If you’ve lived in the same house for a while, you can decorate for the holidays with your eyes closed. The tree “always” goes in one certain spot. The shrubs “always” get the same treatment, and the swag “always” goes over the same doorway.

It’s a shame to be so predictable.

Sure, you may try to liven things up with multi colored lights on the tree for a change, or place peppermint candles on the coffee table while the creche goes on the buffet, but the overall effect is the same.

We at Splash know you need some tips to make your decor more interesting while keeping it simple. Splash readers like to be out and about, experiencing the holidays so they need quick fixes that have a big impact.

Here are some tips from Splash staffers and Carol Campbell from Blue Sky Gifts in Gulf Breeze. 1.CURTAIN TIES Replace your curtain tie backs with garland. Carol Campbell of Blue Sky Gifts says this will instantly update your room and add a touch of glitz.

2.WRAP FRAMES Remove the photos and framed art from your walls, wrap them like packages with bows and then rehang. This tip, also from Carol Campbell of Blue Sky Gifts, is inexpensive and instantly updates your entire house for the holidays.

3.CENTERPIECES The dining room table and coffee table will look more festive with large clear bowls of ornaments or pomegranates.

4.MATCH LIGHTS your results will look more professional if the lights match. It’s the same amount of work, but the end result is much better if all the lights are the same color, size and type.

5.MANTLE DECOR Waxy green magnolia leaves, mixed with greenery from your yard, can decorate your mantle. Mix in some cream colored candles for contrast. It’s free, fresh and decorative.

6.RECYCLE CUTS Boughs cut from the bottom of your live tree will add fragrance and decorating interest if you fashion a fresh swag and hang it over a mirror. Add simple red bows or shiny ornaments to complete the look.

7.BOWS/RIBBON Bows, bows and more bows... gold or silver or red lengths of ribbon can be tied to door handles on each bedroom, bathroom or exterior doors for a festive holiday look.

8.OUTSIDE DECOR Decorate your mailbox for the holidays. Gather greenery from your yard, whether it’s holly or palm fronds, and secure them to your mailbox with a bright red or gold ribbon. 9.ORNAMENTS Ornaments can be anything you wish. If you are a beachcomber, use a hot glue gun to fasten hooks onto prize shells and hang from the boughs. One memorable tip is to use any child’s toy from a fast food box.

10.PLAN AHEAD Finish your shopping and decorating by the first week of December so you can spend your time enjoying the holiday concerts and events on the Splash calendar. You’ll be more relaxed and have the best season ever.