Get Organized for the Holidays!

20 Nov 2017

Get Organized for the Holidays!

Imagine having time to relax and enjoy the holidays this year. The secret is just a little planning and preparation, and here’s how!

Create a holiday planner. Use a basic multi-subject notebook. Create sections for holiday gift lists, holiday card lists, menu planning, decorating, coupons, etc. Bring it with you everywhere, so you can always reference it or add to it. If you’re tech-savvy, go digital with your lists and planning. Rest-assured, there’s an app for that like Any.do or this fun all-in-one guide:

The No-Stress Holiday Organizer: An All-in-One Guide to Planning and Recording Your Holidays

Take inventory. Dig through those piles of wrapping paper, decorations, lights and holiday cards to see what you have on hand. Make a list of things that you need to buy or replace.

Do a wardrobe check. Make sure you have the perfect party outfit for every occasion! Stock up on a few key pieces that can be mixed and matched.

Buy in bulk. If you are attending several holiday parties or dinners, pick up some gift items in advance – like a few bottles of your favorite wine or boxes of chocolates. This way you’ll always have something for that last-minute invitation or forgotten gift.

Secret Santa or Yankee Swap. If you have a large family, suggest picking names from a hat, so that each person only has to buy one affordable gift.

Make a list. Make a list of the extra people you buy for: children’s teachers, co-workers and bosses, letter carriers, neighbors, etc. Carry it around in your wallet for a few weeks before the holidays to avoid last-minute scrambling.

Plan your holiday menus ahead of time. Try to find recipes that can be made in advance and just re-heated. This will allow more time to spend enjoying the party instead of in the kitchen. 

Check out these incredible holidays recipes from Food52!