Plan for an Organized Holiday Season

By Jolene Nannette

As the holiday season approaches, the excitement can often be overshadowed by the stress of planning and preparation. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday experience, starting early and getting organized is key. By planning ahead, you can streamline the process, make your planning more efficient, and leave more time to enjoy the magic and coziness of the holidays.

Create a Holiday Planning Calendar

Start by mapping out the weeks leading up to the holidays. Use a calendar to note important dates, such as family gatherings, parties, and gift deadlines. This visual guide will help you stay on track and prevent last-minute scrambling. It will also help you know where you can cut back to allow for the extra busyness of this season.

Declutter Before the Season

Take some time to declutter the common areas in your home before the holidays. This creates a more inviting space for guests and makes room for new items. Take note, this is not the time to clean out less used closets or cabinets; keep your focus on streamlining the most used areas in your home - such as the living room, kitchen, guest room. As always, donate or discard items you no longer need.

Organize Decorations Early

Sort through your holiday decorations and decide what you want to use. Come up with a vision or theme, remembering that you don’t need to use all the decorations each year, make a plan for how and when you’ll decorate. This helps eliminate the chaos that often comes with last-minute decorating. Also pay attention to decorations that get passed over year after year and consider donating those as you decorate.

Meal Planning

If you’re hosting gatherings, plan your meals in advance. Create a menu that includes appetizers, main dishes, and desserts. Make a shopping list based on your menu, and consider batch cooking or prepping dishes ahead of time to ease the workload. Also pay attention to dishes that you can ask guests to contribute.

Schedule Time for Yourself

Amid the hustle and bustle, it’s essential to carve out time for self-care. Whether it’s a quiet evening with a book or a walk in the park, prioritize moments that allow you to recharge, helping you enjoy the season more fully. Put these times in your calendar and treat them as non-negotiable appointments.

Make a Gift List

Compile a list of everyone you need to shop for, along with gift ideas and budgets. This not only helps you stay organized but also prevents overspending. Consider using apps or spreadsheets to manage your list and track purchases as you go.

Set a Budget

Establish a realistic budget for gifts, decorations, food, and activities. Be mindful of your finances to avoid post-holiday stress. Stick to your budget by monitoring expenses and adjusting your spending as needed.

Delegate Tasks

Don’t hesitate to enlist the help of family and friends. Ask invited guests to bring dishes to planned meals. Plan shopping dates with friends to tackle your gift list and spend quality time together. This not only lightens your load but also fosters a sense of togetherness during the season.

Embrace Simplicity

Remember that the holidays are about connection and joy, not perfection. Simplify your plans and focus on what truly matters. Whether it’s a cozy gathering with loved ones or a simple meal, sometimes less is more.

By following these tips, you can approach the holiday season with a sense of organization and calm. Planning ahead, staying mindful of your budget, and prioritizing self-care will allow you to fully enjoy the festivities with your loved ones. Embrace the spirit of the season, and make lasting memories without the stress!

By Jolene Nannette

Home by Jolene

Jolene Nannette is a specialist in home efficiency, tackling to-do lists and calming the chaos through home organization. www.homebyjolene.com