The holidays can be oh so much fun, but they can also come with oh so much chaos and clutter! Rather than getting stressed out about finding, unpacking, and packing back up decorations (or maybe you even skip putting up your beloved decorations for a holiday because it was too hectic of a process) we want to help you be more in the moment with the spirit of the season. So here are some tips to better holiday decor and storage.

1. Gather everything for each holiday together, then make categories (i.e. ornaments, wrapping, wreaths, etc). It will depend on your collection how detailed you get, but some ideas to take categories one step further is to separate items into outdoor vs. indoor, or even separate by room; that way you’re able to tackle one at a time. And don’t forget to label!

2. Make it a new rule to go through everything every year when you unpack it and pack it back up, and only keep what you put on display/love. If it’s only once a year and you don’t even want to put it out or you found yourself not loving something, it’s a sign it’s time to go.

3. Use appropriate sized containers for storage. Often smaller works better to keep breakable items safe. Here’s an example of a container specifically made for ornaments. Also consider a roll of recyclable ‘honeycomb’ paper to wrap breakable items in. We also love these airtight storage bin in basements and attics because they are pest proof!

4. Simplify and put a limit on any wrapping materials. We often have enough wrapping materials to last for many years! You could even take it a simplified step further, and go neutral for all year long with brown paper and white string; understated but still pretty!

5. Always remember that often ‘less is more’. Consider using fresh and local seasonal items as decor, like a fresh wreath from your garden shop, or getting mini pumpkins from a farm and placing them around the house instead of storing boxes of stuff. These are great ways to support small businesses, but it can also be a fun family activity!