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Christmas (and Hanukkah and Kwanzaa for that matter) are quickly approaching. For those who haven’t started putting up holiday decorations at home, now’s the perfect time to start. With early Black Friday deals in full swing, you’ll likely score a deal on any new pieces for yourself and snag a gift for the holiday host or hostess on sale. 

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Depending on what style or type of decorations you’re in the market for, you’ll have better luck when shopping at certain retailers over others. That’s why we created a handy guide with ten of our favourites, whether you’re on the hunt for a new artificial Christmas tree, home decor or holiday entertaining essentials. 

Where to shop for Christmas decorations

• For trees and outdoors: 
• For decor and ornaments:
• For dinnerware and entertaining:

For trees and outdoors

Canadian Tire

Sure, Canadian Tire might be best known for its assortment of sports and recreation gear – and of course, tires. However, come the holiday season, the retailer takes pride in becoming “Canada’s Christmas Store.” You’ll find everything you need to deck the halls indoors and outdoors, with a huge selection of artificial Christmas trees, outdoor lights and inflatables and decor for a festive atmosphere. 

Pieces we love: Airblown Santa Stitch, 3.2-ft, $50; Canvas Pre-Lit Indoor Noelle Fraser, $400; Canvas LED Pre-Lit Artificial Cedar Wreath, $60.

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Home Hardware

For string lights, outdoor decorations and artificial Christmas trees, look to Home Hardware. You’ll find items organized by aesthetic like cozy classic, modern farmhouse and vintage-inspired. Those who string up their old incandescent lights will also be happy to know that you can still find replacement bulbs here too. 

Pieces we love: Instyle Holiday C9 Light Set, $100; Instyle Holiday Porch Tree & Wreath Set, $200; Danson Decor 6.5′ Noble Pine Tree, $100.

Amazon

When decorating on a budget, Amazon has all the affordable holiday finds you could hope for. There are tons of options for artificial trees under $100, plus expensive-looking garlands and outdoor lighting set-ups that look way more luxe than their price tags suggest. 

Pieces we love: HOMCOM 6′ Pencil Christmas Tree, $65; 9ft. Norfolk Pine Garland, $23; Minetom Outdoor Projector Lights, $50.

For decor and ornaments

West Elm

If you love the look of elegant holiday decor, add West Elm to your shopping list. You’ll find everything from Scandinavian-inspired designs to vintage-looking trinkets that suit just about any personality. There are also plenty of quirky ornament options, including a lobster tail, an evil eye and après-ski animals. 

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Pieces we love: Village Tealight Candleholders, $29+; Stacked Wood Trees, $38+; Flocked Ball Ornaments (Set of 25), $40. 

Walmart

Walmart is another great option for holiday decor on a budget. Many finds ring in under $20, including plenty of tabletop decor, stockings and ornaments. For collectors, there’s also a big selection of Christmas-themed plushies to add to your home or give as a gift. 

Pieces we love: Holiday Time Red Wood Nutcracker, $10; Holiday Time Plaid Stocking, $16; Step2 My First Advent Calendar, $80.

Michael’s

For those looking for a full holiday home makeover, Michael’s has you covered. Shop for coordinating ornaments, tree skirts, table runners, wreaths and garlands to create the perfect Christmas wonderland. Plus, stock up on craft supplies for personalized decor. 

Pieces we love: 6ft. Pink Gala Ball Garland, $40; Peppermint Candy Throw Pillow, $37; 12″ Gingerbread Houses Tabletop Décor, $50.

Bouclair

If you’re searching for West Elm-worthy decor with more accessible pricing, look no further. This season, Canadian home decor brand Bouclair offers the sweetest, fluffiest animal ornaments and table toppers, plus glittery mini-trees and ceramic houses that scream holiday cheer.

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Pieces we love: Decorative Ceramic House, $10; Polar Bear Ornament, $10; Golden Wire Glittery Tree, $18; Decorative Sheep, $13.

For dinnerware and entertaining

Anthropologie

When it comes to themed entertaining essentials, Anthropologie is your one-stop shop. You’ll find holiday-ready barware, dishware, linens, candles and more with a whimsical, bohemian feel. These unique finds also make for great gifts for a Secret Santa or white elephant exchange. 

Pieces we love: Holiday in the City Stoneware Mug, $16; Holiday Tree Borosilicate Glass Candle Holder, $38; Beaded Holiday Placemat, $48.

Indigo

What’s more cozy throughout the holiday season than a festive mug filled with eggnog or hot chocolate? Indigo has tons of original designs to choose from, as well as unique serving platters and cozy throw blankets to brighten up your space. 

Pieces we love: Holiday Icon Glass Set, Set of 4, $50; Glitzmas Everyday Bowls, Set of 4, $25; Gingerbread Wood Serving Board, $30.

Pottery Barn

Create luxe tablescapes this holiday season with a little help from Pottery Barn. You’ll find festive collectibles that are sure to become family classics, as well as stunning accessories to decorate your home from top to bottom come your next holiday get-together. 

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Pieces we love: Gingerbread Tree Holiday Cookie Jar, $112; Santa’s Sled Salt & Pepper Shakers, $56; Stewart Plaid Dinnerware 16-Piece Set, $372.

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kmendonca@postmedia.com 

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