Love it or leave it, ’tis the season to start thinking about the holidays and how to mark this special time of year, in this very ‘special’ year. We’re all spending more time at home, so the effort invested in decorating and adding cheer will likely be enjoyed more than ever. Read on for our tips on how to add holiday cheer to your Corvallis-area home.
Focus on the Communal Spaces
We might not be having as many guests or family around this year, but anyone in your ‘safety pod’ is still likely to be gathering around the kitchen. Try to think of new ways to ring in the holidays, by keeping the vibe warm, friendly, celebratory, but socially-distanced of course. Maybe you can get creative with a festive Zoom background for all the holiday video chats this year??!
Decorate With Traditions in Mind
Decorating is a huge part of the holiday season, and it doesn’t have to be a burden. Bringing out the boxes of familiar decorations from the attic shouldn’t be a chore, but an opportunity to smile and think back on memories from celebrations past. Savor the simple things – from a wreath on the front door, swag along the staircase or on the fireplace mantle, or even ornate holiday villages that take time to build – include the kids! It’s important to keep with your traditions and not break the bank on new items yearly.
Incorporate a few new items that you’ve accumulated or been gifted, but there’s no need to change the theme yearly for an Instagram-worthy extravaganza – unless of course that brings you joy!
Take one Room at a Time
Focus on one room to not get overwhelmed. Why not try the kitchen and then expand from there if you really want to spread more cheer. Swap out the everyday dishes for the more festive and ornate platters and stemware. Get the delicate salt and pepper shakers back on the table. Create a live centerpiece that brings the colors and scents of the season inside. There’s many local small businesses that you can visit and get tips on how to do it yourself or purchase something they’ve already made.
Get Your Own Signature Fragrance
It’s not just for luxury hotels – scent is one of the most powerful associations tied to memories. Keep it as natural as possible as this will be appealing to a wide range of people. Although we’re fans of scented candles, with the baking season in full swing, take advantage of the smells coming from the kitchen and go all out baking seasonal pies and cookies.
And don’t forget the music! With kids at home more, break it up and get the seasonal playlists going. Spotify has a range of curated holiday tunes (with ads or premium) so you can set it once and not think about it all evening. Get the sounds flowing and your body moving.
Do you need tips for staging your home or you looking to sell your home in the Mid-Willamette Valley? Get in touch with us and we’ll set up an appointment and a home valuation to let you know what it’s worth in the current market!
