10 Places I Shop for Holiday Decor
From classic and layered to whimsical and bright — a mix that keeps spirits high.
Julia here. I’ve always been drawn to this time of year— partly for the sparkle it brings into our home, but mostly for the joy it creates for my girls. So many of our traditions are ones I grew up with: a tree layered in collected ornaments, nutcrackers and tiny scenes tucked throughout the house, music boxes, lights, stockings, and all the little details that make the season feel alive.
Each year, when we bring down the boxes, my girls’ excitement mirrors the way my siblings and I felt. I can still remember opening each ornament one by one, my sister and I inventing stories around them as if they were characters. We did the same at my grandparents’ home, where their enormous tree and spirited decorations felt like stepping into a world of their own. Even Christmas dinner there is etched in my memory— the formal table for adults, the kids’ table overflowing with Martinelli’s and warm rolls.
Now, I add to our collection slowly. It’s never a sweeping refresh. Just a handful of new ornaments, a few chosen by the girls, and the occasional nutcracker or set of bells that feels special enough to keep for years.
Two years ago, when Goldie was almost two, we finally made the switch to a faux tree. It felt almost forbidden at first, but after seeing one in a friend’s home— and not realizing it wasn’t real— I gave in. I was tired of the constant shedding needles, the effort to keep it alive through Christmas (we always get ours before Thanksgiving), and the year one toppled over and ruined a rug. Maybe we’ll return to the real thing someday, but for now, the convenience is wonderful. We chose this Balsam Hill tree—the 9’ with clear incandescent lights. It’s an investment, but if you’re going faux, choose one that truly looks the part.
Below, I’ve rounded up ten sources I love for holiday pieces— from tabletop to ornaments, German Christmas scenes to vintage and antique finds.
UNDER THE MISTLETOE
Natural textures and handcrafted details that bring a grounded, festive warmth to the home.
Reed Smythe & Co.
Colorful pieces that add woven texture and nature-driven charm to any holiday table.
Wentworth
English heritage accents — from brass to tartan — for a cozy, timeless holiday setting.
Abask
Collected and considered decor that elevates the season with sophistication.
Summerill & Bishop
Beautifully detailed linens and tableware that turn every gathering into a celebration.
GILDED TRADITIONS
Classic reds, golds, and crystal pieces that capture the nostalgia and sparkle of the holidays.
Scully & Scully
Polished silver and porcelain staples for an elegant, old-world holiday home.
Käthe Wohlfahrt
Traditional German ornaments that bring a touch of storybook magic to the tree.
John Derian
Handcrafted decoupage and ornaments that feel collected, personal, and perfectly festive.
MERRY & BRIGHT
Colorful prints and playful details that make holiday decorating feel joyful and unexpected.
Porta
Whimsical ceramics and glassware that add a lively twist to seasonal entertaining.
Cabana Magazine
Vibrant patterns and bold tabletop pieces that bring maximalist joy to the holidays.
Svenskt Tenn
Scandinavian color and brass accents that strike the perfect balance of classic and fun.
xx Julia
My husband and I take the same approach to collecting our Christmas decor: slow and intentional. Thank you for sharing!
Your approach of adding slowly to the collection each year is so thoughtfull. I apreciate how you organized the sources into three distinct aesthetics. The Balsam Hill tree decision makes total sense after managing real trees for years!