How to get the ultimate festive look for your front yard

First, figure out which part of your yard you’d like to draw the most attention to. Do you have a large tree that will be your focal point? Or will the exterior of your home be the main attraction?

If your fence is white, use white light strands where possible. This will create a subtle effect that doesn’t detract from the main event. You can use more than one strand of lights for more impact.

Using too many hues at once can repel the eye and create a chaotic look. To avoid this, group your lights together – coloured, white or warm white.

Before hanging any lights, test each set so you know they will work. (The last thing you want is to go to the trouble of hanging your lights, only to find they don’t work!)

Make the hanging process easier by attaching light clips or using cable ties to ensure the lights are running in the same direction.

The best way to hang lights is to work from the ground up – start with net lights in the bushes, before hanging lights in trees using a broom. Don’t forget to step back every now and then to inspect your progress and make sure it looks like what you’ve envisioned.

Doubling the layers of your lights creates a bigger wow factor.

Enhance your lighting by installing curtain lights on your fencing. This is a great idea if you have a long driveway or a picket fence.

Continue the festive styling by decorating your front door. Install a garland around the edge, hang a wreath and place mini-trees on your porch. You can also wind lights through your garland and wreath for a festive first impression.

Accompany your front door decorations with some layered decorations – think bunches of natural foliage from the garden or surrounding area, baskets of display presents or props like rocking horses.

Add a collection of ornaments throughout your garden – a cluster of baubles, pine cones or fairy light lanterns.

It’s time to get creative with D.I.Y. Christmas decorations. From candy canes made from pool noodles, to illuminated ‘snowballs’ and light trees made from spiral obelisks, you can add your own personal touches to your festive front yard.