While anyone who celebrates Christmas will have a decorated tree as one of the focal points of their holiday decor, be sure not to lose sight of the power of greenery when it comes to transforming the rest of your space. One of the best places to add some holiday looks with greenery is along your mantel—and since it’s not as holiday-specific as many other Christmas decorations, you can place it a little earlier and keep it a little later in the season, giving your home a festive feel for several Months. “I just have dried bay leaves, which is a wreath of dried bay leaves that I keep year-round, but another example is seasonal greens,” says Erin Napier on the Today Show.
Evergreens last much longer than flowers, and can be rolled up or arranged along your mantel for an easy festive touch. Go with whatever you find in your area, from cypress boughs to pine, juniper, and fir — all of which can be found in places like markets, garden centers, and farm stalls, as noted by USA Today. Plus, the greenery will make your space smell great.
And if you’re the type who likes to host all kinds of gatherings during the holiday season, consider incorporating some greenery into the rooms where you and your guests dine. “Um Ben takes them out of the yard and makes a little arrangement at the dinner table,” adds Erin.