2 Weeks Until Christmas

Did you know that decorated Christmas trees first appeared in the mid 1800s? Two or three weeks before Christmas is the perfect time to continue the tradition by putting up your tree.

Pick a live or cut tree. There are many varieties of trees to choose from. Some of the most popular include Douglas fir, Eastern white pine, Scotch pine, Frasier fir, and Eastern white cedar.

Decorate the tree. In most homes, the Christmas tree is the centerpiece of all holiday decorating. You can create a dazzling tree with this decorating formula: Lights first, then garland, and ornaments last.

Use extra ornaments. No room on your tree for every ornament you own? Then turn the ornaments that didn't make it onto the tree into shining ornament candles to display in the living room or dining room.

1 Week Until Christmas

Display poinsettias and hang mistletoe. Don't forget these Christmas classics. Poinsettias can be used individually for a burst of color or grouped together for a for a lush look.

Dress up the dining room table. Chances are, you'll spend a good amount of time gathered around the dining room table with family and friends during the Christmas season, so create a table that's sure to impress your guests.

Take a walk-through. Do a quick walk-through of your house and note any areas still lacking in holiday charm. While guests probably won't see your bedrooms, they will see the bathroom and kitchen so those areas deserve a few decorations.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Welcome guests with party lights. Light the way to the party by lining the front walk with glowing lights. Luminarias are deceptively easy to make. You can even craft them out of ordinary tin cans. You can make the luminarias in advance, but set them out just a little while before your guests are expected.

Light your inside candles. Give your home a friendly glow by lighting all of the candles you created and displayed earlier.

Put some holiday carols on the stereo. A final touch: Turn on the Christmas tunes to make your home even more festive and welcoming.