Real Tree or Artificial Tree? This is probably one of the most controversial topics surrounding Christmas. What side do you fall on? Are you like me and have an artificial tree for financial reasons but really deep down long for the nostalgia of a real Christmas tree? 

I love Christmas sooooo much! I fall into the category of people who start secretly playing Christmas music in September and then decorate on November 1st. So sorry to my future family but that is the way our traditions will be. Just kidding, I’ll find a way to negotiate.  

My love for Christmas really comes from the traditions I had as a child. Growing up we didn’t have many family traditions during the rest of the year however Christmas had a couple of memorable ones. Christmas Pajamas all wrapped up under the tree and marked in my mother’s handwriting with a 24(signifying the date we could open it), Stockings then breakfast then presents on Christmas morning. However one of my favorite traditions was having a real tree.

Essential oils, candles, and scented tree sticks will never compare to the smell of a real tree. My family loved having a real tree so much that we would bundle up in our snow clothes, go into the forest in order to cut down our own tree! I remember playing around in the snow with our friends, sledding, choosing the tree. then sawing it down and strapping it onto the car. Upon arriving home screwing it into the base and positioning it perfectly by the stockings. 

Obviously, I am team Real Tree stuck with a fake tree at this point in life. So whether you choose a real or artificial tree here are pros and cons to both! 

Fur Real Tree (See what I did there?)

Pros

• An all-natural smell to give your house a holiday aroma!
• A tradition that started in the 16th century in Germany which was then brought to Pennsylvania by German settlers in the 1800s. 
• Every tree is unique and different, whether you want a charlie brown style tree or a more full tree, you can rest assured knowing that not one other person will have a tree like yours. 
• No need to store a tree once Christmas is over just toss it in the trash or burn for a yummy smelling fire.  
• Picking out the tree is a memorable experience in itself. Looking down the many aisles. Imagining it in your space. Etc. 

Cons

• Expensive yearly to purchase (trees average around $80). 
• Must be watered often and the pine needles will fall requiring clean up. 
• Can’t set up the tree prior to December due to the tree dying too soon.

Artificial Tree

Pros

• More affordable in the long run, yes the initial $40-$300 may be a lot at the moment. But it’s a one-time purchase and then your set for future years.
• Pine Needles don’t fall, except when setting up the tree or taking it down. 
• Perfect for people with allergies to real trees. 
• Can be set up any time of the year, like many of the people in November of 2020 (I support ya sister, don’t listen to the Grinches). 
• There are so many types of trees you can purchase, not just your typical green artificial ones, so I’ve listed a few unique ones. 
  • Wood Planks
  • Triangle Frame Tree
  • Wine Bottle Tree (look it up!)
  • Succulent tree
• Perfect for the person who desires a perfect tree that is symmetrical. 

Cons

• Storing it year after year takes up space, especially if you live in an apartment. 
• Looks better from afar rather than up close.
• Doesn’t smell like Christmas which means you’ll need to purchase something to emulate the real deal smell. 
• Takes a long time to set up, if you know, you know. Fluffing and arranging the branches can take a long time! 

Whatever way you choose to celebrate this holiday season I want to wish you a very merry happy and healthy holiday. Remember it’s okay to invest in the more expensive and memorable purchases. Just plan and save for them. I would love to hear how you are celebrating this holiday season and your favorite childhood traditions. 

Warm Wishes, 

Cassidy