Nostalgic Charm Christmas Tree
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Hey there, my friend! I’ve just finished decking out my first Christmas tree for 2023, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Say hello to my Nostalgic Charm Christmas Tree!
This year, I hit a bit of a creative block when it came to choosing a theme for my trees. After 14 years of decorating two or three trees each holiday season, I guess a slump was inevitable. So, I decided to ditch the idea of a theme entirely and simply picked ornaments that caught my fancy. This decision was both freeing and a tad daunting – I’m usually comforted by having a Christmas tree theme, so going freestyle was a new adventure for me.
The one factor I did keep in mind was to add a bit more red than all of the other colors on the tree. Since I tend to use red accents in this room during the holidays, I thought it would help tie the whole look together.
The Tree
The tree itself is my trusty Sanibel Spruce from Balsam Hill, a staple in this spot for the past few years. It’s one of my favorite artificial trees, thanks to its long branches that make ornament hanging a breeze.
Ribbon
If you’ve seen my trees before, you know I usually start by wrapping the tree in ribbon. This time I decided to skip that step and let the ornaments take center stage. But, I couldn’t resist adding a touch of ribbon. I used some gorgeous plaid fabric ribbon from Heather Taylor Home, cutting 28-inch strands, tying them into bows, and nestling them into the branches here and there. They’re subtle, but they add a unique and special touch. (I was also excited to find a use for this ribbon.)
Ornaments
For the ornaments, I dove into my collection and mixed and matched. There’s a bit of everything – ornaments from past trees, my handmade ones, and a good number of vintage finds. I love blending old and new; it’s like a beautiful homage to the past, coupled with an appreciation for the new.
As you can see I even used the framed vintage Christmas card ornaments I made this year. They worked perfectly!
I did scoop up a few vintage treasures this year, like these glass ornaments with crocheted details and a set of ceramic bells I found for just six dollars at a thrift store – what a find! Other than that, I didn’t buy anything new; I just worked with what I had.
Under the Tree
Decorating under the tree is another part of the holiday magic I delight in. Alongside a few gifts that match the color scheme of the tree, I love to tuck in an assortment of vintage treasures … plaid metal baskets, a charming pack of mini vintage jingle bells, an old-fashioned metal house, and even some classic holiday packaging for ornament hooks and faux snow.
This special little nook is the perfect spot to showcase my collection of vintage finds. It’s amazing how these pieces transform the usually overlooked base of the tree into a scene straight out of a nostalgic holiday story.
Christmas Tree Thoughts
Admittedly, I went back and forth between liking and doubting my design (or lack thereof) of this tree. But in the end, I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. I might even continue this approach in future years!
This was the first time in a while that I got to fill a tree with all the ornaments I adore, each holding little memories of past Christmases and the trees I’ve decorated over the years. It was a delightful stroll down memory lane as I handpicked each piece for this year’s tree.
There’s something truly magical about a whimsical and carefree tree design. In a world where everything feels so meticulously planned (my life included), adding a dash of whimsy feels just right.
I’ve got another tree set up in my living room, which I’m excited to show you soon. (It’s complete and ready to be photographed.) It’s a bit more thematic, but like the first, I didn’t buy any new ornaments for it. I dove into my collection again, selecting my favorites that bring back so many memories. This tree, too, is brimming with personal nostalgia.
Thank you for joining me in my home for another holiday season. Sharing my Christmas trees with you each year is a joy that’s hard to put into words. I hope you’ve found a little spark of inspiration or insight for decorating your tree, whether it’s this year or the next.
Merry Christmas!
My favorite!! I have a good collection of vintage Christmas thanks to my late mother-in-law, and am always drawn to them at antiques stores. Sweet memories.
Love that!
xo Michael
Love your tree, it is a true reflection of Christmas and the memories we cherish. Best tree yet.
Thank you so much!
xo Michael
Beautiful tree. Love the warmth and personality of trees decorated with random ornaments collected and gifted through the years. Also, love, love, love the garlands. Could you do a post on them?
