Advice on artificial Christmas trees

[TipsyTraveler]

I’ve got several trees that I store fully decorated ranging in size from 3 feet to 7.5 feet. We simply carry them or use a dolly to roll them into place.

A few tips: It’s not so much the height that makes them easier or harder to move, it’s the fullness. Our 7.5’ pencil trees are easier to maneuver than the 5’ ones with longer branches. Think about the path you’ll need to take from storage to display and buy a tree that will fit through any doors, etc. If the trunk is more than one piece, use wire or rope to hold the pieces together so they don’t separate when you pick it up. Pinch the ornament hook or fully wrap it around the branch so the ornaments don’t fall off when the tree is being moved. For ornaments hanging by ribbon, bend the tip of the branch back onto itself to keep the ornament secure.

Being able to set up half a dozen trees in 20 minutes is a game changer. I don’t miss the assembly and decorating one bit.

 

[RedAngie]

Trees aside, I think stores are buying less holiday stuff than they did in the past. I say this because I don't see nearly as much after-holiday clearance stuff these days.

Indeed, the past several years I’ve noticed that the bulk of trees, lights, and other decorations are gone by the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Most of what is left is wrapping paper and bows and gift bags. They consolidate everything remaining in two or three aisle and fill the other space with storage totes.

Last week my local Walmart did not have any artificial trees left, except for ONE display model they put right at the entrance for a clearance price.

One thing I’m glad stores aren’t ordering in excess anymore is candy canes. In years past you’d often still see tons of them still available well into mid to late January.

 

[Travel60]

I have a pre-lit and love it....but it is a really good one....we paid close to $800 at least 10 years ago. It come in 4 parts and you plug in each part as you place it. Never had it not work. So much easier than trying to do lights and more than I would have the patience to do.

If you have several small trees you might want to consider themed trees. Maybe a "white Christmas", all white and silver with Angel or snowflake ornaments, clear lights. Or, all nutcrackers or all bows, etc. Or one with colored lights and family heirlooms.