The holidays are almost here, which means family gatherings, big meals, gift exchanges – and yes, a little added stress. As a professional home organizer, I believe the key to truly enjoying the season is thoughtful organizing. When you plan ahead and create systems that support you, it’s easier to stay tidy, feel prepared and actually savor the moments that matter most.
HOLIDAY MENU PLAN
Start planning your menu early. Whether you’re hosting and providing the entire meal or doing a potluck, plan your menu so you can shop accordingly. Send out a group email and assign dishes based on your guests’ preferences. Letting others chip in and help with the cooking not only frees up time and money for you, but it also allows everyone to participate in providing a delicious meal.
PLAN A BAKING DAY
Next, schedule a baking day. Whether you’re baking pies for Thanksgiving or cookies for Christmas, putting your plan on paper helps you avoid last-minute scrambling. Shopping for ingredients in advance and dedicating one day to baking keeps your kitchen running smoothly. My husband’s family has a wonderful tradition – a group baking day. It’s a fun way to connect while staying organized. Plus, at the end of the day, we get to take home a few of everyone’s delicious treats!
MAKE A CHRISTMAS CARD PLAN
Holiday cards are another task that benefits from early planning. If you’re doing a custom card, start designing sooner than you think. If time is tight, a collection of favorite photos from the year can make a meaningful card. While you’re at it, update your address list so you’re not hunting for addresses at the last minute.
MAKE A GIFT GIVING PLAN
Giving gifts is much easier when you have a plan. Make a list of everyone you’re shopping for and set a budget for each person. Designate a place for everything by setting aside a specific spot in your home to store gifts as you buy them. This prevents forgotten purchases and duplicate gifts, something I see often when helping clients declutter after the holidays.
MAKE A WRAPPING PLAN
Wrapping is smoother when supplies are organized. Whether it’s a single bin under the bed or a full wrapping station, keeping paper, bags, tags, ribbon, tape and scissors in one place saves time and frustration.
PREPARE FOR HOLIDAY GUESTS
Preparing for guests also deserves a little attention. Fresh towels, a clean guest room and knowing any dietary needs in advance go a long way in making visitors feel welcome.
MAKE A DECORATING PLAN
Finally, as you decorate, take a moment to donate décor you no longer love. Letting go of excess helps keep your home tidy and makes decorating more enjoyable year after year.
With a little planning, you can create calm and enjoy the season with greater peace of mind. At Smart Organizing Solutions, I help families throughout Denver, Central Park, Park Hill, Cherry Creek, Aurora and surrounding communities build systems that support an organized home – not just for the holidays, but all year long. Learn more or book a session through my Contact Denver Professional Organizer | SOS Organizing page today. Wishing you an organized and happy holiday season!