I love to host holiday get-togethers. But, I hate preparing for them. As per usual, with just a few days left before Christmas, I’m not yet done preparing for this years festivities.
So, I’ll now make a mad dash scramble to finish up. With that in mind, here’s what I try and do to make my life easier as the holidays approach. Hopefully, you’ll find these tips help while you’re preparing to host a holiday.
1) Use plastic totes. All my Christmas decorations are in totes. I put the Christmas stuff out and put the everyday items in the totes. If you don’t have totes for your Christmas stuff, buy some, now. Or wait until after Christmas, just buy some – they’re great.
2) Clean out the coat closet. You want to make sure you have room to put your guests coats. Make sure there are enough hangers in the closet so you’re not searching for them on Christmas Day while trying to welcome guests.
3) Concentrate on the main, public areas of your house, make sure it’s tidy and free of dust – yes, you need to dust. Bonus points for you if you get the Windex out.
4) If you have an attic, or a basement – don’t be afraid to use it. Clear out the clutter. Use closets (except coat closets, see #2). Hey, even Monica had a closet. But, don’t worry about it right now – the holidays can be stressful enough. Just put it out of sight. Make a resolution to cut down on the clutter after the holidays.
5) Do everything in 15 minute increments – you don’t want to tire yourself out.
6) Make a list and check it twice. Make sure that you have everything that you need for cooking. Most stores are probably closed on Christmas, so your only other option that day will be borrowing from a neighbor or family member.
7) Put away any expensive and/or cherished breakables. Nothing will ruin a holiday like breaking your Great Grandmother’s special vase.
Don’t take extra steps. Clean as you go. If you’re going to the bedroom, take something that belongs in the bedroom with you.
9) Open your mail the day it comes in. Put out your holiday cards. Put the bills in their proper place. Toss the junk. Put the magazines out to be read (if you only have one bathroom, like myself, DON’T put the magazines in the bathroom).
10) Finally, don’t forget to defrost your turkey (or whatever you’re cooking) before the big day. If you can make anything ahead of time, do so, that way you can enjoy your guests and not spend the entire day in the kitchen.
Happy Holidays!
JennyLou
