How to decorate your Christmas tree like a royal, according to the experts loved by Harry and Meghan
With Christmas just around the corner, now is the time to pick out your tree. If you’re not sure where to start, why not let Pines and Needles be your guide?
As a trusted supplier for Blenheim Palace, Kensington Palace Gardens and this year’s Royal Variety Performance, they are experts in royal decorations.
Even Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are fans – and bought their first Christmas tree together at the store in Battersea Park in 2016.
According to staff, they were happy with their choice and went hand in hand as Harry carried a 6ft Nordmann fir, which cost £65.
The Christmas tree tradition has a royal background and was introduced to Britain by Prince Albert during the reign of Queen Victoria.
This year, the royal family will likely focus on timeless style.
Veronika Kusak, director of Pines and Needles, tells MailOnline: ‘Decorating your Christmas tree like a royal Christmas tree brings a timeless elegance to your home, making it the center of festive celebrations.
‘A royally inspired tree captures the magic of tradition, combining rich colors and lush textures that take your interior to a truly majestic level.
‘Channeling royal style is about creating a sense of heritage and grandeur – perfect for a season that’s all about family, warmth and togetherness.’
As a trusted supplier to Blenheim Palace, Kensington Palace Gardens (pictured) and this year’s Royal Variety Performance, Pines and Needles are experts in royal decorations
Even Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are fans. The couple bought their first Christmas tree together at the Battersea Park store in 2016. Pictured during a Christmas church service in 2018
With expert advice from Pines and Needles, we’ve collected the top 10 tips to transform your Christmas tree into a breathtaking highlight.
Whether you’re inspired by a classic Victorian aesthetic or dream of a glittering Balmoral wonderland, these ideas will make your tree look so spectacular it might even impress the King…
1. Select the perfect tree
Nothing compares to the grandeur of a real tree. The natural fragrance and textured branches provide an unparalleled sense of authenticity and tradition, echoing the festive splendor of royal estates.
The perfect tree is tall and lush with symmetrical branches.
2. Set the scene
Place your tree in a prominent spot and use a sturdy stand to ensure it stands tall and regal. Wrap it in a plush tree skirt or an ornate box for a polished look that hides the stand.
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to pick out your tree. There are more than 30 Pines and Needles stores in London
Pines and Needles recommends choosing a tall, lush tree with symmetrical branches
3. Layer your lighting
Start with warm white Christmas lights and wrap them from the trunk outward for depth and sparkle. Use lights as a base layer before adding decorations.
4. Focus on textures and layers
Mix baubles of different sizes, textures and finishes. Combine matte, glossy and glittery ornaments for visual interest.
We sell a special red Christmas bauble with the King Charles insignia, which will add a touch of elegance to your Christmas tree decorations.
For a royal Christmas tree, nothing compares to the grandeur of a real tree
Tinsel may be out of fashion, but ribbon is in vogue. Wrap ribbons horizontally in luxurious fabrics such as velvet or silk
5. Ribbon over tinsel
Tinsel may be out of fashion, but ribbon is in vogue. Wrap ribbons horizontally around the tree in luxurious fabrics such as velvet or silk for a sophisticated finish.
Arches symbolize grace and tradition and also add a refined, three-dimensional element that evokes the grandeur of the palace decor.
6. Go bold with color
To capture the grandeur of a royal-inspired Christmas tree, combine the rich colors of deep blue and red velvet with crystal clear ornaments and gold accents.
The lush red velvet evokes royal tradition, while crystal conveys a sense of sparkling sophistication.
Following the success of Prince William’s Earthshot Prize, rich natural greenery could once again be the focus this year.
Opt for lush evergreen decorations and pair them with gold accents to evoke a regal, eco-friendly aesthetic.
Following the success of Prince William’s Earthshot Prize, rich natural greenery could once again be the focus this year
Mix baubles of different sizes, textures and finishes. Combine matte, glossy and glittery ornaments for visual interest
7. Add heritage details
Use Victorian-inspired decorations, including cherubs, crowns or miniature carriages for a nod to history.
Robin decorations highlight the royal family’s love of wildlife and are a delightful choice. These iconic birds embody the warmth and joy of the holidays.
Nostalgia also hits hard this time of year. From retro ornaments to hand-painted figurines, vintage decorations are ready for a comeback.
8. Crowning glory
A spectacular tree topper, such as a graceful star or angel, is the crowning glory. If you’re feeling sentimental, a handmade family treasure adds a personal touch.
Make sure it is ceremonially placed as the final addition to your tree.
Robins embody the warmth and joy of the holidays, making them an ideal addition
A spectacular tree topper, such as a graceful star or angel, is the crowning glory. If you’re feeling sentimental, a handmade family treasure adds a personal touch
9. Maximize the magic
Reflect light with metal ornaments in gold, silver or chrome. Crystal or glass drops add sophistication to the outer branches.
10. Stick to the theme
Whether it’s a classic Victorian aesthetic, Scandinavian minimalism or a metallic modern look, make sure your decorations are cohesive for a royal finish.
As well as a delivery and decorating service, Pines and Needles will also collect your tree after Christmas and arrange for it to be chipped and recycled into biofuel or even animal bedding.