By Lexi Kentmann
Nothing beats the sight of a real Christmas tree. Not only is it a sight to behold, but the scent is right up there with the best of the season. Cue the nostalgia! But maybe you missed out on the Scouts selling Christmas trees? Or perhaps a faux tree is more your style (it’s more sustainable if you use it until its bedraggled end)? We’ve put together three favourites to make magic in your living room.
BEST: BH Balsam Fir Tree from Balsam Hill
Available in six sizes, this tree is a best-seller for good reason. With a luxuriously full classic silhouette, distinct semi-flat needles,and upward-sloping branches, the BH Balsam Fir Tree draws inspiration from those classic storybook Christmas trees. Mimicking nature, it features foliage that’s incredibly lifelike and natural. Choose from different lighting options to get the look you love. Balsam Hill has a range of tree collars to ensure your tree is in keeping with your interiors – and we’re obsessed.
BETTER: Royal Deluxe Pre-Lit Christmas Tree from Temple & Webster
With so many 5-star customer ratings – this deluxe tree features “fluffy” branches that give it a lush and full look that makes it look like the real thing. The three-part tree is pre-lit with fairy lights for a simple set up – just decorate with your favourite baubles. Available in four sizes (150 – 240cm) you can choose a size to suit your space.
GOOD: Kingston Pre-Lit Christmas Tree from Kmart
If you’re on a budget then Kmart has a great selection of trees to choose from. Standing at 182cm, this generously statured tree creates a central festive focal point for your living room. Simple to put together it features lush full branches and built-in lights, offering a warm radiant glow.
How to make your faux tree look even more fabulous:
After a year of being in storage, sometimes branches flatten and require a little extra work to restore them to their festive best. Here we’ve put together three failsafe tips to pump up the volume on your artificial Christmas tree:
- Fluffing is imperative: Start at the bottom and work your way up – work by separating each branch and fluffing out each smaller branch in different directions – you want to avoid any flat sections, including closer to the trunk. This can enhance natural volume to give it a more realistic and full look.
- Add in garlands: They’re not only great for mantels or windows, a good quality faux fir can enhance a Christmas tree, fill gaps and give it a fuller look. Don’t be afraid of mixing colours and textures – this helps make the tree look even more realistic. Balsam Hill have some of the lushest garlands available that will last for years to come, this West Elm Burst Tree Pick adds volume and sparkle. Tuck the garlands in well – and once in place, you can fluff branches around it to ensure it’s integrated and full.
- Lights, decorations, bows: More lights equals more magic. That ambient warmth and twinkle of fairy lights is synonymous with Christmas. Start close to the trunk then work your way to any bare spots – this is a case of more is more! If your tree has a bald spot, enlist the help of oversized decorations.
With a little extra effort, you’ll have your tree for years to come (and avoid the chore of having to get rid of a real tree after Christmas).
–Lexi Kentmann is a PR, brand marketing, events, copywriting, content and production whizz who also loves Christmas!
