Choosing Perfect Christmas Trees
Real or artificial, here's your guide to finding perfect Christmas trees
Buying Christmas trees isn't rocket science, but it is more complicated than most people think. Some swear by their real Christmas tree, while others are in search of a more artificial variety. It doesn't really matter -- in this day and age, artificial Christmas trees are so well made it's hard to tell the difference -- but we recommend you follow these tips to ensure you stay happy with this important purchase.
Steps to the perfect Christmas tree
1. Decide: real or artificial?
Contrary to popular belief, there is absolutely nothing wrong with an artificial Christmas tree. In fact, for some families it's an absolute necessity. If you go away for a week every holiday season, it may not be safe to leave a real tree in a home without any occupants. And some pets have problems with real trees. Other families just don't enjoy the mess that comes with pine needles.
On the other hand, a real tree does give off that wonderful Christmas smell, and for some people, there's nothing that compares to a live Christmas tree. So decide based on what works for your family, not what you've done in the past.
2. Budget
Obviously, you'll spend more on an artificial tree than a real one, but real Christmas trees can be surprisingly expensive. Price some trees out before you shop and decide how much you can afford. If you decide on an artificial Christmas tree, keep in mind that you'll have it for years to come -- which also means you'll have to look at it for years to come. If something about it bothers you now, it will bother you again next year.
3. Decide on a style
First, think size. Measure your home to decide what size tree you want, and take a tape measure with you on your shopping trip.
Buying artificial trees: They have so many styles of artificial trees these days that the choice can be overwhelming. Personally, I love the ones with built in lights -- they eliminate the holiday stress of untangling lights and look much more professional than I can string them. Never buy a tree you haven't seen set up (most stores display the models for you). Look twice and three times -- an artificial Christmas tree is an investment that will probably be with you for the next decade, so really take your time deciding.
Buying real trees: With a real tree, you have the luxury of knowing that if you don't love your Christmas tree, you can replace it next year. On the other hand, a bad Christmas tree can result in a lot of misery. Make your own cosmetic choices, but follow these tips:
-Ask retailers how old their trees are. Newer is always better.
-Look for the greenest, lushest trees around. Tug on the needles -- if they come away easily, they will fall off all over your carpet, too.
-Double check that the base of the tree is straight or your tree will be crooked
-Lift the tree and drop it on its base -- most of the needles should remain on the tree
As long as you get a fresh tree, it doesn't really matter what kind of tree you choose.
If you follow these steps, you can be sure you'll get perfect Christmas trees every holiday season!