Budget Holiday Porch Makeover

After: The result is a budget-friendly holiday makeover that's a bit reminiscent of a Currier and Ives print. The garland, wreath and swags ended up at just under $35. We used icicle lights and lanterns we already owned. An important factor for us: The porch still doesn't feel cluttered.

Before: The wide front porch of our Craftsman-style home in Georgia offers many places for lights, swags, wreaths and garland. My friend Ashley Aquino helped me create a holiday style that fit my classic, uncluttered design preferences.

After: A fresh Fraser fir wreath came with pine cones, which we also used inside. The wreath has the same mix of greenery as the swags but instead of a red ribbon, Ashley Aquino snipped a piece of wide brown ribbon (used inside the home) to loop around the wreath. A clear Command Hook holds the wreath on the glass, and the ribbon is simply taped at the top of the door.

After: Garland frames the glass-front door and sidelights. To make it heavy enough to have an impact at the front door, our friend and decorator Ashley Aquino combined two white pine garlands, and wrapped lights around the greenery. Three nails at the top of the door frame hold the garland in place.