2.  The mantle is the focal point of the living room.  The beautiful and realistic permanent holiday greens available today are perfect for decorating the mantle.  They won't dry out and are easy to shape just how you want them.  Add a few candles, berries, ribbon, and old world Santas.  Place poinsettias at the base of the hearth, on both sides, to add a lot of color.  Be sure to move them away when you are using the fireplace.

3.  When decorating the Christmas tree, string the lights starting at the trunk and work your way out to the end of the branch and back in.  Your tree will be beautiful and the strings of the lights will be hidden.   Place decorations throughout the tree, not just out on the ends of the branches.  Balls, bows and ornaments placed deep in the tree add depth, making the tree look much fuller. Hang all of the same kind, size, and color of an ornament or ball at the same time, such as all the small red balls, to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the tree.

4.  A beautiful centerpiece is perfect for your dining room table.  Choose from a fresh, fragrant arrangement or a permanent design that will last for years to come.  Add festive, coordinating place mats and candles and your dining experience will capture the magical feel of the holidays.  

5.  Bring the holiday celebration into every room. Kitchens and bathrooms are a great place to put scented candles and smaller seasonal knickknacks, such as a Santa and whimsical snowman.  Place a small poinsettia next to the kitchen or bathroom sink.  Use simple permanent branches of greens to lay on a bathroom and kitchen counter, end table and night stand.  You can add a few berries or ribbon.