Preparing your home for holiday entertaining can be stressful. With so many things to do, you might need help figuring out where to start. To make it easier, we’re sharing a helpful to-do list for holiday preparation. Once you look through it, the process will seem much more straightforward and manageable.

Plan well ahead

Preparing for holiday entertainment is a process that takes time. It’s better to plan ahead to avoid the stress that comes with last-minute preparations. Get started weeks before the holidays and create a timeline that works for you. 

Schedule all your decorating, gift shopping, and cleaning for the upcoming days to ensure you accomplish everything. When you have a clear plan, you won’t feel so stressed by the burden of those tasks. 

Also, remember to do meal prepping so you can spend more time with your family during the holidays. Prepare any ingredients you can beforehand, and store them in the freezer until they’re needed.

Photo Credits: Kinwoven

Declutter

Decluttering not only gives your Christmas decorations a fresh setting but also makes it easier for you to clean after the holidays. Find a place for every item that clutters your home, and donate the things you don’t use anymore. Make sure there’s enough space for guests’ coats and shoes in your entryway.

Photo Credits: Mihaela Diane

Deep cleaning

While you can make up the guest room a few days before the holidays, it’s better to perform a deep cleaning of the rest of the house ahead of time. Tidy up your kitchen cabinets and eliminate any clutter to make cleaning after the holiday parties easier. Make sure the bathrooms are clean and inviting as well!

Photo Credits: Our Southern Home

Decorate

When your home is clean and clutter-free, it is time to set up those Christmas decorations. Start from the front door, and work your way inside. A luscious holiday wreath will wish your guests a warm welcome, setting the holiday mood. 

You don’t have to decorate the whole home. Instead, enhance your year-round decor with holiday-inspired objects. Decorate the main spaces where the holiday entertainment takes place, such as the living and dining rooms. Remember to add string lights to bring that pleasant ambiance and set the mood for your holiday parties.

Photo Credits: Chrissy Marrie

Prepare the guest bedroom 

If you last hosted guests a while ago, now is an excellent time to update your guest bedroom. In addition to cleaning, you should go a step further and add a welcoming basket for your guests. The simple arrangement can include basic toiletries, clean towels, snacks, coffee, or other things that suit your guests’ preferences. 

Photo Credits: Farmhouse Living

Grocery shopping

A well-stocked pantry is a must for the holidays, as it saves you from last-minute shopping. You don’t want to run out to crowded stores just because you need a couple of ingredients. Buy food in bulk to save money while providing plenty of food for your guests. You can also freeze fruits, vegetables, and meat ahead of the holidays. 

Photo Credits: Le Cultivateur

Photo Credits: Blesser House

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Photo Credits: Fletcher Creek Cottage

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A kitchen renovation is a significant investment. It helps you create a functional and stylish space that feels updated and fresh. In addition, a kitchen renovation can increase your home’s resale price. 

But before you start planning your kitchen renovation, there are a few common mistakes you should be aware of. 

Not considering your lifestyle

While designing a kitchen partially involves aesthetics, you shouldn’t neglect function. A kitchen’s design should support its purpose, which can vary depending on each family’s needs. Evaluate your lifestyle and needs so you can be sure your new kitchen design perfectly fits them. 

Food and cooking enthusiasts can invest in upgraded appliances, for example. And someone with a vast collection of kitchen tools and dishes will need extra storage space. 

If your kitchen is the central spot for home entertainment, you’ll probably want to incorporate extra seating to accommodate everyone. After all, you don’t want to leave your guests waiting in the living room while you prepare the food in your kitchen. Therefore, you might include a conversational seating area in your kitchen renovation. A kitchen island with bar stools would work perfectly for home parties. 

Photo Credits: In Honor Of Design

A kitchen island that’s too large

A kitchen island provides ample working surface while also serving as the central point for gathering. You might think that a larger kitchen island works better, but think twice before supersizing it. 

Walking around a kitchen island longer than 10 feet is difficult and can disrupt the traffic flow. Therefore, it’s usually best to go with a more compact design. For smaller spaces, a kitchen peninsula might be a better fit.

Photo Credits: Studio McGee

Not enough storage

Providing plenty of storage space is necessary for a functional kitchen. Open shelving might seem like a smart option that makes the area feel more open, but there is a drawback. The dishes will gather dust, and you’ll need to make sure you display only the best pieces for the streamlined look you see on those dreamy Pinterest kitchens. 

