This year, I’ve made the choice to decorate for Christmas earlier than usual. Sometimes, when individuals do this and share it on social media, they face criticism from others, being labeled as ‘crazy’ or told to ‘get a grip.’ Yet, as anyone familiar with social media knows, it’s impossible to please everyone, so prioritizing your own happiness is key.
The reason behind this decision is that my birthday falls just six days before Christmas, followed by my partner’s three days after, often resulting in us being away from home during the festive season buildup.
By putting up the decorations at the beginning of December, we extend the time to appreciate their beauty instead of having only a short period to enjoy them. Amidst the current negative news cycle, I firmly believe that if something as simple as Christmas decorations can bring joy, why delay putting them up?
There is no harm in this act; it neither hurts nor offends anyone. Moreover, with many people spending more time at home, adorning your living space with decorations is a cost-effective way to brighten your day.
Criticism aside, decorating for Christmas is a delightful activity in itself. Pairing it with a glass of mulled wine or a hot chocolate while grooving to festive tunes creates a cozy and uplifting atmosphere.
As December progresses with Christmas ads airing and markets bustling, embracing the holiday spirit becomes inevitable. Unpacking cherished decorations collected over the years, including sentimental ornaments, evokes warm memories and family connections.
Personal touches like baubles from past trips, handmade gifts from friends, and beloved Jellycat decorations add a unique charm to the festive setup. Additionally, acquiring a fresh wreath from a local market and being among the first in the neighborhood to display it can be a source of pride.
For those feeling a bit like Scrooge, I encourage embracing the festive spirit. Crank up the holiday music, immerse yourself in the Christmas cheer, and let the joy of the season uplift your mood. You won’t regret it!
Danielle Kate Wroe, a Senior Social News Reporter, shares her passion for storytelling and community engagement through her work with titles like The Mirror, Daily Star, and Express. She co-authors a newsletter called The Bookish Drop, catering to book enthusiasts with trending news and reviews. Danielle’s dedication to representing LGBTQ+ communities has been recognized through a Celebrating Brilliant Journalism award nomination in 2025. Prior to her current role, she contributed as a Lifestyle Writer at The Mirror and began her journalism journey as a Senior Community Content Curator in 2020.