Decorating Your Airbnb or Holiday Rental for Christmas: Tips That Win 5-Star Reviews

There’s something truly magical about arriving at a holiday home in December and being greeted by twinkling lights, the gentle scent of pine, and a space that feels like it’s wrapped in festive cheer. As a Christmas decorator working across Surrey, I can confidently tell you: thoughtful seasonal styling doesn’t just create ambience — it creates memories.

If you're a holiday rental host looking to wow your guests this Christmas, the good news is that you don't need a huge budget or a full-scale makeover. Whether you want subtle touches or showstopping decor, here are my professional tips to get your Airbnb or short-term rental beautifully dressed for the season.

Why Christmas Styling Matters in Holiday Rentals

During the festive season, guests aren’t just booking a place to sleep — they’re booking an experience. A beautifully decorated space immediately sets the tone: it grabs attention in search results, creates that instant emotional connection when guests walk through the door, and — let’s be honest — encourages a few flattering Instagram posts. It shows care, detail, and warmth, and often turns a great stay into an unforgettable one.

Budget-Friendly Festive Fixes That Make an Impact

Even with minimal effort, there’s so much charm you can add. I love placing a mini tree on a console or side table, styled in a cohesive palette like red and white, gold and green, or even soft blush tones with champagne. Fairy lights are another must — wrapped around a mirror or bed frame, they instantly bring warmth. Swap in a few festive cushions or a velvet throw, light a pine-scented candle or add a bowl of dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks, and you’ve transformed your space without breaking the bank. A small holiday welcome tray with hot chocolate sachets, mince pies, and a handwritten “Merry Christmas” note adds a heartfelt touch that guests never forget.

Instagram-Worthy Touches for a Luxury Look

If you’re after something with more wow-factor — especially for listings that lean into design or luxury aesthetics — there are a few ways to make a bigger impact. A full-sized Christmas tree dressed in a modern palette like blue, white, and silver or soft blush with rose gold gives a real centrepiece moment. Matching garlands for your staircase, fireplace, or entryway help carry the theme through. I also love using tall vases filled with winter branches or baubles for a contemporary floral display. One of my go-tos for creating that curated magazine look is placing a few beautifully wrapped (empty!) boxes under the tree, all using the same wrapping paper and ribbon palette. And of course, bespoke details like personalised stockings or even a branded bauble or two go a long way in reinforcing your hosting style.

Tips for Small Spaces

Working with a compact studio or cosy flat? There are still plenty of clever ways to add holiday spirit. Wall-mounted or slimline trees are perfect for tight spaces and still feel festive. You can also cluster LED candles on a sideboard, fill a bowl with baubles, or layer a fluffy throw over the end of a bed for instant seasonal charm. Little things like sheepskin rugs or a knitted throw go a long way in making even the smallest corners feel magical.

Styling for the Camera

Decorating for guests is one thing — decorating for photos is another. Make sure your listing images capture the magic: shoot in natural light whenever possible, stick to one or two colours to avoid a cluttered feel, and add layers — a wreath here, a garland there, a textured throw — to create depth. When your photos look like a winter retreat, bookings follow.

Let Us Do the Heavy Lifting

Of course, if all of this sounds lovely but your December to-do list is already overflowing, I’ve got you. At Xmas Decorators UK, we offer full setup and takedown, bespoke designs that suit your space and brand, and both compact and full-scale Christmas installations. We’ve styled everything from countryside cottages to chic city lofts — and every space gets the same care and attention.

Now booking Christmas 2025 styling for short-term lets across Guildford, Surrey. Let’s make your space sparkle — and get those glowing reviews rolling in.

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By Viktoriia Savchenko | Christmas Stylist at Xmas Decorators UK