The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but they are undoubtedly busy. If you have recently moved to a new home, you are probably experiencing a lot of change on top of the flurry of the holiday season. We want you and your loved ones to enjoy your new home this season. Here is a practical guide for new homeowners to help you get your new home ready for upcoming guests and events.
To quickly accommodate your space, let’s prioritize. Consider which areas your guests will use the most and focus on those first. Even if your home is not fully unpacked or organized quite yet, you can still make these key areas feel welcoming. These areas typically include the entryway, kitchen, living room, guest bedroom, and guest bathroom. Paying attention to details such as lighting candles for a pleasant scent, adding extra toiletries to the guest bathroom, and washing the linens in the guest bedroom will make a significant difference.
A clean home is a comfortable home. First, attempt to declutter. When I say declutter, I do not mean a deep cleanout, I mean a general overview of the home. If you are expecting additional people in your home, remember that less can be more. Consider tucking away any extra kitchen appliances, knick-knacks, or other loose items on surfaces. If you are short on time, you can place all these extra items in a box and temporarily store them in any extra space whether that be the basement, garage, attic, or even your car trunk. Once your space is clear you can focus on cleaning the home for your guests.
If you are in the middle of unpacking and organizing your new home, decorating may be the last thing on your to-do list. Although you may not have all the decorations you would typically use, I encourage you to keep it simple, yet festive. You can add little touches like wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces for simple decorations. Holiday scents like cinnamon or pine could also contribute to the overall ambiance. If you celebrate Christmas and time permits, you can get away with setting up a tree and calling it a day. Additionally, play holiday music. A holiday playlist playing softly in the background can add holiday cheer.
Hosting can feel overwhelming. It is easy to get caught up in perfectionism, especially with a new home. Try to remind yourself that everything does not have to be picture-perfect. Ultimately, the goal is to create an atmosphere of warmth and joy. It is also important to know that it is okay to ask for help. Many people are happy to contribute a dish, a dessert, or a bottle of wine, especially since they appreciate your efforts. Recruiting help may relieve some of the pressures of hosting.
After taking these steps, you will be prepared to celebrate and welcome guests into your new home. Cheers to the beginning of happy memories in your new home and a home full of merriment. Happy holidays!