Decorating the home for the holidays has always been something to look forward to, from a well-lit living room to a comfortable kitchen. Working at Fiberon, I’ve learned how making the exterior of your home inviting makes a great first impression on visitors, family, and perhaps a certain saint with a sack full of toys.

Setting the right mood for that "welcome scene" is important whether your taste/style is bright and festive, Christmas classic, or more natural. While many homeowners focus on the front, bringing the warmth of your home outdoors to your deck can be surprisingly easy with just a few decorations.

Garlands Galore. Line your deck railings with garlands made of greenery or natural vines. Attach icicle lights underneath the railing for a true iced over look. Be sure to leave room to grip any hand rails on steps. Frontgate offers a wide variety of outdoor garlands.

Outdoor Christmas Trees. Take unused pots on your deck and “plant” a pre-lighted indoor/outdoor Christmas tree or pop-up spiral lighted tree. Add indoor/outdoor decorations such as bows and other ornaments to complete the look.

Christmas Billboard. Use your railing balusters as a framework to spell out a holiday greeting – secure light strands with zip ties to spell out letters. Balusters also work extremely well to secure wreaths, large red and white candy canes and other large lighted décor.

Yard Décor - now Deck Décor. If your living or family room looks out onto the deck, try placing white wire-frame deer on the deck instead of out in the yard. For basement rooms that open out to under the deck, hang a lit Moravian Star or even mistletoe from a joist to add an unexpected festive element. Check out these great animal topiaries here.

Scents of the Season. If visitors will be entering your home from the deck, add an additional burst of seasonal welcome by incorporating cinnamon sticks and real pine greenery into your decorations.

Decorating your deck for Christmas will complete your home’s holiday spirit this season.