Christmas ornaments—why should they be limited to your tree? Spirited, meaningful, and so much fun, these little works of art can be used and enjoyed throughout your holiday home. While there are many things to do with ornaments, it often takes a touch of creativity to showcase them in all their glory. Here are five alternative ways to branch out from traditional tree decorating and bring extra joy and creativity to Christmas with ornaments.
1. Create a Mini Tree Centerpiece
Bouquets and potted poinsettias have their place, but there’s something oh-so cute about using a miniature evergreen tree at the center of your table. It’s even better, of course, decorated with ornaments that match your table’s color scheme. Here we played with an unconventional pink and red color palette starting with a mini tree placed inside a Kate Spade New York Make It Pop vase. Laden with playful ornaments from the Kate Spade New York Be Jolly collection, the tree brings exuberance and sweet style to the table. Pro-tip: consider decorating the tree with ornaments for your guests. It’s decoration and gift presentation together! This Christmas table decoration idea is fun and festive, bringing joy to the table while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
2. Decorate a Swag for the Door
If you’re looking for creative ideas to use your Christmas decorations, try adding a festive touch of charm to your front door. Wreaths are the often-used door décor during the holidays…but have you considered a swag instead? Classic, a touch rustic, and easy to create yourself, these boughs of evergreen branches are the perfect canvas for a seasonal display featuring ornaments. To match the shine of the holiday season, we used only Reed & Barton sterling silver and silverplate ornaments dangling from red ribbon. We love the icy gleam against simple greenery that proves no lighting is needed to make spirits bright!
3. Add Ornaments to Mantel Garland
You can bring the appeal of decorated branches or winter greenery onto the mantel, too! To do this, dangle ornaments from garland, staggering the length of each ornament’s ribbon to frame your fireplace and suit the shape of each one. For this scene, we used all ivory porcelain annual Christmas ornaments—consider lining up your own collection consecutively. It makes decking the halls a walk down memory lane as you recall special moments from each year. Add a personalized ornament or a family ornament to highlight a meaningful memory or celebrate a special milestone in your family’s story. No mantel? No problem! You can recreate this look on a shelf, entry table, windowsil, even the top of a window. There are no rules when it comes to decorating so let creativity be your guide!
4. Add Ornaments to Mantel Garland
Who says ornaments are just for the Christmas tree? One of the most creative ideas for displaying them is by hanging them directly on the wall. With a bit of clear fishing line, you can float ornaments at different sizes and heights, creating a stunning illusion of sparkle and movement. Arrange them in the shape of a tree, a star, or even spell out a festive word like JOY or NOEL. This unexpected display doubles as wall art and makes a statement that’s equal parts elegant and fun. It’s also an easy way to bring the beauty of your ornament collection into spaces that might not have room for a full tree.
5. Layer Ornaments Into Greenery Around the Home
If you’re looking for alternative ways to display Christmas ornaments, consider weaving them into everyday greenery around your home. Think staircase banisters, chandeliers, or even a festive runner down the dining table. Tucked between pine branches or eucalyptus sprigs, ornaments instantly add color and style to simple Christmas decorations. They can even serve as a beautiful Christmas table centerpiece. Mix different sizes for depth, and choose a palette that complements your holiday scheme—whether metallics for glamor, jewel tones for drama, or soft pastels for a whimsical vibe. This is a versatile idea you can adapt to match your home’s personality throughout the holiday season.
Festive Final Touches
No matter how you choose to showcase them, ornaments are so much more than simple tree trimmings—they’re little bursts of magic waiting to be displayed. From tabletops and mantels to swags, walls, and greenery, there are endless alternative ways to display Christmas ornaments that bring extra beauty and charm to your home during the holiday season. With a bit of imagination, a dash of color, and ornaments in different sizes and styles, you can turn any corner into a festive masterpiece. This year, let your creative ideas shine and celebrate the joy of Christmas decorations in every space you love.
