How to Decorate Tabletop Christmas Trees: 4 Pretty Color Themes
Our Christmas trees are the focal point of our holiday decorating, and you don’t need a big room to get that magic. Tabletop Christmas trees bring holiday cheer to any spot in your home, from an entryway to a dining room, living room, or bedroom. The tricky part is making a smaller tree look intentional instead of cluttered. In this post, I’m sharing four beautiful color themes, with photos and tips, to help your tabletop trees look polished and pretty.
Merry Christmas in July! All week I’m revisiting our favorite holiday posts so you can start dreaming and planning the fun part early. First up, our tabletop Christmas trees.
The secret to beautifully decorated tabletop Christmas trees? Choosing a cohesive color theme and sticking with it. When you limit your palette, even the smallest tree can make a big impact.
In this guide, I’m sharing four beautiful color themes that take the guesswork out of decorating your tabletop Christmas trees.
Whether you love classic elegance, rustic charm, or something bold and modern, you’ll find a color scheme that matches your style – plus practical tips for ornament placement, ribbon techniques, and finishing touches that make your mini tree look professionally decorated.
Let’s transform those little trees into showstoppers!
I have four color themes, places, and styles to show you.
Christmas wraps its twinkling lights around us. There’s nothing quite like the joy of transforming our homes into festive wonderlands. And nothing creates the magic more than Christmas trees.
When it comes to evoking the Christmas spirit, one tree is just not enough! That’s why I’m sharing our four tabletop Christmas trees – a pint-sized way to sprinkle the magic of the season throughout your home.
Whether you’re decking the halls of a cozy apartment, a small office, or just want to add a touch of festive flair to every nook and cranny, these tabletop Christmas trees can be a game-changer.
I love sharing our Christmas projects and decor ideas with you.
Each year, before we begin decorating our Christmas trees, I like to revisit our trees from previous years. Do I want to recreate a previous style, or do I want to design something entirely different?
it will be helpful to read my 5-Step Guide to Decorate Your Home for Christmas.
TIP: Take photos of your Christmas trees and make note of the year and any other information that would help you recreate the style of the tree.
This post contains affiliate links to products used to create this project. If you should order any item from this site, I may receive compensation, but you do not pay a penny more. Your purchase is greatly appreciated as it helps support the continued publication of this site.
Why a Tabletop Tree?
There are many reasons for opting out of a full-size Christmas tree in the living room.
- It allows you to spread the Christmas spirit throughout your home.
- You live in a small apartment or home where a large Christmas tree is not feasible.
- Your ceilings are only the standard 8 feet tall.
- You have small children or pets who are not tree-friendly.
- Large trees are not in the budget this year (according to recent news reports, the cost of Christmas trees is rising).
- Getting on a ladder to decorate a tall Christmas tree is not safe for you.
- You have limited storage space.
- You are limited to small spaces for your Christmas tree.
- You have minimal storage space.
They’re the perfect solution for those who may be short on space but overflowing with holiday spirit.
A tabletop tree, whether it is a fresh or faux tree, can be just as delightful and magical as a standard-size tree.
What is a Tabletop Tree?
A tabletop tree is one of the most versatile and pretty holiday decorations you can add to your home. A smaller Christmas tree can still create the same festive focal point as a large tree.
I have used very small, miniature Christmas trees as part of arrangements, vignettes, or centerpieces. These tiny trees are meant to be part of Christmas “decorations”.
True tabletop trees are smaller trees that can be easily tucked into almost any room and can stand on their own without additional decor.
Although you can use a real tree, most tabletop trees are artificial Christmas trees. These trees range from about 24-48 inches. Some may be taller.
Like a large tree, small tabletop trees can add color, light, and sparkle to any home.
Tabletop Tree History
For the past few years, Sweet Shark and I have had three tabletop trees in addition to our large Christmas tree. All our tabletop trees are faux for easy care and storage.
