Like the Dean Martin classic song lyrics go, “Baby It’s Cold Outside!” Read on for ideas on how to warm hearts, tummy’s and homes with holiday recipes, party prep suggestions, and small space design tips. Now, let’s have some fun creating your idea of a winter wonderland.

Holiday hosting & styling tips so good you’ll have to share!

The Holiday’s are a magical time of year where the opportunity to express love, friendship, caring, and gratitude is a gift in itself. The Holiday Season encompasses many different expressions of giving. Investing one’s time, and providing hospitality as you celebrate together is a generous way to brighten the holidays for many. Planning a gathering in your home isn’t the easiest thing to do well, so we’re here to offer options to help. Let’s limit your hustle and bustle and turn up the heartwarming experiences the Season is known for. You may be surprised when your efforts are so appreciated they become new traditions. 

Have you recently relocated? Even if you are in a temporary apartment, there are still numerous ways to decorate your home to highlight this special time of year. It is an individual choice on how to celebrate and honor your beliefs. As it is your choice on creating a comfortable and festive home environment, no matter the size of your space.

Celebrating Hanukkah

Create a holiday that will bring smiles to the faces of those you hold most dear. It is a wonderful opportunity to share family history and time together with the children.

We will share diverse ways you can express your Holiday Spirit inside your home. Recommendations for decorating smaller spaces to provide a big impact. TIP-utilize wall space with floating shelves to display holiday decor.

Learn how to live large in a small space with smart design.

Small space design tips: Change accessories with the season and holiday to freshen up a small space. Spruce up your interior by simply adding pillows to your couch and bed that recognize the season. From whimsical design to elegant accessories or a little of both will brighten up a room. Select items that would best complement your existing style.

Above you see an examples of elegant accents in rich fabrics; such as brocade and velvet. Below is a festive and whimsical addition to brighten up a room and recognize the special time of year.

Decor to warm up your home.

Displayed below is a lovely shade of teal used in both the pillow and the throw. These cozy throws are pretty and practical for cooler weather. Add a vibrant pop of color with royal blue. Source Hanukkah decorations and unique ways to style your home for the Festival of Lights at: https://peacelovelightshop.com/blogs/news/4-of-our-favorite-influencers-decorate-for-hanukkah

Double your space visually with a floor mirror.

Made for merriment

Let’s consider what makes a holiday party memorable. Some may say it’s the food, or a combination of perfect music, and a comfortable environment with spectacular decorations. Others may feel going the extra mile to include live entertainment or a DJ will take a celebration to the next level. While all these elements certainly contribute to the gathering, a holiday party is mainly about human connection. If you are fortunate enough to enjoy the company of loved ones and close friends, that in itself creates memories to cherish. TIP: An important recommendation when planning any event is to think about how you can best make guests comfortable. Our suggestions encourage mingling, interaction, and hopefully laughter, ingredients sure to make your gathering a success.

Where do you begin? Just like Santa does, make a list & check it twice.

Host a wonderful holiday gathering for those close to you. Being organized will help you to save time in this busy season. Begin by creating a comprehensive list. You will need categories to assist with prioritizing your tasks, so you stay on schedule and enjoy what you are doing vs. getting overwhelmed, or exhausted.

Begin with a guest list so you can get an approximate head count. Also, determine the best day and time to throw the party. Too close to Christmas Day may limit your attendance if your guest list includes more than family. Your “To Do” list should begin with a thorough house cleaning to showcase decorations and your effort. 

• Create a budget that doesn’t empty your wallet.
•  Write a purchase at the food store list.
•  Include ordering or creating invitations, and select a date for mailing them on your list.
•  You may also need a name list to call for addresses you don’t have-if you wish to mail formal invitations. Mailing invitations does not mean you can’t send an email reminder a couple of days before the party.
• Consider both buying and making food in advance to save time. If you prefer to cook several dishes vs. baking desserts, then purchase the desserts.
• Remember that guests may offer to bring wine, an appetizer, or food contributions. It’s perfectly fine to graciously accept if your party is in your home. 
• You can opt to choose a theme; such as a winter wonderland with snowflakes, or a Log cabin Christmas with decorations from nature such as pinecones, and poinsettias.
• Essentials: Don’t overlook items such as, guest hand towels. Add a new waste basket and washable rug for the bathroom, and don’t forget pretty hand soap (perhaps purchase a festive soap dispenser), air freshener, and as a reminder-and don’t laugh-extra TP and disposable hand towels. The guest towels below are from Pottery Barn and could serve as a decor item for the season.

