12 Days Ways to Get Your Home Holiday Ready

Even though the holidays may be different this year, just pulling out décor can instantly give you a boost. According to a study from the University of Southampton that not only ties nostalgia to giving us a positive view of the past, but suggests it can also help us find a positive view of the future. In keeping with The 12 Days of Christmas theme, we have assembled 12 Ways you can get your home holiday ready this year. Whether you will be hosting guests or not, a little bit of holiday cheer may be just what your household needs.

1st Day Way: A little bit of sparkle.
A little holiday shimmer can go a long way. Whether glittered decorations, candlelight or mercury votives, shimmer is always a festive way to welcome the holidays. Make a statement by grouping multiple glitter pillar candles in various heights on a large tray in the center of your table. Pro tip: Candles displayed on your table while food is being served should be unscented.

2nd Day Way: Experiment with warm, cozy paint colors.
If you find yourself with a lot of extra time on your hands go ahead and re-paint a wall or two. If not, try updating a bookshelf or a side table in a rich, inviting color. Think minimal effort with maximum impact—inside of a bookcase, behind glass cabinets, an accent piece of furniture, or even the inside of a closet or a door—the results can add a lot of character to a room.

3rd Day Way: Switch up your art.
Hang new affordable art on your walls that displays seasonal colors and subject matter. Pro tip: If safety concerns are keeping your extended family away this year, update all your framed photos with pictures of these family members to keep them in your heart.

4th Day Way: Set up a food and beverage display.
Designate a table or cart for mixers, cookies and festive décor to get everyone in the “spirit.” Include eggnog and hot chocolate along with fun toppings. This way all your guests — young and young at heart – can partake.

5th Day Way: Put a tree in your bedroom.
Rather than a traditional live green Christmas tree, consider an artificial blue or white tree. This adds a touch of sophistication and the ability to reuse year after year. Pro tip: Michael’s has multiple colors, types and sizes, including tall/narrow which are perfect for bedrooms. Don’t forget to clip their coupons!

6th Day Way: Keep cut wood on display.
Cut wood isn’t just for the fireplace anymore! Fill large baskets and use it for storing firewood,” says Wheeler. “This adds texture while keeping things tidy and convenient for cool fall evenings.” Pro tip: Fill a non-working fireplace with split logs.

7th Day Way: Invite nature inside.
Garland, leaves, firs, branches, mistletoe, seasonal flowers—it adds life to your home. Simple house plants and flowers can also make a big impact. Ferns, orange lilies, green hydrangeas, and orchids should do the trick. Pro tip: Fill bowls with apples, pomegranates or pears. Gather up dried fruits, pine cones and twine to make your own holiday wreath.

8th Day Way: Create the smell of Christmas.
Mulling spices on the stove or a holiday scented candle will make your home feel cozy and festive. Make your own holiday potpourri to simmer on the cooktop. Try this recipe, which can also be used as a hostess gift: www.onelovelylife.com/stovetop-christmas-potpourri. Pro tip: Put in a slow cooker so you can set it and forget it.

9th Day Way: Light it up.
There’s nothing more comforting than the glow of Christmas lights. Drape every interior doorway, staircase and the entryway in your home with garlands and twinkling lights.

10th Day Way: Swap out your linens.
Trade your lightweight cottons and linens for rich knits and velvets. Cozy throws or throw pillows can create warmth by adding nice pops of holiday color and texture with very little effort. Think colorful cashmere or plaid pillows. Pro tip: In lieu of a tree skirt, add an oversized knit blanket to the bottom of your tree.

11th Day Way: Holiday music.
These days it is easier than ever to fill your home with the sounds of Christmas. Simply say “Alexa, play holiday songs” and enjoy!

12th Day Way: Adorn the mantle.
Transform your mantel into a focal point using ornaments, evergreens, pine cones, holiday figures, stockings and more. Really, the skies the limit. Pro tip: No mantle? Check out these ideas from HGTV. Coat racks are perfect for holding stockings. Who knew?!