We love having different Christmas trees to enjoy in different rooms of our home.
Here are some of our earlier tabletop tree versions.
Tree in the Bar
We started with a green 4-foot tabletop tree in Sweet Shark’s bar when we first moved into our home 13 years ago. It was amazing how festive it made the bar look. You saw it the minute you walked into the house, and our guests loved it.
The tree sat on a small round table that I bought at an estate sale.
If you don’t have a table, any small round table can easily be draped with your tree skirt.
Since Sweet Shark is a traditional red and green guy, he wanted those colors for the tree.
As a theme, the tree is decorated with all the ornaments we have collected from our travels, both in the U.S. and abroad. Every year, we add another ornament to the tree.
The tree skirt is a long-time possession. The red and gold colors and the pattern fit the style of the bar perfectly.
Master Bedroom Tree
A few years ago, I thought we should add a beautiful tabletop Christmas tree to our bedroom. I purchased another faux green tree. That tree is four and a half feet tall.
We loved having that tree in the bedroom for a “night light.”
Two years ago, I decided that a white tree would look better in the bedroom. I’ve never had a white tree, so this was a departure from tradition for me. This was the first pre-lit tree we bought.
This white tree was adorned with pink and blue ornaments, including DIY balls with jewel-colored stickers.
Last year, I switched this tree to a red-and-white one, which matched our Christmas bedding. (See below.)
Dining Room Tree
We now had an extra green tree. I thought a tabletop tree would be the perfect addition to the dining room. It would look so pretty from outside our bay window. That tree sat on our bar cart.
The color theme was mixed with pink and blue ornaments. I added several of our silver bells.
Living Room Tree
Our newest tabletop tree is in the living room. So, why did we add a fourth tabletop tree?
Since we moved into our home 13 years ago, the only place we could find for a large fresh tree was our breakfast room. That meant removing the breakfast room table to the garage for the season.
Several years ago, we purchased a 9 1/2-foot tree from Balsam Hill. We loved the tree – it was absolutely gorgeous, easy to store, and easy to assemble.
There was only one problem: it was huge in diameter. Now, in addition to moving out the table and chairs, we had to raise the breakfast room light to fit the tree. It practically covered the entire breakfast room. It was so pretty that we enjoyed it for several years.
When we bought new living room furniture, we converted the breakfast room (which we rarely used) into a seating area that we love and use daily.
Then it occurred to us: “Where would we put the tree?
There was no place unless we moved out the two chairs, ottoman, side table, and rug. Where would we store them for a month? We had no place to put those things. And honestly, we didn’t want to move them if we could.
So what to do? You guessed it. The easy way out of this predicament was another tabletop table.
I searched online and found a four-and-a-half-foot pre-lit tree that would fit perfectly on the side table between the two Bergere chairs. The only thing I had to move out was the lamp and the accessories could be hidden on the bottom shelf.
Decorating a Tabletop Tree
When it comes to tabletop trees, think of them as regular-size trees. Since they’re smaller in size, every ornament, light, and ribbon takes center stage. Embrace this opportunity to get creative and let your personality shine.
TIP: If you have more ornaments than you can use, you can give away some to your kids, friends, family, or donate them to churches or hospitals. Or spread them around the house for other decorations – fill a pretty bowl or use them on your mantel.
Tabletop trees in different rooms let you choose themes or colors that resonate with your existing décor. Classic reds and greens exude timeless elegance or a whimsical Christmas style, while silver and blue bring a frosty, sophisticated vibe.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not experiment with unconventional colors like blush pink, mint green, or even a chic all-silver and gold combo? One tree could be just for the kids or grandkids.
Tips for Choosing and Preparing Tabletop Trees
- When picking out your tabletop tree, consider the space you’re working with. Opt for a size that complements the area without overwhelming it. A slender tree with a modest height is often the perfect fit for a tabletop display.
