Exploring Christmas Decor & Hosting Trends

As the holiday season approaches, many Canadians are seeking ways to elevate their home decor and create warm, inviting spaces that reflect both tradition and personal style. This year, we’ve seen a growing trend in blending timeless designs with fresh, festive touches to craft cozy atmospheres perfect for holiday hosting. From incorporating meaningful details to embracing new design trends, holiday decor is taking on new significance as families and friends gather. In this Q&A with SOCCO Living co-founder Marion, we explore the latest Christmas decor and hosting trends, with expert insights on how to create memorable and stylish settings for the season. —Noa Nichol

How do you see traditional craftsmanship influencing this year’s holiday décor trends, and how can homeowners blend timeless pieces with modern festive elements?

This holiday season, traditional craftsmanship is shining through in more thoughtful, curated designs. People are moving away from mass-produced items and investing in timeless, artisanal pieces. At SOCCO Living, we love blending modern elements with artisanal details that add a personal and rustic touch. You can follow a cohesive colour theme or mix similar textures for a harmonious look. Stepping outside the typical red and green palette by introducing warm neutrals or layering natural textures like wool or wood alongside sleek metallics creates a sophisticated feel. Adding greenery and vintage-inspired accents, such as nostalgic decorations, further enhances the balance between old-world charm and fresh, festive elegance.

What are some of the key trends you’re noticing this holiday season when it comes to creating cozy, welcoming spaces for hosting?

In recent holiday seasons, there’s been a shift away from traditional red and green, with neutral tones and warm accents creating a serene, cozy atmosphere. At SOCCO Living, we believe cozy is timeless. We often hear people say they want their homes to feel more inviting this time of year. A top recommendation is focusing on lighting—small side lamps with warm bulbs are perfect for setting a cozy mood. For gatherings, taper candles for the table create a warm, elegant glow, while scented candles and diffusers enhance the atmosphere throughout the home. One of the most common comments we hear in the store is, “It smells amazing in here, what is it?” This shows how scents are an essential part of creating that welcoming space. We love to layer the table with tablecloths, napkins, and warm tones to make it feel even more inviting. Beyond décor, the cozy atmosphere comes together with comfort food and warm conversation, making guests feel truly at home.

How can Canadians add personal, thoughtful touches to their holiday décor while still maintaining a sense of balance and elegance in their homes?

A wonderful way to add a personal touch to holiday décor is by blending the charm of vintage, nostalgic pieces with modern elements. This holiday season, SOCCO Living has brought in handcrafted ornaments alongside contemporary festive accents. Don’t shy away from rediscovering those ornaments tucked away in storage and pairing them with new ones—mixing and matching is a creative way to make your space feel both elegant and personal. We’ve noticed many people ask how to integrate new collections with their own, and the result is always a beautifully balanced holiday look.

As more people look to elevate their home environments for the holidays, what are your top design tips for creating a warm and memorable atmosphere for guests?

Focus on the elements that truly set the mood—like lighting, which can instantly transform a space. Soft, ambient lighting from candles or table lamps adds a cozy, inviting glow that makes any room feel warm and festive. In the living room, layering pillows and throw blankets create a sense of comfort and relaxation. Styling coffee tables with seasonal accents, such as decorative trays, small ornaments, or greenery, can bring holiday charm into even the smallest corners. Don’t forget the kitchen—often the heart of holiday gatherings—where simple touches like elegant serving ware, vases, or a beautifully styled centrepiece can elevate the space.

One of the latest hosting trends is blending functionality with beauty. Practical yet stylish elements, like decorative baskets for extra blankets or curated trays for serving, ensure your space is both welcoming and functional for guests. There’s also a strong emphasis on natural touches this season, with greenery, dried florals, and wood accents adding organic warmth to décor. Another trend is creating intimate, personalized spaces—whether through nostalgic, vintage-inspired décor or unique, handcrafted pieces. These thoughtful details can make your guests feel at home and create a holiday atmosphere that’s as memorable as it is elegant.

How does SOCCO Living draw inspiration from the local community to influence its holiday collections, and what unique pieces do you recommend for adding that perfect festive flair?

At SOCCO Living, we draw inspiration from our community’s growing desire for quality, authenticity, and a shift toward more mindful décor choices. This season is all about warmth, togetherness, and those cozy, festive moments that make everything feel magical. Our team has really poured their hearts into curating a limited-edition holiday collection that embodies the true spirit of the holidays—featuring everything from festive decorations to thoughtful gifts for loved ones. For SOCCO Living, the perfect festive flair comes from tree ornaments. They’re such a classic décor item that brings back so many memories! We can’t wait to open gifts around the tree on Christmas morning.