The secret to stress-free holiday decorating? Starting at the right time. Many homeowners wait until December to begin their Christmas decorating, leading to rushed decisions, higher prices, and holiday stress. Smart decorators know that successful holiday displays begin months before the first ornament is hung.
At RRO Home, we've helped thousands of customers create stunning seasonal displays. Our seasonal decorating experts have developed this comprehensive timeline to help you plan, purchase, and execute beautiful holiday décor without the last-minute panic.
Whether you're decorating a cozy apartment or a grand family home, this timeline will guide you through each phase of holiday decorating, from early planning in August to the perfect takedown strategy in January. Follow this schedule, and you'll enjoy a beautifully decorated home while staying relaxed throughout the holiday season.
1. August - Early Planning Phase
Research and Inspiration Gathering
- Browse holiday decorating magazines and Pinterest boards
- Visit showrooms and holiday displays for inspiration
- Decide on your overall theme: traditional, modern, rustic, or elegant
- Take photos of ideas you love
Inventory Existing Decorations
- Pull out last year's decorations and assess their condition
- Make note of what needs replacing or updating
- Check lights for burned-out bulbs or damaged cords
- Organize decorations by room or theme
Plan Your Holiday Color Scheme
- Choose your primary colors (traditional red/green, elegant gold/silver, modern white/blue)
- Consider how your scheme will flow throughout your home
- Think about coordinating indoor and outdoor displays
Shop early by browsing RRO Home's Christmas Decorations collection for inspiration and early planning.
2. September - Ordering & Purchasing Phase
Best Time to Buy New Decorations
- Prices are typically lowest before October
- Best selection available before popular items sell out
- Artificial garland and wreaths: order now for best quality options
- Specialty ornaments and unique pieces: purchase before holiday rush
Order Artificial Garland and Wreaths
- Measure doorways, mantels, and staircases for proper lengths
- Consider unlighted garland for flexibility in lighting placement
- Order extra for unexpected decorating opportunities
Purchase Replacement Items
- Replace any damaged lights or ornaments from your inventory
- Stock up on extension cords and timers
- Buy fresh batteries for battery-operated decorations
Featured products: Christmas garland, premium ornaments, and holiday picks and stems from RRO Home's collections
3. October - Preparation Phase
Test All Lights and Electrical Decorations
- Check every string of lights for functionality
- Replace burned-out bulbs and damaged cords
- Test timers and extension cords
- Make a list of any electrical items that need replacement
Clean and Organize Decoration Storage
- Clean storage containers and decoration boxes
- Label everything clearly for easy setup
- Create an inventory list with photos
- Organize by room or decorating phase
Plan Outdoor Display Layouts
- Walk around your property and plan lighting placement
- Check for adequate outdoor electrical outlets
- Consider weather protection for decorations
- Plan traffic flow for visitors
Enhance your planning with artificial flowers and seasonal picks for holiday arrangements
4. November - Interior Decorating
Week 1: Thanksgiving Transitional Decor
- Add fall elements that will transition to Christmas
- Incorporate warm colors that work for both holidays
- Focus on natural elements like pinecones and berries
Week 2: Christmas Tree Setup and Garland Hanging
- Set up and light your Christmas tree
- Hang garland on mantels, staircases, and doorways
- Install basic lighting for trees and garland
Week 3: Mantel and Table Decorating
- Create stunning mantel displays with garland and ornaments
- Set up holiday table centerpieces
- Add seasonal touches to side tables and surfaces
Week 4: Final Touches and Holiday Centerpieces
- Complete ornament placement on trees
- Add final decorative accents throughout the home
- Create special centerpieces for holiday entertaining
5. December - Exterior & Final Details
Week 1: Outdoor Lights and Displays
- Install outdoor lighting displays
- Set up yard decorations and lawn ornaments
- Test all outdoor electrical connections
Week 2: Front Door Wreaths and Porch Decorating
- Hang wreaths on doors and windows
- Decorate porches with garland and seasonal elements
- Add welcome touches for holiday visitors
Week 3: Last-Minute Touches for Parties
- Add special decorations for holiday entertaining
- Create focal points for party areas
- Adjust lighting for festive ambiance
Week 4: Enjoy Your Beautiful Holiday Home!
- Take photos of your completed displays
- Relax and enjoy the fruits of your planning
- Host gatherings in your beautifully decorated space
6. January - Takedown Strategy
Proper Storage Techniques
- Remove decorations in reverse order of installation
- Clean items before storing
- Use original packaging when possible
- Label storage containers clearly
When to Remove Different Decorations
- Week 1: Remove fragile ornaments and specialty items
- Week 2: Take down garland and wreaths
- Week 3: Remove outdoor decorations and lights
- Week 4: Store larger items and clean storage areas
Caring for Artificial Decorations
- Dust artificial garland and wreaths before storage
- Store artificial flowers in protective containers
- Keep storage areas dry and temperature-controlled
Conclusion (100 words)
Following this Christmas decorating timeline transforms holiday decorating from a stressful scramble into an enjoyable seasonal tradition. By starting your planning in August and following this strategic approach, you'll have more time to enjoy the holidays with family and friends instead of rushing to decorate at the last minute.
The key to beautiful holiday decorating is quality materials, proper planning, and starting early. Begin your stress-free holiday decorating timeline today with premium Christmas decorations from RRO Home's expertly curated collections.
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