Tree Toppers, Decoded: What Yours Says About You

Jesus Daniel Salaverria
Oct 9
4 min read

A story-first guide to the quiet language of holiday design.

Last year, I worked with a client I’ll never forget.

From the moment I stepped into her home, it was clear, she had presence. Her style wasn’t loud, but it was intentional. Her furniture had bold lines, softened by velvet. Her art made a statement, yet the space felt calm and grounded. She knew what she liked, but not always how to describe it. And that’s where the magic began.

When we started designing her Christmas tree, every detail felt like a translation of who she was. The palette: rich but balanced. The placement: structured, but not fussy. But it was the topper — the red velvet bow — that caught me off guard.

It was bold. Elegant. Full of heart. And it looked exactly like her. Not literally, of course, but symbolically. That bow said:

“I am confident. I am grounded. I am warm. I know who I am.”

And that’s what decorating should be. Not just magazine-worthy, but meaningful. Not just styled, for the sake of style, but personal. Your tree topper may be small, but it’s never insignificant. It tells a story about the person who chose it… and maybe even the person they hope to be.

So whether you lean classic, whimsical, dramatic, or serene — here’s what your tree topper might be saying about you.

The Red Bow

For the romantic who blends softness with strength.

If you find yourself drawn to a red bow, especially one in velvet or satin, you’re likely someone who embraces tradition with intention. You don’t follow every trend, but you know how to make a space feel curated and cozy. You value beauty that lasts and design that whispers instead of shouts. Your holiday aesthetic is warm, inviting, and styled with heart.

The bow itself is a symbol of harmony, tying it all together. And when it sits at the top of your tree, it speaks not just of style, but of confidence. It’s the kind of choice that says: I know who I am, and I love making my space feel special for the people I love.

The Classic Star

For the guiding-light personality who believes in legacy and light.

If your topper of choice is a classic star, you’re someone who finds comfort in what’s timeless. You believe in traditions passed down, stories retold, and the beauty of simplicity done well. The star, a long-standing symbol of hope and guidance, mirrors your role during the holidays. You’re steady. Reflective. And likely the person others turn to when they need grounding.

Your tree might be filled with meaningful ornaments, or colors that haven’t changed in years. To you, décor isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about honoring the deeper story behind the season.

The Angel

For the gentle soul who leads with grace and memory.

An angel atop your tree signals something sacred—an emotional connection that goes beyond style. It may be a nod to faith. To a loved one remembered. Or simply to the spirit of peace you wish to bring into your home.

You likely see the holidays as a time of softness and reflection. Your home might smell like cinnamon or pine, your lights are probably warm white, and your décor, while beautiful, is filled with intention. You decorate not just to impress—but to comfort, connect, and quietly inspire.

The Snowflake or Crystal Topper

For the design lover drawn to stillness, sparkle, and clarity.

Choosing a snowflake or crystal topper says you value elegance, especially the kind that whispers. Your holiday palette probably leans into silvers, whites, soft blues, or frosted greens. You love balance and symmetry, and you probably notice details that others miss.

Your tree might feel like a snowfall at dusk: serene, glowing, quietly powerful. You crave calm, and you know how to create it. You decorate not just for beauty, but for atmosphere — and it shows.

The Crown or Finial

For the bold aesthete who brings old-world charm into the modern home.

A crown or finial topper reflects a taste for the dramatic — done with intention. You’re not afraid of scale. You lean into rich textures, curated color stories, and a sense of grandeur that feels almost theatrical. But never overdone.

You might approach your tree the way others approach a gallery wall: with thought, aesthetic instinct, and a little flair. You know how to elevate a space without losing its soul. Your tree is likely a showstopper, but always grounded in you.

The Whimsical or Handmade Topper

For the joyful spirit who decorates with delight, not rules.

If your tree is topped with something playful — like a Santa hat, an heirloom angel, a crocheted star, or even something handmade by your child — you’re someone who brings joy wherever you go. Your décor is less about perfection and more about presence. Your home is layered with laughter, memory, and personal meaning.

You probably have a mix of ornaments collected over years, each with its own little story. And your tree, though it may not follow a theme, feels alive. You believe in creating magic—not just for Instagram, but for the people who gather under your lights.

The Final Touch That Says Everything

Whether your topper is luxe, handmade, vintage, or whimsical, it’s doing more than finishing your tree; it’s crowning your story. Because in the end, the tree is not just about what’s on it. It’s about the feeling it creates.

And when that feeling is intentional, it lingers.

So when you choose your topper this year, choose it like you’re choosing the opening line of a holiday love letter. Choose what feels like home. Choose what makes you smile. Choose what your children will remember.

And if you're not sure what that is yet—we’d love to help you find it.