Though it can often feel overwhelming to decorate for the holidays—when you’re already doing so many other festive things—I find that freshening up my décor not only breathes some life into my everyday style, but also helps me get into the Christmas spirit. Even if you’re not entertaining this season, you can easily add elegant touches to make your space a bit more merry and bright.

1 / Shimmer and Shine

Use metals you already have in your home to create that much-desired sparkle and shine. Mixing gold and brass with silver and copper is one of my favorite ways to create a lot of glam without a lot of fuss. An old trophy cup, champagne bucket or a silver candelabra will feel extra special around the holidays, especially when you mix it into a tablescape or with greenery.

2 / Bring the Outside In

Speaking of greenery, now’s the perfect time to liven up your space with lots of festive greens. Use your own backyard and neighborhood to source some of the material, or visit a local florist for ideas. Juniper, magnolia leaves, spruce or evergreen boughs and trimmings can be used on a mantel or accent table to add a green touch. Add some fresh pine sprigs to a metallic bowl for a truly merry touch. You might also consider using bare branches for height, elements of birch tree, or fresh fruit like cranberries, pomegranates and deep red apples. If you’re entertaining, add a few small pots of rosemary for place settings or serve cheeses on thick log slices.

3 / Use Items You Already Have

Unearth some items you typically pack away for the rest of the year, like your grandmother’s china or that silver tea service. Another great thing about the holidays is the decorations and ornaments that have been passed down through the years; some of those vintage pieces are special and should have a place with your decorating as well.

4 / Don’t Only Use Holiday-Themed Décor

Use items you already have around the house or wouldn’t traditionally use for holiday decorating. A crisp linen sheet makes a great tree skirt if you blouse it up a bit like billowing snow; plaid patterns can give a distinct holiday feel, as can craft paper wrap and burlap (when mixed with metals and bows).

5 / Use Light to Create a Certain Mood

Decorate with candles along your mantel and occasional tables to bring some warmth and sparkle to your décor. You can also use white fairy lights in your greenery and even find battery-operated versions for your tablescapes. Just don’t go overboard—less is more when it comes to all the sparkle. If you have a fireplace, now’s the perfect time to add a lot of whimsy with a crackling fire. You can also rely on mirrors and crystal to reflect extra light.

With a little creativity, you can quickly pull together an easy and elegant holiday look!