Just like that, Thanksgiving is over, and the 2017 holiday season is in full swing! I hope you had a delightful T-day and are as excited as I am for the wonder and magic that is Christmas. Today, I’m here to show you one of my newly decorated trees for 2017. I’m calling it my Rustic Modern Christmas Tree.
Isn’t it a beauty?
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If you’ve been following along since my move to Pittsburgh, the location of this Rustic Modern Christmas Tree might be a tad unfamiliar. That’s because I haven’t shared this corner of my office. (My desk and newly painted blue wall are to the right.) But don’t worry, I’ll be giving you a full holiday home tour later this week.
This year, I decided to have three trees: this one, another in my living room, and a smaller one in my bedroom. This particular tree came about because my friends over at Balsam Hill invited me to join their 12 Bloggers of Christmas series. I’m one of the 12 bloggers they asked to decorate a Balsam Hill tree and share it with our readers. (Please see everyone’s links below.) When it comes to artificial Christmas trees, I look to Balsam Hill for fabulous quality and selection. Their invitation gave me an excuse to decorate another tree, and you know I couldn’t say “No” to more Christmas!
I selected the 7.5 ft. Pre-lit Stratford Spruce, which Balsam Hill was kind enough to gift me along with some ornaments. I particularly like this tree because of its realistic look. Plus, its narrow width also makes it a perfect fit for this space. (You can see the bare tree in my “How to Put Ribbon on a Christmas Tree” tutorial here.)
Once I’d chosen the tree, the rustic modern theme came to me when I saw this collection of Farmhouse Ornaments. It was the plaid design on some of the bulbs that steered me in this direction.
Aren’t they beautiful!?
Next, I added coordinating reindeer ornaments, and for a bold pop of color, I used these BH Essentials ornaments in burgundy and red.
I brought in a whimsical element to this Rustic Modern Christmas Tree with a few of the red truck ornaments that I used on my flocked tree last year. Then, for a modern twist, I added some of the metallic clip-on candles and gold glitter-filled icicles that graced the tree in my dining room last year. They also give this tree a touch of sparkle.
And speaking of sparkly, how about these antique snowflakes? Along with the coordinating tree topper, I love the charming touch of yesteryear they bring. I scattered them all over this Rustic Modern Christmas Tree to complete the look. As you might be able to tell, the set includes four different designs, each in three different sizes.
To finish the tree, I used this faux fur tree skit in smoke. I’ve used a lot of tree skirts, but this is probably the nicest one I’ve ever owned. The colors tie in nicely with the floors and trim work in my space.
Of course, I had to wrap a few gifts to tuck around the tree. I love wrapping presents almost as much as I love decorating trees. They add something special to the entire look, don’t you think?
I’ve included pictures in this post showing the tree with the lights on and the lights off. When I’m decorating my trees, I strive to make them look beautiful with or without the lights on. Although I will admit, nothing beats the twinkle of lights at Christmas. That’s all part of the magic.
You also got a sneak peek at some of the new furnishings in this space. I can’t wait to share how it’s coming together. I’m planning to unveil it on Friday.
I hope you loved this first look at one of my new trees. Let me know what you think in the comments.
If you’re searching for more Christmas Tree decorating ideas, be sure to check out this post here. I’m sharing 10 of my favorite Christmas tree decorating ideas. You can also grab my Christmas Tree Ribbon Tutorial here.
However, before you check out those things, be sure to visit the other 11 bloggers in Balsam Hills’ 12 Bloggers of Christmas series. I’ve linked them all up below. Also, Balsam Hill is hosting a daily giveaway. You can get more details and enter to win here.
Courtney – French Country Couttage
Bree – Z Designs at Home
Erin – Sunny Side Up
Bre- Rooms for Rent
Kellie – Nest of Posies
Tammy – Pink Peppermint Design
Cami – Tidbits
Alicia – A Burst of Beautiful
Christy – 11 Magnolia Lane
Liz – Love Grows Wild
Christina – Christina’s Adventures
Michael – Inspired by Charm (You’re here!)
Thanks so much for stopping by. Here’s to a Christmas season filled with joy and enchantment!
Holy moly…this tree is amazing! You have such a gift! 💗💗💗
You’re the best, Vanessa! Thank you!!
xo Michael
Beautiful tree and I can’t wait to see the new furnishings! 😊
Thank you! I’m excited to share the space!
xo Michael
I especially enjoy your Christmas decorating advice. And this post has reassured me that when I move next year that I’ll be able to successfully reimagine my Christmas decorating in a new space. Thanks.
Yes! It will be beautiful! Good luck and thank you!
xo Michael
I love how different you make each tree feel. It fits into your place so well!
Awww! Thanks so much, friend!
xo Michael
Stunning!!
