Question

Lisa here is my problem – this tree is new this year including the ornaments (inspired by you). It needs something else, I can’t find beads, the ones I wanted are on the store tree, sold out every where else. I looked at all three of the craft stores in my area for sticks. I do have gold bows from last year but they may be too large for the spaces I have. HELP! What do you think I could do? Oh, I did buy pine cones to add glitter to but not sure about that. Oh, I also went outside to gather dried weeds to spray paint white or spray glitter on them or spray snow on them. I’m worn out just thinking about this thing!!! Thank you in advance.   ~ Shell

Lisa Says

Hi Shell, if you are up to it, I would consider getting more simple ornaments and fill from the inside out. The newer artificial trees make it more difficult because the branches are stiff, but if you do it will give the tree a completely different look to have them filling in, tucked in and on the outside. Then I would consider getting some large sprays of metallic or glittery branches with leaves, cut each branch off and use them as picks. Hope that helps!

Question

I have never been to New York. My husband and I are going for a few days for our Christmas present. I so trust you. Could you tell me what area we should stay?  ~ Kathy

Lisa Says

Hi Kathy! I’m so excited for you to go to NY! I think finding an area to stay would depend on what you are planning to do in New York. I like to stay near Central Park – Central Park South, Central Park East, or Midtown East, because I am usually doing things in that area. Times Square is convenient but it is extremely crowded. If you are just planning on going shopping, SoHo would be another area to consider! Hope this helps and enjoy your trip!

Question

Lisa, I struggle with decorating my tree. Every year I just don’t seem to get it right. What ornaments do I put up first? I have filler ornaments and then the larger, more of the center pieces type of ornaments. Thoughts?  ~Paula

Answer

Lisa Says: I start with filler ornaments in the center and build out. After the filler ornaments, I’ll position any key ornaments, (large, sentimental, odd shape, etc.). Then, just add as many ornaments as possible. The branches or picks, I tend to do last. There is a video on each step of my Dining Room tree on my YouTube channel as well 🙂

Hope that helps!