I love the holidays, and more specifically, Christmas! My family is really, really, really into the whole “it’s the most wonderful time of the year thing.” For the last few years though, I’ve been so busy working, that decorating my apartment for Christmas just seemed like more work., and I couldn’t fathom the thought of even thinking about decorating.

 

However, I promised myself that in 2012, things would be different, and I’m proud to report my progress!

 

I opted not to get a tree this year, because I’m going out of town for ten days over Christmas, and not going to get a tree really cut a big chunk of time off of the whole process. That said, I decorated my apartment in under one hour, and, if I do say so myself, it looks quite cute and festive!

 

Here are some fun, and VERY efficient ways to get your place in the holiday in no time for all of my fellow-multi-taskers out there. I promise, you can do this!

 

Bulb Decorations Are Extremely Multi-Purpose

Head to your local 99 cents store, Target, or similar inexpensive store. Pick a color palate you like and buy a bunch of bulbs in different sizes (I chose silver and gold). You can fill any sort of decanter, vase, or large clear/glass container with the bulbs. I used a cupcake display multi-tiered tray from Ikea as well as a decorative glass container from Home Goods, and I think it looks so pretty! I don’t have a mantle, but I like to this of this as a makeshift version. It’s really the centerpiece of the holiday decor in my home. FYI, I already had the table runner and candle holders. It’s great to pull from items you already have in your house.

 

 

Garlands & Lights

 

The holiday season is the only time of year you can truly get away with having lots of garlands in your house, unless by some random chance, you happen to live in a Swiss chalet or something… I picked up some faux garlands and white lights at the 99 cents store and weaved them throughout the glass containers I placed the bulbs in. The sparkly bulbs really pick up the light, and again, it’s just so pretty (sorry for the girly gushing moment). The lights are key to bringing the whole look to life.

 

Candles

 

Pick a nice festive scent and place them around your house. Obviously, I love anything food inspired…I actually found this candle at the grocery store, but there are tons of great options out there.

 

Holiday Photos

 

I took some of my favorite holiday photos from over the years and displayed them. I think it’s a fun and nostalgic way to get into the spirit of the season. Plus, what’s the point of having photos of they’re always hidden away for no one to enjoy?!?!

 

 

Bar

 

I set up a fun little holiday bar with wine glasses and my snowman wine bottle cover. When a friend drops by we can toast to the holidays and the New Year! Crate & Barrel and Cost Plus World Market both carry great bar ware and accessories.

Music

 

Holiday music immediately sets the mood. I’m so passionate about this topic; I’ll be doing a separate post on this very soon!