We asked Latrice Caldwell for her expert tips on achieving the perfect Christmas Tree. Here’s how she’s getting us ready for next year!
First: Getting Organized
Separate items into groups by color then organize those groups by size and uniqueness. This step may seem a little extra but trust me it will reduce the overall time it takes you and will actually help you see what you have to work with in a clearer way.
Second: Prepping the Tree
The first item on the tree should be lights!! You don’t want to begin with bulbs as most of them will end up falling off any way. Follow lights with ribbon or garland if you will be using them. *Be sure to plug the lights in first each season! You wouldn’t want to get them strung only to realize they don’t work.
Third: Decking the Tree (Now it’s getting fun)
Start by placing the largest bulbs from each color section onto the tree in random other, always making sure colors alternate. *Be sure to fill in any large holes/spaces if your tree is live.
Fourth: It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas
The next layer will be your filler layer. In this layer you will use the ones you find less desirable, old or the color you have the most of going from largest to smallest. *Be sure to place bulbs inside tree branches to create depth and dimension.
Fifth: Time to dress her up
At this point your tree is looking good, you’re starting to feel proud of yourself and it’s time to add the finishing touches. Unplug the lights and take a step back. Yes! Unplug the lights… Lights and reflections tend to play tricks on the eyes so unplugging it and stepping back will allow you to see what your tree will actually look like during the day or when the lights are not on. Shift/move like or same color ornaments and fill in spaces you didn’t see while the lights were on. Almost done! Now add the prettiest, sentimental, hand made, etc ornaments up front and up top, after all they are the stars of the show! Adding these ornaments last gives them prominance and makes them focal points that visually grabs your eyes attention.
Last but not least add a star or topper of your liking, Tree Skirt, Stockings, Table runners and Centerpieces to give your room a complete festive look.
Now, Plug everything in, grab a glass of Wine or hot Coco, pat yourself on the back it looks GREAT!! Enjoy!!
All Christmas Tree’s seen here are custom designed by Latrice Caldwell.
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Her latest venture designing and selling custom patches and appeal pieces.
To check out a full portfolio of past and present Christmas Decor you can find her on Instagram as AlwaysCaliEnt or check out her customs appeal pieces and patches by following her on Instagram as AlwaysCaliCustomz.