You also don't necessarily need to buy an expensive evergreen wreath to decorate, and inexpensive grapevine or straw wreath can be dressed up as well. Spray paint clay pots and saucers a metallic gold for sparkling coasters and utensil or candle holders for the season. If you have extra lights after stringing the tree, wind some through your potted plants for a special way to bring the sparkle throughout the room. For a simple but beautiful centerpiece, set three or five candles of different heights in the middle of the table on a tray, then surround the bases of the candles with seasonal items. Cuttings from your Christmas tree, or from evergreen trimmings in your yard are a great first layer.
Nuts can work the same way, but they tend to be more expensive.
Hollow out the center of an apple as a candleholder, and tuck a few tiny greens in between the candle and the apple. Just be sure the flame never comes near the twigs. A little lemon juice sprinkled on the cut part of the apple will help keep it from browning as much. Just be sure to wash in hot water, and dry at least 20 minutes in your dryer. Place a few inexpensive glass balls in a bowl and embellish with a few sprigs of greenery or some leftover ribbon.