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Use these tips for planning your holiday decor to make the season easy and stress-free. Included are ways to organize everything in advance, choosing a color scheme, and more.
In the world of blogging and influencers, Christmas prep often begins weeks in advance. While I couldn’t quite embrace the idea in October, now that it’s November, I know it’s time to get moving! Even if you’re not a planner by nature, starting early will make a big difference. I do 95% of my shopping online, and some items are already selling out, so now is the perfect time to dive in while selections are still good.
When it comes to planning holiday decor, remember that nothing is set in stone, and there’s always room for last-minute tweaks. Starting early can greatly reduce stress, and though I’m not suggesting you decorate just yet, you can begin the process with my simple four-step plan. These steps are quick and easy, but they make holiday decorating much more manageable year after year.
Inventory Your Existing Christmas Decor
It’s essential to know what you already have to avoid unnecessary purchases. Take a moment to go through your existing Christmas decorations. Two years ago, before we moved, I organized mine into clear bins, which makes it easy to see what I have and ensures everything is in good condition. There’s a helpful Decor Inventory worksheet in the 2024 OSP Christmas Planner to make this job easier!
Choose Your Theme or Color Scheme
Choosing a theme or color scheme can really help keep you on track with your holiday decorating. While red is always a staple in my Christmas decor, the accent colors change from year to year. This year, I’m thinking outside the box by adding navy blue, with pops of red and green for a fresh look. I’ll also be incorporating plenty of faux greenery and fresh flowers throughout the house. Choosing a consistent color palette allows your decor to flow effortlessly from room to room.
Make a List
Now that you’ve taken inventory and decided on your color scheme, it’s time to make a list. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Do you need to buy ribbon, wrapping paper, or other supplies?
- Will you be using your existing front door wreath, or is it time for a new one?
- Are you planning to include outdoor decor this year?
- Do you want new soft furnishings, or can you reuse your current pillows and throw blankets?
- This Christmas planner will help you stay organized every step of the way!
Assemble Your Items
Choose a designated spot in your home to gather any new decor you have ordered as it arrives. A large bin tucked out of the way works perfectly for this. When new items are delivered, unpack them, and place them directly into the bin. Since my other Christmas decorations are stored in the basement, I keep my “gathering bin” there too, so everything stays organized and in one place.
Benefits of Planning Your Holiday Decor Early
- By planning ahead, you can avoid the frustration of finding the perfect item only to discover it’s sold out. Right now, most stores and websites are well-stocked, but that won’t last as the holiday season progresses.
- Planning early also allows you to take your time and enjoy the process. It gives you the priceless gift of peace of mind, letting you spread out tasks and avoid the stress of last-minute rushing. Think of it as giving yourself the gift of time this Christmas.
- You’ll also have the flexibility to decorate when it feels right for you. Whether you prefer to have everything up before Thanksgiving or wait until after, having a plan in place means you’ll be ready whenever the time comes.
black candleholders | candles
Norfolk pine garland | faux blueberries
knit stockings | gold bells
Norfolk pine wreath | doormat
pine branches | Christmas tree pillow
navy tweed pillows | block print pillows
red velvet ribbon | wrapping paper
My Holiday Decor Game Plan
- I could not advise you on how to plan your holiday decor if I didn’t actually do it myself. What follows are my ideas and plans for the coming holiday season.
- THE PORCH: I’m reusing my Norfolk pine wreath, and there is a new doormat, but I’m not sure how I’ll dress up the sitting area. I’m keeping my natural wood garden stool between the rockers, and I plan to use pillows and throw blankets I already have.
- I’m doing something very different with the front door area. The planters are going away, and instead I’m hanging lit garland around the door. I did this many years ago on Sutton Place, and I’m excited to see how it comes together.
- THE LIVING ROOM: I’m moving away from my traditional red and green. I’m adding navy blue, with touches of red. The Norfolk pine garland will still appear on the mantel. I’ve used these stockings, and these vintage-inspired gold bells for a few years, and they will return. I also hope to add dried orange slices, and cinnamon stick bundles.
Tip: If you want to invest in beautiful pine garland, but don’t want to spend the money all at once, buy one or two strands a year. I started buying my pine garland four years ago, and I now have 8 strands. It’s so nice to have ample garland to spread around our home!
The Christmas Tree
Before we moved, I loved using tabletop trees and didn’t bother with a large Christmas tree. Even now, I still love the simplicity of a miniature tree. But with the layout of our new home, decorating a big tree is much easier, and to my surprise, I actually enjoy it. While I briefly considered buying a new tree to freshen things up, I decided instead to give our several-year-old tree a new look with blue and white ribbon. It’s an easy way to make it feel completely different without going overboard.
So that’s the plan. Like always, I know there will be tweaks and changes, but having this blueprint will be super helpful. This year, we need to count our blessings, celebrate what we have, and be thankful that we are here to celebrate. Let’s do it together. Until next time…
Wrapped With A Bow
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and turn every present into a magical moment this Christmas!
Wonderful post! I had forgotten to get out my holiday couch throw pillows until I read this, so thank you!
Hi, I love the white chair in your pic. It has a green pillow with a Christmas tree behind it. Where can I purchase that without breaking the bank? Thank you. Happy holidays . Helen
Hi Helen, here is my link to the chair. It’s on sale right now! https://rstyle.me/+9kcsqOGxDCaBBiJXeWJSCA
Thank you so much for that link to Bella Wreaths Too. Their ribbon selection is amazing! I have been looking the last couple of seasons for a plaid ribbon that really said “Victoriana” and have ordered a couple of patterns that I think will complement the Victorian orangery/green house theme that should see me through till spring.
I enjoy the greenery especially from Afloral and I didn’t know they sell on Amazon..that will save me shipping!
Trees in pots are my favorite thing for the holidays.
Thanks for sharing all these ideas with us:0)
Good Morning Ann,
I just finished printing the Holiday Printables and I love them!
Thank you so much for making my Holidays that much more enjoyable.
Paula
Thank you for such an in depth post. So very helpful. Would you please do a post on Holiday dinnerware.
Great post. Thank you for the ideas and the links.
I confess, I’m so excited to begin the decorating for Christmas process. I’m savoring autumn and will hold off. :) But you’ve shown me some great ideas when I do begin. Thank you!
Karen B.
Loved the Christmas Market. It’s great to see everything in one place where you can click on the items that interest you. I loved shopping at your Market. Thank you. As always, your printables ‘are beautiful!
Ann,
So many great ideas! Love the shopping link too! Just printed my planner. Thanks for all the time and work it must take to produce such a great post!
Thank you for all the wonderful tips! Last year, after 42 yrs of Christmas decorating, I did my decor the week before Thanksgiving. Doing that this year also because I love it and can’t wait any longer. Can’t believe I haven’t always done that!
As always, great ideas but I loved your last few lines and so feel that way this year…..being grateful, counting our blessing and be thankful! Thanks Ann.