The holiday season has a way of sneaking up on us. Before the joyful chaos sets in, taking time to get organized and transform your December from stressful to serene. Here are 10 must-do organization tips to help you glide into Christmas with ease, beauty, and intention.
1. Declutter Key Spaces
Before you bring in décor, gifts, or guests, sweep through high-traffic areas—your entryway, living room, kitchen counters, and dining table. Clear surfaces make space for holiday wrapping, dining and tasks and set the tone for a calm season.
2. Create a Holiday Calendar
Avoid double-booking and burnout by mapping everything out. Add parties, school events, travel days, shopping plans, menu deadlines, and décor days. A visual calendar helps you stay ahead rather than scrambling at the last minute.
3. Make a Gift List (and Check It Twice!)
Write down everyone you plan to shop for, what you’d like to give, and your budget. This simple step prevents impulse buying, forgotten recipients, and last-minute panic.
4. Prep Your Guest Spaces
If you’re expecting visitors, freshen the guest room now. Replace bedding, stock up on toiletries, clear closet or drawer space, and place a small holiday accent to make their stay warm and welcoming.
5. Organize Your Decorating Supplies
Gather your wreaths, ornaments, lights, and ribbons in one central place. Test your lights, toss what’s broken, and group items by room or tree. This makes decorating faster, easier, and a whole lot more fun.
6. Plan Your Holiday Menus
From Christmas Eve to New Year’s brunch, outline your meals early. Make a master grocery list, note what can be prepped ahead, and stock your pantry with staples. A well-planned kitchen is the secret to a relaxed host.
7. Clean Out the Fridge & Freezer
Make space before the holiday cooking rush. Toss expired items, organize shelves, and create room for prepped dishes and leftovers. You’ll thank yourself later.
8. Set Up a Wrapping Station
Choose a corner or basket dedicated to wrapping paper, tape, tissue, gift bags, tags, and ribbon. Keeping it all in one place saves time and prevents rummaging through closets.
9. Schedule a Decorating Day
Instead of squeezing in decorating between errands, choose a specific day and time. Turn on holiday music, make hot cocoa, tea or coffee and enjoy the moment. Organization isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about creating joyful rituals.
10. Prepare for Post-Holiday Storage
Think ahead by setting aside bins and labels for when it’s time to put everything away. Future-you will be incredibly grateful for a system that takes the dread out of cleanup.
With a Little Planning, Christmas Begins Calmly:
Organizing before Christmas doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A thoughtful approach simplifies your season and makes space for what matters most—connection, beauty, and memories. Take it one step at a time and enjoy the process of creating a peaceful holiday home.
