9 Christmas tree alternatives for tiny apartments
Tiny apartment-havers face a unique dilemma during the holidays: How do you set up a Christmas tree when your home is smaller than one?
That's when it's a useful time to consider some Christmas tree alternatives. Wreaths, branches, a big leftover pumpkin that you've wrapped in tinsel (don't do that one) ... rest assured you can make your space festive without also making it unlivable.
Please note that none of these items are intended to replace a Christmas tree. Nothing can replace a Christmas tree! These are simply fun alternatives for those whose living rooms can't accommodate a full pine.
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And if it's the smell you're after, just light a pine-scented candle.
1. A wreath
Here's an easy one. If you get a real wreath (the one above is from L.L. Bean and costs $39.95), it'll even make your home smell like pine — one of the primary advantages of having a Christmas tree.
2. A plant
My favorite millennial-oriented plant website The Sill has a lovely little holiday collection, including a small Norfolk Island pine ($62) that would look very nice on a bar cart or kitchen table. Put it in a bright red planter for maximum cheer.
3. Lights only
If your favorite part of the Christmas tree is the lights, we get it. Put some Christmas lights up inside, then leave them up til January like Taylor Swift (and everyone else. Taylor, everyone already does that).
4. A wall hanging
This cute little twig tree from Target hangs flush with the wall, so you won't have to worry about it taking up floor space. Bonus: It's only $31.
5. Branches
Decorating your walls or mantle with found branches is a great way to achieve a rustic, homey look. It's also a great way to prove to your friends that you can do crafts.
6. A Washi tape tree
If you're in love with the shape of tree (Ed Sheeran, 2017), consider outlining one on the wall using Washi tape. It doesn't have a super tacky adhesive, so you won't have to worry about ruining your paint when you pull it off come January.
7. A big fucking bow
The big bow industry is booming, and by that I mean there are many big bows available online. You can also make your own. (Please see the tutorial above, which is deeply extra.) Thanks, car commercials!
8. Put a holiday accessory on your dog
Would you rather clean up pine needles for a month or look at your dog? That's what we thought.
9. Jar of bells
Get a big jar, then fill that thing up with bells. (Buying bells in bulk is easy.) If you feel a dearth of the holiday spirit within you, simply give the jar a shake. Hear that? It's the bells.
Chloe was the shopping editor at Mashable. She was also previously a culture reporter. You can follow her on Twitter at @chloebryan.
