Every year the holidays seem to creep up before you expect them. While it is a wonderful time to relax and unwind with family, it can also be extremely stressful. The holidays mean more time with both close and distant family, which can be a blessing and a curse. If it’s your turn to host the family this year, here are some excellent ways to ensure your end-of-the-year events go off without a hitch!
Make Small Improvements
While this may sound like a lot of work, the time before family visits is an excellent chance to make some minor updates. There are plenty of small things you don’t even think about or notice that may make your home feel shabby. Little things like squeaky doors, peeling or dingy paint, and stained carpeting may go unnoticed by you but will stand out to guests. Taking the time to clean up and revitalize your living spaces will not only make guests feel more welcome but will also help you start the new year off fresh! Plus, you won’t have to worry about that one family member who always complains about the tiny things!
If you do decide to complete some larger projects, be sure to plan ahead! DIY home improvement has surged in popularity, so getting your hands on some materials may be challenging. Whatever update you end up deciding on, be sure to give yourself some leeway with the timeline, just in case you run into problems. The goal should always be to reduce stress and make your home shine!
Decorate Inside And Out
For some people decorating is the best part of the holidays; for others, it’s the absolute worst. Wherever you fall on this spectrum, having some extra decor will add a festive feeling to your home and make it more welcoming to guests. No matter what holiday you are hosting, there are plenty of decorating options and styles to choose from! Whether you want to go for a harvest festival look or have the most glamorous tree on the street, it’s easy to spruce up any home.
It is simple to focus all your attention on the interior of your home, but don’t forget to put some effort into the outdoors as well. Even if you don’t want to put up lights or other decorations, now is an excellent time to clear out fallen leaves and dead plants. If your garden is looking a little bland, why not check out different fall and winter plant varieties? Even at the end of the growing season, there are plenty of beautiful plants you can add to your outdoor space for a pop of color!
Meal Planning For A Group
Once your guests finally arrive, you’ll have to consider how you’re going to feed them. No one can expect you to feed everyone all day, every day; however, you will have to plan at least a few meals. Make sure to take into consideration any food allergies or preferences in advance; that way, you won’t have to scramble for a new recipe at the last minute. The easiest way to prepare is to try to decide on meals in advance and buy plenty of fresh food and non-perishables.
If you aren’t a huge fan of cooking, you can also plan to eat out or order delivery. However, keep in mind that this method can get expensive quickly, even if your guests pitch in to help cover the bill. If the idea of cooking for everyone is too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s a wonderful chance to bond with family and take some of the stress off your plate!
Plan For Downtime
Whether your guests are visiting for a single day or a whole week, it’s wise to plan for some downtime. If you have relatives flying in from far away, why not schedule some sightseeing or family events? It’s a safe bet to make reservations for larger groups in advance, so try to plan ahead if possible! If you have only a few guests or if they are staying for a shorter period, things like board games and puzzles are an excellent way to pass the time.
If you decide to go out with your family, it is crucial that you consider transportation. It is a massive hassle to try and wrangle a large group of people, and it may prove to be a challenge to get everyone from place to place. One option is to rent a car or two, depending on the size of your group, but be sure you have enough people who are willing and able to drive! Another choice is to hire a sprinter charter. These are a great option if you want to avoid using rideshares or dealing with car rental agencies and are an excellent choice for larger groups.