Don’t overlook table settings. They add ambiance and express the care you put into planning your party. You are setting more than the table-you are setting the atmosphere. Below are examples highlighting nature as a theme, followed by a warm environment twist with starfish and bright colors, to the elegance of a monochromatic color scheme. The last elegant example would be a beautiful table setting during the Festival of Lights.

Consider your guests

The sharing of delicious food, and demonstrations of thoughtfulness and kindness, will herald in the holidays.

• Where can they place their coats and valuables?
• Create a specific place in your home for food and liquor contributions to be displayed and enjoyed.
• Is there a designated place for them to grab a drink and appetizer as they arrive? Place a food station where you want your guests to socialize. Guests will gravitate there.
• Mail invitations early due to the busy time of year, giving them comfortable time to RSVP.
• Host an ugly holiday sweater contest
• Give token gifts/party favors to your guests as a thank you. Check out Etsy for so many wonderful examples; such as hot cocoa in a single serving that is personalized at 1.00 each, and up (link): https://www.etsy.com/listing/912627680/hot-chocolate-favors-for-guest-hot?ref=sim_anchor
• Incorporate a “Holiday Cookie Party” within your gathering for the children if several children will attend. Give an award to the winner of the best homemade cookie. Hasbro still makes a toy Easy Bake Oven: https://easybake.hasbro.com/
• Gift certificate’s in a Christmas stocking would work, too.
• Pick up coloring books and small toy items to keep the children entertained. Every retailer imaginable from Amazon to Target sells fantastic pop-up playhouse indoor tents for kids. So cool!

Cookies too pretty to eat!

For the Cookie ornament recipe and video visit: https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/holiday-cookie-ornaments/fd7033c9-29db-4c96-9bca-09a9404533fd

Celebrate the Goodness.

A variety of food recipes perfect for the holidays check out one of our favorite sites: https://www.brit.co/food/

Festive Touches with kid appeal for any size space. Darling owl, raccoon, and fox stockings seem a natural addition to this winter wonderland. A mitten garland handmade in any length. Just use yarn to hang the colorful mittens. Warm up with a Coffee and Hot Cocoa Station for the grown-ups.

Let’s get this Celebration Started! Welcome guests at your front door. 

Immediate impact is achieved with a striking seasonal wreath to liven up your entrance. Don’t stop there; add some seasonal plants and pumpkins to decorate the stairs or walkway for extra Fall flair. Create a Harvest themed bounty of beauty to welcome your loved ones. Below are some images to guide and inspire you. Haystacks can be found in craft stores, as can decorative scarecrows, also available in large chain stores during the holiday season. The whimsical scarecrow will amuse the children, and it’s a project in which they can participate. Tip: Ready-made wreaths can be beautiful and are a time saver. Just google Holiday wreaths, there are so many lovely ones to select from at varied prices.

From the pumpkin farm to the front door, get the kids involved.

Repurpose

Glass apothecary jars and vases are a great yet inexpensive way to add holiday style to your home. Purchase artificial Autumn leaves, a few pine combs, acorns, and small pumpkins, which are available in a bag of potpourri. I have even seen pumpkins, gourds, pinecones, Indian corn, and fresh potted plants at the supermarket. Here you see a white pumpkin inside the apothecary jar and some nuts. You can even use some dry orange slices or potpourri. A season-appropriate five-minute time investment for you to create either decorating option. Tip: When December arrives, you can fill an apothecary with Christmas balls and ornamental stars in different sizes and add pine sprigs between the decorations. Keep the pine cones and nuts from your Thanksgiving arrangements in the existing container. Consider adding a small strand of white battery-operated lights inside for ambiance. Tip: It took me about five minutes to make the floral arrangement you see below. Create a list of what you need, then consider a visit to a large craft store where you can get everything you want in one location to save time, or there is always the order online option.

