November is the perfect time to start thinking about holiday organization. Getting prepped early will save you time later and thinking ahead will help keep you relaxed and in control.
Here are a few of my most common questions from clients and how to tackle them with finesse!
Holiday Organization Decorating Solutions
I have soooo many ornaments. What should I do with them all?
Each year determine your “keeper” ornaments; you know, the ones that have sentimental value or you truly love. You most likely have a good number that you aren’t attached to; go ahead and discard or donate them.
Make a goal to keep the number of ornaments down to what will fit on your tree.
Once you have your keepers, make sure they are organized with an Ornament Storage Box.
I’ve done my decor purging for this year, what should I do with the rest of these perfectly good decorations?
Try joining your local neighborhood community gifting group on Facebook. These groups are great for giving away unwanted items and ensure they get a second life! If this isn’t an option for you, ask your coworkers and friends, or donate to local charity organizations.
I had an awesome display last year! But wait – how did I do that, again?
The answer is in your pocket! Take photos of favorite displays so you can quickly re-create it next year. Make it even faster by storing decor items displayed in the same room in the same box.
How do I avoid buying extra power cords and extension cords? I can never find them when I need them!
We have so much decor that needs power these days (lawn inflatables, anyone?) Store each cord with the item that needs it and you’ll know exactly where it is next year, plus you’ll know it’s just the right length!
If you’ll need your extension cords throughout the year, label them and keep a record! (For example, you could note in your phone that Cord A goes with the porch twinkle lights.)
Ugh, I dread tangled Christmas lights. How can I make this easier?
You’ve got options! Loop Christmas lights like you would wrap up a garden hose and secure a velcro strap around the bundle.
For a clever hack, try wrapping lights around an empty wrapping paper tube, then cut a slit at each end to secure the connector and keep it from unraveling.
And finally, you can use a cord keeper like this one to wind strands of lights around and avoid all the tangles!
Somehow I ended up with 2 of the same tree skirt! How did that happen?
It’s hard to remember what we have when we only see it once a year.
Before buying any new holiday items, check your photos from last year (See tip #3 above!) or unpack it all and take inventory. You likely already have the thing you think you need!
If you want to replace an item with one you like better, don’t forget to donate or discard the old one!
Kitchen Solutions for the Holidays
How do I make enough room in my refrigerator for leftovers?
Before all the holiday cooking starts, go through your fridge and pantry and throw out anything expired. Also ditch any ingredients you may have needed once but will probably never use again.
While you’re going through your pantry and fridge, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your holiday meal plan and taking note of any ingredients you’ll need to purchase.
To save the most space, avoid putting an entire platter in the fridge; cut leftover meat off the bone and store in smaller containers, or even freeze it for later.
Check your tupperware stash to make sure you have plenty of them (including their matching lids!) to store food neatly. Consider getting an extra stack of containers so you can send leftovers home with guests.
Holiday Gift Solutions
Is there a better way to manage my gift buying? It’s so stressful!
Absolutely! First, make a list of who you need to shop for and what your budget will be for each person. Take note of ideas for each person you can keep an eye out for.
Look for things they may like all year long. Pick it up while you’re thinking about it and stash it somewhere for the holidays. (Just don’t forget about it when it comes time to wrap!)
If you’re a digital shopper, create a wishlist just for gifts to store ideas for later. To save money cross check your list with any upcoming special deals like for Black Friday.
For last minute or unexpected gifts, don’t forget to double check that stash of “regifts” you’ve likely got. Don’t have any? It’s a good idea to pick up a couple universally appreciated gifts like candles or a bottle of wine to have on hand.
Oops, I ran out of wrapping paper in the middle of a gift. How can I organize my supplies better?
Before getting started take stock of what you have and what you’ll need. When shopping for wrapping paper be sure to note how much square footage of paper is included. Some bargain stores only have a few square feet on the roll!
Don’t forget to stock up on ribbon, bows, gift tags and tape if needed and store it all neatly in one place. I love this gift wrap organizer that I can stick under my bed.
If you want to save loads of time on wrapping gifts try using more gift bags instead, or ditch disposable wrapping paper and bags altogether for reusable fabric gift bags. They’re a cinch to use (literally!) with a drawstring closure that can be reused over and over.
Do I have to send Christmas cards this year?
Well, no, you don’t have to, but if you’d like to there are strategies to make this easier!
Make a list (are you sensing a theme here?) and start early! Commit to doing a couple at a time so you don’t have to knock out the entire list in one day.
To save time, consider doing a printed card with the same message that gets sent to everyone; it’s a little less personal but still appreciated.
For an unconventional take, try doing cards at a different time of year when things are less chaotic. Christmas in July, perhaps? A personal card at an unexpected time of year will definitely be memorable!
Holiday Organization Time Solutions
I have way too much to do for Holiday prep, how can I get it all done on time?
Make a list! It sounds obvious but this is honestly the best way to keep track of all the things you need to do during a busy holiday season.
For bonus points, prioritize your list, add estimated time to each task, and block it on your calendar.
If you have family members who can take on some of the load, don’t forget to delegate!
How do I keep from over-extending myself during the holidays with all the events I’ve committed to?
As soon as those first invitations start rolling in, block them on your calendar! It’s easy to say yes and then realize you have 5 other things that need your attention that week (or that day)!
Include holiday parties and family get-togethers, but don’t forget things like school functions, charity events, or even holiday festivities that you plan to attend but don’t require a commitment.
People will be so impressed (and maybe a little jealous?) that your checklist is now complete and you’re feeling at ease when everyone else is frantically rushing to get things done! Happy Holiday Organizing!