Getting your home ready for Christmas

Getting your home ready for Christmas can be a fun and festive process!

In the run up to December 25^th, MyHome have put together some handy tips to help you create a warm, welcoming and cosy atmosphere for the holiday season:

1. Start with the Essentials

• Christmas Tree: Whether you prefer a real tree or a fake one, make sure it’s placed in a central spot where it can be admired. Don't forget to stock up on lights, ornaments and a tree topper. If you have pets or small children, consider securing the tree to prevent accidents.
• Lights: Decorate the interior and exterior of your home with Christmas lights. Use warm white lights for a cosy vibe, or go with multi-coloured for a more playful and festive feel. If you're doing outdoor lights, remember to check all the bulbs before stringing them up!

2. Create a Festive Atmosphere

• Scented Candles: Scents like cinnamon, pine and vanilla bring the holiday spirit indoors. Place candles around the home or use essential oils in a diffuser to create a welcoming fragrance.
• Decorative Accents: Add Christmas-themed throw pillows, blankets and festive tableware. Consider swapping out regular art and photos for holiday prints or adding garlands to shelves, mantels and staircases.

3. Prepare the Kitchen

• Stock Up on Baking Ingredients: So much about Christmas revolves around food! Stock your pantry with baking supplies like flour, sugar, chocolate and spices. Plan out holiday recipes such as cookies, cakes and seasonal dishes.
• Holiday Mugs and Glassware: Bring out special mugs for hot cocoa, mulled wine or eggnog. You can also get creative by adding holiday-themed glasses for cocktails or mocktails.

4. Plan Your Holiday Entertaining

• Gift Wrapping Station: Set up a designated area for wrapping gifts. Stock up on wrapping paper, ribbons, gift tags and tape so it’s easy to wrap presents as you purchase them.
• Plan for Guests: Make sure you have enough seating and space for guests if you're hosting a Christmas dinner or party. Have some extra blankets or cosy throws on hand for anyone who might need them.

5. Deck the Halls

• Wreaths and Garlands: Hang a festive wreath on the front door to greet guests. Inside, drape garlands around your home—on the mantel, over the staircase banister, or across the windows.
• Stockings: If you hang stockings, make sure they're secure and have enough space for small gifts or treats. You can also add a personalised touch by choosing stockings with each family member's name or initials.

6. Consider Your Outdoor Space

• Outdoor Decorations: In addition to lights, consider adding a few festive touches outside, like a snowman, reindeer, or a nativity scene. If you have a porch, adding a few poinsettias or a welcome mat with a Christmas design will help set the tone.
• Keep Walkways Safe: If it gets cold, make sure walkways and driveways are clear of ice and snow. You can even decorate outdoor lanterns or a post with a bow to enhance your curb appeal.

7. Get the Family Involved

• DIY Crafts: Make homemade ornaments or holiday decorations as a family. Kids love crafting and it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories and unique decorations for the tree.
• Advent Calendar: If you have children, an Advent calendar can be a fun way to count down to Christmas. Fill it with small treats, notes, or activities that everyone can enjoy.

8. Focus on the Details

• Cosy Touches: Add extra blankets and throws to your living spaces to make everything feel warm and inviting. You can also swap out regular cushions for ones that are more festive, like those with winter motifs or Christmas messages.
• Music: Create a playlist of Christmas classics or instrumental music to set the mood, or simply put on a holiday radio station for a continuous stream of festive tunes.

9. Safety First

• Check Your Lights: Make sure all Christmas lights are in good condition and haven’t frayed. Use only UL-listed lights for both indoor and outdoor use. Never leave lights on unattended, especially overnight.
• Keep Decorations Pet-Safe: If you have pets, ensure that decorations such as tinsel, glass ornaments, or garlands are out of their reach as they can pose a choking hazard.

10. Embrace the Spirit of Giving

• Donation Box: Set up a box where you can place items to donate, like old toys, clothes or non-perishable food. It’s a great way to get the whole family involved in the spirit of giving during the holiday season.

Bonus: Maintain Your Usual Routine

• The holidays can get busy, so don't forget to take a moment to relax and enjoy the process. Whether it’s sipping hot cocoa by the tree, enjoying a Christmas movie marathon or taking a peaceful walk in the cold air, make time for simple joys amidst all the hustle and bustle.

Happy decorating!

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