Sponsored by Crystal Hawley

Can you remember what the holidays smell like? That first hint of cinnamon and pine in the air, even before the decorations came out—the way it transported you right back to childhood. Suddenly, you’re in a room lit by twinkling lights, with the warm scent of spiced cider or mulled wine filling the kitchen. There’s a turkey roasting and a pie baking!

It’s no wonder that retro is making a comeback! 

To create a nostalgic holiday wonderland, here are 5 elements that can work together beautifully to add charm and bring those classic memories to life:

Classic Red & Green Color Palette: Start with the timeless red and green foundation that brings instant holiday cheer. Use lush greenery—like fresh pine garlands and holly branches—as your base, and add ribbons, ornaments, or plaid accents.

Tinsel with Glass Ornaments: Nothing says old-fashioned Christmas quite like strands of shimmering silver tinsel paired with delicate, hand-blown glass ornaments!

Snow Village Displays: Create a mini winter wonderland by arranging a snow village on a side table, mantel, or window ledge. Mix houses, little shops, trees, and maybe even a tiny train winding through the “snow.” Fake snow or cotton batting gives it that snowy effect and (of course) light up the scene with mini lights!

Santa Ceramics: Display vintage ceramic pieces, like Christmas trees with mini lights, Santa figures, reindeer, or holiday bells. These pieces, especially if they’re passed down or thrifted, add warmth and a unique touch of tradition to your decor.

Large, Vintage Bulbs: Those larger, colorful C7 or C9 bulbs are a blast from the past and instantly recognizable. String them along the Christmas tree, around doorways, or across the mantel to add that old-school glow.

Jen Bailey

Hi! I’m Jennifer Bailey and I partner with entrepreneurs who have massive ideas that could change the world. Most marketing is meaningless. Filled with empty promises, its only job is to bring in new traffic, new leads, and new customers. But I’ve drawn a line in the sand, and I’ve learned that marketing can do so much more than reach business goals and build profit. My methods give businesses the fire and soul they need to reach the right people, set the groundwork for sustainable relationships, and offer true value to the people on both the giving and receiving ends of marketing.

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