Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Holiday Designer

Introduction

Ever wonder what goes into creating those stunning Christmas displays that instantly fill a room with holiday magic? As a professional holiday designer every day during the season is a whirlwind of creativity, planning, and pure Christmas magic — it is more than just hanging ornaments and fluffing garlands. It's about bringing a vision to life and transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary holiday experience for all to enjoy!

From sourcing the perfect décor to crafting one-of-a-kind displays, every day is different. Come behind the scenes and step into a day in my life as a luxury holiday decorator!

From the Consultation to Christmas Magic

Every project begins with a personalized consultation. This is where I meet with each client — whether it’s a homeowner, business owner, or event planner — to discuss their inspiration, color palette, and overall holiday vision. Together, we review every detail, from the size and style of the tree to the theme and mood they want their guests to feel when they walk into the space. Once the concept is finalized, the shopping begins! This is one of my favorite parts of the process — hunting for the perfect tree, hand-selecting ornaments, ribbons, sprays, and florals that align with the chosen theme. Every detail is carefully considered so that each piece complements the next, creating a cohesive and magical design.

The Evening Prior Is When It All Begins—Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Holiday Designer

The evening begins with a Coca Cola or glass of Zinfandel in hand and preparing for tomorrow's installations. Before turning in for the night, I:

• Prep all the decor – Cut all tags, and wire all ornaments in advance to ensure a smooth install.  

• Pack up the bins – Arrange the decorations in order of type of decorations, size, color schemes (if using more than one color, ribbon and all required materials such a wire, wire cutters, scissors, etc.  

• Add finishing touches – Finish up all hand designed wreaths, garlands and centerpieces.  

Pro Tip: Being prepared ahead of time is crucial! This will save a lot of time when you arrive for the installation.

6:00 AM – Early Morning Prep & Planning

The day starts early with coffee in hand and a game plan for the day’s installations. Before heading out, I:

• Check my schedule – Each project is different, whether it’s a home, corporate office, or boutique storefront.  

• Review client inspiration boards – I go over colors, themes, and special requests to ensure every design matches their vision.  

• Load up the Jeep/truck – Trees, garlands, lights, decor, oversized bows, decorating materials and my favorite ladder—everything is packed and organized to maximize efficiency.  

Pro Tip: A well-organized décor checklist is key! Forgetting one piece can throw off the entire design.

8:00 AM – On-Site Setup Begins

Once we arrive at the client’s location, the real magic begins! Each space is different, but the process typically follows these steps:  

Before: Fluffed Christmas Tree ready to be decorated

1. Unloading & Sorting – Boxes of ornaments, ribbons, and twinkling lights are carefully unpacked.  

2. Tree Setup & Fluffing – A well-shaped tree makes all the difference. I fluff every branch to create a full, natural look before decorating.  

3. Lighting Perfection – Lights go on before any ornaments to ensure even coverage and a warm glow.

4. Mantel & Entryway Installations – Garlands, bows, and stockings are styled for that picture-perfect holiday welcome.  

Pro Tip: We use a “layering” method—for our Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Holiday Designer starts with base decorations like ribbon and working up to the final embellishments for a polished look.

12:00 PM – The Creative Challenge Begins

This is where the real artistry comes in! Every tree, garland, and tablescape is carefully styled to bring the holiday vision to life. Some highlights include:  

• Ribbon Placement – Flowing ribbon is arranged in cascading designs for an elegant touch.  

• Ornament Styling – Larger ornaments go first, followed by smaller fillers to balance the design.  

• Adding Floral Picks & Sprays – These create texture, dimension, and that professional, high-end look.

Pro Tip: A mix of matte, shiny, and glittered ornaments adds depth and makes a tree visually stunning!

3:00 PM – Final Touches & Client Reveal

Once the major pieces are in place, it’s time for the finishing details:  

After: Fully Decorated Gold & Cream Christmas Tree adorned with stunning luxe ribbon and Gift Boxes and gorgeous Reindeer to finish the look.

• Fluffing and Adjustments – Every bow, branch, and ornament is perfected.  

