Designers Share Five Ways to Save on Holiday Decor Without Buying New

This article was prepared from the source material provided, which includes quotes and tips from interior designers Adnan Anwar and Kristin Keyes.

Interior designers Adnan Anwar and Kristin Keyes have shared five practical ways to decorate for the holidays without spending much, emphasizing reuse, resourcefulness, and family connections. The tips range from turning ribbon scraps into bows to borrowing ornaments from relatives.

Anwar, founder of Adnan Anwar Design, suggests starting with gift-wrapping leftovers. Ribbon scraps that would normally be discarded can be tied around light fixtures, vases, pots, doorknobs, or even tacked onto walls and banisters. "I know bows are a little trendy in fashion right now, but I think they are a holiday interior classic," Anwar said. He prefers solid velvet ribbon but notes any pattern or color works.

For candlelight, Anwar recommends pulling out colorful taper candles from existing collections and displaying them on coffee tables, case pieces, or dining tables. Candleholders can be placed almost anywhere, he said.

Keyes, founder of Kristin Keyes Interior Design, turns to the pantry for garlands. She makes them from cranberries and popcorn and places them on trees, mantels, or above doors and cased openings. "Cue up a nice, long holiday movie and pour yourself a beverage though because these garlands can take some time to create," Keyes said.

Borrowing decor from family is another option. Keyes said her mother and mother-in-law were "holiday decor maximalists" with more ornaments than they could fit on their trees. She and her husband now have their childhood ornaments, which their children enjoy seeing. Keyes added that sharing the stories behind the ornaments is meaningful. Older relatives downsizing may be glad to give decor away permanently, while others may lend pieces for the season.

Finally, Anwar suggests using Santa hats as decor when not being worn. He places them on busts or animal sculptures for a quirky, eclectic touch that can start conversations and provide photo opportunities during gatherings.