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25 Holiday Decorating Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Follow these tips and your house will be the talk of the neighborhood for all the right reasons.

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Photo: iStockphoto.com/Sylvie Bouchard

The Mistake: Dry Christmas Tree

There's nothing sadder than a Christmas tree that starts to wither away before the big day arrives. Alternative and artificial trees are good options if you don't want to worry about maintaining a fresh tree. But if you want the real deal, how do you make sure your tree lasts through the holidays?

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Photo: Kim Cornelison; Styled by Heather Bullard. From: HGTV Magazine.

The Solution: Water Frequently

Fresh-cut Christmas trees require a lot of water to stay fresh, so it's best to keep the bottom few inches of the stump submerged at all times. Be sure to position the tree away from the fireplace, heating vents and fans to prevent it from drying out.

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Photo: iStockphoto.com/studioportosabbia

The Mistake: Mass-Produced Decorations

It seems like big-box stores start selling holiday decor earlier and earlier every year. While there’s nothing wrong with picking up a few things here and there, you want to be careful to avoid turning your home into a replica of the store display.

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Photo: Flynnside Out Productions. From: Brian Patrick Flynn.

The Solution: DIY Decorations

DIY decor is a great way to create a cozy holiday vibe throughout your home and add a personalized touch. From handmade ornaments to this whimsical bottle brush tree wreath, your creations will feel more inviting to guests, and your family will look forward to seeing them year after year. So, channel your inner elf and get crafting before the first frost.

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