My Forest & Sea Christmas House Tour
Tiptoeing in to say … it’s less than eight weeks until Christmas. I know — it’s surprising, but I don’t want to rush the season. I enjoy planning slowly and savoring each part of the holidays. Skipping over Halloween isn’t about moving quickly through Thanksgiving or Christmas; it’s about making room to enjoy them both without feeling hurried.
There’s no need to cram everything into a few frantic weeks. Taking time now to prepare can make the holidays calmer and more meaningful. Here are seven simple, inspiring steps you can start today to get ready and enjoy the season more fully.
1. Start listening to Christmas music
Music is one of the quickest ways to feel festive. A cozy holiday playlist sets a warm tone in the home and helps carry you gently into the season. Put on your favorite songs while you plan, wrap, or sip a warm drink — it instantly lifts the mood.
2. Begin holiday crafts and DIY gifts
Starting crafts early gives you time to enjoy the process without last-minute stress. Even with a limited number of weekends, you can complete a few handmade gifts or an Advent calendar. Simple projects are charming and thoughtful, and making them ahead of time lets you savor the creative part.
3. Simplify your decor
Less is more during the holidays. Remove non-seasonal items now so the pieces you add for Christmas will stand out. Simplifying reduces clutter and stress, making each decoration feel intentional and meaningful.
4. Pare down your calendar
Holidays often bring a packed schedule. Choose three experiences that will matter most to you — a candlelight service, a family outing to see lights, or a special baking day — and put them on the calendar now. Prioritizing in advance frees you to say no to less important activities and keeps the season focused on what you love.
5. Pull out flannels and plaids
Cozy textiles like flannel and plaid instantly warm a room. Adding these textures to bedding or throws brings comfort and a seasonal touch without much effort. A few well-placed cozy pieces go a long way toward creating a welcoming holiday atmosphere.
6. Put up your Christmas lights
Hang lights while the weather is mild so you don’t delay until it’s too cold to enjoy outdoor decorating. Check bulbs and cords now, and get lights up early to add sparkle to the season. Having them in place removes last-minute tasks and adds instant cheer to your home.
My Forest & Sea Christmas House Tour
7. Choose a Christmas theme (or color scheme)
A theme can make decorating feel purposeful and fun. It doesn’t have to be elaborate — even a loose idea or a color palette helps create cohesion. Themes and color schemes can reflect family memories or personal tastes and make the season feel more magical. For example, a Forest & Sea theme has been meaningful for our family and helps us relive happy moments year after year.
These seven steps are simple ways to begin enjoying the holidays now instead of waiting until the last moment. A little preparation goes a long way toward a calm, joyful season.
Happy holiday dreaming and planning — I’d love to hear your plans and ideas!