It's hard to believe, but our artificial Christmas tree lasted my entire childhood. It came to feel like a family heirloom, and unearthing it from the attic each December was my favorite festive ritual. Now, I'm looking for a tree to display in my very own apartment. I can't stop thinking about Skye McAlpine's magnificent tree, which twinkles in the backdrop of our exclusive How I Host with Skye McAlpine episode, where the chef shares her favorite holiday recipes and table styling ideas.
We've tracked down the exact one, and it's the Sanibel Spruce artificial tree from Balsam Hill. Lush, tall, and pre-lit, it's the kind of tree that you might expect to see in a nostalgic holiday movie, and I'm desperate to invest in one of my own. I can't think of a better way to bring all my Christmas tree ideas to life.
Skye McAlpine's hosting style is 'very celebratory but also warm and cozy and comfortable,' as she tells the Homes & Gardens team, and her gorgeous Christmas tree perfectly encapsulates this feeling.
Trees like Balsam Hill's Sanibel Spruce create an ultra-realistic look with slightly sparser foliage, and it means you can really show off all your Christmas decorating ideas to their best. Skye's tree is decorated with candy canes and glass ornaments, which mirror the etched glassware on her festive tablescape – you can get the look with these glass finial ornaments from Pottery Barn.
I'll admit that I was briefly tempted by the idea of a real tree, but pre-lit or not, you just can't beat a fuss-free (and mess-free) artificial option. It might be a luxury purchase, but just like my family's beloved Christmas tree, I know that an artificial tree from Balsam Hill will last for years.
Plus, I can't say I look forward to untangling a mass of string lights every December, so I'm finally ready to experience the convenience of a pre-lit, pre-fluffed tree with no needles to clear up. I can't wait to pull it out of the box and start decorating.
Shop More Balsam Hill Christmas Trees
If I wasn't so enchanted by Balsam Hill's Sanibel Spruce, I'd go for this handsome tree instead: slim but handsome, it's ideal for small spaces, if you haven't got a space for a wider, bushy tree.
Traditional firs and spruces might look more lifelike, but nothing feels as festive as a frosted tree. This one is guaranteed to transform your living room into a winter wonderland.
If you're particularly squeezed this Christmas, I'd go for a charming tabletop tree like this one. It's the perfect addition to an entryway, side table or any compact space, and I love its burlap base.
Looking for more design inspiration ahead of the festive season? We've pulled together the best holiday decor themes for Christmas 2025 – all approved by top designers, of course.
