The holidays are here, and with them comes that magical moment when neighborhoods begin to sparkle...front porches glow, mantels fill with garland, and even the most understated homes get a festive little lift.

But here’s my question for you: What type of holiday decorator are you?

Do you go all out like Christmas with the Kranks? Lights lining every roofline, inflatables, yard scenes, animated reindeer, the whole extravaganza Or are you more of a “simple wreath on the door and a candle in the window” kind of soul… where subtle elegance is your holiday signature? As someone who adores seeing how people bring their homes to life, yes, even outside of selling houses, I love how decorating becomes a little window into our personalities. So let’s have a little fun and explore the decorating styles I see most often, plus what’s trending this season.

😀Let's start with the "All Out Holiday Enthusiasts", North Pole meets Sonoma County wine country. This group doesn’t dabble, they transform.
Every bannister gets garland, every window glows, the porch is wrapped in lights like a vineyard trellis at sunset. The tree? Fully themed, color-coordinated, and topped with something dramatic. If you host big family gatherings, love tradition, or simply enjoy spreading cheer to the whole neighborhood, this is likely your lane. Trending for 2024–2025 are warm white LEDs for a cozy, elegant glow, layered garlands (two different styles combined for fullness), oversized ornaments on trees and porches, and musical light displays (yes, synchronized shows are very “in”)

😎Are you more the front porch porch focused? These decorators keep the magic outside. Welcoming, festive, but not over the top. It's all about curb appeal...A beautiful wreath, maybe a pair of lanterns, potted poinsettias, twinkling porch lights, or a seasonal doormat. Inside the home? Minimal, calm, and clean. This style is perfect for people who love a hint of holiday spirit without rearranging their entire home—and for homeowners who appreciate a polished, refined look. Trending now are natural wreaths with eucalyptus, magnolia, citrus slices, matte black lanterns with LED candles, asymmetrical garlands around doorframes, and soft, understated twinkle lights.

🤡The interior stylists keep the porch simple but once you step inside...hello holiday haven! For some, the porch stays simple, but once you step inside… hello holiday haven. Mantels wrapped in fresh garland, stockings carefully chosen, tabletops styled, a classic tree with ribbon cascading down. This is the designer’s approach, tasteful, curated, intentional. What’s in fashion now? Mixed greens garlands draped naturally, not perfectly, Neutral-tone ornaments with metallic accents, velvet ribbons (huge this year—navy, emerald, wine, champagne), and white ceramic villages displayed on mantels and consoles

😊Let's describe the Minimalists. A single wreath. A single candle. Maybe a small tabletop tree. This style speaks to homeowners who love simplicity, clean lines, and clutter-free living. Their holiday style feels peaceful, modern, and serene. Trending touches we'll see is the Scandinavian décor (simple wood, white, soft textures), Eco-friendly décor like dried oranges and fresh branches, one-color palettes, especially whites and golds.

🥰5. The Sentimental Decorators doesn't have a specific style but more of a personality. This is me! This is the family whose tree tells a story. Hand-made ornaments from kids or grandkids, travel momentos, ornaments collected over decades, photo garlands, childhood stockings, quirky pieces that may not be “magazine perfect,” but it is overflowing with heart, and that’s always timeless. Trends that fit this group: Mismatched ornament trees, whimsical color palettes, multi-colored lights are making a comeback (nostalgia is IN).

So… What’s Your Decorating Style? Whether you’re decking every inch of your home or simply adding a touch of holiday magic to your porch, there’s no right or wrong way to celebrate the season. What matters most is how your home feels—and the joy it brings to you, your family, and everyone who walks through your door.

I’d love to hear from you:
👉 Are you an “all-out” decorator, a minimalist, a porch-only stylist, or somewhere in between?
👉 What are your must-do holiday decorations every year?

Drop a comment or send me a message—I love seeing how my friends, clients, and readers make their homes festive for the holidays.