Holiday Decorating and Preparation on a Budget

Just because money is tight doesn't mean that holiday decorating is impossible. There are ways to fix up even the smallest living space to look pretty and festive. To create a little holiday cheer, here are a few thoughts on making your home or apartment look great during Christmas, Hanukah or Kwanzaa.

Make a wreath and hang it up

Go over to the local craft store, especially when there are pre-holiday sales, and get tasteful, realistic greenery, florists' wire, and a wreath form to attach it to. Make sure to get enough silk flowers or dried greens to cover the front and sides of the wreath. Variegated or multi-colored small leaves are a pretty accent to use. For the main greens, I love real eucalyptus because it has a nice smell and a pretty color, kind of a bluish grey-green. Sprigs of red berries are pretty, as are babies' breath (many tiny white flowers on jointed stems). Space them all out and gently wire them onto the frame. They look really pretty and don't cost that much to make. Add a ribbon bow later, if you like. I like gold and red patterns on mine, to contrast with the greens of the wreath. Place the wreath where it can be seen and enjoyed.

Strings of Christmas lights