As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue to carve out their own path in the US, Meghan Markle recently shared a glimpse of a memorable Christmas spent with the royal family before her marriage to Prince Harry. Reflecting on the occasion, Meghan noted how they FaceTimed with several friends, including some in Britain, and watched their son Archie excitedly run around the Christmas tree, opening presents. Harry also mentioned that they kept the royal tradition of exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve, a custom known as *Hakenbest*, which dates back to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. This tradition, rooted in the royal family’s German heritage, has been a long-standing part of their holiday celebrations.
With Christmas fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about decorating your tree. The royal family’s own tree traditions date back to Prince Albert, who introduced the Christmas tree to Britain during Queen Victoria’s reign. This year, it's likely the royal family will embrace a timeless style for their tree, whether you’re inspired by a classic Victorian aesthetic or dreaming of a glittering Balmoral winter wonderland. Here are some tips to make your tree so spectacular that it could even impress the king.
Nothing beats the grandeur of a real tree. The natural fragrance and textured branches bring an unmatched sense of authenticity, echoing the festive splendor of royal estates. Choose a tall, lush tree with symmetrical branches for a regal look.
Position your tree in a prominent space and ensure it stands tall and strong with a sturdy stand. To achieve a polished look, wrap the base in a plush tree skirt or an ornate box to conceal the stand.
Begin by wrapping warm white fairy lights around the trunk, working outward for depth and sparkle. Lights should form the base before adding any decorations.
Mix ornaments of different sizes, textures, and finishes. Combine matte, glossy, and glittered baubles to create visual interest. Consider adding a special red bauble featuring King Charles's insignia for a touch of elegance.
Tinsel may be fading in popularity, but ribbons are back in vogue. Wrap luxurious velvet and silk ribbons horizontally around the tree for a sophisticated finish, adding bows to create three-dimensional elements that evoke palace grandeur.
To capture the regal essence of a royal-inspired tree, combine rich hues like deep blue and red velvet with crystal-clear ornaments and gold accents. The lush red velvet adds a traditional touch, while the sparkling crystal ornaments provide refined elegance. Following the success of Prince William's Earthshot Prize, rich natural greens could also take center stage this year. Pair them with gold accents for a regal, eco-friendly aesthetic.
Incorporate Victorian-inspired decorations, such as cherubs, crowns, or miniature carriages, to pay homage to the royal family’s history. Robin decorations are a delightful nod to the royal family’s love for wildlife and a symbol of the warmth and joy of the festive season. Nostalgia also plays a part during the holidays, so consider vintage ornaments or hand-painted figurines that are making a comeback.
The tree topper is the crowning glory of any Christmas tree. Choose an ornate star or angel, or if you’re feeling sentimental, place a handmade family heirloom as the final touch. Ensure it is ceremoniously placed at the top as the last addition.
Reflect light with metallic or crystal ornaments in gold, silver, and chrome. Glass drops or crystal embellishments on the outer branches add sophistication and charm, helping to capture the holiday magic.
Whether you’re opting for a classic Victorian theme, Nordic minimalism, or a modern metallic look, it’s important to keep your decorations cohesive for a royal-worthy finish. And for those looking to make the process easier, some companies offer tree delivery and decorating services. After the holiday season, companies like Pines and Needles will even collect your tree for recycling, turning it into biofuel or animal bedding.
With these tips, your Christmas tree will have the elegance and charm befitting a royal celebration!
