How to pimp a Christmas tree
A great tree not only accentuates the gifts beneath and around it, but also makes a room look brighter and adds more warmth to the family vibe at this special time of the year.
But you can go further with your store-purchased synthetic tree or real pine/fir selection by jazzing it up with cute and unique decorations you can make yourself at home or buy from speciality stores.
There is already a trend of people buying wire trees or wired and beaded ornaments from the many crafts people around the city to decorate their trees.
These crafts people's displays are becoming more abundant at shopping centres and one place where you can find a good variety of such stuff is outside the SuperSpar in Morningside. The beachfront is another spot to find them, of course.
You can even ask a craftsman to make goods based on unique designs you may have in mind - and pick it up later. No more Mrs Smith's Xmas tree looking the same every year since the turn of the century!
You can choose a particular theme for your tree, like decorations made from recycled goods or the wire adornments mentioned earlier, and mix up different types of lightning.
Family photos, paper stars, flags and starfish are some of the fun ornaments to help you get away from the balls, candy sticks, miniature gift boxes and little Santa Clauses people have been using for ages.
Make it interesting. Most of all, make it a reflection of your personality; something that will never appear in anybody else's house.
Out-of-the-box thinking will go a long way towards creating a unique tree.
Less can also be more by creating just a few noteworthy ornaments and placing them in strategic positions. Why not have a theme of beaded ornaments, one made by each member of the family?
Normally it's most practical to put the lights on first, followed by garlands or ribbons, the topper (angel, star etc) and then the ornaments, although some people like the topper to be a kind of capping exercise the end of the decorating process.
As they say, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree can light up the holiday spirit of everyone who sees it. There is really no end to what you can do. Go explore!
- Waheeda Peters