11 Holiday Hacks to Elevate Your Drinks, Decor & More
Looking for holiday inspiration? From decor tips to festive cocktail upgrades, these holiday hacks are guaranteed to make the coming season a little more magical. Image: iStock
Every time the season changes or a new special occasion rolls around, we’re eager to see the smart tips and tricks making the rounds on social media. From festive cocktail garnishes to Christmas decor ideas, we’ve got a fresh roundup of ways to make this holiday season just that much more magical.
Ribbons … Everywhere.
We’ve seen holiday ribbon tied around chair backs, on cocktail coupes, and everywhere else you can imagine, but this simple decor tip from @miusettsantana on Instagram is our favorite new way to incorporate ribbon. Use it to turn your existing art pieces into festive holiday decor!
Deck the Hall(way)s
A couple of Christmases ago, the idea of using a tension rod to hang entryway garland went viral on social media. Here, @houseofhaz does it bigger and better by using three tension rods to turn her hallway into a whimsical, standout space.
Mini Ice Wreaths
Ice cubes infused with seasonal fruit, herbs, and florals have become a staple for special occasions around the South, but here, @thesocialsipper shows us how to use a silicone donut pan to create miniature ice wreaths that fit perfectly inside a coupe. (You could use a mini bundt pan, too!)
How to Tie Perfect Bows
If you’ve never tried this hack, prepare for your mind to be blown — you can tie perfect bows by taping chopsticks to a table as your guide. @Dailyoriginalvids demonstrates how to tie a double loop bow, but you can obviously use the same trick for single loop bows. (If you’re using extra-large ribbon, you can use larger “sticks” like broomsticks or wrapping paper tubes.)
No Mantel? No Problem.
If you don’t have a fireplace mantel, or simply want to hang stockings elsewhere (like a guest room), this method from @bymeghang offers a big impact with very little effort — and it doesn’t require putting any holes in your walls.
Snowglobe Spritzer
Did you know you can easily turn your next round of drinks into a snowglobe? All you need is your glasses, some sprigs of rosemary, twine, tape, and enough time to freeze about an inch of water! Here, @charcuterie_n_things adds cranberries to the bottom of her glass, but those are optional.
Serveware, Reimagined
If you have more beautiful serveware than you know what to do with, consider using some of it in new ways! In this post, @peonyandhoney cleverly uses a vintage silver tray to create a unique backdrop for her holiday wreath.
Table Runner Hack
Wrapping paper is a super easy, inexpensive, and delightfully disposable way to add dimension to your holiday tablescapes. Check out these Thanksgiving and Christmas examples from @thechicishchick.
Easiest Rosemary Wreaths
Rosemary wreaths can be used to dress up everything from table settings and charcuterie boards to holiday gift wrap and wall decor. And they don’t have to be finicky! Here, @oliviaatlashome demonstrates how to use a bowl to shape your wreaths and hold them still while you secure the sprigs together. Use different-sized bowls for different-sized wreaths!
Dress Up Your Bookshelves
So quick, so simple, so charming. Book lovers, give your shelves a quick holiday makeover by using old paperbacks to create a Christmas tree, like @yaalionka does here. Bonus points for twinkle lights!
Frozen Whipped Cream Toppers
If you’re planning to serve hot cocoa and coffee at your next gathering, consider this super quick and easy whipped cream hack, à la @cozydiyhome. Simply swirl (or plop) circles of whipped cream, top your favorite sprinkles, and pop them into the freezer. They look adorable, and they’ll last a little longer in the cocoa, too.
For more holiday recipes, hosting tips, and decor ideas — follow StyleBlueprint on Pinterest!
Alissa Harb
Alissa Harb is StyleBlueprint's Managing Editor, based in Nashville. A lifelong Tennessee native, Alissa has over 13 years of experience in digital media and loves writing about food, travel, and entertaining. She is a lover of dogs, true crime, and ordering for the table.