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The Best Way To Get Organized Before Holiday Chaos Ensues

Holiday Organization – You Got This!

Doesn’t it seem like all things holidays from decorating to gift buying is happening earlier than usual this year? I’ve never seen so many trees decorated in all their glory before Thanksgiving! This is likely due to the supply chain issues we keep hearing about. But I have to admit, I’m pretty excited and I’m here to embrace it. Getting organized though is always a crucial first step. With a plan in place you can more easily avoid overspending, stress, and feeling overwhelmed. Would a quarterback go into the big game without a solid strategy? Would you attempt to bake cookies without all the ingredients? Nope…and holiday prep is no different. So grab your figurative safety pads or rolling pin, push up your sleeves, and let’s go. Today I’m sharing tips to get you organized, and omit chaos so you can enjoy the season! If you are less frazzled, you AND your family will enjoy the holidays that much more.

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holiday wrapping, holiday organization, Christmas prep, get organized for the holidays, home for the holidays

But First, Declutter

Now, I know this isn’t exactly groundbreaking advice, but seriously…you need to declutter. First, start by getting rid of old holiday decorations that you don’t want or use anymore. If you donate these items NOW, another family can enjoy them THIS season. Also, sort through old clothes, shoes, and linens. Pet shelters are always in need of used blankets and towels. Have your kids purge toys and games reminding them to think of their neglected treasures as “gifts” for other families. It’s likely you’ll collect some new items and presents this December so why not clear the decks and make room now?

Additional Tips

  • Let go of perfection (sometimes this is the one we all need to hear most!)
  • Set a budget and stick to it.
  • Shop early…we can help! You can find great gift suggestions for everyone on your list with our curated gift guides, here.
  • Establish a holiday “bucket list” of things you and your family want to do so the days don’t get away from you and you create those fond memories you’re hoping for.
  • Buy batteries….

Shop artificial Christmas trees of ALL sizes here and here. Keep scrolling for more holiday organization tips below…

What is your favorite, family holiday tradition–the one thing you NEVER skip because it means so much to you? I’d love to know! Please leave us a note in the comments. To get blog posts delivered directly to your inbox, along with some amazing style resources, be sure to sign up for the newsletter here.

Shop Early

Given the supply chain issues across the US shopping early will ensure you have the gifts you need in time, but it will also relieve a lot of stress and worry which typically leads to fewer last-minute purchases that are desperate, cost too much, or aren't ideal. This is also relevant for artificial Christmas trees and garland. Save time (and grey hairs!) and buy pre-lit options. Artificial trees aren't for everyone, but in warmer climates (like here in So Cal) an artificial tree is less of a fire hazard and you can enjoy it for years to come! And, you can leave it up for weeks (and weeks) without it dying. I like to grab fresh greens for the mantle so I can still enjoy the "real tree", pine smell. Shop more Christmas trees in ALL sizes, using the links above.
Best Choice Pre-lit Christmas Tree
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Evergreen Classic Pre-lit Tree
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Best Choice Pre-Lit Flocked Tree
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Puelo Pre-Lit Flocked Tree
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Pre-Lit Holiday Garland
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Storage Bins For The Win

It sounds so simple, but when I began storing all my Christmas decorations in red and green bins….wow!  Now when I stare at the bins up on high shelves in the garage, I immediately know which are for Christmas without having to check the faded handwriting on the side. Christmas lights are always tricky to store--cut slits around the edges/surface of leftover cardboard boxes and wrap the lights around the cardboard, threading the lights into each slit. This keeps your lights organized and they are less likely to break. Also, storing wreaths, ornaments and your Christmas tree in the right sized/shaped containers will protect your items most effectively year to year.
Holiday Storage Bins 4 Pack
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Tree Storage Rolling Duffle
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Wreath Storage Bag
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Ornament Storage Case
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Gift Wrap Station

Next, check your inventory of gift wrapping essentials and throw away old, ripped paper and smashed bows. Then, make a list of what you need: tape, gift tags, wrapping paper, tissue paper, clothing boxes, gift bags, bows, ribbon….did I mention tape?  Keep all of these items, pens, and scissors in the same bin creating a mobile wrapping station you can move anywhere. 
Rolling Wrapping Paper Storage
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Rolling Holiday Accessory Bag
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Holiday Accessory Organizer
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Christmas Gift Wrap Set
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Hanukkah Wrapping Paper Bundle
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Gift Wrap Tape 6 Rolls
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Join the Conversation

11 thoughts on “The Best Way To Get Organized Before Holiday Chaos Ensues

  1. Excellent advice, and inspirational as always! “Declutter, Purge, and Outsource” is my new mantra! Thank you!! And yes you are correct, Christmas decor is earlier than I ever remember. We outsourced putting up the exterior lights and they were installed today–Yay!

    1. Megan, we are having our Christmas lights installed today! Thank you for your note–’tis the season! Enjoy!

  2. Thank you Susan! I love all the organizing ideas, getting rid of Holiday decor you no longer use is huge! I save everything thinking that one year I may want it, but after years of it never seeing the light of day…..I think it is time for them go. Just writing about purging is making me feel more organized. Thank you so much for all the wonderful tips!

  3. heatherdietsch@gmail.comLove, Love, Love all of these ideas! I’m organizing my wrapping station as we speak. But seriously, best tip ever is outsourcing…I don’t bake – at all- but guess who does? My mom! She loves it and loves when i ask her to make christmas goodies for us. You know who else bakes? Gelson’s down the street…just saying. Great ideas!

    1. Thanks, Heather! Enjoy those home baked (or Gelson’s purchased) goodies. Happy Holidays!

  4. Oh i loVe the bucket idea. Great way to connect with the family and havIng a physical reminder to do it and Show How much has been accomplisHed will be as SATISFYING as crossing off a to-do list!

    1. Thanks so much Sacha! Is there anyting better than crossing off a to-do list? Happy Holidays!

  5. Welcome to the busbee team, susan! Wonderful and practical advice that we can use now and for christmases to come. I especially appreciate the advice about using clothespins to designate holiday fun….I have a teen boy, too and sometimes i forget that he still loves the “little” things like making cookies with me. ????
    Merry christmas to you and yours!

    P.S. definitely costco for batteries!

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