Getting Your Home Ready for the Holiday Season
The holidays have a way of arriving before we know it! Between entertaining, family gatherings, and overnight guests, we need our homes to work harder than usual. Now is a great time to think about how your home looks, feels, and functions so you can be more ready to welcome guests peaceably and comfortably—and enjoy the festivities without last-minute stress.
Create Warmth with Color. Today’s popular palettes embrace warm, inviting neutrals like creamy white, taupe, and warm beige, alongside nature-inspired shades of sage, olive green, and blue-green. Richer browns and deeper blues and greens can add sophistication and personality. For a bolder statement that makes a room seem larger, consider color drenching—painting the walls, trim, and even ceiling in the same color or complementary shades to create a seamless, enveloping look. Consider adding in bolder color with pillows.
Layer Your Lighting. A single overhead light rarely creates the warm atmosphere you want when entertaining. Combine recessed lighting with pendant lights, table lamps, floor lamps or wall sconces to create a softer, more welcoming glow. Dimmer switches let you adjust the mood, while candles—even flameless ones—add a cozy touch.
Mix Textures and Finishes. A combination of textures adds depth and makes a room feel more inviting. Think soft throws, woven pillows, natural-fiber rugs, wood accents, and greenery. A stacked-stone fireplace surround adds rich texture and brings the natural beauty of stone indoors, creating a warm, inviting focal point. In kitchens and bathrooms, contrasting cabinet colors, countertops, hardware, and mixed-metal finishes can bring a space to life.
Edit and Personalize Your Space. Family photos, treasured collectibles, and meaningful artwork make a house feel like home. But over time, surfaces can accumulate clutter, and shelves filled with knickknacks can become time-consuming to dust. Take a fresh look at what you have on display. If there is nothing you want to toss or give away, consider storing some in a box and periodically rotate items. Remember, less can be more!
Give Everything a Place. A home ready to welcome is easier to maintain when everyday items have a designated spot. Look for clever ways to combine storage and style: such as an upholstered ottoman that stores extra blankets, decorative baskets for throws and magazines, or an entryway bench with storage. Built in cabinets maximize space and are most functional with pantry pullouts-using drawer organizers is also effective. When everything has a place, straightening up takes less time, and you have more time to relax.
Think About How You Entertain. Is there enough seating for everyone? Does your kitchen offer room for food preparation and serving? Is the lighting adequate for cooking and gathering? Small adjustments can improve the experience, while a well-planned remodel can make entertaining easier for years to come.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way. Taking care of home projects before the holiday rush gives you more time to focus on what matters most: enjoying the people gathered around you. Whether you make a few simple updates or begin planning a larger renovation, a welcoming home makes every gathering a little more special.
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
