In this video, we will share a simple strategy for
downsizing your holiday decor in only 5 simple steps.
The holiday season is a cherished time filled with joy, laughter, and the heartwarming embrace of family traditions. As the years go by, it’s no secret that our collection of holiday decorations tends to grow, sometimes exponentially. Whether it’s store-bought treasures, handmade creations brimming with love, or heirlooms passed down from generation to generation, our holiday tubs and storage spaces can become overwhelmingly cluttered.
If you find yourself surrounded by an excessive amount of holiday decor, it might be time to consider streamlining your collection. This not only creates space for cherished memories but also alleviates some of the emotional and logistical challenges that can be particularly taxing when making a move to a new place.
For many of our clients, both real estate and move management, the task of sorting through holiday keepsakes is one of the most time-consuming and emotionally draining aspects of the moving process. Attempting to tackle this task in the midst of a life transition (a.k.a. moving) can be overwhelming and add to the decision fatigue that often accompanies relocation, especially if downsizing. It’s for this reason that we encourage people to embark on this process now, rather than waiting until it’s time to make a move.
While it may seem like a big project, and it may be – depending on how many tubs or boxes you have – it’s worth it in the end. Here are 5 easy steps to get you started!
1. The Firm Decision
The first step is a fundamental one – make a firm decision that you are going to streamline your holiday decor. Embrace the idea of simplifying and creating a more focused collection of meaningful items. This decision will not only help you declutter your space but also alleviate some of the emotional strain of making these choices later.
2. Sort and Declutter
To get started, recruit someone to assist you in getting tubs or boxes out of the attic or from the tippy tops of closets. Now, find a suitable space where you can lay out all your holiday decor. Categorize the items into four sections:
Keep for Future Use: These are the items you genuinely adore and want to keep for future holiday celebrations.
Give to Family or Friends: Share the joy by passing on some decor pieces to your loved ones. Writing down any stories or history related to these items can make the gesture even more special.
Donate: Consider donating items that you no longer need but are still in good condition. Spread the holiday cheer to those in need.
Dispose: Say farewell to broken or worn-out items that no longer serve their purpose. This includes gingerbread ornaments your 55-year-old kids made in kindergarten.
3. Share Stories and Reminisce
As you go through the decluttering process, take some time to share stories and reminisce about the items you decide to pass on to family or friends. This extra layer of meaning and connection enhances your holiday decor downsizing journey. (Maybe share the gingerbread ornament story with your kids before tossing it).
4. Set a Date or Deadline
Establish a specific date or deadline for gifting items to family or friends and taking the donation items to the donation site. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and closure, knowing your holiday decor will find new life and purpose. Doing this in advance eases some of the moving process’s emotional and physical toll.
5. Store with Intention
Pack up only the items you plan to keep for future use, such as cherished heirlooms, sentimental decorations, and practical pieces. This is a great time to upgrade any broken or flimsy containers with ones that can be easily and safely stored and stacked until the next holiday season (or for an upcoming move to a new place).
By following these steps, you’ll find yourself with a more streamlined and deeply meaningful holiday decor collection. This approach will not only ease your storage burdens but also help you focus on what truly matters during the holiday season – creating cherished memories with loved ones.
Equally as important (to us anyway), beginning this process early lightens the load and emotional toll of moving, ensuring a smoother transition during your relocation and home sale processes.
We wish you a joyful and clutter-free holiday season! And remember, if you need assistance with donations or downsizing in the Oklahoma City area, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you make this process as smooth as possible. Happy holidays!
Planning a future move,
but just aren’t quite ready yet?
If you are a seasoned homeowner or someone
who plans to downsize from a larger home to a smaller
space in the next few years, you have come to the right place.
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to learn how you can join the Oklahoma Downsizers Club.
