How to Decorate a Christmas Tree Like a Pro

Christmas Trees, Decorating

Decorating a Christmas tree is one of the most joyful traditions of the holiday season. Whether you’re going for classic elegance, rustic warmth, or bold modern flair, the right approach will make your tree feel magical. Follow this step-by-step guide—plus our easy decorating formula—to create a festive, beautifully balanced Christmas tree.

Step 1: Choose & Prep Your Tree

Whether you prefer the fragrance of a fresh-cut tree or the convenience of a realistic artificial tree, choosing the right one is the foundation of your holiday design.

Children with a Christmas Tree

Fresh-Cut Tree Options

  • Look for trees with flexible needles and strong branches.
  • Shake the tree—if needles fall off easily, choose another.
  • Make a fresh cut at the base before placing it in water to keep it hydrated and vibrant through the season.

Artificial Tree Options

  • Choose a high-quality tree with dense, lifelike branches for the best look.
  • Decide between pre-lit or unlit depending on your lighting preference.
  • Consider a “quick shape” or “easy setup” model for faster assembly.

You’ll Also Need:

  • Extension cord and/or power strip
  • A tree skirt or collar
C7 25 ct. String Lights Ceramic Multi-Colored
Close-up of colorful holiday string lights glowing vividly in green, red, blue, and orange. The lights have a reflective, glossy finish, with gray bases and are tightly packed together, creating a festive and vibrant display.

Step 2: Add Your Lights

Lights always go on first. A good rule of thumb: Use 100 lights for every foot of tree height.

  • 6’ tree → 600 lights
  • 7.5’ tree → 750 lights
  • 9’ tree → 900 lights

Pro Tip: Run the lights up the center of the tree along the main trunk from the bottom to the top. Then weave the lights out toward the branch tips as you work your way back down. This adds brightness and depth, giving your tree a warm, layered glow.

A Christmas tree decorated with red poinsettias, ornaments, and snowmen stands beside metal buckets filled with red berry branches in a festive store display. A sign on the tree reads, Shop from our Tree.
A gingerbread doll with a white chef hat and red scarf hangs on a Christmas tree decorated with candy ornaments, gingerbread cookies, striped garlands, and colorful baubles.

Step 3: Add Garland or Ribbon

Garland and ribbon add shape and style to your tree. General guideline: 9 feet of garland or ribbon per foot of tree.

How to Apply Ribbon Like a Designer

  • Choose 2–3 coordinating ribbons for dimension.
  • Cut ribbon into 2–3 ft pieces rather than wrapping one long strand.
  • Tuck ribbon pieces into the tree in gentle waves or loops.

For Garlands

  • Use beaded, wooden, or metallic garlands to match your theme.
  • Drape loosely so it doesn’t feel too tight or heavy.
A woman and a young girl partake in beloved holiday traditions as they decorate a Christmas tree together. The girl, dressed in a red dress with a matching bow, hangs a gold ornament on the tree, which is adorned with red and gold decorations. Both appear focused and content.

Step 4: Hang Your Ornaments

Apply this simple decorating formula: Use 20 average-sized ornaments per foot of tree. A 7.5’ tree would need about 150 ornaments.

Ornament Placement Tips

  • Start with large ornaments first to establish balance.
  • Place medium ornaments next to fill gaps.
  • Finish with small or special ornaments for detail.
  • Hang some ornaments deeper inside the tree for added depth.
  • Mix matte, shiny, and textured finishes for visual interest.
Red Christmas tree skirt with white snowflake designs and swirls beneath a decorated tree with frosted branches and yellow lights. The skirt features a white fur trim. The tree stands on a wooden floor.
A Christmas angel tree topper with golden wings, curly brown hair, and a red velvet robe tied with a large green ribbon, stands in front of a decorated Christmas tree.

tep 5: Add the Tree Skirt or Tree Collar

Your tree’s base completes the look. A tree skirt brings softness, while a tree collar offers a clean, modern presentation. Choose a material that matches your theme—felt, faux fur, wicker, metal, or patterned fabric.

Step 6: Finish With a Tree Topper

The final touch! Place it securely and adjust nearby branches to support it. Choose a topper that fits your style:

  • Classic star
  • Angel
  • Snowflake
  • Bow

Visit Hicks Nurseries for Everything You Need

From fresh-cut Christmas trees and realistic artificial trees to the area’s largest selection of lights, ribbon, ornaments, tree toppers, and holiday décor, we have everything you need to create the Christmas tree of your dreams.

Our helpful, knowledgeable staff is always here to guide you—whether you’re choosing your first ornament or designing your holiday theme for the season.

Additional Information: 

SHOP Lifelike Trees

SHOP Fresh Cut Christmas Trees