Outdoor Holiday Splashes

From the curbside gate to the front door, welcome holiday guests with a few outdoor splashes that set the scene for the warmth inside. Use the ideas presented in this video by Better Homes and Gardens to make the gathering one to remember.

Hang a wreath on your front gate to get the postcard-worthy view of your home. Think wide stiff ribbon, non-breakable embellishments and weather-friendly evergreens. Eliminate the need for nail holes by using coated wire wrapped around the top of the wreath and through the gate stakes.

Along the pathway, four-foot tall birch logs call attention to outdoor containers. Ask your local garden center to cut to height (they usually charge by the foot). Stuff the base with dozens of fir and pine branches. Use juniper berries and pussy willow branches to provide fresh accents. And a little snow only makes the look prettier.

Run a gorgeous garland along your outdoor railing for a big impact welcome that takes only a few minutes to hang. Order double the length of your railing to allow for wrapping and draping. Simply loop the garland along your pillars. Ask someone to stand on the lawn and tell you if the garland needs to sag mor or less.

A door-height tree is just the trick for layering on the look. A burlap wrap makes a fine outdoor-friendly tree skirt. Natural ornaments like pine cones, moss balls and nuts provide inexpensive embellishment.

When it comes to hanging a wreath, avoid obvious nails in your fron door with a staple gun and wide ribbon. Attach the ribbon to the top of the door to hide the staple. A wire basket of white bark logs give a hearty inexpensive welcome. Use flocking spray for your own seasonal effect.

With every step, Christmas guests will feel welcome to your home.