With our fa-la-la still in full swing, it feels a little borderline rude to already be thinking about next Christmas. You’re probably thinking, “I’m barely making it through this season and you want to talk about the next one?!” Fair.
I hear you. And this isn’t about adding one more thing to your already full plate. It’s about doing a few small, low-effort things now, while everything is still fresh, so next year’s holiday season feels calmer, more organized, and—dare I say—more enjoyable.
Consider this your permission slip to read this with zero pressure and zero expectations.
As I write this, I’m actually behind this year. Very behind. Because I didn’t do what I normally do to prep ahead…and it shows. Plus…Between travel, working full-time along with the blog, an extra church obligation, and some unexpected family health issues, the last four months have been unusually full.
So I’m giving myself some grace. What doesn’t get done, doesn’t get done. It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of making the magic happen, but being exhausted—and therefore not fully present for it—doesn’t work for me either.
With that full disclosure, these are the things I usually do in December to help set myself up for a smoother, less stressful holiday season the following year.
1. Take Inventory of Your Christmas Wrapping Station:
(One of My Go-To Christmas Prep Tips)
- Wrapping paper
- Ribbon
- Tissue Paper
- Tape
- Scissors
- Bows
- Gift Tags
- Gift Bags
- Gift Boxes
Make a list of what needs to be replenished and keep it handy for those after-Christmas sales (or in July when Costco starts putting out holiday items—because of course they do). I store everything in one tub so it’s all in one place and easy to find.
2. Inventory Holiday Decorations Before Storing Them Away:
Time to toss?
I’m all about holding onto sentimental items and reusing what we have, but sometimes it’s time to be honest. If a decoration has clearly seen better days, it’s okay to let it go. (My little white tree had turned more yellow than white, and it was officially time.)
Time to donate?
If you notice you haven’t used something in the last few years and it always ends up at the bottom of the storage tub, someone else might love it. If you don’t love it anymore—or never did—it’s time for the donation pile.
Make notes for next season
Do you need replacement lights or a few fresh pieces? Grab them on sale after Christmas or make a note to purchase next year.
Pro tip: Don’t overlook your local grocery store for post-holiday deals. While everyone rushes to Target and Hobby Lobby, some of the best finds are hiding right in the grocery aisles.
3. Fix, Donate, or Toss Broken Christmas Decor
Chip an ornament or damage a piece in your Christmas village? Fix it, donate it, or toss it before storing it away. You won’t remember when you’re unpacking next year—and finding broken items while decorating is the last thing you’ll want to deal with. Take care of it now while it’s top of mind and the season is winding down.
4. Label Your Christmas Storage Bins (You’ll Thank Yourself Later)
This seems basic, but you’d be surprised how many people skip this step. “Christmas” is helpful—but being more specific (Kitchen Mantle, Bookcase Decor, Dickens Village) makes decorating so much easier.
Full disclosure: I have a lot of Christmas bins. Knowing what’s in each one is especially helpful when we’re unloading the attic. God bless my hubbie who handles that part. 😉
5. Update Addresses While Christmas Cards Are Still Rolling In
As Christmas cards arrive, I try to take the time to update addresses when someone has moved. Now—not later—is the time to do it. Whether you use an old-school address book (yes, I still have one) or an Excel spreadsheet, you’ll appreciate having it updated throughout the year—and you’ll be very glad it’s done when next Christmas card season rolls around.
6. Write Down Notes From Christmas (Because Memory Is a Liar)
I have a terrible memory, so if I don’t write things down, there’s a very good chance I won’t remember—especially the little details.
In my yearly planner, I jot down:
- Gifts purchased and for whom
- Parties thrown
- Date and time
- Attendees
- Food served
- Games played
- Prizes and favors
- Ideas inspired for next year
- Inventory replenishment notes (what I’ll need to purchase come October/November)
These notes are absolute gold when planning the next holiday season.
If your brain feels full right now, I made a simple checklist you can come back to later—no remembering required. Save it, print it, or ignore it completely. It’ll be there when you need it. For Checklist, Click HERE!
Final Thoughts (and a Chat for Future-You)
So if you’re staring at half-empty tubs, a few broken ornaments, and wondering why you ever thought hosting was a good idea—this is your sign.
Do a small favor for future-you. Tackle one thing, make a note or two, and then call it a win. Next year’s you will be less frazzled, more present, and very grateful. And if you don’t get to any of it? That’s okay too. There’s always December…again. 😉
Want a little help making holidays feel easier?
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