Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Holiday Designer
- Lori Ann Dupuis
- Oct 15
- 4 min read
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:
Unloading & Sorting – Boxes of ornaments, ribbons, and twinkling lights are carefully unpacked.
Tree Setup & Fluffing – A well-shaped tree makes all the difference. I fluff every branch to create a full, natural look before decorating.
Lighting Perfection – Lights go on before any ornaments to ensure even coverage and a warm glow.
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:
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!
