Christmas is a very special time at The Waters. The already beautiful neighborhood gets decked out and adorned for a season full of events, such as Santa at the Square and our Polar Express Pajama Party coming up on Dec. 17. These two festive amenities of living at The Waters are some of the best events of the year.

It’s an event though just to walk around and look at all the decorations in The Square and throughout the neighborhood. We have many residents who are talented at decorating for Christmas. For those who might need a little help or inspiration, we have turned to Southern Living for a few decorating tips that would be perfect for the homes at The Waters (and others!).

Christmas decorating tips

1. Embrace the beauty outside. While many people focus on decorating the inside of their home, the exterior is where it can really shine for many people to see. This is especially true at The Waters where our winters are typically mild. You can enjoy decorations from porches, patios, back yards, and while out for a walk. Think about decorations outside, such as garland on porch rails like the ones in these photos of homes at The Waters. 
2. Make a big show on the front porch. The front porches of the homes at The Waters are some of the absolute best things about the neighborhood. They make a grand first impression all year, but Christmas offers the opportunity for something even more special. One interesting idea from Southern Living is planting a large, 7-gallon magnolia tree in a decorative container as a unique twist on a Christmas tree. You can use lights, bow, and sprigs of seeded eucalyptus or other greenery around the base to embellish the tree. After the holidays, you can plant the magnolia in your garden for beauty and interest all year.
3. Get your mailbox involved. Decorating the mailbox is a fun and festive way to make a big impact without a ton of work or supplies. Choose from a variety of greenery, pine cones, ornaments, berries, and a bow to put on top to create the look you want. Then, all you need are a few florist supplies, such as wire, cages, and oasis to finish your display.
4. Embrace the look of your home. This tip can apply to the interior or exterior of your home. While many people automatically go towards the classic red and green, there are many more color options that break the mold and are still appropriate for the holidays. If those colors don’t coordinate with your existing decor, use something that does. Sticking with neutrals, or going with other colors altogether, such as blue, yellow, or pink, can be just as festive. We love how the owners of this home at The Waters incorporated pink elements into their garland to match their pink paint. It may not be traditional, but it is beautiful. 
5. More ways to use magnolia — wreaths! Magnolia is a classic choice for both Southern homes and the Christmas season, so it’s the perfect choice to make when selecting or making a wreath. Using magnolia clippings and florist foam wreaths, you can make your own magnolia wreath without wire or glue. For step-by-step instructions from Southern Living, see how to make a magnolia wreath.

These fun ideas and projects will go a long way in making your home festive and beautiful for the holiday season. If you don’t yet have a home at The Waters to decorate, learn more about what’s available here. 

Why settle for anything less? Your family deserves the best. Call 334-272-3200 today.