7 Smart Ways To Get Ready For The Holiday Season

The holidays are fast approaching, and there’s no better time to get ahead of the seasonal rush. By tackling a few key tasks now, you can set yourself up for a stress-free season filled with more joy and less chaos!

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It feels like the year has flown by, and here we are with the holidays just around the corner. So, before the hustle and bustle kicks into full swing, let’s talk about ways to prepare now so you can truly savor the season when it arrives. I like to taking a little time now to tackle these simple tasks to free myself up to truely enjoy time with family and friends.

Here’s my go-to list of things to do now to set yourself up for a seamless, joyful holiday season:

1. Make a List (or Two)

I live by my lists during the holidays! A good list can keep everything in check—whether it’s for groceries, gifts, or holiday tasks. Not only does it ensure that nothing important gets overlooked, but crossing items off as you go is so satisfying. By staying organized, I avoid that last-minute panic of forgotten items (which always happens)or errands.

2. Stock Up on Non-Perishables

Now’s the time to start stocking your pantry with holiday essentials. Flour, sugar, canned goods, chicken and vegetable broths, and spices are all great to have on hand and most are on sale before the holidays. I love knowing I can whip up a batch of Crock Pot Chocolate Pecan Candy or favorite side dish like Garlic Parmesan Rice without scrambling for ingredients at the last minute.

3. Get Your Entertaining Supplies Early

From holiday plates and napkins to candles and drink stirrers, stores already have plenty of entertaining essentials stocked. Grabbing these items now means avoiding the dreaded out-of-stock signs later. Plus, having them on hand early makes it so much easier to pull together a festive table or impromptu gathering with ease.

4. Start Holiday Shopping

Gift shopping is always more enjoyable when you’re not in a rush. By starting early, you’ll find the best selection and may even snag some deals before the holiday price hikes. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, and hostess presents. Checking these off your list early leaves more time to focus on wrapping and celebrating.

5. Wrap as You Go

I’ve learned the hard way that waiting until the last minute to wrap gifts is no fun. This year, try wrapping your gifts as you buy them or put on your favorite Christmas movie (mine is White Christmas) grab a drink and have fun! Label everything carefully and maybe even keep a simple list of what’s been wrapped and for whom. It’s a small step that saves so much time and effort later.

6. Declutter and Organize

A little decluttering now goes a long way. Start room by room, getting rid of what you no longer need and finding homes for everything that stays. Not only will it make your space feel fresh, but it also makes holiday decorating (and hosting!) so much easier. Plus, less clutter means less to clean when company is on the way.

7. Prepare Your Fridge and Freezer

The holidays call for extra fridge and freezer space, so tackle this now while you have the time. Clear out anything old, make a plan to use up what you can, and give your fridge a good deep clean. You’ll thank yourself when you have plenty of room for holiday leftovers, party platters, and make-ahead meals. Speaking of, now’s a great time to plan and prep dishes you can freeze for later.

Taking care of these tasks ahead of time has been a game-changer for me. Not only does it make the holidays feel less overwhelming, but it also gives me more space to focus on what really matters—spending quality time with the people I love.

What’s your favorite way to get ready for the holidays? I’d love to hear how you’re preparing to make this season stress-free and full of joy!

Let’s make it the best one yet.