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The holiday season brings excitement, and for many, decorating is a vital part of the festivities. However, some decorating habits, while enjoyable, may be considered somewhat ‘toxic.’ This article examines the quirky practices shared by designers who embrace their holiday decorating flaws with a smile.
From the relentless pursuit of a new look each year to the stubborn refusal to abandon traditional bulbs, these decorators illustrate how their ‘toxic’ traits can be both amusing and endearing. This exploration of habits may resonate with many readers.
Reinventing the wheel each holiday season
For some decorators, the urge to change their holiday design theme yearly can be overwhelming. Alvin Wayne, a prominent designer, candidly shares, “I can’t help but feel the need to create a fresh look for the holidays every year. Once I finish a particular theme, I feel compelled to innovate again. It’s not about outdoing others but about surpassing my own previous creations! Although it’s a bit toxic, it also brings me immense joy.” This cycle of creativity may lead to delightful decorations but can also create pressure to continuously elevate one’s design game.
Glitter: love it or hate it
When it comes to holiday sparkle, opinions vary dramatically. Mikel Welch firmly states, “Glitter is banned from my home! I simply can’t handle the chaos it creates. Even the slightest bit of shimmer will linger long after the celebrations have ended, and I just can’t deal with that mess.” For others, however, a sprinkle of glitter is essential. Kristen Scharer explains her perspective: “I’m not a fan of excessive glitter, but a bit of sparkle here and there can really elevate my holiday decor. Unfortunately, that little bit of glam tends to stick around way longer than I’d like, often showing up again in July!” This playful tension between embracing and avoiding glitter captures the light-hearted nature of holiday decorating.
The battle of holiday lights
When it comes to holiday lighting, a heated debate brews over the choice between incandescent and LED bulbs. Emily Vaughan passionately defends her preference for vintage-style incandescent lights, saying, “I refuse to switch to LEDs, even if they are more energy-efficient. The warm glow they provide is irreplaceable, and the yearly ritual of checking each bulb for burnout has become a cherished tradition for me, despite my husband’s less enthusiastic attitude towards it.” This commitment to a nostalgic aesthetic often outweighs the practical benefits of modern lighting options.
Overabundance of inspiration
In today’s digital age, the availability of design inspiration is limitless, which can lead to another toxic trait: overwhelming oneself with ideas. Barry Bordelon and Jordan Slocum, co-founders of the Brownstone Boys, emphasize the importance of personal expression. They advise, “While online inspiration is fantastic, getting too caught up in external trends can stifle your creativity. Remember to take a step back, engage with your own ideas, and allow your unique voice to shape your holiday decor.” This reminder underscores the value of originality amidst the sea of inspiration.
Personal experimentation in decoration
Many designers find their homes to be ideal testing grounds for new concepts. Audrey Scheck explains her approach: “I love to experiment with holiday decor in my own home before applying these ideas to clients’ spaces. This personal touch fuels my passion and keeps my creativity alive. While I may face some failures along the way, the process is invaluable for growth, and my home remains my favorite ongoing project.” This dedication to personal experimentation showcases the profound connection between a designer’s work and their own living space.
Holiday decorating often reveals quirky habits that blend joy with a hint of toxicity. From the incessant drive to innovate yearly themes to the glittery mess that lingers, these traits are often embraced with humor. As you embark on your own holiday decorating journey, consider how these stories resonate with your traditions, and remember: it’s all about celebrating the fun and festive spirit of the holidays.