'Tis not the season to repaint the front door or replace the fence. But a well-placed garland over an entryway or the golden glow from a candle in the window can add instant curb appeal (and make guests feel welcome). Here are 11 ways to spruce up for the holiday season:
Above: A tree adorned with apples as ornaments. Photograph via Vita Verandan.
1. Surprise passersby with outdoor ornaments. Hang baubles on a tree or shrub near the front door.
Above: Photograph via Little Villa Vita.
2. Deck the halls with doubles. Twin wreaths, or any mirror-image decorations, will create a pleasing symmetry.
Above: Botanical ice lanterns; for step-by-step instructions, see DIY: Botanical Ice Lanterns.
3. Light the way. Place candles, lanterns, or luminarias on stoops or alongside paths.
Above: Photograph via Little Villa Vita.
4. Add swagger with swags. Drape garland over a railing. For evergreen garlands or roping, see 10 Easy Pieces: Garlands and Boughs to Deck Halls.
5. Welcome guests with a tiny tree. A miniature outdoor Christmas tree will create a festive mood.
Above: Photograph via Brian Gille Architects.
6. White lights, big city. If your house is painted white, light the facade with floodlights to make it look snowy (even in a warm climate).
7. The multiplier effect. Hang identical wreaths in the windows to match the one on the front door.
Above: Photograph by Liesa Johannssen.
8. Dress up window boxes warmly for winter. Add evergreen boughs, small birch logs, and twinkly lights to create a woodland vignette in a window box.
Above: Photograph by Erin Boyle.
9. Don't forget the fire escape. Garlands and a strand of little white lights goes a long way in the city.
Above: Photograph via Min Lilla Veranda.
10. Got a light? Put a candle in the window—or even better, several candles in several windows—to welcome guests with golden light.
11. Shovel a snowy walk. It makes it look like you're ready for company—and it's easier for the mail carrier to deliver holiday cards.
For more holiday curb appeal inspiration, see:
- 10 Festive Front Doors for the Holidays
- 10 Easy Pieces: Garlands and Boughs to Deck Halls
- Steal This Look: Deck the Mudroom to Greet Holiday Guests
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