Tis the season to be jolly, but for many, the holiday festivities come with the stress of disorganized chaos. In a news segment on NBC a few years back, I shared insightful tips to turn your holiday season from hectic to harmonious.

As we delve into the Christmas season, let’s revisit these tips and explore a few more to ensure a seamless and joyful celebration.

The First Out Bin:

• I emphasize the importance of having a designated “First Out Bin.” This is the go-to container that kicks off the holiday season. Packed with wrapping paper, tags, ribbons, bows, and even a festive CD, it sets the mood for the holidays. The genius addition? Keeping last year’s holiday cards handy, making it a breeze to spread joy and warm wishes without the frantic card hunt.

The Peanuts Packing Trick:

• For an innovative approach to packing away decorations, I suggest using packing peanuts. Instead of tossing your ornaments and trimmings back into their original containers, which may be bulky and deteriorate over time, opt for a box filled with packing peanuts. Not only does it provide a protective cushion for your decorations, but it also makes unpacking a delightful experience. Let the kids have a festive “popcorn dig,” turning the process into a joyful family tradition.

Organizing Binder for Cards:

• Take holiday card organization to the next level with an organizing binder. Stamps, labels, and a favorite pen are just the beginning. This binder becomes a comprehensive hub for your Christmas endeavors. From your gift list and ideas to receipts and favorite recipes, it ensures everything is at your fingertips. Stay on top of who you’ve sent cards to with a handy checklist, and keep track of recipes to avoid last-minute kitchen chaos.

Easy-to-Unpack Decorations:

• Simplify the process of decorating by organizing your ornaments in a way that sparks joy. Avoid the frustration of tangled lights and misplaced decorations by using separate containers or dividers within storage boxes. Consider categorizing decorations by room or theme to streamline the decorating process.

Rotate and Refresh:

• Every holiday season is an opportunity to refresh your decorations and introduce new elements. To prevent the accumulation of worn-out or outdated items, make it a tradition to rotate and refresh your holiday decor. This not only keeps things visually appealing but also adds an element of excitement and novelty to your festivities.

This holiday season, let these organizational tips guide you towards a stress-free and joyful celebration.

By implementing these strategies and adding your personal touch, you can transform the chaos of holiday preparations into a seamless and enjoyable experience. 

After all, the true spirit of the season lies in the joy we create for ourselves and our loved ones.