My Forest & Sea Christmas House Tour
Tiptoeing in to say… it’s less than eight weeks until Christmas. I know—it’s hard to believe. I don’t want to rush the season, but I do like to plan ahead so I can enjoy every moment. Skipping over Halloween doesn’t mean rushing Thanksgiving or Christmas; it simply means I’m ready to start gently preparing for the holidays without hurrying through them.
I prefer to savor the Thanksgiving-through-New-Year span, letting each tradition and decoration be enjoyed slowly rather than crammed into a few hectic days. With a bit of intentional preparation, you can create a calm, joyful season that feels meaningful.
Here are seven simple, inspiring things you can do right now to get ready for the holidays.
1. Start listening to Christmas tunes.
Music sets the tone for the season. Begin playing a festive playlist to invite that cozy holiday feeling into your home. Familiar carols and warm instrumental tracks can help you ease into planning and decorating without stress.
2. Begin holiday crafts and DIY gifts.
Starting projects early makes them enjoyable instead of rushed. Even with only a few weekends left, you can tackle a couple of handmade gifts or a fun family project. An Advent calendar is a delightful DIY you can still make in time—simple ideas like small galvanized buckets or handmade envelopes work beautifully.
3. Simplify your decor.
Reduce clutter before adding holiday pieces. Removing non-seasonal decorations makes each festive item stand out and helps maintain a calm, intentional look. A simplified base allows your favorite holiday accents to shine without competing for attention.
4. Pare down your calendar.
Choose three holiday traditions that matter most to you and put them on the calendar now. Whether it’s a candlelight service, a neighborhood light walk, or a family baking night, committing to your top priorities ensures you have time for the experiences that bring the most joy.
5. Pull out the flannel and plaids.
Flannel, plaids, and cozy textiles instantly add warmth to bedrooms and living spaces. Swapping a few pillows, throws, or bedding pieces transports a room into holiday mode without a big overhaul.
6. Put up your Christmas lights.
Hang lights while the weather is still mild so outdoor tasks don’t become a chore in the cold. Take a few minutes to test bulbs and untangle strings now—then decorate your porch, eaves, or trees while it’s pleasant outside. Early lights brighten the season and give you more time to enjoy them.
My Forest & Sea Christmas House Tour
7. Pick a Christmas theme (or a color scheme).
You don’t need an elaborate motif, but choosing a theme or color palette gives your holiday decorating a cohesive, meaningful feel. Themes can be based on family memories, favorite traditions, or seasonal elements—like a Forest & Sea theme that reflects personal stories and brings familiar comforts into holiday decor. If a theme feels like too much, a simple color scheme can guide choices and tie spaces together beautifully.
With a few thoughtful steps now—music, simple decor changes, a plan for projects and events—you can create a calm and joyful holiday season. Happy holiday dreaming and planning! I’d love to hear what you’re most excited about this year.