I am in love with this tree, Michael! Love that vintage vibe and all the beautiful plaid. You are so talented!!
Thank you!!
xo Michael
It looks wonderful, Michael! I love the touches of plaid and the ribbon is spot-on, so I’m heading over to check out that tutorial now. Such a pleasure to be part of this series with you–sharing!
The plaid is a fun twist. Creating a special tree for your home is always such a special part of kicking off the season! Mary Wilding
I was looking forward to seeing your tree, you just ALWAYS do the best trees!
Wow, it’s absolutely stunning!! You amaze me more each holiday lol
I love all of it especially the cute truck ornaments. You are so talented!! Beautiful!!
The black and gold tree in your dining room last year inspired me to go for green, black, and metallics this year. Now I am obsessed with the steely blue and red you have on this tree! And that chunky throw blanket coordinates perfectly and is the icing on the cake! Love it! Looks like I’ll be hitting up the clearance sales at the end of the season to switch it up again next year 😉
Yes! I’m always shopping end of year sales for next year. It’s such smart idea. It’s hard to do when you’re decluttering after the holidays, but it pays off the next year.
xo Michael
the ribbon! the ornaments! EVERYTHING! bam you did it again! so quaint and cozy! As much as I loved all from your previous home, this is really growing on me! and your ability to start with a clean slate and make it AMAZING! is truly a gift! Anxiously awaiting trees 2 & 3!!! : )
Your tree is absolutely stunning Michael!! Really Iove those little trucks and the plaid ornaments:)! So fun being on this tour with you!!! Xo
I, too have a rustic modern tree theme in mind. I love the look of shine and natural elements along with plaids and checks. You’re tree is my inspiration. Thanks for sharing your talent with us.
BTW, I love the office furniture. Can’t wait for the final reveal.
Love your tree!! I am dying over the antique snowflake ornaments and must buy now!
Such a gorgeous tree! You’re the master!
This is such a gorgeous tree! Absolutely beautiful.
I’m feeling inspired to go get mine up!
Looks absolutely fantastic! Love the great mixture of colors and textures!
1. Check you out, Mr. Only Guy in the challenge!
2. Finally, a tree ribbon that doesn’t make me sad. Checking that tutorial out for sure.
3. That dreamy nubby wubby blanket–where can I get one?!?
4. That antler wrapping paper? Where did you find that?
Merry Christmas, Michael!
I love the visual warmth of this tree. I want to incorporate some dusty blue into my tree this year and I love how you accented yours with blue ornaments but still managed to keep the red!
The tree is stunning Michael. I love all the decor and the ribbon.
I LOOOOOVE this theme, Michael! It’s got a casual undertone that screams comfort. In fact, your entire new place has a slice of modern rustic charm that I am adoring!
What a gorgeous tree – love those little red trucks!! You do, indeed, have the touch, Michael!!
Michael,
What a beautiful tree!!! But I’m not surprised as you always do amazing things.
I watched your video on ribbon tricks so I could hopefully try to have as gorgeous a tree as you always do.
Thanks for reminding me of the fun and joy of Christmas decorating, Now I will look forward to finishing up!
Happy Holidays!
Michael! You…you, genius! I adore this tree! I won’t ask “how do you do….”; I already know the answer, “You make Christmas trees look magnificent because you are brilliant!” Everything from the cute plaid ornaments, the candle ornaments(LOVE) to the incredible snowflakes and ribbon makes this tree say “Merry Christmas” in a beautiful rustic way. I can never seem to put all of my ornaments on my tree so that all of them can be seen without the tree looking overloaded or messy. I’ve always wanted to try ribbon on my tree, your tutorial and enthusiasm have given me the confidence to try! Thanks!
I must agree with everyone else! I am new to your site, and I am so happy to have found you! You are brilliant! What a gift you have! I LOVE everything about this tree and your attention to ALL the details! And the gifts! Wow!!!!!
Wow Michael! Not to imply you aren’t good at blogging, but maybe you should decorate Christmas trees for a living. You knocked it out of the park. Would love a tutorial on how you select ornaments, sizes you look for, it you have to do sets of ornaments (I have LOTS of singles), placement, etc.
Keep up the great work.
Linda
Dry. Ice tree. Love the snow flakes
Gorgeous tree! Where did you get that blanket? Did you make it yourself? I have wanted one for so long!
I found this one at HomeGoods. It was pricey, but I like it!
xo Michael
Stunning…really. And I love that you put on a santa hat to wave good bye 😉
Your trees are always Stunning! You are so talented! Like my sister you have the eye and it is such a gift. The antique snow flakes are exquisite. But I am crazy in love with that little plaid snowflake in your gift wrap.
I love your blog! You have a natural talent for decorating. Where did You get your tree top? I am so in love with it.
Regina