- Look for trees with built-in lights to add instant twinkle without the hassle of stringing your own. Our first two tabletop trees were not pre-lit so they are not the “perfect tree”. I use both regular and fairy lights on them.
- Crown your tabletop tree with a unique tree topper. Whether it’s a classic star, a festive bow, or even a mini snow globe, this small detail can make a big impact. (As you’ll see, the one thing my tabletop trees have in common is a big bow as a topper.)
- Mix and match a variety of ornaments in different shapes and sizes to create visual interest.
- Don’t forget the power of texture – incorporate plush fabric ornaments, shiny metallic baubles, and even a touch of glitter for that extra sparkle.
- Place your tabletop tree on a sturdy base to keep it stable. All of my tabletop trees came with stands and sit firmly on the table/bar cart.
- Add a touch of charm to the overall display by covering the base and stand. Vintage-style metal stands, woven baskets, or even festive ceramic pots can all serve as the perfect pedestals for your tabletop tree. A beautiful table skirt that fits the color theme or faux snow fabric will give your tree a finished look (and hide the metal stand).
Since tabletop trees are viewed up close, intricate details matter.
TIPS for Decorating Your Tabletop Tree
- Tree Size: I think you should opt for the largest tabletop tree your space allows.
- Color: Pick your tabletop tree in traditional green or white; flocked is optional. Even vintage old-style metal trees would be cool
- Lights: If your tree is not pre-lit, start with a string of warm white or classic-colored lights to set the festive tone. (Personally, I like clear warm white lights.) If you have convenient outlets, use regular lights. If not, try battery-operated fairy lights with timers and remotes. Or use both. Begin by winding your string lights around the tree. This ensures an even distribution of sparkle. If your tree comes with built-in lights, even better – it’s a time-saver.
- Garland or ribbon: Wrap the tree in tinsel, ribbon, wooden beads, garland, or pom-poms made with yarn or wool felt balls. This is where your personal style and taste shine.
- Layer on traditional ornaments in your chosen color scheme. Start decorating with the larger ornaments first, evenly spaced around the tree. Then, if you like, layer in medium-sized ornaments, followed by small ornaments. This layering technique adds depth and visual interest.
- Use various shapes and sizes – think classic round baubles, icicles, frosty snowflakes, and miniature silver bells and charming nutcrackers. Add a touch of nostalgia with vintage-inspired decorations or DIY ornaments.
- Special and personal touches: Integrate unique or sentimental ornaments that hold special meaning for you and your family. Whether it’s handmade creations or cherished heirlooms, these pieces add a personal touch.
- Cover for the base: My favorite is fabric. Use a tree skirt you already have or purchase fabric that fits your color scheme and pattern. A burlap base is perfect for a rustic look. Velvet is perfect for an elegant feel. Fleece, chenille or flannel are also good options for a casual look.
TIP: You don’t have to buy a tree skirt. Shop your local fabric store or Hobby Lobby for fabric. All you have to do is loosely wrap it around the tree and tuck in the raw edges. NO sewing required.
Colors and Styles for Your Tabletop Trees
At the end of the decorating day, tabletop trees aren’t decorated differently from standard trees. Since you are not climbing up an 8-foot ladder, they are easier.
Your color scheme and style can be the same as any large tree.
New Tabletop Tree in the Bar
As I mentioned, this is our first and longest “reigning” tabletop tree. The tree is wrapped in multi-colored lights, which are Sweet Shark’s favorite in his bar.
The theme of this tree has always been about our travels. The ornaments come in a range of colors, shapes, and sizes.
Every place we travel, we try to find a unique Christmas ornament. We have colorful ornaments from Spain, France, Italy, Hungary, the Czech Republic, England, and Germany, and as far away as Istanbul. Then, of course, places in the states: Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, Hawaii, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, New Mexico, and Louisiana, to name a few. I can’t wait to add our latest ornament that we bought in France this year.
Last year, the tree sat on a small table covered in the red and gold embroidered tree skirt that I have had for years.
