Real or Fake: Which Christmas Tree is More Expensive in Nashville This Year?
In Nashville, Tennessee, prices of Christmas trees are a real cause of concern for many residents. This year, finding the perfect Christmas tree to light up their homes has come with a hefty price tag, with the average tree selling for over $100. On a Thursday afternoon, Gena Dorminey and Ben Brooks shelled out a hefty $149 for a 7-foot Fraser Fir.
Dorminey said, “We just love the smell of real trees. It just doesn’t feel like Christmas with a fake tree in the house.” They purchased their tree from Belinda Sovine’s Christmas market along White Bridge Pike, offering reasonable prices despite the prevalent economic conditions.
With inflation affecting everyone’s pockets, many vendors have noticed a shift in consumer preference towards smaller and less expensive trees. According to Sovine, though most Christmas tree lots have increased their prices by 10% this year, she has maintained last year’s prices to allow consumers to enjoy their Christmas without the added financial stress.
Artificial Trees: A Costly Alternative?
As the price of real trees continues to soar, many shoppers are considering artificial alternatives. A representative from a local Home Depot, Sean Flanagan, noted that fake trees have become increasingly popular this year. They offer many advantages over their real counterparts, such as lack of care, easier setup, and advanced features, including pre-lit variants.
However, immediate savings might not be a guarantee. The American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) reported that 78% of people spend between $200 and $400 on a fake Christmas tree. In a statement, ACTA executive director Jami Warner said, “78% of consumers displaying a Christmas tree this season expressed concern over inflation.”
Yet, Flanagan insists that artificial trees, which can last up to 20 years with proper care, can prove to be a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Whether real or fake, Nashville residents clearly refuse to let anything dim their Christmas spirit!
