The festive season is just around the corner and with so much to celebrate – the Bokke taking the cup, schools closing soon, family time and a well-deserved break for many of us – now is the perfect time to get your home holiday-ready. Here are a few ideas to get your home holiday-ready:
Bright and merry
You don’t need to celebrate Christmas or Hannukah to get into the festive spirit. Make a festive summer wreath for your front door, install fairy lights in your garden or on your balcony or add some cheer to your existing décor with a statement scatter cushion, a fun centrepiece or a bright table runner.
It was (orna)ment to be
However, if you are a festive fundi and Christmas is your favourite holiday, why not make some of your own decorations or set up a baking station this year? It can be a fun friends and family activity too. Ideas include homemade sugar cookies with icing and sprinkles, cute paper garlands, homemade tree baubles and easy-to-make nativity scenes. Not only will this add some sparkle and cheer to your home, but you will also be making some very special memories with the people who mean the most to you.
Stocking stuffers
It may only be November but now is the time to stock up on pantry staples, meat and other
items you typically use and have a hard time finding during the December rush. Worried about going overboard? Plan your meals in advance and stick to a budget to avoid the dreaded Janu-worry blues!
Safe as houses
Are you taking a trip soon? We recommend checking a few important things off your pre-holiday chores list, like making sure your windows, doors and security system are in good working order or putting away any tools and equipment that might make it easier for someone to gain access to your property when you aren’t there. Finally, check or upgrade your household and vehicle insurance to ensure you are adequately covered for any break-ins. These things are important even if you decide to have a staycation!
Keep it clean
If you’re taking time off, you probably don’t want to spend it doing housework, so now is a good time to spring clean. Clear out the guest bedroom if you have one, wash all the towels and linen, clean the bathrooms and declutter as much as you can. Not only will this make your space feel more welcoming and organised, but you’ll also have a blank slate to work with when setting up your holiday décor.
Change is as good as a holiday
Make your home look more inviting for the upcoming party season by rearranging the furniture. If you know you’ll have guests or family over in the next few months, set up a cosy seating area by moving your couches or chairs closer together or into a central location. You can also include a lamp or two, candles or fairy lights for an inviting ambience. Food and drinks are usually a big part of the holiday festivities, so create some surfaces in this space that will come in handy for serving drinks and appetizers – such as ottomans, coffee tables or unused chairs.
Take a load off
Wondering how to light the tree without Eskom moving us to another stage of load shedding? Pick up some battery-operated lights! And while you are it, remember to refill your gas canisters, stock up on batteries and put a mini-UPS on your wishlist. After all, you don’t want to be caught unawares this festive season. And just in case, have some wood and firelighters stashed away for an emergency braai.
