Top tips for pre-Christmas house preparations
Are you excited that Christmas is just around the corner? As we are due to spend most of our time inside our homes, now more than ever our decorations need to sing for us. And I mean literally and figuratively. The positive news it that we can enjoy the fruits of our Christmas decorating efforts on a whole new level. There's nothing like lights and yuletide magic to lift your spirits!
Magic wand
Before bringing out any ornaments or setting off to buy a Christmas tree, take a moment to not only clean but also declutter your home. Getting all the family members involved is a wonderful way to create memories and do the job quicker. You can set the mood by playing holiday tunes and baking delicious nibbles. This will allow you to make space and visualise decorating ideas better. Remember you can rearrange, replace, and even temporarily remove furniture to make way for Christmas.
Lights are first
Check your Christmas lights before using them. Making sure they are all working properly will save you time and future heartaches. Give yourself plenty of time to be able to order replacements or make it to a shop should you need to go. There is nothing worse than putting up your decorations to later realise the lights are not working or some areas are in darkness.
Quantity is key
Sometimes ornaments are lost or broken before reaching their next season. It is important to ensure you have everything you need before turning your home upside down with baubles, glitter and garlands - you know what I mean! Also, you might be going for a new theme which would mean more shopping. Laying it all out will help you see if a run to the shop (or an online order) is necessary.
Judging a book by its cover
We love to focus on our Christmas tree - after all, it is the biggest Christmas holiday decoration we will have! But it is also important not to forget the front door. A simple lighted garland around it can add so much colour. Alternatively, you can also use a wreath flanked by planters with lights to bring your front door to life.
Fire and air
If you have a fireplace that will be in use during the holiday season, try to service it before the ornaments are out. We do not want Christmas decorations covered in ash. To make your life easier, you can add hooks on the mantlepiece and handrails. This will make adding lights, garlands and ornaments easier. Today, LED lights and batteries allow us to illuminate every corner of the house - the sky is the limit!
Nativity Crib
A long-standing tradition in my family passed down from generations is putting up a nativity crib. My grandma was the expert, she would create whole towns with rivers and mountains. It is a beautiful tradition. Once everyone has put up theirs, you could go to visit other people’s nativity scenes, some taking up whole rooms! In our London flat there is no space for such productions, but we did manage to bring a tiny nativity crib from our honeymoon in Madagascar.
Christmas Cards
During the holiday season we are due to receive a bit more mail. Most people display their Christmas cards as they come. The usual spots are mantle pieces and shelves. How about hanging them from the ceiling with fish lines or sticking them on a wall or your refrigerator door in a Christmas tree shape? It could be a fun activity to do with the children.
As many shops may be closed, make sure to order all your supplies beforehand. If you are unable to find what you need, no worries - let the imagination run wild! At the end of the day it is more about the memories you are creating, and the time spent together with your loved ones.
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