A Home for the Holidays

Sherri Curley

The holidays are a time for events and, whatever the size, they call for some advance planning. As a home organizer, my services this time of year tend to focus on creating a comfortable, clean and festive atmosphere for families and guests. As a recovering perfectionist, I am susceptible to wanting every detail to be flawless. Happily, I’ve learned it needn’t be so daunting!

Suppose you’re more laissez-faire, while your partner is more discerning. Compromise is key to pleasing you both. Ideally everyone’s needs are met, goodwill feelings are preserved, and holiday disaster is avoided. For example, if you can’t agree on whose mom’s stuffing to serve, make both. Or, if you can’t agree on decorating, divide up a room or choose separate rooms and each work your magic.

From the look and feel of the house to menu items, guest lists and gifts, there are many paths to a happy home and seasonal happiness. Where to start?

Decide ahead what’s most important to you as well as your physical, emotional and financial capacity. Talk to your partner or guests about what’s important to them. Right-size the celebrations to suit those benchmarks. What do I mean by right-size? Here are some examples.

The Crowd

There’s no right answer or size that fits everyone. If you’re unsure, consider the size of your home or venue. Too many people can cause a crush or insufficient seating, as well as up the volume. This last can be challenging for older attendees. Fewer guests means more space for movement and relaxation, making for a more intimate and memorable gathering.

The Menu

If budget, time, energy or kitchen aren’t suited to a major feast, consider a smaller selection with larger portions, going “potluck,” or purchasing pre-prepared sides or desserts to ease preparations. As baking tends to go hand in hand with the colder months, try baking things like cookies ahead. Toss in a batch when you have a few spare minutes and freeze them to serve later.

Gifts and Decorations

The economy in recent years isn’t breaking news. If resources are tight,

be mindful with financial boundaries — no one will fault you! Minimal decorations can still evoke a joyful ambiance and fewer, more meaningful gifts can fill hearts.

The Mailing List

Greeting cards and stamps aren’t cheap. Consider mailing cards only to your nearest and dearest and/or those who shy away from social media. Emailing a family newsletter can be fun and a little different — plus it’s kind to your budget and the environment. Another eco-friendly option is online greeting cards. These are simple to do, affordable, and some offer personalized messages. If you go this route, be sure to save your data for next year!

We often want to give everything our all. To make all the bits shiny, beautiful and memorable. But if we’re stressed out and stretched too thin, the memories may not be the legacy we want to leave. Give yourself the grace to set boundaries and honor them as best you can. That will render the best type of holiday for you and those around you.

Right-size and it will be all right.

Have a joyfully festive, manageable holiday season.