It’s Christmas in July!

Every year I’m shocked at how early holiday decorations come out at stores. Here I am walking around in my flip flops looking for a new tray to serve drinks outdoors or by the pool and the aisles are already filled with bows and tinsel and greenery and giant stuffed snowmen!

But according to HGTV’s design team, it’s never too early to start planning a new look for the holidays. Shop early and you’ll be sure to find enough yardage of the ribbon you want. Wait until November or December and you’ll likely be out of luck trying to fluff up the wreath that’s been stuck in storage for years.

Here’s a great link to new Christmas tree ideas which may help inspire a new tree or a whole new theme for your holiday home: http://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/15-christmas-tree-decorating-ideas-pictures

For 30 more fresh and festive ideas, visit: http://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/our-most-festive-holiday-decor-ideas/ad?slide=20.

And before you toss these ideas aside, take a close look at the calendar. How many weekends are left before your big holiday event? That’s a shock too, isn’t it? Time to hit those holiday aisles!