OUTDOOR SPACES
Use this simple framework to create a dazzling holiday display
But the holiday season is busy, and not everyone has the time to haul out the lights or knows how to put together a stunning holiday planter. And while we can’t give you any more hours in your day, we can give you some pointers on how to create a holiday display that leaves a lasting impression. Read on!
Although every arrangement we create is tailor-made to complement the architecture of the home and the homeowner’s unique style, each one includes a “thriller, spiller and filler”. Using this framework will help you create a visually appealing and well-balanced arrangement, making you look like a pro!
In a holiday arrangement, the "thriller" is the focal point. It’s usually larger, taller and more visually striking than the surrounding elements, grabbing attention and adding a touch of drama to the overall display.
Here are just a few thrillers that’ll add impact to your holiday decor:
Evergreen topiaries — Tall, well-shaped evergreen trees or shrubs are trimmed into unique shapes like spirals or pyramids.
Tree branches — Tree branches add height and a natural element to holiday arrangements, with birch being a popular choice due to its distinctive white bark.
Ornamental grasses — With their feathery plumes and colorful foliage, tall ornamental grasses provide texture and movement.
Decorative twigs — Branches with interesting shapes or textures, such as curly willow, can be painted or adorned with glitter, adding some sparkle to your planter.
Picks and stakes — Create a focal point using picks or stakes featuring holiday-themed elements, such as oversized ornaments, snowflakes, or festive characters.
Pinecones — Oversized pinecones, spray-painted in metallic or glittery finishes, contribute a glamorous and rustic flair to your arrangement.
A "spiller" in a holiday planter trails or cascades over the edges of the container, adding a sense of movement and elegance to the arrangement. Spillers help visually connect the planter with its surroundings, creating a seamless transition between the container and the environment.
For outdoor holiday displays in Utah, where the weather can be cold and snowy, it's essential to choose spillers that can withstand winter conditions. Here are a few options to consider:
Snowberry — Snowberry is a hardy shrub with trailing branches covered in small white berries, adding a touch of winter charm to your holiday display.
Wintergreen — This low-growing evergreen shrub has glossy leaves and red berries, providing color as it spills over the side of your container.
Creeping juniper — Creeping juniper is a durable evergreen groundcover with trailing branches, making it a perfect spiller for outdoor winter displays.
Icicle lights — Strands of icicle lights hung along the edges of your display look like dripping icicles and add a magical touch to the arrangement.
Ribbon or fabric — Drape long ribbons or fabric streamers in festive colors from the edges of your container to create movement and add a sense of fun.
Although they’re not always necessary, “fillers” do more than fill in empty spaces — they add color, texture, depth and interest to your arrangement, helping create a display that’s visually appealing and well-balanced. Here are a few examples:
Pine branches and cedar springs — Cuttings from evergreen trees provide a lush and fragrant backdrop to your holiday display.
Holly leaves and berries — The glossy green leaves and vibrant red berries of holly bring a festive touch to the display, adding both color and texture.
Eucalyptus — If you’re looking for something a little more unique, silver or frosted eucalyptus branches make excellent fillers.
Pinecones — Pinecones in various sizes and colors are versatile fillers that provide texture and bring a natural element to your display.
Shatterproof ornaments — For a festive touch to your display, use an assortment of ornaments in different sizes, colors and finishes, such as brightly wrapped gifts or colored balls.
Tinsel or garland — Drape tinsel or garland throughout the arrangement and fill empty spaces with shimmer and sparkle!
Ribbon or fabric bows — Large, decorative bows are festive and cheery, adding color and filling gaps with visual interest.
Seasonal décor isn’t just about planters — there is so much more you can do to make your outdoors sparkle. Here are just a few:
Specialty holiday lighting to highlight key features and provide drama.
Decorating arbors and trellises with garlands and winter evergreens.
Design a festive wreath to welcome guests to your home.
If you’d rather focus your time and attention on other important tasks and spend your spare time celebrating with family and friends, we can help. At Sunline, holiday decor and holiday light installations can be added to your property care package.
Our designers will work with you to ensure your decorations are visually stunning and are a unique representation of your style… and you won’t have to worry about getting out the ladder to hang the Christmas lights!
Simply book a consultation to get started… and enjoy the holidays!
