The traditional ritual of decorating the house in time for the Christmas holidays will soon begin. But this year, why not transform the garden as well?

Of course, this has to be done with style. There is no need to double your electricity bill and cover the lawn or the roof of your house with illuminated life-size Santas, sleighs and snowmen.

With clever use of outdoor lighting and decorations, even artificial snow, that bleak wintry landscape can be made as attractive and appealing as the classic Christmas card image.

You can hang twinkling clear lights, rope lights, lanterns, even icicles in a tree, or simply illuminate your front path with candles in pretty glass containers, but do remember to fill the bottom with sand to stop them blowing over.

Give windowboxes or pots Christmas glitter and plant with seasonal greenery and decorate with pieces of silver holographic star thread, add square night light holders or wire up some tree baubles into little bunches and place them among the foliage.

When using outdoor lights ensure they are suitable for outdoor use and waterproof. Some lights have transformers which must be placed indoors.

Consider getting in an electrician to install an outdoor socket, which is hooded to protect it from the rain, always use the right fuses and don’t over-load sockets.

Inside, lights reign supreme. From low voltage clear jewelled chandelier lights to transparent icicle beads, from beaded butterfly lights to multi-coloured cubes, lights are not just there to hang on the tree. Interior design at Christmas has become more sophisticated, themed trees, decorations all in one colour, and lights twinkling in garlands on the fireplace, or draped around mirrors, give the room a whole different dimension.

Candles bring a warm glow to any surface, especially a fire surround, and wreaths are not just for hanging on your front door and they don’t have to be made out of holly either.

From snow and red berries to glittering cones, check out high street shops and outlets for a whole range of beautiful wreaths.

Don’t forget your dining table. Use a simple white cloth and decorate with berry and cone napkin rings and candle sets in vivid red and green, to make your table memorable while all your guests enjoy Christmas dinner.