Do you prefer real or artificial?

Photo by Hikingartist.com

Photo by Hikingartist.com

Studies are showing that Americans are beginning to lean towards the artificial Christmas trees.    More than 17 million real trees are harvested in the U.S. every year, according to the Washington Post.  Their study showed that in 2013, more than 30 million real trees were purchased and fewer than 15 million fake trees were purchased.   However, this year, retailers showed stronger sales for artificial trees this year – in fact, The Census Bureau reported that China shipped $137.5 million of artificial trees to the U.S. during the first nine months of 2014.   Wow!

Of course, the arguments are strong for both sides.   Those for real trees report that many of them can be replanted; however, artificial tree lovers state that a single tree can last for years and there is not a need to kill the live trees.   For many, it comes down to simple reasons:   a.  is there a family tradition of picking out and cutting down a real tree each year?  b.  does the real tree bring back memories from childhood?  c.  which one is more environmentally safe? d.  which one is easier to obtain and put up each year?

So, you see there is not a right or wrong answer.  I think the answer lies within your family unit and what is important to you and yours.   So, pick a side, purchase a tree (either from a store or the forest) and take it home to decorate!

At Gala Event Facility, we allow our guests to bring in and decorate a Christmas tree or other holiday symbols to meet the needs of their parties/events!

Happy Holidays!