Decorating your home for the holidays transforms it into a warm, inviting, and festive retreat. For rental properties, the right holiday décor can leave a lasting impression on guests, creating a memorable stay filled with seasonal cheer. In this post, we’ll share 3 renter-friendly ways to decorate your rental property for the holidays that balance style, inclusivity, and functionality.

Tip #1: Keep it Simple and Welcoming

It’s best to stay consistent rather than to go all out. Warm string lights on the porch, a wreath on the door, garland on the railing. Nothing too large or distracting from the home, just enhancing the welcoming feel with festive accents.

• What to Try: Add warm string lights to the porch, a neutral holiday wreath on the door, and a garland on the railing to create a festive yet understated look.
• Pro Tip: Focus on temporary holiday decorations that highlight your property’s best features without overshadowing them.

These small touches bring holiday cheer while maintaining a welcoming feel for all guests.

neutral holiday wreath on rental property door

Tip #2: Choose Inclusive, Neutral Decor

Make sure your holiday decor is inclusive to all. Use natural elements like greenery and pinecones, in keeping the same theme throughout with a neutral color palette. Bring the feeling of the holidays with wintery accents, snowscapes, pine and wood scents, warm lighting, and soft textiles.

• Ideas to Include:
  • Greenery, pinecones, and frosted branches.
  • A neutral color palette with whites, greys, and soft metallics.
  • Scents like pine, cedar, or cinnamon for a subtle seasonal vibe.

Incorporate soft textures such as faux fur throws, knit pillows, and warm lighting to make the space feel cozy and inviting. This renter-friendly holiday décor ensures your property appeals to a broad audience while keeping the atmosphere festive.

Tip #3: Be Festive but Functional

Avoid overcrowding spaces, especially ones that will be utilized by the guests. Use candles and smaller accents in high-traffic areas and make sure larger items like the dining centerpiece can be easily moved. The mantel and console tables are the best places to do something fun and add a focal point. Create a winterscape with garlands, candle sticks, mini trees, etc.!

• Decorating Tips:
  • Use smaller decorative items like candles, mini trees, or ornaments in high-traffic areas.
  • Create a winter scene on the mantel or console tables with garlands, candlesticks, and miniature holiday figurines.
  • Keep the dining table centerpiece movable, so guests can easily use the space for meals or gatherings.

These seasonal décor ideas for rental properties provide a festive touch without sacrificing functionality, ensuring your guests enjoy a stress-free holiday stay.

Bonus tip: Add an extra touch with a hot cocoa station, fresh baked goods, or champagne flutes set out on the counter to make your guests feel truly welcome.

Looking for more tips on how to decorate your short-term rental for the holidays? At Mickler & Co. Design Studio, we specialize in creating renter-friendly holiday décor that enhances your property’s charm. Whether you need help with temporary holiday decorations or full-service rental property & Air BnB design, we’re here to help.? Reach out to us!

Warmly,
Rebecca & Christa