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Holiday Home Hacks: Affordable Ways to Transform Your Space for the Season

The holiday season is here—a time to celebrate traditions, reflect on what matters most, and bring a festive spirit into your home without overspending.

Whether you’re crafting handmade garlands, lighting a menorah, or setting up a kinara for Kwanzaa, there are countless ways to transform your space into a warm, inviting haven.

With a little creativity, do-it-yourself ingenuity, and smart shopping, you can celebrate the season affordably while honoring traditions old and new.

Here are some clever hacks to get your home holiday-ready without breaking the bank.

Nature's touch: DIY holiday garland

Creating a DIY holiday garland may save you money while adding a handmade touch to your decor.

"You don't need to purchase expensive garlands to bring holiday cheer to your home," said Darren Dewaele, an interior designer and founder of ElmWood Flooring in Chicago.

Start with a fresh or fake tree branch as the base of your garland. Then add your personal touch with items like dried orange slices or small ornaments to your garland for an even more elevated look.

"Use fresh or faux greenery, pinecones, and cinnamon sticks to create a simple yet festive garland,” said Dewaele. “Repurpose twine or old ribbon to tie everything together, and hang it along mantels, stair rails, or doorways for a festive touch."

Bonus: This garland is eco-friendly and more customizable than store-bought options.

Upcycled elegance: Everyday items get festive

Holiday magic is often hiding in plain sight, and with a little creativity, you can repurpose everyday items to honor a variety of holiday traditions without blowing your budget.

Mason jars, for example, can be turned into snow globes.

"Add glitter, fake snow, and a small figurine inside for a simple yet festive decoration," said Seymen Usta, co-founder of Seus Lighting in Sheridan, WY.

Wine corks are another surprisingly versatile material. You can glue them into a circular shape to create a rustic holiday wreath or ornament.

Even old glass bottles can be transformed into stunning candleholders or vases.

"Spray paint them gold or silver and use them to hold candles or evergreen branches," said Usta.

For those observing the Buddhist holiday Bodhi Day in December, a small plant or branch can serve as a symbolic Bodhi tree. Adorn it with upcycled beads or reflective ornaments that symbolize enlightenment, mindfulness, and peace—elements central to the celebration.

If you’re not tied to a specific holiday, embrace natural materials like pinecones, twigs, or greenery to craft timeless decorations.

Upcycling isn't just budget-friendly, it's also a chance to add sustainable charm to your space.

Light it up: A glow for every celebration

Nothing sets the mood quite like warm, twinkling lights—and they’re an affordable way to brighten up any space.

"Wrap them around an old ladder to make a rustic 'Christmas tree,' or place them inside mason jars filled with pinecones or ornaments for a festive table centerpiece,” said Usta.

For outdoor spaces, strings of lights can be hung along railings or in trees to create a magical glow. Indoors, they work beautifully to frame mirrors, windows, or headboards, adding warmth to any room.

For those celebrating Hanukkah, the menorah takes center stage as the symbol of light and hope. Pair it with simple blue and white table accents or handmade dreidel displays for an affordable, meaningful touch.

Families celebrating Kwanzaa can incorporate candles in the kinara, which represents the seven principles of the holiday. Placing the kinara on a decorated table with traditional African-inspired patterns, such as kente cloth or red, green, and black accents, creates a striking focal point. Add string lights around the area to highlight this meaningful display.

No matter your tradition, keeping costs low is simple with energy-efficient LED lights or DIY decor that incorporates natural and reusable materials.

Shop smart, decorate smarter

Holiday decor shopping doesn't have to be a strain on your wallet. You can find affordable pieces—especially once the holidays have passed. 

"Timing is everything," said Usta. "Shopping after-holiday sales is one of the best ways to stock up on decorations for the following year at a fraction of the price."

Thrift stores and second-hand shops are another hidden treasure trove.

“You can find unique, vintage decor pieces at unbeatable prices," said Dewaele.

Look for discount codes and sign up for retailer newsletters to access exclusive promotions when shopping online.

And remember to focus on versatile items—like neutral ornaments and metallic accents—that can last for years to come.

Set the table with seasonal style

The dining table often becomes the heart of holiday gatherings. Layering a mix of reusable pieces—like a neutral table runner, candles, and seasonal accents—can create a festive yet practical centerpiece.

You can also go for a winter-inspired theme with natural elements like pinecones, twigs, or evergreen sprigs, which work across many celebrations. Add a few personal touches, such as handmade place cards or napkin rings, for an affordable, inviting setup.

Whether hosting guests, enjoying a quiet family meal, or treating yourself to a peaceful solo dinner, a thoughtfully decorated table brings warmth and joy to the season.

"Ultimately, making your home a festive haven doesn't have to be expensive," said Usta. "The holidays are about joy and creativity, not breaking the bank."