• Photo & Video Captures – I take before-and-after shots for clients (and social media!).  

• Grand Reveal Moment – Clients finally get to see their transformed space—it’s always the best part of the day!  

Pro Tip: Seeing clients light up with joy is what makes all the hard work worth it. Many say, “It feels like Christmas just arrived!”

5:00 PM – Clean-Up & Prepping for the Next Install

After a long day of decorating, there’s still work to do:  

• Pack Up Tools & Extra Supplies – Everything is cleaned and stored for the next project.  

• Confirm Next Day’s Schedule – Each night, I go over upcoming installations to ensure every detail is covered.  

• Engage with Clients & Social Media – I share sneak peeks and answer client questions about holiday décor.  

Pro Tip: Sharing behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram & Facebook helps inspire future clients and show the magic in progress!

Final Thoughts

Being a holiday designer is a mix of art, logistics, and Christmas spirit, but the joy it brings makes it all worth it. Whether it’s creating dreamy tree designs, festive mantelpieces, or jaw-dropping storefront displays, every project is unique and special.  

Want to bring holiday magic into your home or business? Red's Holiday Décor offers luxury holiday decorating services to make your season stress-free and stunning!  

Book a consultation today and let’s turn your space into a holiday masterpiece!

BOOK YOUR CONSULATION TODAY!

How to Make Your Home Look Like a Holiday Magazine Cover

Ever scroll through a holiday magazine or Pinterest and think, “How do they make it look that perfect?” The secret isn’t just having beautiful decorations—it’s about intentional design, balance, and cohesive styling that tells a story.

At Red’s Holiday Decor, my job is to turn everyday homes and/or businesses into holiday showstoppers worthy of any glossy cover. And today, I’m sharing the exact steps to help you discover the secrets on How to Make Your Home Look Like a Holiday Magazine Cover.

Choose a Clear Theme or Color Story

Magazine-worthy homes don’t have random pieces thrown together—they follow a thoughtfully chosen theme. Whether it’s a classic red-and-gold palette, icy winter whites, or something bold like black and emerald, consistency is key.

Pro Tips:  

• Choose 2–3 main colors and one accent metallic (gold, silver, or copper).

• Let your theme influence everything—from tree ornaments to wrapping paper to your mantel.

• Consider your home’s existing colors and décor style to help guide your direction.

Style Every Major Space—Not Just the Tree

Your tree is the star, but the supporting cast makes the whole house shine.

Focus on:

• Mantels: Use layered garlands, stockings, candles, and statement pieces.

• Entryways: Add a welcoming wreath, console table styling, and mini trees.

• Tablescapes: Think chargers, name cards, candles, and holiday florals.

• Staircases & Railings: Drape garlands with ribbon and hanging ornaments or bells.

• Kitchens & Bathrooms: Use festive hand towels, candles, or mini décor touches.

Pro Tip:  Think like a stylist. Every corner can be part of the story.

Layered Textures & Statement Pieces

Magazine spreads pop because of dimension and visual interest—created through textures and layers.

Try mixing:

• Velvet, satin, or sheer ribbons on your tree or wreaths

• Metallic or mirrored ornaments for light reflection

• Faux fur, knits, and natural elements like pinecones or wood

• Candlelight and twinkle lights for a cozy glow

Statement pieces—like oversized nutcrackers, custom tree toppers, or unique garlands—bring the drama and elevate your design.

Create Visual Balance

The difference between cluttered and curated? Balance.

Designer styling uses:

• Varying heights (candle holders, tree toppers, garland sprays)

• Symmetry and asymmetry depending on the area

• Focal points in every room (tree, fireplace, or tablescape)

• Repeating elements like ribbon or ornament style to create unity

Pro Tip:  Step back and take photos of your space as you style—it helps you spot where to add or remove pieces.

Light It Like a Pro

Lighting sets the mood and makes your holiday home glow.

Use:

• Warm white fairy lights for your tree and garlands

• Candles (real or LED) on mantels and tables

• Mini lamps or plug-in sconces for ambient light in corners

• Uplighting near tall pieces like trees or garlands for a dramatic effect

Pro Trick:  Dim your overhead lights and let your holiday lighting shine in the evenings. It creates that cozy, editorial ambiance instantly.

