 is the year to add some color and intentional whimsy.
Start with the Lights
“If you’re using a live tree or an unlit artificial tree, always add the lights first to set a glowing foundation,” Adams says. This seems obvious until you realize how many people try to weave lights in after ornaments are already up. Don’t do that to yourself.
Add Picks and Ribbon Before Ornaments
Here’s where most people go rogue and start hanging ornaments immediately (she types, looking in the mirror). But Adams shares that picks (decorative sprays of berries, pinecones, or greenery) and ribbon give your tree structure before you layer in the rest.
“These establish your color palette and add texture and depth—plus, they’re an easy way to refresh your décor,” he explains.
And speaking of ribbon: bows are in. Adams describes the trend as “bows a go-go.” Oversized velvet bows, dainty ribbon bows tied around ornaments—if you can tie a bow on it, do it. He suggests treating your tree like a giant gift and wrapping it accordingly.
Tree Topper Goes On Before Ornaments
This one surprised me, but it makes sense. Getting your tree topper secured early helps you visualize balance as you add ornaments. Plus, you avoid accidentally knocking off delicate ornaments on your ladder-climbing journey to the top.
Fluff Your Artificial Tree Section by Section
If you’re using an artificial tree, Adams says to fluff each section before assembling the whole thing. It’s tedious, but it makes the tree look fuller and more symmetrical—and saves you from trying to reach inside a fully assembled seven-footer (this is scratch central, your arms will thank you).
Layer Your Ornaments (Bigger to Smaller)
The move away from minimalism means layering is key this year. Adams recommends starting with larger ornaments and picks near the trunk, then working outward with medium-sized pieces, and finishing with smaller ornaments on the outer branches. This creates depth and keeps your tree from looking flat.He also suggests placing solid-color glass or mirrored ornaments deeper inside the tree to reflect the lights.
“This helps reflect the lights and add extra pizzazz to the tree,” he says.
Don’t Forget the Base
The biggest mistake people make? Stopping at the lowest branch. Adams says the base matters just as much as the topper. Whether it’s a classic tree skirt, a woven basket, a sleigh, or a decorative metal collar, make sure it complements your theme and ties everything together.
Happy decorating!
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