10 Themed Christmas Tree Ideas: Make it Merry

Growing up, my mom always put up two Christmas trees. There was the “family tree” which was a mishmash of every ornament we’d ever collected on vacation, our craft projects, and inherited baubles from both sides of the family. I loved this tree because unwrapping each ornament was like unwrapping a memory. As years went by, some of them became quite tatty, but that did not diminish their appeal (to me, anyway).

In addition to this tree, my mom loved a stylized silver foil tree with all red baubles in the bay window (it was the late 70s and early 80s, after all). Although as a child I did not quite understand it at the time, this chic tree was much more her personal style.

Apparently, her methods rubbed off on me, because I’ve gone one step further, and in my own home I erect trees in every room. My “family tree” is located in the bedroom because, like my childhood version, it contains every bit of my family history (including macaroni pieces spray painted gold, pipe cleaner candy canes, and paper “wish list” ornaments from my children’s pre-k days) and these things are the most meaningful to me. But throughout the house, it’s a different story, altogether! My themed Christmas trees run the gamut from a red-and-white stunner in the library/snug, to a food tree in the dining room, to an equestrian tree in my daughter’s room, plus more.

If you’ve never set up a themed tree, it’s quite easy. To start, simply decide on your theme and go through your existing ornaments to pull anything that fits your vision. Using a tabletop tree the first year takes the pressure off having “enough” ornaments. (This faux Christmas tree on Amazon, a 4 ft. version, which I just bought myself, is about $55. And the quality is excellent! It’s also available in 3 ft. and 2 ft. options for as low as $24.)

Then, scour your house for non-ornaments that will look charming dangling from your tree’s branches. Examples include cookie cutters, doll furniture and tea sets, old toys, leaded glass suncatchers, faux flowers, berries, and branches, and small wicker baskets (I like to fill these with treats). And don’t forget the trimmings such as wood beaded garlands or bunting that you already own, for a cohesive look.

Sourcing natural elements is also a great way to “fill in” the tree. Add pinecones of various sizes, Tulip Magnolia and other seed pods, or seashells, depending on your theme.

Photo by Tobi Fairley Interior Design 

Photo by Tobi Fairley Interior Design  

Photo by Robeson Design  

Photo by suzanne pignato  

Then throughout the year, you can be on the lookout for additional bits and bobs that you love. I source many, many pieces at thrift shops. And, having a specific goal turns a leisurely shopping expedition into a treasure hunt! (Knowing my excessive love of all things Christmas, my friends and family are also on hunt throughout the year and often gift me with truly special, theme-specific pieces at the holidays).

Below are our Top 10 Themed Christmas Tree Ideas. However, your imagination is the only limit! The rules? Make it beautiful. Make it special. Make it yours!

An All-White Christmas Tree: Glistening white and silver ornaments turn any room into a winter wonderland. Add spraypainted white branches for texture. Chandelier crystals add snowy sparkle. (See more all-white Christmas tree ideas here.)

The Toy Tree: Vintage or vintage-inspired toys make a tree that children will love! Tiny teddy bears, dollhouse furniture, and miniature nutcrackers add whimsy.

The Bird Tree: Natural elements such as pinecones and faux berries create a charming environment for inexpensive mushroom birds (available at any craft store). Add small bird nests (which can easily be made from angel vine) and tiny birdhouses.

The Tea Tree: Perfect for a kitchen or dining room. Just tie on a multitude of colorful teacups using pretty ribbon (make sure they are well secured, as teacups can be heavy). Beautiful “orphaned” teacups are plentiful in thrift stores and at tag sales, often for under $1.

The Raindrop Tree: All white lights and an entire tree of crystals and icicles make a stunning tree for the minimalist. A great idea for a room whose color palette does not harmonize with “traditional” Christmas colors.

Limited Color Palette Tree: Choosing a limited color palette eliminates some of the visual chaos that can result with an “everything” tree. Try red and white, blue and white chinoiserie, or joyful candy-inspired colors such as pink, lime green, and teal.

Photo Tree: Tiny frames highlight the most important people in your life and create a beautiful visual history for your children. Tiny frames are available in craft stores or Dollar Tree.

Little Critters Christmas Tree: Any animals or combination that your heart desires! Woodland faves, farm animals, or sea creatures, this is such an adorable look. Don’t forget to add related items – for a horse tree, for example, wind braided leather reins through the branches instead of a garland, add horseshoes (cleaned!), bits, and faux apples.

The Vintage Tree: If you are lucky, you may have inherited some vintage Shiny Brite ornaments. These can be overpowered by newer, brighter baubles, but when hung on a separate tree, they have a lovely soft and muted quality. Easily found in vintage and charity shops, they are extremely affordable.

The Rustic Tree: Twine wrapped cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, pinecones, faux berries, and burlap pennant style bunting combine to create a log-cabin worthy Christmas.

Photo by Interiors on Fox Farm Road 

Photo by Balsam Hill