Make sure to include cabinets for storage. Glass door cabinets are another stylish option since you can show off your fine glassware without exposing them to dust. You still need to ensure the arrangement is attractive. 

Photo Credits: Emily Netz

Not sampling materials

If you aren’t experienced in home renovations, you might go to the home store and purchase the first materials you fall in love with. A nice color and texture might trick you into making impulsive decisions, but remember that colors look different under different lighting conditions.

The same exact color can look vastly different when placed under artificial light and natural light. Before you commit to a specific finish, make sure to sample it first to see how it looks in your home. 

Lighting isn’t the only thing to consider. A particular color will look different when displayed next to other colors. Stores usually offer samples, so take them home to see what the material will look like in your chosen room.

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Photo Credits: Monika Hibbs

Photo Credits: Blesser House

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Are you ready for the gift-giving season? Christmas is right around the corner, so it’s time to prepare your gifts! If you’re thinking about what to get your family and friends, rest assured that a meaningful DIY present is the best choice. Check these simple DIY Christmas gift options prepared with love. There’s something suitable for any taste!

Breakfast basket

A carefully curated basket full of yummy breakfast goodies is an excellent gift for your friends or family. Prepare your pancake mix and have the recipe written on a cute card, along with complementary foods and beverages.

Photo Credits: Curly Q Paper

DIY clementine wreath

A clementine wreath is a go-to if you’re looking for a simple gift for just about any recipient. It is straightforward to make, so you don’t need to have DIY skills at all. Make sure to include a cute message personalized for the gift receiver. 

Photo Credits: Omiyage Blogs

Stovetop simmer mix

A stovetop simmer mix prepared with chosen ingredients is an ideal holiday gift. Nothing’s better than having a combination of smells in the home, setting a cheerful holiday mood. Add dried orange, cranberries, herbs, cinnamon, star anise, or prepare a custom mix. Pack it in cute bags, and the gift is ready to make someone’s day happier.

Photo Credits: Evermine

Coffee basket

A curated basket is perfect for the coffee lovers in your life. Include a fine coffee blend, creamer, syrups, and marshmallows to create a gourmet coffee selection. Remember to add cookies or some small accessories to help them prepare their favorite drink.

Photo Credits: Tom Kat Studio

Photo Credits: A Night Owl Blog

Hot cocoa mix in a jar

This gorgeous gift is a pleasure for all the senses. With an attractive presentation in jars and  delicious flavors, it’s a gift anyone would appreciate. Layer the ingredients, add marshmallows, and tie on a candy cane for a decorative touch.

Photo Credits: LMLD

DIY magnolia leaf wreath

This DIY wreath is an excellent holiday decor gift that is easy to make. Plus, the design is versatile enough to fit various styles. Give it to your favorite decor enthusiast and watch them appreciate your handiwork.

Photo Credits: A Piece Of Rainbow

Slippers with goodies

A pair of cozy slippers filled with goodies is a great gift for anyone on your list. Fill them with chocolate, hand cream, lip balm, or other things that suit their taste. 

Photo Credits: Pretty Providence

DIY knit blanket

A cozy throw blanket will always be appreciated. It’s even better when you can make it with your own hands, giving a meaningful gift prepared with lots of love.

Photo Credits: Place Of My Taste

DIY letter board

A letter board is an ideal gift for decor lovers or people obsessed with Instagram. If you’re feeling crafty, try making one yourself.

Photo Credits: Savvy Sparrow

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Christmas trees are many peoples’ favorite part of holiday decor. Folks who are obsessed with seasonal decorations look forward to setting up a gorgeous Christmas tree that becomes the central point for gatherings. If you’re eager to check out the top Christmas tree trends for 2022, you’re in the right place!

Wooden beads

Natural elements are a huge trend in holiday decor. If you’re looking for a minimalist look, a wooden bead garland wrapped around the Christmas tree is an ideal choice. Complement the beads with wooden ornaments for a subtle organic look.

Photo Credits: Kinwoven

Put the Christmas tree in an unusual place

The living room is an ideal spot for the Christmas tree since it puts it in the spotlight. However, many decor enthusiasts add another one in unexpected places. A simple Christmas tree with minimalist decor is a wonderful way to wish guests a warm welcome in the entryway. Or, add a small tree in the kids’ room and let them decorate it themselves. 

