Holler to the holidays! I go over the top for Christmas. Lots of us do. But creating a home for the holidays without blinding my guests with twinkle lights and vintage metal signs is something I’ve learned by trial and error. Here are four ways to cultivate your holiday cheering section that won’t get you on the naughty list:

Determine your design theme. For example, maybe your home is modern, so lacquered or metallic finishes will add the right amount of holiday pop. My mama bear is traditional so she layers in gold and hand-painted plates and villages. We have a timberframe which begs for rustic features like birch candles, antlers and buffalo plaid.

Pick an icon. Mine is reindeer. I have a friend who decorates with puffy gingerbread men. Another sprinkles snowmen and flocked trees around her home. Collections are not my jam, but choosing Nutcrackers versus Santa will help create a cohesive look. Too many Christmas creatures makes your space look like a department store.

Layer your lighting. This is a big one! Pre-lit trees and Garland are almost expected. I tuck flameless candles in the mix. They are timed so I don’t have to worry about turning them off after a few glasses of wine. I also have lit signs and a few battery-operated strands to light up holiday pics.

Get personal! My kids love doing a Christmas photo shoot. I replace high traffic frames with holiday pics from over the years, including one with my sister and I on Santa’s lap as toddlers. The one below is visible to all the kids coming down into our kid-friendly basement. I framed it with Target Dollar Spot lights to make it a focal point. The littles laugh every time they see it.

Blankets and throws with red plaid and “come snuggle” faux fur also get me in the holiday spirit. And of course, pets “love” being part of the decor. How about you? Would love to see your home for the holiday’s space.