Instead of a traditional wreath, hang the first letter of your family’s last name. Add a clipping of long-needle pine and a couple of silver bells to jingle every time you answer the door.

Keeps things simple (and recyclable!) sticking with craft paper for wrapping all your gifts. Adorn each one individually with hand-drawn designs or use rubber stamps. Then attach a sprig with a hot glue gun or twine. Sprinkle with a little faux snow.

No room for a tree? Affix thin branches to a wall to form the shape of a tree, leaving room to set presents beneath. Tie on ornaments with pretty bows and don’t forget to put a star on top! Command Picture Hanging Strips will keep it all in place without damaging the wall when it’s time to remove.

Enjoy the beauty of a natural tree on a smaller scale. Lop off the base for a height that suits your space perfectly — even the end of a large branch will work. Set inside a leak-proof container, as you’ll need to water regularly, add a bow and you’re done!

Make a DIY Advent Calendar, starting with sturdy branches wired together. With a nod to Santa’s sack full of presents, fill each numbered pouch with a wee treat and hang with various lengths of string.

Instead of more formal place cards and holders, simply write each guest’s name on a strip of Washi Tape (available at craft stores) then use to attach small pieces of greenery to add a holiday hue at each place setting.

Wondering what to put on your mantle or window ledge? Set white tealights inside small glass jam jars, then tie a tiny sprig dangling down from the rim with ribbon (making use of small strips left over from gift wrapping).

Instead of fresh flowers, set a variety of evergreens — pine, cedar, fir, spruce — into glass bottles filled with water and a small handful of cranberries floating on top. Set one at each place setting or together in place of a centrepiece.

Inserting a few boughs into a large urn instantly transforms an entryway from everyday to holiday. Take things up a festive notch by hooking on a few tree ornaments.