Holiday Organization Checklist
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If you feel like you’ve just boarded the Holiday speed train, you’re in good company. The beginning of November marks the middle of the road when it comes to all the seasonal festivities that dot the autumn calendar. Nestled right in the middle of the bookends of Labor Day weekend and New Year’s, you are at a pivotal point where you must maintain enough steam to get to the end of the line. This is especially true if you happen to be hosting any of the upcoming fetes that still await celebration. Sleep, exercise and wine alone will not help you successfully navigate your way to that final champagne toast of the year. But being organized and proactive in your planning will.
Dot Your I’s and Cross Your T’s
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If you are fortunate enough to be on the guest list when it comes to celebrating the remainder this year’s gatherings, congratulations. But if you are hosting, it’s time to get aggressive. From the most seasoned host to the first-timer, whether you’re hosting fifty people or five, rolling out the perfect party is no small feat. It requires an investment of time, money and dedication to making an effective plan. Utilizing methods of the old pen and paper to-do list or downloading a spreadsheet or app, it is imperative that you outline all of the details so you don’t wind up getting burned and burnt out. A few organizational tactics are all you need to get you on your way to hosting the most five-star soiree of the season.
Tips
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Budget: Feeding people is expensive. Feeding people traditional holiday food is even more spendy. Investigating the costs ahead of time and setting aside a little savings pile will take the edge of the sticker shock when you finally get to the grocery store check-out line.
Delegate: When people ask you what they can bring, have a list handy. Enlisting help from others will not only alleviate pressure on the budget but will also give you a little room to breathe as you attack the other must-haves.
Guest list/accommodations: Gather your rsvp’s early. Reserve a hotel room block for out-of-towners or make sure linens and air mattresses are ready to go.
Food prep: Order specialty items well in advance. Stock up on the nonperishables needed and do a final round of shopping for fresh goods just a few days out to avoid the last-minute rush at the store.
Home décor/housekeeping: a clean home is a happy home. Declutter and straighten up the day before your guests are expected. Have tableware and serving dishes polished and ready to go, linens ironed. Put up other festive decorations ahead of time to set the mood.
Take care of yourself: Don’t forget to have your outfit dry-cleaned and your hair and nail appointments booked! Make sure once everything is out for your guests to enjoy, the apron slips off and you finally celebrate the fruits of your hard work.