Don’t Skip the Details

Magazine homes shine in the small details—and so can yours.

Add:

• Coordinated wrapping paper and ribbon for gifts under the tree

• Festive floral arrangements or bowls of ornaments on coffee tables

• Matching tableware for holiday meals

• Scented candles or diffusers with seasonal scents like fir, cinnamon, or clove

Everything should feel thoughtfully chosen and part of the larger design story.

How to Make Your Home Look Like a Holiday Magazine Cover-You Hire a Designer for That Next-Level Look

Want the magic without the stress? A professional holiday designer (like me!) can bring your vision to life with:

• Custom tree styling

• Full-room transformations

• Luxury garlands, mantels, and tablescapes

• Shopping, setup, and tear-down included

With Red’s Holiday Decor, you get more than decorations—you get a full holiday experience curated just for you.

Final Touch: Make It Personal

While magazine homes are polished, they’re also personal. Add framed holiday photos, heirloom ornaments, or monogrammed stockings to bring warmth and meaning to your space.

Ready for Your Cover Moment?

Before The Transformation

Your home can look like it belongs in a holiday magazine—with the right styling, planning, and a touch of magic.

After the Transformation

Whether you DIY or call in a professional, the key is to create a space that’s both beautiful and meaningful.

Want your home to sparkle this holiday season? Book your luxury holiday install with Red’s Holiday Decor now—limited spots available!

BOOK NOW!

8 of The Biggest Holiday Decorating Mistakes & How to Fix Them | Red's Holiday Decor

Introduction:

The holiday season is all about creating a warm, magical atmosphere in your home. But even the most festive decorators can fall into some common decorating pitfalls that leave their spaces feeling cluttered, unbalanced, or just not as stunning as they envisioned.

As a professional holiday decorator, I’ve seen it all! So Below, I’m going to share 8 Holiday Decoration Mistakes & How to Fix Them | Red's Holiday Decor—so your home looks effortlessly beautiful this holiday season.

1. Adding Too Many Colors

X The Mistake: Using every holiday color at once.

Way Too Many Colors

A mix of red, green, gold, silver, blue, and more can make your space feel chaotic rather than elegant.  

Simple Red and White Tree

Y The Fix: Stick to a cohesive color palette.

Choose 2-3 main colors and incorporate neutral tones to balance them out.

For example:

• Classic Elegance: Red and White

• Winter Wonderland: Silver, White, and Blue

• Modern Chic: Black, White, and Metallics  

Pro Tip: Carry your color scheme throughout your décor—tree, mantel, tablescape, and entryway—for a cohesive look.

2. Overcrowding Your Christmas Tree

X  The Mistake: Adding too many ornaments, making it look cluttered.

While a full tree is beautiful, too many mismatched ornaments can overwhelm the eye and make the tree feel unbalanced.

Y The Fix: Layer strategically and create balance.

• Start with ribbon or garland as a base.

• Use a mix of ornament sizes—larger ones toward the center, smaller ones toward the tips.

• Place ornaments in clusters of 2-3 instead of randomly spacing them out.

• Step back and adjust to ensure even distribution.  

Pro Tip: If your tree still feels off, try using floral picks, oversized statement ornaments, or a unique tree topper to bring it all together.

3. Ignoring the Entryway

Undecorated Entryway

X  The Mistake: Decorating only the main living areas and neglecting the first impression.

Guests should feel the holiday magic the moment they step inside!  

Beautifully Decorated Entryway

Y The Fix: Add festive touches to your entryway.

• A wreath/sconce on the front door sets the festive holiday tone.

• Use pre-lit garland around the doorway.

• A festive doormat and lanterns create a warm welcome.  

Pro Tip: If you have stairs near the entrance, add a garland with ribbon or twinkling lights for extra holiday charm.

4. Overloading the Mantel

Too Many ornaments on the garland make it look unorganized

X  The Mistake: Placing too many decorations, making it look heavy and cluttered.

