DECORATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS: USING YOUR 5 SENSES
Decorating for the holidays can be one of the most stressful parts of the season. There is so much pressure to have the picture perfect home, but it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We suggest breaking down the decorating elements to the five senses to help make it more manageable.
SIGHT: Lights are one of the biggest factors in making your home ready for the holidays. With the darker winter days, displaying lights will make your home cozier and more inviting. Choosing white lights will allow you to decorate your yard, Christmas tree, or interior without conflicting with your existing decor.
If possible, decide on a color scheme for the rest of your holiday decorations so that they coordinate with your house. This will make the decorations feel more like a part of the home and not an overwhelming distraction. An easy way to do this is just by adding greenery, or choosing silver and gold metallics.
To make your holiday decor more meaningful, create a special display just for a family heirloom like a menorah or antique serving dish. This can help especially if you have a piece that doesn’t quite coordinate with the rest of your decor, or if you want to keep a crystal platter for a family connection without actually using it.
TOUCH: Having a variety of texture adds visual and tactile interest. If you’re not sure what to add, think opposites: sharp pointed garlands, soft chunky knit blankets, matte wooden beads, shiny candlesticks. It doesn’t have to be much, but adding different textures will elevate your holiday look.
SOUND: Playing music in your home will set the right tone for the holiday atmosphere you want. Whether you play it in the background on your smart speaker, or you’re showing off your Christmas record collection, you can create the perfect mood for different situations--upbeat party music or soft, relaxing-by-the-fire music. There are a lot of holiday playlists already available or you can create your own.
SMELL: There’s nothing like the smell of fresh baked cookies, but you can of course add this festive element in the form of incense, candles, or air fresheners. For a fun twist, try making your own dried orange garland. If you are using different scents throughout the house, coordinate scents that compliment but don’t compete with each other, such as spices and citrus.
TASTE: If you stock up a bar cart or tray for mixing holiday drinks, you can always be prepared to entertain unexpected guests, or just have an easy break with your family. In addition to adult drinks you can have fun with a hot chocolate or coffee bar with flavored milks and toppings. Try to use trays and containers that coordinate with your holiday decor so you can leave it up throughout the season.
Focusing on the five senses can help you know which elements you’re missing in your holiday decor and minimize your stress. Let us know which of the senses is your favorite to focus on. We wish you a beautiful and bright holiday season!
XOXO Holly Mickelsen