Preparing Your Home for the Holidays

By: Barb Terzakos

Are you excited for this upcoming holiday season?  I know I am!  But prepping for the holidays can be stressful — there’s no doubt about that. But with proper planning, you can enjoy a relaxing time with friends and family without the worries.  Just follow these helpful tips to guide you in the right path of a stress-free season. 

Spruce Up the Main Spaces –  Don’t worry about getting every nook and cranny. Put your focus on the main areas in your home that guests will be seeing like the front porch, entryway, kitchen, living room and bathrooms. Easily declutter spaces with a laundry basket you can hide away in your closet.  A good dusting is a must! 

Use Seasonal Scents –  Have your home smelling delightful with holiday-scented candles or stovetop scents that will warmly welcome your guests as they enter the home.  If you prefer essential oils versus candles, then try one of my personal favorites…the Christmas Blend from Doterra.    

Set the Table –  It’s time to bring out the fancy dishes. Create a lovely, festive table complete with printable place-cards, color-coordinated dinnerware and fresh, seasonal blooms. 

Clean the Fridge & Oven –  If you plan on cooking the holiday feast, it’s a good idea to start by cleansing the fridge and giving the oven a deep clean.   Plan ahead and figure out what food you can make beforehand. There’s nothing more stressful than trying to prepare a big dinner for your guests in a day. Pies and side dishes can be prepped a few days before, so all you need to do is bake them. 

Prepare for Houseguests –  Make your guests feel welcomed and loved by taking the time to tidy up the guest room and bathroom for those friends or relatives staying for a few nights. Be sure they have plenty of clean towels, toiletries, blankets, and pillows to make them feel right at home. 

Get Ready to Decorate –  With all the different varieties of decorations picking that right ones can feel overwhelming.  Try to pick a theme and keep that theme constant throughout the home.  For example, winter wonderland, woodlands, midnight blue, or elegant.  Set a budget on décor and remember to look for sales, and coupons.  Most of all have fun and enjoy the holiday season with those you love and cherish!  I hope the 2020 holiday season is one that you will remember for years to come and rejoice in.