Holiday Organization & Preparing Your Home for Guests
The holidays are fast approaching, and I don’t know about you, but I always look forward to welcoming friends and family into my home. Whether you're hosting for a big family dinner, planning to have guests stay over, or just looking for ways to get your space ready for the season, there's no better time to make sure your home is organized and ready for the festivities.
I’m excited to share some of my personal tips for holiday organization, prepping your guest room, and creating a welcoming space for visitors. These little touches can make a big difference and help you enjoy the holidays without feeling overwhelmed.
Getting Your Home Organized for the Holidays
Let’s be honest—holiday prep can get chaotic! But having a plan and organizing things ahead of time can make all the difference. Start by tackling the common areas in your home that will see the most action—like the kitchen, entryway, and living room.
My Favorite Tips for Organizing:
Tidy up high-traffic areas: Use cute baskets or storage trays to gather any clutter that might build up during the season. I love how a simple basket can hide everything from mail to extra blankets, keeping everything neat and tidy.
Create a gift wrapping station: Set up a dedicated space where you can wrap gifts, organize cards, and get your decorations in place. Trust me, it’s so much easier to handle when everything has a designated spot.
Seasonal storage: I’m a big fan of clear bins for storing holiday décor. Label everything so you can easily grab what you need for decorating (and then stash it away when the season is over).
Getting ahead on the little details will make hosting feel more effortless, and you’ll be able to enjoy the season without a last-minute scramble!
How to Prep Your Guest Room for the Holidays
Hosting guests during the holidays is one of my favorite parts of the season, but it can be a bit tricky to get your guest room just right. A few thoughtful touches can make all the difference in how welcome and comfortable your guests feel.
Here’s What I Do to Get the Guest Room Ready:
Fresh linens: Start with freshly washed sheets, soft blankets, and a couple of extra pillows. I love adding a cozy quilt or duvet to make the bed extra inviting.
Create a relaxing atmosphere: A comfy chair or small bench adds a nice touch, giving your guests a place to sit or relax when they’re not on the bed.
Personal touches: I like to leave a small basket of essentials—extra toiletries, a couple of snacks, and maybe a bottle of water. It’s the little things that show you care and make the stay feel special.
Clear the clutter: Keep the nightstands and dresser clear of anything that doesn’t need to be there. I always leave a lamp, a clock, and a fresh flower or two to make the space feel peaceful.
I also recommend making sure there’s a place for guests to hang clothes, and don’t forget to leave a little extra space in the closet or drawers. The simpler, the better!
Preparing Your Home for Holiday Entertaining
Holiday gatherings are all about bringing people together, and I love creating spaces where everyone can feel at home. Setting up your home for entertaining doesn’t have to be a huge ordeal, but a little planning can go a long way in making guests feel comfortable.
Entertaining Tips to Make Your Life Easier:
Create cozy conversation areas: Arrange your furniture so that people can easily chat with each other. It doesn’t have to be formal—just comfortable and inviting.
Buffet-style dining: If you're planning a big meal, consider setting up a buffet so people can serve themselves. It keeps things casual and allows everyone to eat at their own pace.
Set the table early: If you’re having a sit-down meal, take some stress off yourself by setting the table the night before. Use festive table runners, napkins, and chargers to add some personality and style.
Simplifying Gift Giving and Prep
The holidays are all about giving, and while it’s fun, it can also be a lot to manage. One of the ways I simplify gift-giving is by staying organized and setting up a system to track everything.
Here’s What Works for Me:
Create a gift tracker: I keep a simple calendar or board where I jot down who I’ve bought for, what I still need to purchase, and deadlines for shipping.
Wrap early: I like to keep all my wrapping supplies in one place so I can wrap gifts as I buy them. It’s way less stressful than waiting until the last minute!
Stay stocked up: I also try to keep my pantry stocked with all the ingredients I’ll need for holiday treats and meals so I’m not running around at the last minute.
The holidays don’t have to be overwhelming when you have a plan in place. By organizing your space, preparing your guest rooms thoughtfully, and creating a welcoming environment for your family and friends, you’ll be able to truly enjoy the season. I always love helping clients make their homes feel cozy, functional, and stylish for the holidays, and I hope these tips help you do the same!
Ready to get started on your holiday prep? If you need any help designing your space, I’m here to help make your home feel even more inviting this season. Happy Holidays from J Miles Design! 🎄