How to simplify CHRISTMAS

Simple, fast and stress-free: Your Christmas countdown starts here

THE TREE

The most important first step to make the house feel festive is putting the tree up and getting out all your favourite decorations (and a good Christmas soundtrack during proceedings never hurts!) Once the tree is in place, begin with the Christmas tree lights. Plug them in first to make sure there are no faulty bulbs – trust us, you don’t want to realise this once they’re already on the tree! For an extra-Christmassy look, it’s best to have at least two sets: one to go around the trunk of the tree and one to go along the outside of the tree. Take a step back once you’re done to make sure the lights are evenly spaced. If you decorate by colour scheme, keep your palette limited to two to three main colours.

THE TABLE

On the big day itself, the dining table is where the action happens, so it’s worth making an extra effort – but without the stress. This is the one time of year where you don’t have to worry about your table setting being too over-the-top – there’s no such thing at Christmas. To keep your table looking creative rather than cluttered, place the majority of the decorations down the centre so that everybody has enough room for plates, cutlery – and elbows! Choose one statement piece and build around it, or create pockets of interest along the table.

Get everything you need for Christmas at Farmers. Shop instore or online.