Too Soon? Absolutely Not! Your Pre-Holiday Decorating Checklist Starts Now
Getting a Head Start on Christmas Magic: Your Ultimate Decorating Plan
The leaves are just starting to turn golden, and we haven't even had Halloween yet. But if you're anything like me, your heart is already starting to hum that sweet, familiar holiday tune! And since the best Christmas decorations don't just happen, now is the absolute perfect time to start planning your festive transformation.
Putting together a brilliant, stress-free Christmas doesn't mean waiting until December 1st. It means getting a head start on the fun part: the decorations!
Step 1: The Great "What-If" Vision Board
Before you pull out a single dusty storage bin, take a moment to dream. What do you want your home to feel like this Christmas?
- Choose a Theme or Vibe: Are you going for a cozy, rustic "cabin in the woods" look with lots of natural wood, burlap, and pinecones? Or maybe a sleek, sophisticated "winter wonderland" with silvers, whites, and crystal? Having a cohesive theme will stop your final result from looking chaotic.
- Pick Your Core Colors: Move beyond the classic red and green if you're feeling adventurous. Consider deep jewel tones like emerald and sapphire, or even soft blush and rose gold for a modern twist.
- The Focal Point: Every room needs one. Is it the tree? The mantel? The staircase? Decide where you want your eye to land first.
Step 2: The Annual Decoration Inventory (aka The Purge)
Now for the less glamorous but crucial step: the storage unit dive.
This isn't just about finding last year's lights; it's about being strategic. Go through every box and make three piles:
- Keep: All the essentials, sentimental pieces, and items that fit your new vision.
- Donate/Sell: Anything you haven't used in two years or that doesn't fit your aesthetic. Be ruthless—it's freeing!
- Repair/Replace: Lights with broken bulbs, sad-looking wreaths, or pieces that need a little DIY refresh.
Pro Tip: As you put your keepers away, label the boxes clearly. "Tree Ornaments," "Exterior Lights," "Mantel Decor." Future-you will thank you next October!
Step 3: Planning Your Holiday Shopping List
Once you know exactly what you have, you know exactly what you need. And trust me, October is the time to buy it. You'll beat the November crowds, the best items are fully stocked.
Here are a few things to consider adding to your list now:
- Lights, Lights, Lights: Seriously, you can never have enough. Do your string lights match your home's trim? Do you need a few more strings for the bushes outside?
- New "Big Impact" Items: Instead of buying 20 small things, invest in one or two high-quality pieces this year—a gorgeous new tree topper, a massive velvet bow for the front door, or a luxurious new tree skirt or maybe a beautiful Santa doll.
- The Scent of Christmas: Don't forget the non-visual elements! Grab high-quality scented candles, essential oils, or fresh pine bundles to make your home smell like a holiday dream.
Getting organized now means that when December finally rolls around, you can skip the stress and jump straight into the joy of decorating. You'll already have your plan, your theme, and your supplies ready to go.
So, tell me: What's the very first holiday decoration you get out every year? I always start with the string lights!
Wishing Your a Magical Season Ahead.
Love Daniel x