DECORATING FOR TWO: EASY TIPS FOR HOLIDAY TRAVEL DECOR

Does it sometimes seem like your holiday celebrations are growing exponentially? As in: you set the seasonal scene in your everyday home and then jet off to spend the actual holidays in a second residence or resort pied-à-terre?

 If so, consider these tips for making a holiday merry wherever your stockings are hung up on Christmas morning. Even if you're staying put, these ideas can be a refresher course on adding sparkle to your home with a little fuss.

Designers know this: clusters are good. Focus your decorative attention on a key element such as an entryway or mantel. Then go big. Pile on the candles, gold hardware and ornaments and keep an eye out for scale. Have one or two oversized candles or vertical objects.

A fireplace hearth makes a great stage for a dazzling display. And it couldn’t be easier: drape a  fresh garland over the mantel and arrange a grouping of fruit on top. Keep it simple by using one type of fruit such as pears, pomegranates, or oranges.

Multiples are another good way to maximize your design statement. These simple starlit trees from Restoration Hardware are both contemporary and charming. Used as a grouping in an entryway they can set the scene for holiday gatherings. Best of all, there are no unsightly cords to deal with as they are battery operated —on timers no less.

Another simple solution is to hang an oversized wreath in a focal spot, establishing it as the locus of holiday gifts. Terrain, the home and lifestyle arm of parent company Anthropologie, has a selection of spectacular statement wreaths—both fresh-cut and faux—that will complement any interior style.

Terrain also offers a host of Christmas trees for the tradition-minded. This tabletop fraser fir comes with its own rustic basket with waterproof liner. All you need to add is joy. 

Most important: get your own personal Holiday Elf. The good news is almost everything can be shipped to your destination. Count on most retailers to meet your delivery dates and Amazon Prime members can take advantage of savings and shipping discounts on almost any kind of holiday decor from fresh trees to candles to matching reindeer pajamas for the whole family.