A woman shares how she transforms her home to look 'high-end' for Christmas while on a budget - by using a shower rod to create an archway.

Ashton Staudacher, 32, has found budget-friendly alternatives to traditional holiday decorations - driven by the urge to emulate the beautiful decor she sees on social media.

She creates a garland - using a $100 one and filling it out with $13 ones - saving upwards of $87.

Ashton also suggests swapping a tree stand for a basket for faux Christmas trees for a "cosy vibe."

Ashton, a content creator, from Woodinville, Washington, said: "I couldn't always afford to buy the super expensive stuff, so finding ways to make things look nice but for a more affordable price tag is kind of what I like going for."

One of Ashton's most popular hacks involves creating a lush, layered look with garlands — without the high price.

She said: "I have one garland that was a bit nicer; it was like a hundred dollars, which isn't super expensive but definitely an investment."

"I put that as the centerpiece, and then I fill it out with more affordable garlands, around 13 to 15 dollars each."

The result? "A really nice, chunky-looking mantle that looks way more expensive than it is. That hack has actually gone pretty viral this year."

In addition to garlands, Ashton's creativity shines in her approach to Christmas trees. For a unique look, she suggests replacing a standard tree stand with a basket for faux trees.

She said: "Because tree stands are really wide and won't fit in a basket, I use an umbrella stand."

"I fill it with water or sand, place it inside the basket, and then put my faux Christmas tree in it."

"It gives you a cozy vibe that's super popular, and I've been doing this for a few years now."

Ashton also recommends using a tension rod to create a magical entryway with garlands and lights.

She said: "This is a viral hack for doing a really long garland."

"You put it on a tension rod and use it to create a winter wonderland walkway through an archway or entryway."

"All you need is a tension rod like you'd use for a shower curtain, as big as your space. "

"Start low so you can easily add garland, lights, and ornaments using zip ties to keep everything secure."

When it comes to lighting, Ashton has another essential tip: "Using battery-operated lights is a huge plus because you avoid any chunky cords hanging down," she noted. "

"Once everything's in place, you push the tension rod up to the height you want, and it creates a really cool and unique look without damaging your walls — no nail holes or hooks needed."

As Ashton continues to plan and execute new DIY Christmas ideas, her goal remains the same: to make festive decorating accessible to everyone.

Through her innovative hacks and savvy use of materials, she helps her followers transform their homes into cozy, beautifully decorated spaces — proving that a magical holiday home can be achieved on any budget.