I always look forward to seeing your Christmas Trees. I have checked daily. 🙂
It’s absolutely beautiful. Love the garland on the banister also.
I had enough to do Vintage this year. I’ve collected the Vintage ornaments over the years that I have found at Estate Sales. I broke a few wiping them off. They are so fragile. We have a lot of the same ornaments.
Awwww! I’m sure that your tree is amazing! (So sorry a few broke!.)
xo Michael
It’s beautiful. I’m very fond of vintage Christmas decor as well.
My only concern was that there were so many ads, I had a difficult time viewing your pictures.
Merry Christmas 🎅
Thanks Sandra! I appreciate the feedback!
xo Michael
Michael, not only do you excell at creating the most magical trees but your mantles are exceptional. The personal ways you use your collections are my favorite. Christmas at the Wurm home is something I look forward to every year. Thanks for so many wonderful memories.
You made my whole day, Cindy. Thank you!!
xo Michael
Beautiful tree, Michael!! Just a question, tho~how in the world do you find enough space to store all of your decorations???!!! You must have a HUGE basement or storage space!! What’s your secret for keeping things neat??
I have an attic. I just store everything in totes. I’m actually trying to get rid of some things because I just have too much.
xo Michael
This is your best tree ever, Michael!
I agree with you, keep the same for upcoming years. Forget themes, have a pressure break.
Love your blog.
Christine
Thank you Christine!
xo Michael
Beautiful! You are so talented!
It is truly a magically beautiful Christmas Tree! I love all your trees you decorate, but this one looks absolutely magical!! You are an artist, and I LOVE your home, you inspire me to have a beautiful home! Your cats snuck in the picture, and they are adorable!
Thank you so much Mary!
xo Michael
It’s a beautiful tree but I love all your trees! This tree felt more homey in a good way. I love seeing your ornament collections on display. Thanks for the inspiration. Enjoy your trees and the holidays.
Thank you so much!!
xo Michael
I just love your tree! It’s just magical looking! Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!!
xo Michael
Beautiful as always Michael. Love your vintage ornament collection. I’ve never seen the ones with the crochet overlay. Especially love your framed vintage card ornaments. They are perfect for this tree.
Thank you soooo much!!
xo Michael
Such a lovely way to approach and decorate a tree. And to a stunning, warm, inviting outcome. Feels like a big hug.
Awww. Love that! Thank you!
xo Michael
Your tree with the collection of ornaments is just amazing. Looking at your pictures brings back memories I didn’t even know I had – even the vintage card of jingle bells under your tree. Wonderful!
Thank you! Thank you!
xo Michael
Such a gorgeous tree with beautiful ornaments! Merry Christmas!
Absolutely stunning… perfection!
Michael, I started following you after my sister’s urging. You never disappoint. In my opinion, “nostalgia” is a theme, and just as valid as any other. I think most of us want a bit. Back in the olden days, themes were pretty much nonexistent. You just got whatever was in the store, and it wasn’t over-saturated like today. My sister was inspired by you to decorate her stairwell with family letters to Santa. It nearly brought me to tears. My Christmas decor is not as grand as hers or yours, but it’s mine. I try to do what is meaningful to me. Back in the day, my Aunt Mary made ornaments for the tree (from her yard) out of disposable pie pans. We were over the moon and had to make our own. My sister has one left from long ago, and it is on her “nostalgia” tree. Thank you for what you do.
Absolutely LOVE it! You are so very talented, thank you for sharing your home and all your wonderful ideas! Merry Christmas!
Michael, your trees are always beautiful, but this one is extra special! So homey and colorful! I have so many memory ornaments, married 50 years! You have given me lots of ideas for decorating my special tree, including the actual tree! I love how the ornaments hang, instead of laying against the branches! So many trees are just too thick! You are so talented. I love your blog and have followed you for many years. Thanks for sharing your beautiful home and creations with us! Merry Christmas!!