O Christmas Tree
There’s something undeniably magical about the moment when the Christmas tree is finally decorated. Whether it’s the twinkling lights, the scent of pine (if one is so inclined to forgo faux in our tropical climate), or the sound of spirited seasonal sounds in the background, the act of decking out the tree has become a beloved holiday tradition that brings families together year after year.
In eager anticipation of Dec. 25 (when Christians celebrate the birth of Christ), what started centuries ago as a simple European custom has evolved into a worldwide tradition that marks the beginning of the Christmas season in homes across the globe.
The origins of the Christmas tree can be traced back to 16th-century Germany, where devout Christians are believed to have first adorned trees with candles, apples and other symbols of the season. Over the centuries, this practice has spread, each culture adding its own unique flair to the tree-decorating process. Today, decorating the Christmas tree is more than just an activity—it’s a chance to create lasting memories and reflect on the joy of Christmastime.
In the spirit of celebrating this tradition, we’ve asked a few familiar faces to share how they decorate their own trees at home. From family heirlooms to modern ornaments, familial traditions to gifting, their personal stories offer a heartwarming look at how this cherished ritual brings joy to their homes.
Rocio Olbes
What theme were you going for this year?
This year, more than anything, I really wanted a traditional and classic Christmas. So it was very fitting that we used my childhood Christmas tree and decorations. It was so wonderful to open these boxed old ornaments that I grew up with. I felt so familiar with them. It was even more special to hang them with my children knowing that some date back to my grandparents’ childhoods.
Are you particularly superstitious about the timeliness of when you put up and take down your tree and holiday trimmings?
Absolutely not. I do love a full Christmas season, so I tend to put up our tree after Halloween. We tend to take it down the first week of January.
What are you asking Santa for this year?
Peace on earth! And good will towards man. I mean that! The world is a beautiful place which requires us to continue to be kind and compassionate towards each other.
What are the twins asking Santa for?
Godzilla. Haha! And apparently a real-life dinosaur egg for the garden. I’m happy to report that Santa secured Godzilla.
Do you have a special Christmas tradition you’re attached to?
We always open our presents on Christmas morning. We do it all together as a family in our pajamas while having hot chocolate and breakfast. I carried this on from my childhood. I feel so grateful to continue this tradition with the twins.
Arlene Cu
What theme were you going for this year?
I wanted the tree to be more playful because this is the first year I have three beautiful grandchildren to celebrate the holidays with. I got lots of snowmen and candy canes and turned the tree red and white this year.
Are you particularly superstitious about the timeliness of when you put up and take down your tree and holiday trimmings?
I like putting up the tree around mid-November. Not too early, but enough time to enjoy the house in a festive mood. We take the tree down after 3 Kings. That always marks the end of the Christmas season for me.
What are you asking Santa for this year?
More time with the whole family.
What are the grandkids asking Santa for?
Santa’s gifts for Parker are Sonic the Hedgehog and Ninjago stuff. I’ll be giving the babies developmental toys that will last them a few months or years to grow and play with.
Do you have a special Christmas tradition you’re attached to?
We always spend Noche Buena with the extended family. A white elephant gift exchange has been the popular and fun thing we do. Then on Christmas morning, we always celebrate with the children. Doing a home-cooked brunch prepared by the kids. Cristina, Martin and Arie all collaborate with Tristan (Cristina’s husband) and Ari (Martin’s wife). Making the brunch special and fun. I love watching them all prepare a great spread. We always have fun, with festive holiday music playing and after the meal, we gather by the tree and open and exchange Christmas presents.
Vania Romoff
What theme were you going for this year?
(Atelier Vania Romoff) is selling handmade piña ornaments this year. So, I decorated the tree with these ornaments in mind. I added velvet baubles to the mix in shades of brown and crème; crystal beads and pendants as well as candles—albeit battery-operated—too.
Are you particularly superstitious about the timeliness of when you put up and take down your tree and holiday trimmings?
We put them up immediately after Halloween. I have three kids at home who are always so excited about putting up the tree. It’ll probably stay up until mid-January.
What are you asking Santa for this year?
A vacation! Haha!
What did the kids ask Santa for?
Oh, that list is LONG! My eight-year-old daughter no longer likes toys so it’s mostly tech stuff, fashion and, apparently… skincare from Sephora?! Haha! Although she’s too young for that so I’ll probably buy her some sunscreen. My twin boys are in a dinosaur phase. Our home already feels like Jurassic Park!
Do you have a special Christmas tradition you’re attached to?
Nothing fancy. Just a nice dinner at home with my family. We open our gifts after that and play Michael Bublé Christmas songs all evening.
