Christmas Doorscaping

by Brett Kerley

When winter arrives in Edmonton, our world transforms into a sparkling snowscape. As daylight fades early and frost dusts the rooftops, it’s the perfect time to let your front entryway shine. Christmas (or other midwinter celebration of your choice) is a perfect excuse to decorate your front door and surrounding area. It isn’t just about décor; it’s about spreading warmth and holiday spirit in the heart of winter. With a few thoughtful touches, your door can become the most inviting part of your home.

1. First Impressions Matter
   Your front door sets the tone for your entire home. A beautifully designed entryway instantly welcomes guests, delivery drivers, and neighbours with a sense of cheer. Even on the coldest Alberta morning, a festive doorway can make the world feel just a little brighter.
2. Spreading Holiday Cheer
   Not every neighbour will get to see your Christmas tree—but everyone sees your door! Doorscaping is a simple way to share the season’s joy with the community, brightening snowy sidewalks and lifting spirits all December long.
3. Creative Expression
   There are no rules when it comes to doorscaping—only imagination. Whether your style is traditional, rustic, or whimsical, this is your chance to tell a story through greenery, lights, and colour.

The Wreath – The Star of the Show

A wreath is the heart of every holiday door. Hang your wreath at eye level for balance, and make sure it’s securely attached—Edmonton’s wind can be mischievous!

• Classic Look: Use natural evergreens like cedar, pine, and fir. Add pinecones, berries, and a bold red bow.
• Modern Twist: Try a minimalist metal ring with eucalyptus, dried florals, or velvet ribbon.
• DIY Idea: Craft your own using clippings from your yard or local tree lots. Fresh greens not only look beautiful but fill the air with that unmistakable pine scent.

Garland – The Frame That Pulls It All Together

Garland adds texture and depth, framing your doorway like a picture-perfect postcard. Pro tip: For a full, lush look, double up two garlands or add fresh evergreen clippings for extra volume.

• Choose Your Greenery: Real cedar garlands drape gracefully, while artificial ones last for years and can include built-in lights.
• Add Accents: Weave in ribbon, ornaments, or fairy lights for colour and sparkle.
• Secure It Well: Use outdoor-rated hooks or zip ties. Our prairie winds can test even the best decorations, so make sure your garland is snug!

Lights – Bringing Warmth to Winter Nights

In Edmonton’s long, dark winters, lights make all the difference. Avoid harsh spotlights—gentle illumination creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Use timers so your display glows each evening without any extra effort.

• Soft White Lights create an elegant, timeless look.
• Coloured Lights add playful holiday energy.
• Battery-Operated Fairy Lights are great for wreaths and garlands if you don’t have an outdoor plug nearby.

Door Mats – Small Detail, Big Impact

Never underestimate a festive door mat!

• Message Mats like “Merry Christmas,” “Let It Snow,” or “Home for the Holidays” add charm.
• Practical Tip: Choose a durable, coir or rubber-backed mat to handle snow and salt.
• Styling Tip: Layer your mat over a plaid or buffalo check outdoor rug for extra style points.

Decorative Props – The Finishing Flourish

Props give your doorscape personality. Try grouping items in odd numbers (three or five) for a more natural and visually pleasing arrangement.

• Lanterns: Fill them with LED candles, pinecones, or ornaments.
• Mini Trees: Place a pair of small evergreens in decorative pots or urns on either side of the door.
• Seasonal Figures: Add a nutcracker, reindeer, or even a wooden sleigh for charm.

Personal Touches – Make It Yours

The best doorscapes tell a story.

• Add a wooden sign with your family name or a festive greeting.
• Hang a monogram ornament or hand-painted initial.
• Incorporate items that reflect your personality—maybe a small birdhouse, a plaid scarf around a snowman, or even a vintage pair of skates hung by the door.

Fresh greens are the soul of any winter display. Their colour, texture, and fragrance bring nature right to your doorstep.

Building the Perfect Urn Arrangement

1. Start with a Base: Fill your urn or large planter with soil, sand, or floral foam to hold branches firmly.
2. Add Structure: Insert tall elements like birch poles, red dogwood, or curly willow for height and drama.
3. Layer in Greenery: Combine spruce, pine, cedar, and juniper for a mix of textures and tones. Let some branches cascade over the edges for a natural, flowing look.
4. Add Accents: Include pinecones, artificial berries, ribbon, or outdoor-safe ornaments. Metallic touches (gold or copper) look stunning against snowy backgrounds.
5. Preserve Freshness: Water the soil before a hard freeze—the moisture will freeze and “lock” your arrangement in place for the season.

Local Tip: Visit Greenland Garden Centre, Apache Seeds, Classic Landscapes, Salisbury Greenhouse or other garden centres to find bundles of greens, decorative urn fillers, and festive outdoor accents. Many even offer classes if you want help or pre-made arrangements if you’d rather not DIY it! They normally have all their fresh greens by mid-November. Get there quick to pick the best of the bunch! They’ll also be able to provide you with some kind of spray for your greens to preserve them through our harsh weather conditions. Wilt-Pruf was the most popular moisture lock spray back when I was selling fresh greens, and it’s still one of the best today!

Winter Wonderland

• • Palette: White, silver, and icy blue.
  • Décor: Snowflakes, icicle lights, and frosted garlands.
  • Additions: Artificial snow spray and crystal ornaments for shimmer.

Rustic Charm

• • Palette: Deep greens, brown, and natural textures.
  • Décor: Burlap ribbons, wooden signs, pinecones, and lanterns.
  • Bonus Touch: A plaid blanket or scarf draped over a chair by the door.

Classic Christmas

• • Palette: Red, green, and gold.
  • Décor: Holly, plaid ribbons, bells, and traditional baubles.
  • Additions: A pair of pre-lit mini trees and a bow-topped wreath for symmetry.

Whimsical Wonderland

• • Palette: Bright reds, whites, and candy colours.
  • Décor: Oversized ornaments, candy canes, and elf figurines.
  • Bonus Touch: A “Santa’s Workshop” sign for a playful twist.

• Balance is Key: Keep your design symmetrical but not overly crowded.
• Layer Your Look: Combine different heights, textures, and light sources for depth.
• Weatherproof Everything: Use outdoor-rated lights, cords, and décor. Secure with cable ties or heavy-duty clips.
• Keep Pathways Clear: Decorations should never block entry or pose tripping hazards.
• Plan for Night and Day: Make sure your doorscape looks beautiful both under the sun and glowing in the evening.

Complete your doorscape with a bit of extra holiday magic:

• Play soft Christmas music near the entryway during gatherings.
• Use a pine or cinnamon-scented diffuser by the door for a cozy aroma.
• Add a sprinkle of faux snow or white fairy lights to make your entrance glisten.

With just a few thoughtful touches, your front door can become the star of your street this holiday season —a cheerful welcome for guests, neighbours, and even the occasional caroller. After all, when Santa’s making his rounds through Edmonton, you want him to know he’s found a home full of holiday spirit.

Wishing you bright lights, fresh greens, and a warm welcome all winter long—happy doorscaping!