Christmas is just around the corner.
It’s usually a time of great excitement, especially for younger family members, and many of us look forward to catching up with loved ones, as well as the chance for some time off work to relax.
But, if you’re hosting it can be stressful: from decorating your home and planning the meal to ensuring the bickering’s kept to a minimum. So, we’ve pulled together some top tips to make sure you can focus on the joy of the season.
Decorate to impress
Choose a theme for throughout your home, perhaps you’d like a specific colour palette or festive style. Red and green are classic colours, of course, but shades of blue and white as well as sparkling silver and metallic tones can make for a striking interior too.
Stick to a single theme throughout and use it to highlight focal areas like the front door, hallways and stairs, Christmas tree and dining table.
Check out Pinterest too for ideas if you’re craving a bit of inspiration.
Prep the spare room
Now’s a great time to refresh and declutter the spare room.
Be brutal, and clear out anything you don’t need, or anything that shouldn’t be there. And when that’s done, have a quick check to see if any last-minute repairs are needed.
Make sure the room also includes cosy finishing touches to really make guests feel at home, such as a thick throw on the bed, cosy rugs, and soft towels left out so they can freshen up when they arrive.
Preparation, preparation, preparation
While we’re not suggesting you need a critical path with milestones for every aspect of Christmas dinner, there’s plenty you can do to get ahead, from prepping your veg and the turkey the night before.
The freezer can be a god-send too if you’ve made things like stuffing and mince pies ahead of time.
And when it comes to presents, avoid leaving all the wrapping until Christmas Eve. Dedicate a couple of quiet afternoons a few weeks ahead to the task instead.
Delegate duties
Ask the family, including the kids, to help with the cooking, keeping things tidy, or setting the table. Everyone should be able to do their bit to help.
Take time out
Sometimes, in amongst all the festivities, we just need a little space, especially if the discussion over the dinner table’s getting a little heated.
Go for a walk, spend a little time in a different room, go read a book or listen to music — or just pour yourself a glass of mulled wine and put your feet up.
And remember, it’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year.
Looking to make a move?
CHAP Homes is building high specification homes at Crest of Lochter, Inverurie and Countesswells, Aberdeen.
And, from high specification open-plan kitchen diners (with integrated dishwashers to handle one of the day’s most dreaded tasks) to lounges with plenty of space for everyone, these homes for ideal for entertaining friends and family at any time of the year.