These are tried and true ideas for easy and festive decor for Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year's Eve. Most are inexpensive and you might find natural elements around your neighborhood.
1) Place candles or flame less candles throughout the house; the mood is wonderful and the accent light warm and festive. I use the same hurricanes throughout the years as candle holders, vases, filled with seasonal items, and even in the bath to hold sponges and bath brushes. To raise the bottom or create a stable base for small candles, I use craft sand. Here, dried flowers add color to the sand.
3) Add seasonal greens to your stairs, tabletop, mantle, and shelves. These magnolia leaves are entwined with string lights for a non-denominational garland. Fallen branches and leaves from all around San Diego are my source. A bit of gold spray on some leaves make them glisten at night. Indeed there are some faux pine stems as well, since I like fullness when I create wreaths and garlands.
4) Add fragrance to your home. Scent is an often forgotten mood enhancer. Strategically place bowls of potpourri, freshly ground spices or dried lavender, scented candles, room sprays, and small carafes of essential oils (my favorite).