Refresh Interior Decorating

The holiday season has a way of sneaking up on us — one minute it’s pumpkins, the next it’s parties, guests, and gift wrap everywhere. Before the hustle begins, it’s worth taking a little time to organize and edit your home so it feels calm, functional, and ready to enjoy.

Think of this as a holiday prep reset — not a total overhaul, just a few focused areas that make the biggest impact.

The Entryway: Create a Welcoming First Impression

The entryway sets the tone for your entire home. As the weather cools and layers pile up, this space tends to get crowded quickly.

• Clear out off-season shoes, sandals, and lightweight jackets to free up hooks and cubbies.
• Add a landing zone — a small tray, basket, or console dish for keys, gloves, and mail.
• Create a guest-ready coat zone. Even a few empty hangers or hooks can make visitors feel thought of.

A few minutes spent here can instantly make your home feel more pulled together and create a good first impression.

The Kitchen: Clear Counters, Clear Mind

Between baking, big meals, and impromptu gatherings, your kitchen will be working overtime. Get ahead of the chaos with this mini reset:

• Edit your pantry and fridge. Toss expired items, combine duplicates, and take note of what you have before stocking up for the season.
• Create a baking zone. Keep flour, sugar, and spices together for easy access.
• Simplify your surfaces. Store away appliances or décor that aren’t essential for the next couple of months — every inch of counter space counts during holiday prep.

A little decluttering now means more room for the fun stuff later (like cookie decorating).

The Living Room: Set the Stage for Comfort

Your living space is where you’ll gather most — to relax, host, or unwind after long days of celebrating. Give it a quick refresh:

• Pack away off-season décor and rotate in cozy textures like throws and cushions.
• Revisit your furniture layout. Make sure there’s enough open space for mingling or a tree.
• Create calm zones. A clear coffee table or styled bookshelf can instantly make a room feel peaceful, even when the holidays get busy.

Bonus: The Guest Zone

If you’re hosting overnight guests, take ten minutes to walk through their space. Fresh linens, a small water carafe, and an empty drawer or luggage spot go a long way toward making company feel comfortable and cared for.

The Takeaway

The holidays are about connection — but it’s hard to relax and be present when you’re surrounded by clutter or scrambling to find things. A short, intentional organizing session now helps your home support the season, instead of adding stress to it.

Make space for what matters most — the people, moments, and memories that make this time of year so special.