A mantel should feel balanced, not overcrowded with stockings, garland, candles, and figurines competing for attention.  

Garland draped with lux ribbon, leaf picks and gold glass finials, completed with stunning black reindeer and large lighted hurricanes creating a stunning fireplace mantel.

Y The Fix: Follow the “layering rule.”

1. Anchor with a statement piece – A mirror, holiday sign, or oversized wreath.

2. Add height variation – Use candle holders, mini trees, or hurricanes at different heights.

3. Drape garland naturally – Let it swag slightly instead of lying flat.

4. Limit to a few key items – Choose 3-5 main decorations rather than filling every inch.  

Pro Tip: If hanging stockings, use stocking holders instead of nails to prevent damage and make swapping them out easier!

5. Using Harsh, Mismatched Lighting

X  The Mistake: Mixing warm white and cool white lights, or using overly bright LED lights that feel sterile. Inconsistent lighting can make your décor look disjointed and uninviting.

Y The Fix: Choose one light temperature for a cohesive glow.

• Warm white lights (soft yellow glow) → Cozy & traditional.

• Cool white lights (crisp, icy glow) → Modern & sleek.

• Multicolor lights → Fun & playful (but best when kept consistent across decorations).  

Pro Tip: Add twinkle or dimmable lights for an elegant, magical ambiance.

6. Forgetting About Texture & Layers  

X  The Mistake: Only using hard, shiny decorations, making the space feel flat.

If your décor is all glass, metal, and plastic, it might lack depth and coziness.

Y The Fix: Mix materials for warmth and dimension.

• Soft textures: Velvet ribbons, faux fur tree skirts, chunky knit throws.

• Natural elements: Pinecones, wooden beads, fresh greenery.

• Reflective accents: Glass ornaments, metallic candle holders.  

Pro Tip: Layering different textures makes your décor look high-end and thoughtfully designed.

7. Going Overboard with Scented Décor  

X  The Mistake: Using too many different holiday scents (pine, cinnamon, vanilla, peppermint) at once.

A strong mix of scents can be overwhelming—especially for guests with sensitivities.  

Y The Fix: Stick to one signature holiday scent per space.

• Cinnamon & Clove → Cozy & traditional.

• Fir & Pine → Fresh & natural.

• Orange & Spice → Warm & inviting.  

Pro Tip: Use unscented candles on the dinner table to avoid competing with the aroma of holiday meals.

8. Not Decorating Beyond the Living Room

X  The Mistake: Only focusing on the tree and mantel, leaving the rest of the home untouched.

Holiday décor should flow throughout the house for a fully festive experience.

Add a little Holiday magic in your kitchen with these simple accents

Adding a holiday shower curtain with matching towels, wall art and a toilet seat cover & rug creates a warm and inviting ambiance even in your bathroom

Y The Fix: Add subtle holiday touches in other spaces.

• Kitchen: Swap dish towels for festive ones, add a mini wreath or a bowl of ornaments; or you can add a holiday dish drainer mat and a festive dishwasher magnet to tie in your holiday theme into the kitchen.

• Bathroom: Add scented candles, pine-scented soap, or small decorative accents.  Add a holiday themed shower curtain with matching toilet seat cover and rug. And finish the look with some festive wall art.

• Bedroom: Use holiday pillows or a cozy Christmas-themed throw blanket and some simple accents so you can have some magic for just you to enjoy.

Pro Tip: Even small touches can make a big impact without overwhelming the space.

Final Thoughts - 8 Holiday Decoration Mistakes & How to Fix Them | Red's Holiday Decor

Avoiding these common holiday decorating mistakes will help you create a beautifully styled, balanced, and inviting space for the season. The key is cohesion, layering, and thoughtful placement—all while keeping things festive yet elegant!

Want a professional touch this holiday season? Red's Holiday Décor offers expert holiday decorating services to bring your vision to life.  

Book your consultation today and let’s make your home holiday-perfect!  

BOOK NOW

**Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/redsholidaydecor/ for more holiday decorating inspiration!