Five Tips for a Meaningful Christmas Tree

Memories, Faith, and Simple Ideas for a Tree that Feels Like Home

Decorating the Christmas tree is always a special event in our home, and even at the UCB Radio head office! We all gather together to lend a helping hand and our own unique expertise in the art of decorating the tree that holds so much meaning. It’s a tradition that seems to draw us closer, reminding us of God’s goodness, the beauty of community, and the simple joy of preparing our hearts for the season.

Each person brings their own creativity to the process. Some of us fluff first then add lights, while others add lights first and fluff around them. Others like to add tinsel while others shy away from the look, calling it “a memory from another era.”

But one thing we all agree on is starting with the  largest ornaments first to fill any “holes” in the tree, then adding ornaments grouped by colour. Of course we use the most eye-catching ones first. When we work together, the tree always comes to life in a way that feels warm, welcoming and full of meaning.

Trimming the Tree warms the Heart

While trimming the tree we all have memories that pop up and warm our hearts. Liz, our Marketing Director remembers as a child lying down underneath the tree and looking up in awe and wonderment at all the sparkling lights.

Others on our team cherish memories of visiting local Christmas tree farms - bundled up in mittens and scarves, sipping hot chocolate, riding in horse-drawn sleighs, and searching for that perfect tree to bring home. Moments like these remind us that the best traditions aren’t about perfection, but about being together.

Memories of Home

Every year when I pull the Christmas boxes from the basement, I’m transported back to the home I grew up in. We loved big coloured lights back then, and we put up hand made decorations that we made in school. My twin sister and I still debate over who made that one special elf ornament back in Grade 1. I let my sister claim it, mostly because the joy it brings her is worth far more than being right.

There’s also a small red and white sailboat ornament we hang each year in memory of our dad, who has since passed. Every time I place it on a branch, I feel a gentle wave of gratitude for where I’ve come from, for the people who shaped me, and for the comfort God brings in every season. Even now, I can almost smell the fresh pine of the real trees we used to bring home. It’s the scent of belonging...the scent of home.

5 Tips for Decorating the Tree

Whether a real tree or artificial, tall or tiny, there are so many ways to reflect your family’s heart and style. If you’re hoping to try something a little new this year, here are five simple, faith-friendly ideas:

1. Pray or pause before you begin.

Take a moment to thank God for the season, the memories behind you, and the hope ahead. It’s a beautiful way to start with intention.

2. Choose a theme that reflects your family.

Whether it’s rustic, elegant, colourful, or Christ-centered with nativity ornaments, pick something that makes your tree feel like you.

3. Layer your lights.

Start from the inside and work outward. Warm white lights create a cozy glow, but mixing in a few coloured strands can add a nostalgic touch.

4. Add ornaments in “zones.”

Group similar colours or styles and spread them evenly around the tree. This helps everything look balanced and thoughtfully placed.

5. Top it with meaning.

Whether it’s a star symbolizing the light that led the wise men or an angel reminding you of God’s presence, choose a tree topper that lifts your heart.

As you decorate your tree this year—whether surrounded by family, friends, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with God, may your heart be filled with the same comfort, joy, and wonder that have carried you through Christmases past. Let every light remind you of the hope Christ brings, every ornament stir a treasured memory, and every moment spent decorating become a gentle invitation to slow down and savour the season. May your home feel extra warm and peaceful this season, and may you be reminded in little ways that God is close.