In a radical departure, rather than visit our local tree farm to hack down a seven foot Scotch Pine, this year we’re taking a much more minimal approach and opting for a reusable tabletop tree.  The time we save will probably be devoted to mixing some new tunes and trying some new drinks.  So here’s the roundup; wondering which will look best on the all important cocktail table?

(above) A natural alternative to a live or artificial Christmas tree, this 2-foot birch is designed by an architect and made in Minnesota, ($160) @ possibiliTree.com.

(above) This Iron Wire Tree with chrome finish measures 16″ wide x 3″ deep x 16.75″ high and is ready to hang out with mini ornaments, ($24.95) @ crate&barrel

(upper left) Designer Robert Sabuda’s Pop up Table Holiday Tree unfolds for all the festivities then refolds for easy storing or passing along to a friend.  ($21.95 @ moma.org)

(upper right) One of a kind, needle felted and handmade (by a tree lover), Christmas Tree with Fine Feathered Friend ($30) @ etsy.com

(photo credit above, MacKenzie-Childs) Taking over-the-top decadence to new heights is the Grand Shard Tree which stands nine feet tall at Mackenzie-Childs on West 57th Street and goes for 50,000 bucks.  Hand made of ceramic and pottery “shards,” it’s topped with a teapot finial.  There’s also a tabletop version available for a mere ($750). Needless to say, neither of these is my cup of tea.

(above) Designed by David Stark for West Elm, these Natural Weave Trees are made of lupis twine and range from $19-$79, depending on size.  They caught my eye the other day when I was in their shop across from Lincoln Center.

This reusable tree pictured above may be my favorite.  Created by Lovi, it’s made in Finland from sustainably harvested FSC-certified birch wood, and it comes with good karma – the manufacturer plants one new tree for each small tree sold. (66 EUR) @ matteriashop.com

If I start pining for real pine, I’ll just take a nice long walk in the woods…and maybe bring along a saw.

What are your plans?  Feel free to send us a snap of your Christmas tree, and we’ll show it off.