I gots my fake tree a skirt. =D
I'm also taller than my fake tree (which is taller than my sisters and mom)... So we have to put it up on a desk for it to seem like a nice tree.... >_>;
Fake trees just are better in general. If you keep them in their box properly like I have, then they last a loong time. this one's been here for like 5 years, and it was $30 when we got it, plus it has lights on it. Also, no mess.
Oh, and for preserving the pine needles, use Hairspray. It makes less fall off, but it won't make the tree a sickly shade.