The Milam family of Dallas has taken holiday decorations to a whole new level, transforming their front lawn into a winter wonderland mini-golf course that has become a neighborhood attraction. Mike Milam, a firefighter and father of two, shared that the tradition began during the Covid pandemic, with the family spending nights and weekends crafting themed putt-putt holes decked out in Christmas decor. The family’s enthusiasm for holiday decorations reflects a broader trend among consumers prioritizing festive experiences and decor over traditional gift-giving during the holiday season.
Consumer Spending Trends
According to a holiday spending survey by consulting firm Deloitte, respondents are planning to spend less on gifts this year but are allocating more of their budget to nongift purchases, with a significant increase in spending on holiday decorations. The Milam family’s intricate decorations are just one example of consumers embracing the trend of going big on seasonal decor.
Retailers Capitalizing on the Trend
Retail giants like Home Depot, Walmart, Target, and Dollar General are all cashing in on the holiday decor craze. Target’s chief commercial officer, Rick Gomez, highlighted the increased demand for seasonal decor accessories, while Dollar General CEO Todd Vasos noted positive customer responses to festive offerings. These retailers are adapting their product offerings to cater to consumers looking to enhance their holiday cheer with affordable and eye-catching decor options.
Challenges for Holiday Decor Retailers
Despite the surge in consumer interest in holiday decorations, some companies are facing challenges as sales slow down post-pandemic. National Tree Co. CEO Chris Butler shared insights into the fluctuating sales trends for artificial Christmas trees and other decor items. Home Depot and Walmart are implementing strategies to balance customer demand for festive decor with cost-effective options to accommodate shoppers looking to save money during the holiday season.
A Personal Touch to Festive Decor
For the Milam family, holiday decorating is not just about creating a visual spectacle but also about creating lasting memories and bonding experiences. Mike Milam emphasized the importance of shared projects with his family, where everyone pitches in to bring their creative ideas to life. As the family invests time and money into elaborate decorations, they have chosen to cut back on traditional gift-giving in favor of creating meaningful experiences together.
The Milam family’s dedication to holiday decorating serves as a reminder of the joy and togetherness that festive decorations can bring, transcending the materialistic aspects of the holiday season. As they continue to innovate and expand their themed decorations, the Milams exemplify the spirit of the holidays by prioritizing shared experiences and creativity over material gifts.
