Family history has it that my grandparents almost got divorced about the purchase of a christmas tree in 1948. Apparently, my Grandfather kept promising to get one but kept putting it off until, on the 23rd, Grandma herself went out to buy one. They ended up with two trees (and probably not the best on the lot either). But that was 1948 and divorces weren’t easy to come by so they reconciled. Given the prevalence of easy divorces now, it might be a good idea to avoid the same problem.

Okay, maybe that’s putting it a bit strongly. Hopefully, your relationship is strong enough to withstand a Christmas Tree Argument. But Christmas tree purchases can lead to major family tensions. Which of course is not at all what the holiday season is about. So I spent a bit of time doing some research on how to get the perfect Christmas tree and will share some of these tips with you.

1. Do not wait until the last moment (Remember my grandparents!). Actually, mid-November is the best time. The sooner you buy, the better your choices. However, if you are looking for a Charlie Brown Christmas tree and do not plan on putting it up for long, you might wait and get a last minute deal.
2. Decide if you need a real tree or want to stick with an artificial tree. Artificial trees may be cleaner and less expensive, but for me only a real tree is the right thing (just think of the smell). Still, tastes and needs are different so you may feel different. If you are severely allergic to evergreen trees or if your rental agreement prohibits the use of real Christmas trees (yep, that can happen) do not dispair. Artificial trees are now quite good quality (or so I’ve been told).
3. Before you go out to buy your tree, decide where you want to put it. Find a place for the tree where it will be out of the way and safe from danger (Hard to do if you have a toddler, I know. One year we built a small fence around ours!) If the tree will be positioned against a wall or in a corner and not all sides are easily visible, you have the option of saving some money by buying a less perfect tree. After all, why pay for perfection that noone will notice? Measure carefully (height and width) and check your tree stand to make sure the tree of your dreams will fit.
4. Take a tape measure along for when you go out to get your tree. Don’t forget an old blanket to protect your car and rope to attach the tree to your car.
5. Most Christmas trees grow on tree farms where it takes around 10 years from it to develop from a seed to a 7 ft Christmas tree. You have several options for buying a tree:
   • You can get a tree at a cut-your-own farm (if you are not handy with an axe check beforehand if they will do the cutting for you)
   • At a lot
   • On the internet: This saves time but takes away the fun of chosing out in the lot (or on the farm). Especially handy for anyone who has trouble transporting the tree home afterwards.

Stay tuned for a second post about how to choose the perfect Christmas Tree in which I will talk about how to find the right tree for you.