Photo Credits: Chrissy Marie Blog

Sustainable ornaments

Sustainable DIY-style ornaments have become quite popular among decor lovers. With so many choices available, you can always find something that works for your aesthetic. Dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and sugar cookies are ideal for DIY Christmas ornaments. 

Photo Credits: Blesser House

Realistic Christmas trees

This year, many top decorators will include realistic-looking Christmas trees. You don’t necessarily need to get a real tree every year. The stores now offer more realistic choices, and you’ll have your pick of styles. 

Photo Credits: Pasha Is Home

All-white Christmas tree

White is a favorite color for holiday decor since it is reminiscent of snowy landscapes. An all-white Christmas tree is a beautiful way to mimic the natural surroundings. With a pom-pom garland and string lights, this fantastic tree is Christmas-ready within minutes. 

Photo Credits: Michaela Diane

Classic red and green

The red and green combo is a classic for Christmas and will always be in style. This snowy Christmas tree with large velvet bows mixed in with some smaller ornaments looks magical.

Photo Credits: Kinwoven

Woven Base

Covering the base of your tree with a wicker basket is a trending option for an organic look. If you’re looking for elegant color schemes to copy, you can’t go wrong with white and gold. The beautiful colors subtly bring the holiday spirit while adding glam to your home.

Photo Credits: House Of Hire

Glam Christmas tree

If you love a sparkly glamorous look, Christmas is the perfect time to add some shine. A Christmas tree with lots of sparkly ornaments stands out against a black wall and the oversized golden ornaments make a bold statement. 

Photo Credits: The House Of Silver Lining

String lights only

If you’re going for simplicity, a Christmas tree wrapped in nothing but string lights is a great option. It brings a natural look to complement your style – and takes less time than adding tons of ornaments. 

Photo Credits: Made By Carli

Gold and bronze

These gold and bronze ornaments with dark ribbons create a modern and stylish look that works for both contemporary and traditional styles.

Photo Credits: Jenna Sue Design

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Are you looking for table-setting ideas to create the perfect ambiance for the holidays? A subtle Christmas tablescape really helps to set the mood, so why not put a little effort into curating the perfect holiday setting? Simple colors and natural materials work together to create an elegant yet tasteful table setting that the whole family will enjoy. 

Here, we share gorgeous table-setting ideas and simple tips to recreate them in your home! 

Hints of red and white

The unique tablescape feels refined and elegant, while the red and white stripes bring the holiday spirit. An oversized board is perfect for curating a centerpiece that brings cheerfulness to the table. Plus, it can be used as an entertaining gourmet board to serve fine cheeses, deli meats, and dried fruits. Fill some rustic lanterns with cranberries for an effortless look that matches the color scheme.

Photo Credits: Country Girl Home

Photo Credits: Crate and Barrel

Nature-inspired Christmas tablescape

This sophisticated yet rustic table setting hints at winter and the holidays, feeling cozy and inviting. The woven placemats add natural texture, complementing the theme. Decorate your setting with pinecones to create an Instagram-worthy tablescape that amazes your entire family.

Photo Credits: The Design Twins

Pinecone Decorations from Walmart

Rustic table setting

Your rustic dining table is the perfect base for a charming tablescape. A simple table runner made of textured materials such as jute or linen adds organic elements and helps create a tasteful and minimalist design. Layer artificial pinecone foliage to bring a winter feel to this carefully curated setting.

Photo Credits: Boxwood Avenue

Pine Foliage Decoration from Walmart

Elegance with golden details

An elegant color scheme consisting of white and gold is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a subtle Christmas tablescape idea. The golden flatware adds a wow element to this table, immediately making it feel more festive. 

We love how they added fresh herb sprigs to create a simple DIY centerpiece. In addition to looking sophisticated, the fresh sage and rosemary will release a pleasant aroma and help set the mood. Add your fine glassware to mark this special moment with your family. 

Photo Credits: The Pink Dream

Gold Flatware from Wayfair

Romantic candlelit table setting

Candles are a versatile decor element that suits all the different seasons. These gorgeous golden candlesticks, complemented with tealight holders, set the mood while illuminating the space with a subtle glow. Don’t forget to get a good set of candlesticks to add elegance to any occasion! 

We love that they placed the setting directly on the table. If you have an antique wooden table, you can ditch the tablecloth and let its unfinished beauty stand out. 

Photo Credits: Lauren McBride

Golden Candlesticks from Wayfair

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