BBC Radio Merseyside Feature: Christmas Styling Tips & Thoughts on What Makes a Home Feel Magical

This week I enjoyed the lovely experience of talking on BBC Radio Merseyside for a Christmas feature where I shared some of my favourite ideas with Sean Styles for creating a calm and cosy home over the festive season. We talked about everything from the little touches that make a room feel cosy to the decorations that last year after year. The feature aired on Saturday 6th December and it still feels quite surreal to hear myself chatting away on the radio about something that means so much to me.

If you would like to listen back, you can find the recording here: Nuco Home Christmas Feature on BBC Radio Merseyside.

I wanted to share some of the ideas we covered during the feature, especially if you are looking for simple ways to make your home feel warm and seasonal without it becoming overwhelming.

Creating a feeling in your home

One of the main things I spoke about was how Christmas decorating is really about the feeling it brings. For me, it is less about following every trend and more about creating a space that feels calm, cosy and comforting. The soft glow of warm lighting, a gentle seasonal fragrance and a few thoughtful touches can make a room feel festive without needing to completely transform it.

I also love the sentimental side of Christmas decorating. Many people reuse the same decorations every year and they become part of their family tradition. There is something quite special about that. A home doesn’t need a big overhaul to feel magical, it simply needs to feel loved and lived in.

Faux flowers and small evergreens

During the feature we spoke about how faux flowers are a lovely way to bring a soft winter look into your home. I am very particular about the stems I choose, as I want them to look as close to real as possible. Eucalyptus, snowy pine, and winter berries are some of my favourites at this time of year. They work beautifully in a simple ceramic vase and instantly freshen a corner of your home.

Small pine trees are another lovely addition. They work perfectly on kitchen worktops, console tables or shelves, and they bring a little woodland charm without taking over the room.

Garlands and wreaths

Garlands are one of the easiest ways to make a room feel festive. You can place them on a mantel, along the staircase or over a mirror. I always suggest adding a few extra stems to make them look fuller. A touch of eucalyptus or a sprinkle of berries can lift the whole arrangement. Warm fairy lights woven through the garland add such a gentle glow in the evenings.

Wreaths are also easy to personalise. A velvet ribbon, a sprig of winter foliage or a couple of bells can make it feel more your own. Over door hangers work brilliantly and save you from making any marks on the door.

Little corners and small touches

One of my favourite things about Christmas styling is how much impact the small touches can have. A bow tied to a picture frame, a sprig of greenery tucked above it, a little tray with a candle and a winter stem, or a small garland over a shelf. These subtle details make your home feel thoughtfully decorated without becoming too busy.

Decorating the tree

The tree is often the centrepiece in the home. I tend to keep the palette simple with soft whites, gentle greens, and warm metallics. Fluffing the branches properly is a great place to start as it makes such a difference to the overall look. From there, it’s all about layering. Mix different textures and finishes, use ribbon to soften the look and add a feeling of warmth and adding florals is also a lovely way to fill any gaps and create a full, balanced shape. Most of all, choose decorations you genuinely love - the tree should be personal to you

A cosy Christmas table

A winter tablescape can look beautiful without being complicated. Start with a linen runner or tablecloth, add a low arrangement or garland and scatter a few candle holders and tealights. Velvet ribbons around napkins are a simple but lovely detail. Adding seasonal napkin rings or coasters can add that festive touch. I find that keeping everything low and soft helps the table feel calm and inviting.

Timeless decorating that lasts beyond Christmas

One thing we spoke about during the feature was choosing pieces that work all year. A vase, a tray, candle holders or a decorative bowl will stay in your home through every season. All you do is change the accents. Winter berries in December, moss in spring, artichokes in summer. It keeps your home looking thoughtful without you constantly buying new things.

Avoiding novelty decorations is something I always recommend. Classic, neutral and textured pieces are something you will never tire of and they make decorating each year feel effortless.

A final thought

Christmas doesn’t need to feel perfect. A few meaningful touches, a warm glow from a candle, the scent of pine or cinnamon in the air, and your home becomes a place that feels special. Whatever your style, embrace what feels right for you and enjoy the process. It is about creating a home that feels warm, peaceful and personal to you and your family.

I hope you enjoy listening to the interview and I hope your home feels extra special this Christmas.

Steph x