The holidays are just around the corner—55 days until Christmas, but who’s counting?! As an interior designer, I love welcoming people into my home with warmth and grace, especially during the holidays.
But, like many of you, I find that if I don’t have a plan, I can’t fully relax and enjoy the season. So, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite tips to help you stay ahead of the holiday rush.
Plan NOW for Holiday Gatherings!
If you’re hosting, start planning now. Whether it’s a “Favorite Things” party with friends or a cozy Christmas brunch with family, now is the time to begin your lists—guest list, menu, decorations, playlist. Opening your home is a gift in itself, but it's especially nice when you're not stressed about the details.
Designer Tip: For your tree, choose a neutral color pallet, and mix simple ornaments with ribbon tied in bows. Add fresh greenery to your tables and mantles for a festive feel that doesn’t overcomplicate your space.
Create a gift list.
Start with a list of everyone you’re buying for—family, friends, co-workers, teachers, mail carrier, hair stylist. Track your purchases and check them off when they’re wrapped. Staying organized will help you avoid the last-minute gift scramble.
Designer Tip: Keep a binder or digital spreadsheet year after year to ensure no one is forgotten.
Set up a wrapping station.
Designate a small area in your home for gift wrapping. I use a counter in my laundry room. Wrap as you go to avoid a pile-up later. Skip the bows until you’re ready to place them under the tree so you can stack packages neatly.
Designer Tip: Invest in a wrapping organizer to keep paper, ribbons, and tags in one place.
Prepare Holiday cards early.
Whether you’re using professional photos or snapshots from the year, now is the time to pick your favorites. Update your address book so you’re ready to send cards without stress. And be sure to check in with anyone who may have moved recently and get their new mailing address.
Designer Tip: Print off a list of who you send cards to each year and keep it in your binder, along with a copy of the card you send. Those cards are fun to look back on over the years.
Keep things simple!
Most importantly, keep things as simple as your heart needs them to be! Our homes (and our holidays) do not need to be perfectly planned or spotless, just available.
So, here's to the next 55 days. Let's take a bit of intentional time now so that we can enjoy December. Remember, your home (and you) should feel welcoming, not overwhelming.
......Until next month!
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