Do you want to create a beautiful holiday home? You aren’t alone.
I love putting together a warm holiday home every year – with unexpected touches. And I often get asked where I found (fill in the blank). Because many pieces are unique – but also because I also try to put them together in a fun and creative way.
That’s why I’m pulling back the curtain to share some of my favorite spots – including a few that may be unexpected.
I don’t buy lots of new things every year, but I like to switch things up, and that includes a little shopping for a few new pieces. I know that the big box stores get lots of traffic this time of year – and places like Target and Wal-Mart have lots of great holiday staples. They may be the perfect spot to find your simple solid ornaments or an artificial tree – or even a random fun accessory.
But, to really make your space unique, I like to think outside the (big) box. That’s why these are my top picks. (Some of the links below are affiliate links.)
Local boutiques
My very favorite spot to score unique finds for the holidays (and all year)? Local boutiques. Yep. I’m a blogger who also loves to shop in person.
I believe that every single person has local boutiques near her that are worth regular trips – because these shop owners live to bring unique goods to your area. Nearly all of my very favorite pieces were purchased locally. Those who know me well know that a gift card to a favorite store is worth its weight in gold.
My personal favorites (for locals to the Quad Cities) –
- Urban Farmhouse
- Katsch (online shopping is also available)
- Dwellings
And frankly, I’ve never met an antique store or local shop I don’t love. I get to support local business owners, find beautiful items, and make new friends. (Because I always, always force the people in the store into friendship.)
If you don’t live near me, come visit. Or find some stores that you love near you. If you don’t know of any – put out a call for favorite spots on Facebook. I guarantee your friends will help you.
My favorite finds:
- Everything. I’ll take one of everything, thank you very much.
Department stores
These aren’t your granny’s department stores.
If you are skipping the local department stores for holiday decor, you may be missing some beautiful and unique pieces for your Christmas home decor. I love scoping out department stores like Younkers, Von Maur, Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, and Dillards every year. Many of their items are a little higher end than you’ll find in the big box stores. But don’t let “high-end” stop you – there are so many deals to be had. (Check out your local newspaper or Google the store for tons of coupons. And keep them in mind for after-Christmas sales, too.)
My favorite finds:
- Holiday dishes – these coveted holiday lights Fiestaware are one of the most asked-about items in our home.
- Unique trees and wreaths – like our fun and quirky silver tinsel tree.
- Bedding – the holiday bedding selection at department stores are top-notch. (This year, I’m loving this winterland quilt.)
- Fun and super specific ornaments – I love picking up unique ornaments for our family tree and for gifts. (I’m really loving these vintage-inspired glass ornaments.)
Amazon
Look. I buy everything from dog food to toilet paper on Amazon. So it’s no surprise that I turn to them for holiday items, too.
Not only can you find almost anything on Amazon, you can easily price compare. And bonus: It ships for free in 2 days. (If you are an Amazon Prime member. Which, isn’t everyone?)
My favorite finds:
- Pillows – pillow covers are a must have for a fun holiday home. And you can find plenty of great options on Amazon. (The buffalo check covers seen on our mantel are some of my very favorites for all year.)
- Napkins – I use cloth napkins for almost everything. I use them on a table, but I also turn them into pillows, put several together to create a table runner, and stick them in my tree for more pattern. (See the buffalo check napkins on my tree for proof.)
- Tools and electronics – I’m a huge fan of remotes to turn on all my trees with a simple click. And don’t forget all those extra batteries.
Hardware stores and garden centers
If you are DIYers like us, you spend plenty of time at the hardware stores – like Home Depot and Lowe’s. They often have really extensive holiday sections – and I think they are particularly great for outdoor decor that aren’t available elsewhere.
My favorite finds:
- Fresh greenery for wreaths, vases and garlands.
- Christmas trees.
- Outdoor decor.
Bonus tip: Sometimes, they will give you clippings from trees FOR FREE.
Decor Steals
My final fave is an online store that gives you new options EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. Decor Steals is great for items all year, but I’ve found some fun holiday items there. And I especially like it for items that can be used all year – and tweaked for the holidays. (Think baskets, bins and boxes.)
Just check in each day for a new daily steal, or sign up for the free email to be notified.
My favorite finds:
- Galvanized trays and buckets for greenery
- The infamous mug rack in my kitchen
I hope this gave you some ideas to help you kick your holiday decor up a notch. I’ll be back to share more holiday inspiration for your home in the next week – and you’ll continue to receive updates with inspiration, encouragement and helpful advice for the holidays and all year.
And I’ll be sure to share ideas that fit into your home and budget. Because I believe that your home shouldn’t own you.
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