5 stress-free steps for creating a beautiful holiday home

With just 10 days left 'til Christmas how are you feeling? 

If frazzled, stressed out, and frenzied come to mind I have 5 simple solutions for you.

Simplicity.  Nature.  Harmony.  Creativity.  Relaxation.

Here are 5 stress-free steps for creating a beautiful holiday home where you can relax and enjoy the season with family and friends:

1. Simplicity – Keep it simple

• Write down 3 words to describe what you would like to see, feel and experience in your holiday home
• Choose 3 or 5 areas where you would like to add decor
• Before you start, remove a few accents to make room for your holiday decor

2. Nature – Incorporate natural elements

• Decide if you would prefer natural or faux elements (greenery, wreaths, pinecones, holly, garland, paperwhites, poinsettas, tree, etc)
• Choose 1 or 2 of these elements that you would like to enjoy in your home over the holidays
• Think about what containers you could arrange your natural elements in

3. Harmony - Harmonize your holiday decor with your home’s style and color scheme

• Add holiday decor that is personal and reflects your home's style
• Keep in mind the color scheme you have created in your home when choosing decorations
• Take holiday color clues from your throw pillows, vases, tablecloth, vases, and accents - the things you love

4. Creativity – Add personal touches and pamper all 5 senses

• Decorate for you and your family, not for guests.  They will enjoy how you expressed yourself!
• Come up with a simple 'style story or concept'.  This step will save you time and money when making decisions.  Make it you!
• Add elements that treat your 5 senses - your favorite holiday music, the enticing scent of hot apple cider on the stove, or the taste of your signature cookies awaiting guests

5. Relaxation – Create a simple plan, have fun with it, relax and enjoy the results

• Plan ahead - Come up with a simple plan that you can easily do
• Practice the art of repitition - Repeat elements like candles, ornaments, greenery, and ribbon throughout your vignettes to create a put-together design
• Ask for help if you need it - So you can relax and enjoy the season in your festive, inviting put-together holiday space with people you love

Voila!  Try these 5 stress-free steps for holiday decorating and feel prepared and proud to welcome family and friends into your home!

photo credits: Better Homes and Garden