Every year when Jeff and I go to pick out a Christmas tree, I look for one with character — a branch that leans a little to the side, a crooked trunk, or an unusual silhouette. A perfectly imperfect tree makes the season feel more relaxed and memorable, and that little bit of quirk is exactly what I love.
This year we leaned into that quirkiness and created a googly-eye mini tree instead of decking it out with the usual ornaments. It’s simple, whimsical, and it makes me smile every time I walk by — which, at this point in the busy season, is what matters most. There’s a short video on my Instagram showing the googly-eye tree dancing to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”
I purchased large googly eyes online and simply rested them on sturdy branches. It’s a super quick project — less than a minute to arrange — and works wonderfully on a small tree used as a kids’ tree, an office tabletop tree, or a playful corner accent.
Photography and styling by Brittni Mehlhoff and Amelia Tatnall
I’m taking a couple of days off to spend time with family, but I’ll be back next week with more projects and ideas. Happy holidays and Merry Christmas — see you soon!