Too many times can we think of holidays that we hosted at our own homes and remember the feeling of stress about not only the infinite list of to-do’s but most notably the feeling of, “how will others view my home?”.

Many of us have hectic and busy lives with juggling work, kids, and errands. When the holidays come around you can add a “few more” things to that list and suddenly things get a little more stressful. But the one thing we shouldn’t have to worry or stress about is the judgement of family when hosting for the holidays. Unfortunately though, many do.

It’s natural to want others to find your space the “fairest of them all”. Have you ever caught yourself hoping that the moment family and friends step foot into your house that they would just say, “WOWWW. How do you do it?” or “Everything is so perfect and gorgeous”. I think we all are guilty of this feeling at some point.  But you know what?- Your guests are more than likely to feel this same way whenever you visit their home.

It’s important to remember that your home is YOUR sanctuary. It’s been perfectly styled and designed for function around you and your life- not your guests. Now, this isn’t to say that you should leave the laundry piled in the hallway or keep the week’s mail spread on the kitchen counter. Of course some tidying up is expected in preparation but, don’t get caught up thinking you have to go purchase 100 different home decor pieces to make your home “guest ready.” If you do this you are going to more than likely purchase things you do not need and spend several hundred dollars.

If you are feeling it’s absolutely necessary to freshen things up before your guests arrive, here are a few inexpensive ways to add holiday cheer around the home:

1. Tie a holiday ribbon around existing towels in the guest bathroom. Below is an example, just use holiday ribbon from your local craft store or dollar tree.

 

      2. Hang simple wreaths from the curtain rods in the family room using ribbon. You can even use the same fun ribbon from tip#1. This trick can be used to decorate the kitchen cabinets too.

        3. Light holiday candles! The smell of the holidays alone will make your guests feel right at home!! My personal favorites are Mistle Toe, Pumpkin Pie, or Christmas Cookie scent!

        4. Wrap up some empty boxes like Christmas presents. Displaying these in fun locations like by the front door or fireplace is a super inexpensive and fun way to add Christmas cheer.

         5. Make a fun centerpiece for the dinner table and coffee table. My personal favorite is a vase filled with pine cones or Christmas ornaments. Another cute way is to fill small jars with water, add a few cut Christmas tree fronds and cranberries to the water, and top it off with a candle.

These are all easy and simple ways to prep for your guests and to help calm your fears that you may not be house ready.

Don’t forget what I mentioned earlier though, your home is your sanctuary. It exists the way you wish it to. I know it’s hard to avoid pulling out all the “stops” when guests arrive- especially for the holidays. But I can tell you, most of your guests are relieved when they come to your home and it’s not perfect. Everyone is human, no one person or home is perfect. That’s what makes your spaces unique and different!

Make enjoying the time you have with family and friends the focus of your time and energy. Try this year to worry less about what others think and be proud of your home, you work too darn hard not to be. And if you encounter judgmental guests, do not let them spoil your holiday. People who wish to judge will always judge no matter the situation. They will always find flaws. Make peace with yourself and others; forgive and forget and enjoy the holidays!! After all, ‘tis the season to spread love and kindness and to be jolly, faaa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-laaaa!!!!!!!!

Xoxo,

Jenna