White House Christmas Decorating Tips

The Diplomatic Room of the White House is decorated for the 2010 holiday season, Dec. 15, 2010. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)

This photograph is provided by THE WHITE HOUSE as a courtesy and may be printed by the subject(s) in the photograph for personal use only. The photograph may not be manipulated in any way and may not otherwise be reproduced, disseminated or broadcast, without the written permission of the White House Photo Office. This photograph may not be used in any commercial or political materials, advertisements, emails, products, promotions that in any way suggests approval or endorsement of the President, the First Family, or the White House.

Photo: Lawrence Jackson

Scroll For More Photos

1 / 16

Fireplace Mantel Design

Christmas is one of the most celebrated events at The White House. Laura Dowling was the chief floral designer for six years, and together with a group of volunteers, she created holiday magic. In 2010, she decorated the Diplomatic Reception Room mantel with a citrus-inspired scheme. To get a similar look in your home, use a base layer of evergreen garland. Next, add clusters of fruit and colored ornaments in and around the garland using three colors of wide satin ribbon to create swags and bold impact. Finally, tuck in small gift-wrapped presents in coordinating colors.

2 / 16

A Modern Take on Traditional Design

Each year, the Red Room sparkled with elaborate and festive holiday decorations, including the traditional cranberry element that has been a fixture since 1975. "Over the years, I created different versions of the cranberry tree, including a transparent sphere made of wood and pine, flower vessels made of sugar paste flowers and berries, and other unique designs," Laura said.

Photo: Laura Dowling/Stichting Kunstboek

3 / 16

Cranberry Vase

Follow these simple instructions to get the look.

Photo: Laura Dowling/Stichting Kunstboek

4 / 16

Floral Candelabra

The soft incandescent light of candles at Christmas time is an integral part of holiday decor. Here, a large arrangement of white winter flowers and greenery, presented in a magnolia leaf-covered vase, is transformed into a candelabra with coordinating candles. Follow these simple instructions to get the look.

Photo: Laura Dowling/Stichting Kunstboek

5 / 16

Citrus Wreath

"At the White House, my holiday wreath designs always encompassed a broad range of natural materials and unusual combinations inspired by trips to the farmers’ market and grocery store," Laura said. Keep reading for unconventional wreath ideas, and follow these simple instructions to make them.