Shell trees, twinkling lights and Christmas lunch in the sun. This is how we celebrate Christmas on Ibiza, and how you can bring a little of that island sparkle into your own home.

I'm Dutch, so I grew up with a "real" winter Christmas. Cold hands, dark afternoons, hot chocolate and, if you were lucky, a little bit of snow.

Then I moved to Ibiza. And let me tell you: my first Christmas here felt a bit strange! No snow. No winter coat. Instead, the sun was shining and we had Christmas lunch outside on the terrace. In a T-shirt.

It took me a while to get used to it. But now? I love it. Christmas on the island feels lighter, sunnier and a little bit like summer. During the day we eat outside in the winter sun, and at night the house is full of candles and twinkling lights.

The fun part is that you can make your decorations match that feeling. This year we found the cutest little Christmas trees made of shells. They give the whole house a happy, summery Christmas look, and I can't stop smiling every time I walk past them.

So here are my favorite ways to create an Ibiza style Christmas. Easy, natural and full of sunshine, wherever you live.

Keep it light and natural

You don't need red and green for Christmas. I start with the colors that are already in my home: white, sand, clay and wood. Then I add a little gold or silver for some sparkle. That's it. Simple, calm and still very festive.

Pick decorations with a story

Forget plastic. I love decorations that look like someone made them by hand, because usually, someone did!

• Shell trees and capiz. My absolute favorite this year. Capiz is a thin, shiny shell that catches the light beautifully. Put a little capiz tree on your sideboard or on the dinner table and you instantly have that summery island Christmas. ✨ Check out our Christmas collection ✨
• Paper ornaments. Made from recycled paper, in ivory or black. Light, simple and so pretty in the tree. Check out our Christmas Ornaments
• Velvet hearts and trees. Soft, cozy and in warm clay colors. Velvet ornaments
• Something from nature. An olive branch, some pine cones or a dried palm leaf in a big vase. Free and beautiful!

No big tree? No problem!

Here on the island, lots of people skip the big Christmas tree. I often use a large branch in a terracotta pot and hang a few paper stars and velvet hearts on it. It looks great, takes up little space and feels just as festive. Less is more!

Make the table the star

For me, Christmas is all about the table. Long lunches, good food and the people you love. I keep it easy: a linen tablecloth, handmade plates, simple glasses and lots of candles. Add some green branches in the middle and a few small ornaments, and nobody will want to leave. Need some inspiration for your Christmas table? Check out our tableware collection!

Lights, lights and more lights

When the sun goes down, the magic starts. Lanterns on the floor, candles in the window, fairy lights everywhere. Keep the light warm and soft and your home will feel cozy in no time. 

Make it cozy

Even on Ibiza the evenings get chilly. That's when I grab a soft plaid and add some warm cushions in ochre or honey to the sofa. And the best part? You can keep them out long after Christmas is over. 

Gifts they'll love

I like gifts that people actually use and keep, like a handmade vase, a beautiful cushion or a lantern. Not sure what to give? A Happinez gift card lets them pick their own little piece of Ibiza. 

Come and say hi!

Our showroom is all dressed up for Christmas, with lots of lights, shell trees and little treasures. It's one of my favorite times of the year in the store. Come by, have a look around and take your time. 

Not on the island? No worries. You can shop our Christmas collection online and we deliver all over Europe. 

Wishing you a warm and sunny Christmas, wherever you are!

Merel & the Happinez Ibiza team