Christmas Trees

Christmas trees bring folks together, whether you’re gathering for presents on Christmas morning or enjoying a quiet evening with the tree lights glowing. Finding the right Christmas tree starts with knowing where it will go and how much room you have to spare. Measure your ceiling height and leave space for the tree stand and your favorite topper, then check the width of the spot you’ve picked. A full Christmas tree can make a welcoming centerpiece in a roomy living room, while a slim Christmas tree may fit better beside a hearth or in a snug farmhouse corner, provided it stays well away from heat and open flames. Keep doorways, walkways and heating vents clear so everyone can move around comfortably throughout the season. Think about your setup routine, too: an easy-to-reach outlet and enough space to get around the tree can make hanging Christmas lights and ornaments a whole lot simpler. Choosing between a real Christmas tree and an artificial Christmas tree comes down to the holiday traditions and upkeep that suit your household. A fresh-cut Christmas tree brings a familiar evergreen scent, but it needs a sturdy, water-holding stand and daily water checks to help keep it from drying out. An artificial Christmas tree needs branch shaping during setup and a dry storage spot after the holidays, so consider how much storage room you have before deciding on its size. If you’re comparing pre-lit Christmas trees with unlit Christmas trees, built-in lights can simplify setup, while an unlit tree gives you more say over the light colors and placement. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for tree assembly and lighting, inspect light strands for damage, and turn tree lights off before heading to bed or leaving home. With the right fit and a little planning, your Christmas tree can set the scene for family keepsakes, homemade ornaments and another season of memories.