I Gave a Stager $25 at Dollar Tree to Stage My Living Room — And She Got Really Creative

Several of these versatile frames in a whitewash finish were a must-buy for Hines. “Add these to a living room console or occasional side table, or really anywhere you’d like to display some colorful art or pictures of your family,” she says. “You can use the easel backing to set them on a table or hang them on a wall vertically or horizontally with the hardware that’s included.”

These 5-inch tall light wood lanterns caught Hines’ eye and went into her cart. “These battery-operated lanterns — which are made of wood and cast a warm glow — look great when paired with other contemporary coffee table decorations,” she says. “They come with an attached loop to hang them up. A hanging collection of these lanterns is a nice way to illuminate the corners of any room.”

“To get a little more creative with the wood lanterns, try nestling them atop the decorative pebbles inside of this pretty glass vase,” Hines says. Pick up multiples and put them on a fireplace mantel. “When placed on a mantel, the lanterns don’t just provide decorative interest; they also add a warm glow with or without a fire below.”

Hines loves these adorable frosted candleholders to add a pop of color to complement her neutral picks such as the photo frames and wooden lanterns. “These are perfect for tea lights, either real or battery-operated. They look great on a coffee table to elevate your space a little more.” Feeling crafty? They’re also perfect vessels for candle-making.

The 7-inch Jardin Clear Glass Flower Vase is a total steal that can be used again and again in lots of different ways. Hines suggests pairing it with faux flowers or greenery like these pretty petals she found at Dollar Tree. (Or you could buy your own flowers fresh!) If you do choose faux flower colors, make sure they coordinate with the frosted matte candleholders, your existing living room decor, or the seasons. So many options!

Hines loves incorporating candleholders in different shapes, sizes, and materials. Clear glass ones like these work with many different styles and are an easy way to add height to a grouping of accessories on a console, side table, or fireplace mantel. “These sturdy, glass candleholders have lovely angular-cut edges that will add a touch of sophistication to any living room,” she says. “They’re perfect by themselves or combined with a floral arrangement on a console or coffee table.” Ivory tapers are classic and inexpensive.

Grab one of these display easels — Dollar Tree sells them in silver, gold, and black — for a super-simple way to elevate a small piece of art or a favorite photo. They’re also a great way to showcase a favorite book.