1. Create Scandi-chic

'Christmas decorating is a tradition in itself and tradition is important,' insists interior designer William Yeoward. Return to Santa's lair with warming Scandinavian red and white patterns on toasty textiles, and recapture a childhood of wooden toys and homemade treats. See more Scandi decorating ideas.

2. A festive welcome

First impressions begin at the front door so greet your guests warmly with a Rosy Christmas Wreath from The Cotswold Company. Kit Kemp, owner and interior designer of the Firmdale Hotels, recommends hanging coloured pieces of string above the door frame. 'On each string at various heights place circles of Oasis foam, each with something different pressed into it - holly, berries, cloves, cinnamon sticks, or mistletoe.' See all our wreaths.

3. Whip up a treat

'Christmas food is the best sort of food because it's about proper, unpretentious home cooking,' says Nigella Lawson. Slip into a patterned pinny and use this snowflake Cookie Cutter from John Lewis to make simple, quaint biscuits. Top with nuts, dried fruit and icing, then place around the house for hungry fingers to find. Want more kitchen goodies? Drop some hints with our gifts for domestic Goddesses.

4. Be a good Santa

A vintage-styled stocking is the perfect accessory for an original fireplace. Fill this Kraftwork knitted stocking from House of Fraser with tantalising treats. Shop the UK's lar
gest selection of stockings.

5. I'm dreaming of an aromatic Christmas

Try placing these cinnamon sticks from John Lewis in a brightly coloured bowl with some satsumas and allow the fruity cinnamon flavours to spread through your home. Gael Boglione, of Petersham Nurseries, suggests 'bowls of oranges studded with cloves to lend aromatic warmth, and vases of holly and bay.' Browse all our festive fragrances.

6. All is calm, all is bright

Light up your home the old-fashioned way. This pretty candle garden from The Pier makes a charming centerpiece. 'Use glass paints to decorate a selection of glass containers with warm, Christmassy colours and patterns. When they are all lit up by candles, the finished effect is particularly magical,' suggests Florist Simon Lycett.

7. Let it snow, and snow and snow...

Timeless toys are captivating for all ages. This gilded tree snow globe from M&S; will not only catch your eye, but charm your ear too with its rendition of 'We Wish You A Merry Christmas'.

8. On the tree top

Dressing the tree should be a happy family ritual. Unwrap grandma's baubles and hang them alongside new additions like these White Flock Design baubles from the Dotcomgiftshop for updated vintage chic. 'Stand back at regular intervals to see your tree taking shape and make sure the baubles are evenly spread,' suggests Idealhome magazine.


Annie Deakin is a journalist, fashion and furniture expert and editor at mydeco.com who is currently interested in sofa beds, radiators, and bathroom.