As you can see, I hadn’t decorated the banister yet.
I surrounded the tree with some of our Santa collection.
As a tree topper, I made a big bow with solid red and red-and-white striped ribbon.
New Pink Tabletop Tree in the Dining Room
For this tree, I went with a total pink color scheme and white lights.
First, I added the pink vintage tinsel that I bought last year and used in the bedroom.
Most of the shiny ornaments are vintage. I’ve bought many things in New Orleans, like the pink macarons. Many others I bought locally at the Forestword Antique Mall in Dallas. Several vendors, including one of my neighbors, carry a beautiful assortment of vintage ornaments.
One of my newest finds was this pink lollipop. I also love the pink Santa, which I’ve had for years. (Unfortunately, I dropped him when I was taking down the tree.) I bought the white swan at The Swan House Gift Shop in Atlanta (one of my very favorite places for lunch and shopping) several years ago.
I placed a piece of faux fur fabric I’ve had for many years around the base of the tree. A plastic pink reindeer stands guard, surrounded by tiny metallic pink balls.
Again, I topped the tree with two pretty bows made of pink velvet ribbon with pink and silver tails.
TIP: Wired ribbon is your best friend when making bows.
Red and White Tabletop Tree in the Bedroom
On my Saturday roundup of Christmas Tree Ideas, I fell in love with the idea of a red and white tree.
Since our sheets, pillow shams, and comforter are red at Christmas time, I thought a red color scheme on a white tree would be the perfect Christmas tree for our bedroom.
Decorating our bedroom in red and white was a drastic move for me. It was a brand new color theme, but I loved it.
I thought the tree was a little thin. To give it more fullness, I cut off the branches from white-flocked picks. I used three picks, which had eight branches each.
I pushed the branches into the existing tree, spacing them out. That improved the look of the tree tremendously.
This tree came with one string of white fairy lights, which clearly wasn’t enough. I added one long strand of white lights for an outlet.
At Target, I found this cute strand of red jingle bell lights. These white lights came on a timer so I bought the last two on the shelf.
For ornaments, I first added some of my Reed and Barton silver bells before adding new and older vintage red ornaments. Small red balls and sheer red ribbon added to the red theme.
Another plastic reindeer in red joins our collection of crystal figurines – Santas, angels, and trees. More metallic red balls add color and reflection.
Another piece of the faux fur fabric (I bought several yards) drapes over the glass-topped table. I added the Christmas tree garland I made earlier to the mantel.
The final touch? You guessed it. A big red bow that I made a few years ago and keep reusing. I loved the Merry Christmas ribbon so much that I bought two bolts. I did add longer tails to the red plaid ribbon.
Tabletop Tree in the Sitting Room
This is our newest tabletop tree and the one that replaced our large Christmas tree.
I ordered this 4-and-a-half-foot green tree with white pre-lit lights online. This was the first tree I decorated this year. It was ready before Thanksgiving and waiting for two of our kids and our grandson when they arrived.
To fit in with the color scheme of our sitting room, I chose blue.
I wrapped the tree with my blue, pink and white felt wool garland.
The tree is decorated with a mix of store-bought and blue vintage ornaments.
The tree topper is another bow, made of blue velvet ribbon. This ribbon adds a nice touch of elegance to the tree.
I used another piece of faux fur. (I think it looks like snow.) to surround the tree base. Small metallic blue balls add a touch of sparkle. Here are some of the vintage ornaments I’ve bought.
I can always I plan to change the tree to a white one. I already have some new blue and white ornaments for it, including some new DIY decoupage ornaments.
I tried using some little felt birds, but Nola could reach those and one of them became a chew toy.
Although this tabletop tree is a fraction of the size of our original Christmas tree, it still provides a lovely focal point in the room. As you come into the living room it pulls your eyes in with the tree lights and reflection.
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The Christmas tabletop tree acts as a beautiful night light.
