Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt; mix well.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix until fully incorporated; then add vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and mix until just combined; fold in chocolate chips.
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden; let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, then decorate with icing, mini pretzels, and candies.
Store decorated cookies in an airtight container or enjoy them fresh!