Double the Cheer: When One Christmas Tree Just Isn't Enough

For many, decorating the Christmas tree is only the beginning of the holiday excitement. They don’t stop at one tree – they might have two, three, a dozen or more!

In fact, according to the American Christmas Tree Association, about 16% of the 94 million homes with Christmas trees display more than one.

Does this trend reflect enthusiasm for the season, or is it something more? Let’s take a closer look at the multiple Christmas tree trend and what to consider when buying a second Christmas tree.

Why do some families decide one Christmas tree isn’t enough? In many cases, it’s about solving a problem, from visibility to design flexibility to family harmony.

A Christmas tree is a joyful sight, but finding the best place to display it can be tricky. Do you set up your tree where there’s the most room, where you entertain or where it can be seen from outside through a front window? The best spot for your Christmas tree may not be where it is easiest for you to view and enjoy.

Some people solve the problem with a second tree. The main or “show” tree, with its curated decorations, takes pride of place. Then, another tree – or several more, often in various sizes – are distributed throughout the home. Think of a four-footer in the family room, two-foot pots in the foyer and small Christmas trees on shelves and end tables.

Other trends include placing miniature Christmas trees on entry tables, mantels, dining tables and kitchen counters.

With multiple Christmas trees, you can put a tree in every room!

Once you decide on a second tree, the next question is what type of tree to bring home. Should your second tree be natural or artificial?

A real Christmas tree is beautiful and smells divine. Plus, there’s a certain sentimentality to searching for “the perfect Christmas tree,” whether that quest takes place in the woods or on a tree lot.

On the other hand, those who prefer artificial Christmas trees like them because they’re easy to set up, don’t need watering and don’t shed messy needles.

Some families throw in the towel and use both a real tree and a faux tree in their homes, just to avoid arguments.

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Then there’s the decorating dilemma. Social media has turned the Christmas tree into a design feature. In addition to serving as the main traditional decoration, Christmas trees have become a vehicle for creative expression. Displaying multiple trees allows you to explore new decorating styles.

A family Christmas tree is often decorated with heirloom and sentimental ornaments that have been gathered over the years. Having a second Christmas tree invites you to experiment with colors and styles. Design a “fancy” or formal tree, match a room’s decor or test out a monochromatic theme without changing the way you decorate the family tree.

Similarly, some families set up another tree just for the kids. Decorate the family tree the way you like – and let your children decorate a tree all their own to place in a bedroom or playroom.

Decorations inspire you to experiment with themes, but the type of tree you choose can also influence the overall look. Flocked Christmas trees, potted trees, alpine trees and colored Christmas trees all have their individual charms. Plus, from the tiniest to the tallest Christmas tree, there’s a tree that will fit just about any space.

With multiple Christmas trees, you can expand your style options, experiment with color schemes and decorating themes, or explore non-traditional Christmas tree varieties.   

A Christmas tree cluster or grouping is another trend that shows multiple Christmas trees in one room to advantage. The look can start with a pair or trio of potted trees, undecorated or simply decorated and lit, set in an entryway or corner. On a grander scale, a grouping of full-size, fully decorated trees commands attention in a spacious family room or office lobby.

A Christmas tree group may include trees of the same style in different sizes, or a gathering of trees in several styles and heights. Choose at least one color or element – like a red bow tree topper, white mini lights or complementary pots – to keep the style cohesive.

Ornaments are important, but in the depths of winter, Christmas tree lights enhance the joy of the season. Having a second Christmas tree frees some families from the “colored or white Christmas lights” debate. You can have both!

Plus, more and more pre-lit Christmas trees offer dual lighting options, enabling you to switch between the two styles. Multi-function lights also let you send your Christmas tree lights twinkling, twirling and swirling, as you wish.

Buying an unlit Christmas tree gives you the chance to choose the style and number of lights. Add updated novelty styles like LED C9 or bubble lights, or mix in fairy lights and Christmas-themed novelty lights to truly personalize your Christmas lights.

If one Christmas tree is an expense, two can seem like an extravagance, but there are ways to make buying a second artificial Christmas tree more affordable.

Consider your style preferences and where you want to put your new trees to help narrow down your options before making your final choice.

Typically, a small Christmas tree is less expensive than a larger tree. A two-foot tree adds a festive touch to tabletops, buffets and mantel displays. A four-foot Christmas tree can fill in an awkward corner or brighten a fireplace hearth.

Trim your Christmas tree budget by choosing a slim or pencil tree. A slim Christmas tree is usually more affordable than a medium or full-profile Christmas tree of the same height and species.

A pre-lit Christmas tree typically sells for about $100 more than a comparable unlit Christmas tree. Add the lights yourself and save.

If you’re buying another Christmas tree in order to experiment with style, a non-traditional Christmas tree might be right up your alley. Potted trees, alpine, colorful, tinsel and other non-traditional trees can sometimes represent a savings over the traditional realistic green pine.

Check thrift stores and second-hand online marketplaces for deals on gently-used Christmas trees – especially as Halloween rolls around.

You might also consider buying a new tree and moving your older tree to a secondary room.

Of course, we encourage you to visit Christmas Central to follow us for sales on Christmas trees throughout the year! Sign up for emails so you’re always informed of the latest promotions. And don’t forget – shipping is free on orders over $77!