These are the best tabletop Christmas trees I’ve ever designed. Multi-colored, pink, blue, and red. I love them all.
Tabletop Christmas Trees – Lights On
All Christmas trees take on a magical sparkle when you turn on the lights. Here is a look at my four decorated tabletop Christmas trees at night.
The Dining Room at Night
The Bar at Night
The Bedroom at Night
The Sitting Room at Night
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for decorating tabletop trees. It’s all about expressing your style and infusing a bit of your personality into the holiday magic. So, gather your ornaments, fluff those branches, and let the decorating begin!
Have Questions? I Have Answers.
Most tabletop Christmas trees stand between 24 and 48 inches tall, though some run a little taller. That range is small enough to sit on a table, bar cart, or console, but still big enough to create a real focal point. Choose the largest size your space comfortably allows.
Start by choosing one cohesive color theme and sticking with it, since a limited palette is what makes a small tree look polished instead of cluttered. Add your lights first, then ribbon or garland, then layer ornaments from largest to smallest for depth. Finish with a topper, such as a big bow, and cover the base with a tree skirt, fabric, or a basket.
You can use a real tree, but most tabletop trees are artificial. Faux trees are easier to store, reuse year after year, and often come pre-lit, which is why all of ours are faux. They still give you the color, light, and sparkle of a full-size tree.
Tabletop trees work almost anywhere: an entryway, dining room, living room, bedroom, home office, or even a bar cart. They are perfect for spreading Christmas cheer throughout your home and ideal for small spaces where a full-size tree will not fit. Even a console table or chest would work with a shorter tree.
Add flocked or greenery picks to fill in the gaps. Cut the branches off a few white-flocked picks and push them into the sparse spots, spacing them evenly around the tree. Even bows can be used in the sparse spaces. It takes just a few minutes and makes a thin tree look noticeably fuller.
Many do and a pre-lit tree is a real time-saver. If yours is not pre-lit, start with a strand of warm white plug-in lights, or use battery-operated fairy lights with a timer if you do not have a convenient outlet. You can also use both for extra sparkle.
I hope I’ve given you inspiration for using tabletop Christmas trees in your Christmas decor this year and in the future. Need more Christmas inspiration? Check out 10 Beautiful Christmas Home Decor Ideas.
Wishing you a joyful and festive holiday season filled with warmth, cheer, and beautifully decorated tabletop trees! Happy decorating!
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So many pretty trees, Carol, but I think the bar tree is my favorite. SO sweet and traditional!!
I love all your trees Carol. They are all so unique and fabulous. We love travel ornaments too. It’s always fun to reminisce about the trips as you trim the tree. Tabletop trees are a fabulous alternative for all the reasons you explain. Great post! XO- MaryJo
I love the idea of a table top tree especially when decorating with a theme or a special collection of ornaments! I have some vintage ornaments that I need to dig out and use this year. Thanks so much for the inspiration Carol! Hugs!
I love a pretty tabletop tree and yours are so lovely it’t hard to choose a favorite (that pink is a strong contender though). I have pinned for inspiration. Thanks for hosting the blog hop and I hope you have a wonderful rest of your week. 🙂
I love all of your tabletop trees! There is no way I can choose a favorite…they are all beautiful! Great ideas, Carol!
Wow, so many great ideas, and so many intrusive ads. I should get a medal for making it through the gauntlet to the bottom. Hugs though…so many great ideas! Honestly, I’m waffling on whether to do the big tree or not…we have had such upheaval here, bringing up a pre-decorated tree is so tempting! We aren’t having the big family gathering here…so that also plays into keeping life a bit simple!
Have a great holiday season, Sandi
Sandi, thanks for scrolling through to the bottom. Hugs back. Like on most websites/blogs, we have to have ads to pay for producing the blog and making some $$ to pay the bills! I hardly notice them on anyone’s site anymore. Hope the content is worth it.