As anyone who celebrates Christmas can tell you, tree decorating can be a very serious matter. I can specifically remember a year when my mom shelved our normal red-and-green garland and cartoonish reindeer in favor of a beach-themed tree with glittering seashells and sand dollars. As the youngest child, I was upset about a tree devoid of the familiar ornaments of years gone by, and a family compromise was made that allowed me to hang the more youthful ornaments around the back of the tree.
Mom has since completely taken over the tree—which makes sense, because it's been more than a decade since I lived at home—and enjoys coming up with new color palettes and themes every few years. If you're looking to add something new to your tree, or perhaps give an ornamental gift to someone who is starting a new tradition of their own, here are some inspirational ideas.
Above: Jumbo eggs are the building blocks for these adorable woodland ornaments. By papelSF ($42 for four).
Mini buoy ornaments made from reclaimed wood are perfect for a nautical tree. By Altered Nature ($6 each).
"A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens is the basis for this literary holiday decoration. By Palimpsestic ($25).
White and gold trim makes these pinecones look snow-capped. By mylivelove ($13 for eight).
A mini ball of yarn is perfect for the avid knitter. By WhiteAcorn ($8.50).
Cedar and copper mountain peaks made from completely reclaimed materials. By Laurel and Lime ($17).
Screen-printed embroidery hoops add a nice touch to a tree. By ClassicByNature ($36 for four).
For more ways to trim your tree, check out this treasury on Etsy.