Celebrating Christmas in a New Way: Embracing Change and Tradition
A Different Christmas This Year
For the first time in four years, I find myself without my own Christmas tree to decorate. While this feels bittersweet, I’m taking it as an opportunity to embrace new beginnings. Since moving out of my cozy little apartment in Kew Gardens this September and into my friend Alice’s house in Greenwich, this Christmas is a little different. Rather than feeling down about the change, I’m choosing to look ahead with optimism. After all, it’s all for a good reason!
The decision to forego my own Christmas tree came from a practical place. With the unpredictability of freelance life and uncertainty about where I want to be in 2018, committing to a 12 to 18-month lease didn’t seem wise. So here I am, slightly up in the air, but still excited about what the future holds. And trust me, I have some exciting plans for 2018 that I can’t wait to share with you all – stay tuned!
A Shared Celebration
While my own Christmas decorations remain in hibernation this year, I’ve found joy in helping Alice prepare for her very first Christmas in her new London home. Thanks to the wonderful team at Pines and Needles, I was once again offered a complimentary tree, just like last year.
In 2016, I took my housemates Mel and Patrick to the Pines and Needles store in Wimbledon to pick out our festive tree. This year, Brockwell Park turned out to be the most convenient location for us, among the many stores they have across London. It’s a lovely spot, just off Norwood Road, though parking can be tricky. If you’re not up for hunting for a parking spot, Pines and Needles also offer delivery and installation services to make things easier.
The Perfect Tree: Why Nordmann Fir?
For this year’s Christmas tree, we opted for a 6ft non-drop Nordmann Fir, which cost £59.95. Why the emphasis on “non-drop”? Well, after last year’s spruce and the endless needle-cleaning that followed, I swore I’d never go back! Nordmann Firs are known for keeping their needles, and trust me, that makes post-Christmas cleanup so much easier.
If you’re in the market for something a bit smaller, Pines and Needles offers Nordmann Firs ranging from 3ft to 5ft, priced between £38.95 and £50.95.
Personalizing Your Christmas Tree
Decorating a Christmas tree is such a personal experience, and like many aspects of my life, I prefer an eclectic approach when it comes to ornaments. This year, Alice has gone for a Scandinavian-inspired look, featuring a minimalist white and silver theme. Of course, there’s also the essential Hogwarts Express ornament, because who can resist a little magic during the holidays?
If you’re looking for tips on how to decorate your tree in a way that reflects your personal style, here are my top five recommendations:
Top 5 Tips for Decorating Your Christmas Tree
- Laughter and Joy
When it comes to decorations, go for what makes you happy. Whether it’s quirky or traditional, if it brings a smile to your face, it’s worth having. And don’t shy away from pricier ornaments – quality lasts! Consider it an investment, much like buying a timeless piece of clothing. - Sentimental Touches
Nothing beats the warmth of nostalgia. Borrow a few decorations from your parents or grandparents to add some sentimental value to your tree. Each year, seeing those familiar ornaments will bring back cherished memories. - Create a Family Tradition
This tip is an extension of the previous one. If you have kids, start a tradition by giving them special ornaments to remember you by. Some of my favorite stores for unique decorations are Liberty’s, Anthropologie, Graham and Green, and Zara Home. - Make it a Social Event
Turn tree-decorating into a festive occasion. Invite friends or family over, bake some mince pies, don your favorite Christmas jumpers, and queue up a holiday playlist. Throw in some mulled wine for good measure, and take turns dressing the tree together! - Embrace Hygge
Channel your inner Dane by adding a touch of Hygge to your home. Christmas is the perfect time to create a cozy atmosphere with fairy lights, candles, and other simple, comforting touches that extend beyond the tree.
A Bit About Pines and Needles
For those who may not be familiar, Pines and Needles has an interesting backstory. The company was founded in 1995 by brothers Josh and Sam Lyle. It all started with a simple idea: as teenagers, the brothers loaded Christmas trees from their family farm in Scotland into an old horsebox and made the long journey to London. From humble beginnings, the company has grown, and now you’ll find their kilted crew all over London, making Christmas tree shopping a festive experience in itself.
As I continue to settle into this new chapter of my life, I’m reminded that Christmas is about more than just the decorations. It’s about embracing change, sharing traditions, and finding joy in the little moments. Even without my own tree this year, I’m still filled with the holiday spirit – and that’s what truly matters.
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