The only thing that’s been getting me through the last couple months is the anticipation for the holidays. Maybe it’s just because Christmas is an indicator that this year will be over, or maybe it’s because we’ve all been mostly locked inside all year, unable to plan anything fun. Probably both. Needless to say, holiday shopping has been on my mind and since November hit, I’ve been scouring the internet for fun decorations to celebrate the season. Even though I know I won’t be able to see people are have anyone over, I’m pretending like I can. There’s still something very comforting in retail therapy.

And so, I’ve come up with a list of my favorite holiday decorations. Here they are, in no particular order:

1. Zinc Sitting Reindeer Stocking Hook By Crate and Barrel

Here’s what I love about this stocking holder – it’s simple, it’s chic, it comes in three different colors, and it’s heavy. It’s pretty without being too much of the focal point. I ended up buying a few extra of these just to have in case we have more visitors for Christmas in the years to come.

2. Plaid Doormat by Terrain

There are so many cute doormats, but this one just feels festive without being over the top – like you can pull it out November 1st and use it until February.

3. Nest Holiday Candle

It wouldn’t be the holidays without a Nest Holiday Candle. They are definitely pricey, but so worth it. It’s Christmas Eve wrapped up in a candle, and instantly puts me in a good mood. The box is also incredibly gorgeous, so it makes the perfect gift for those friends who are Christmas lovers.

4. Mud Pie Star of David French Knot Tea Towels

My husband is Jewish, so I love adding accents like these around the house during Hanukkah. These linen towels are soft, simple, and look beautiful in a guest bathroom. I'm interested to see how they hold up after a few washes, but so far they've been great. 

5. Etsy's Our First Pandemic Ornament 

I love this ornament mostly because I’m looking forward to many years in the future when I get to talk about what a hard year 2020 was and it’s in the past. I love collecting ornaments that have meaning or stories attached—something that makes the act of decorating the Christmas tree also a walk through memory lane. It’s a cute decoration, but also a reminder of what this year was about, and how we’ve all had to persevere.

6.  Hanging 1.5m Wall Christmas Tree from Etsy

What I love about this piece is that you can still display ornaments, but without the hassle of going out and getting a tree to hang them on. This is perfect if you live in an apartment or even if you want to have a simplified holiday experience.

7.  Woodland Tabletop Live Tree With Lights by L.L. Bean

This tabletop tree is perfect to brighten up your kitchen, or even as a centerpiece on a well-appointed table. It’s a real spruce tree, so in the spring you can even plant it outside. I love having a couple of these around the house, or even outside if you have a terrace.  

8. Terrain’s Over the Table Rod

I’m not a terribly crafty person, but I just love this piece. You can add lights and real or fake flowers, even lanterns if you want. It’s a wonderful way to brighten up your outdoor table (for those of us in Southern California especially, who plan to do Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner outside). With the decorations off the table, it leaves more room for food and wine, and there’s no awkward “I can’t see you over this enormous vase of flowers” moments.

9. Fragrant Berry Wreath by Williams Sonoma

I love this wreath. It has cedar boughs and is laced with eucalyptus, pinecones, and faux red berries. It’s cheerful and inviting without being over-the-top. Plus it gives you that lovely holiday scent as you walk through the door. Definitely a favorite.

10. Hit the Slopes Pillow by Anthropologie

This pillow is beautiful, well-made, and makes me dream of being on a holiday vacation. Regardless of how we will be spending the holidays this year, I can snuggle up with a couple of these pillows on the couch and pretend to be in a mountain chalet with friends and family.