Orange County's Guide to Chic Holiday Home Decor

The holiday season in Orange County means sunny days may still be on the calendar, but there’s no shortage of holiday spirit. Whether you own a beachfront property in Huntington Beach or a cozy apartment in Costa Mesa, here’s how to infuse your space with festive warmth without sacrificing style.

1. Choose Your Holiday Color Scheme Wisely

Picking the right colors can turn your home into a holiday masterpiece. Orange County’s natural landscapes offer a unique backdrop for your holiday decor. Consider ocean-inspired blues and sandy neutrals for a local twist, or opt for the traditional red and green with a pop of California citrus orange for a festive yet sophisticated palette. Using two main colors with a third as an accent ensures your decor feels cohesive and thoughtful.

2. Find Festivity in Every Corner

Why should your living room get all the attention? Extend the holiday spirit to every nook of your home. Place a fragrant, holiday-themed candle in your bathroom and enjoy a seasonally decorated corner in your home office. In Orange County, where outdoor living is part of everyday life, don't forget to add some festive touches to your patio or balcony. A string of lights or a small, potted evergreen can add a holiday sparkle to your outdoor spaces.

3. Embrace Texture for a Cozy Feel

Nothing says holiday warmth like the rich texture of home decors. Combine soft, plush throw pillows with chunky knit blankets across your furniture. Orange County evenings might not always call for a roaring fire, but adding a few soft, faux-fur area rugs can make your floor the next best place to gather for a holiday chat. Metallic accents in moderation can offer just the right amount of seasonal sparkle without overwhelming your space.

4. Go Green with SoCal Flair

Incorporating greenery is a nod both to the holidays and to our beautiful Orange County scenery. Use fresh garlands to adorn your mantel or balcony railing, adding a few sprigs of holly for a traditional touch or some eucalyptus for a more local vibe. A potted poinsettia or a small arrangement of succulents can serve as a lively centerpiece, marrying the holiday season with Southern California’s year-round green.

5. Set Up Stunning Focal Points

Create intentional spaces of interest in your home by arranging holiday decor in eye-catching displays. A sideboard in your dining area, for example, is the perfect stage for a collection of differing height candles and seasonal greenery. Consider showcasing a mix of modern and vintage holiday decor to reflect Orange County’s diverse architectural styles, from Spanish Revival to Mid-Century Modern homes.

6. Personalize Your Space

Your holiday decorations should reflect your personality and history. In Orange County, where family and community are tightly knit, showcase heirloom decorations or pieces collected from local holiday markets. Make your decor a conversation starter, sharing stories of past holidays and creating new memories with loved ones.

7. Let Your Home Sparkle

String lights are a versatile tool in holiday decorating, not just for the tree or exterior. Drape them around windows to invite warmth into your home, or place them inside glass vases for a subtle glow that complements the Orange County sun. Mirrors strategically placed near these lights can brighten and expand any space, adding a magical touch to your holiday home.

Ready to give these tips a try? Show us your Orange County holiday home by tagging us on social media; we love seeing how you bring holiday cheer into your spaces. And if the holiday spirit has you dreaming of a new home in one of Orange County’s charming neighborhoods, why not reach out? Together, we’ll find the perfect place for you to decorate next holiday season.