Decorating your new JSJ Builders’ home for the holidays is a wonderfully exciting milestone!  Whether you've just moved in or are simply stepping into the role of creating holiday magic in your own space, there is much joy in bringing festive cheer to every corner. For first-time homeowners, decorating for the holidays can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if pulling ideas from high-end looks. By setting aside costly expectations and decorating with intention, your brand-new home will feel warm, welcoming, and absolutely merry.

Think festive flexibility when creating an extra special space for the holidays!

Start with a Flexible Vision: What is your overall vibe? Do you lean toward a cozy cabin look or a sleek, modern aesthetic? Do you love pops of playful colors or prefer a more muted motif? Gathering inspiration from social media or maker sites is a terrific idea but, remember, you do not have to go all-out from day one. Plan to grow your holiday decor collection over time and, this year, start with just a few key areas to decorate.

Create a Realistic Budget: This can be tricky for those decorating a home for the first time as it may be your first time purchasing holiday decor. Create a wish list before heading to the store that includes must-haves, such as delightful Christmas stockings or a gorgeous Menorah, and focus on those items first. Purchasing a faux holiday tree is more economical long-term but may be considered a large expense in year one. Follow a few tips to stay within budget while bringing holiday magic home:

• Thrift stores are a great place to find holiday decor! Many seasoned homeowners edit their collections as the holidays near and last year’s purchases are integrated into their homes. You’ll often find unique ornaments, candle holders, wreaths, and more at discounted prices. Vintage items add character and often look far more expensive than they are. Thrift stores are also a great place to find items that, with a quick DIY update, will become a personalized statement piece.
• Speaking of DIY, do-it-yourself decorations are a fun, family activity that is also budget-friendly! Try a simple DIY like a garland popcorn string or create your own ornaments by filling clear plastic balls with pinecones, tinsel, or glitter. Craft stores carry affordable supplies like felt or paper that can be used to create everything from snowflakes to mini-Christmas trees.
• Look for inspiration outside! JSJ Builders’ central North Carolina location means that homeowners are always just steps away from endless pinecones and evergreen branches. Both are perfect additions to wreaths, mantels, or centerpieces. Gather pinecones from your yard or a local park, bake them to remove any bugs, and add a touch of glitter or paint for a little sparkle. Fresh greenery can be tied together with colorful ribbon or displayed in vases for an earthy, rustic vibe.
• Twinkle lights may be the easiest way to add holiday magic to any space. They are relatively inexpensive and can be placed almost anywhere: on your tree, along windows, or even across your dining table as a centerpiece. LED string lights save energy, and battery-operated options make decorating more versatile.
• Festive pillows and blankets are an easy, inexpensive way to transform living rooms and bedrooms into a holiday haven. Love the look of seasonal pillows? Invest in quality pillow inserts and then change out their covers throughout the year. Pillow covers are relatively inexpensive and simple to store.

Establish New Traditions: Starting new traditions is one of the most exciting parts of being a first-time homeowner. The holidays are about creating memories, and traditions make the season feel special year after year.

• Collect Ornaments: Start a tradition of collecting or making one special ornament each year. It could represent a memorable event, a favorite travel destination, or even something whimsical. Over time, you’ll have a unique collection that tells the story of your life and experiences.
• Host a Tree Decorating Party: Show off your new home by inviting guests over to kick off the holiday season! Encourage each to bring a meaningful ornament for your holiday tree. Hosting at the holidays is easy with a little seasonal music, mulled wine, hot chocolate, and with everyone joining in on the decorating fun.
• Cookie Decorating: A favorite, delicious tradition is a day dedicated to cookies! Bake cookies with friends or family then decorate them with icing, sprinkles, and candies. Cookies make terrific, budget-friendly gifts for friends or neighbors. Not only will this make your home smell amazing, but it’s also a fun way to bond and create treats for the season.
• Gingerbread Houses: While you’re baking those cookies, why not add a gingerbread house to the oven? Gingerbread House Kits are readily available from November on, and they make a great display item for the entire season. This is a fun activity to do alone, with a partner, or with kids, and it brings a touch of whimsical fun into your holiday routine.
• Countdown Calendar: Countdown calendars are traditionally for kids, but adults can enjoy them, too! Create a countdown calendar that has daily treats or activities leading up to your favorite holiday. Think small pieces of chocolate, a sweet note, or an easy activity when building your calendar.
• Holiday Movie Marathon: If there is a rainy weekend in the forecast, spend a day in your holiday pajamas and settle in for a movie marathon! Let each participant pick a favorite movie, pop loads of popcorn, and get cozy.

Where to Invest: When planning your holiday budget, there are a few places that are worth an investment. Don’t forget to check store shelves after the holidays as many of these items will be discounted!

• Multi-Year Pieces: For items that will be used over and over, such as a tree skirt, stockings, Menorah, or Kinara, spend more for a high-quality item that will look beautiful for years to come.
• Storage Matters: It may seem odd to spend more on storage, but sturdy storage bins will protect your holiday items and ensure that they remain perfect for their lifetime. Bins are also a terrific way to organize holiday decor making use a breeze each year.
• Holiday Trees: If you opt for a faux tree, make it a good one! Purchase a high-quality faux tree pre-lit with LED lights that will last for years. Invest in a tree-storage box or bag to protect its branches and lights while in storage.

Decorating your home for the holidays for the first time is an opportunity to be creative and start new traditions that will grow and evolve over the years. While it’s easy to get swept up in costly holiday decor, remember that the true magic comes from the memories you create. Your decorations don’t need to be perfect or expensive; they just need to feel meaningful to you.

One of the most exciting times of year for the team at JSJ Builders is the holiday season as we get to see each of our new single-family homes personalized inside and out. Our new home communities come to life with creativity and gorgeous displays, making each of our new builds the perfect home for the holidays!

From the JSJ Builders’ team, have a wonderful holiday season filled with amazing memories!