If you already own a ceramic pumpkin the base can make a wonderful dining table vase. If not, they are easily found in home goods stores in a variety of colors. Of course, there is always a fresh option to consider. Fresh flowers can be inserted into wet florist foam. Select your favorite flowers.

Transform what you already own in an inventive new way. Your existing decorations can be given a new purpose and styled into contemporary holiday-themed decor without spending much money. Create a vignette displaying Autumn themed items on a mantle or table. Fill small wicker baskets and clear apothecary jars with faux Fall colored leaves and pinecones. Use walnuts and other assorted nuts still in their shells to fill a glass container. Do you have white or orange lights? Make sure your lights are non-flammable. String lights tucked into a glass vase creates a dramatic lighting effect. They can also be used in the center of the table, as pictured. My coworker Marea says, “It’s all about the vibe.” Meaning you don’t need crystal and china worth thousands of dollars to create a beautiful Thanksgiving table or welcoming home. This simple table centerpiece below with pumpkins, gourds, apples, and Fall leaves denotes Thanksgiving, and it takes about five minutes to create after gathering what you need for your centerpiece.

Tip: Homemade Roasted Butternut Squash Soup-a time saver to make the day before Thanksgiving. Do you have enough small soup bowls on hand? If not, you can use large mugs.

Thanksgiving Table Centerpieces Provide a WOW factor.

Tip: Experiment with layering plates in different colors from large to small salad plates. 

Not everyone’s location includes a seasonal change from Summer to Fall. Many folks live in warm climates, such as Florida. This sunflower table setting is ideal for a patio area table. Use any color bottom plate that would coordinate with your tablecloth and napkins. In this centerpiece, instead of the blue plate, you could substitute green. As pictured above, I frequently combine crystal salad plates to serve a formal dinner. Don’t forget the fresh sunflowers readily available in food stores. Tip: No extra vase at hand; use a large white or clear glass pitcher to hold the fresh sunflowers. 

A classic Williams and Sonoma table for those with traditional taste.

You can use a runner alone as pictured here, or you can put one on top of a tablecloth. Consider setting your table the day before. Give yourself time to experiment with the table setting and eliminate a task from the “to-do” list on Thanksgiving day. Put out placemats or chargers, and layer dishes in different sizes. Don’t forget the name labels if several guests are invited. Place glasses above the plate and to the right. Tip: Set glasses upside down on the table to keep them dust-free before your meal, turning them just before guests arrive. Check to see how many serving bowls will fit without detracting from your tablescape.

Although the food looks delicious, the example below appears cluttered. Unless you plan to serve buffet style, there can be too much of a good thing in one spot. Tip: you may want to incorporate a spiral ham presented on a cutting board in another close location. If space is limited make a separate dessert station for after the meal which gives family and guests a chance to digest, and share time together.

Enjoy the table setting pictures and consider using components you like from each to create a tablescape that will suit your needs this Thanksgiving.  Tip: In the first two images below you will see that mixing china and dishware is not only permissible, it’s pretty! Most love the large chargers under the china. They add extra sparkle and shine. Do you like winter white? If so, contemplate keeping your theme monochromatic. Feel free to mix in shades of taupe and beige with white. Add a splash of color with a bronze charger as below.

Monochromatic themes are not boring when done correctly. Some prefer soft elegance versus vibrant colors, it’s a personal choice. The use of birch candles here is a definite plus and would look even prettier adjacent to white fresh flowers bordered by the small white pumpkins. We will be sharing many centerpiece options to encourage your creativity.

Green apples are the crowning glory in this arrangement. Add in variegated leaves, and a touch of orange and plum petals and the result is a magnificent centerpiece that exemplifies a bountiful Harvest time.

Five minute DIY centerpieces to make your day easier but no less special.

Thanksgiving Table Centerpieces that are Easy to Create yet Eye Catching and Represent Autumn and Thanksgiving.

Time saver Tip: Keep it simple! The mums and daisies below brighten up the table. Select assorted flowers in colors that match or complement your table settings. Add in sunflowers for that perfect touch of Autumn. Pictured below, the greenery is eucalyptus. Inquire if your guests have allergies to specific flowers prior to making your selection for indoor use.

There are no steadfast rules, other than to be creative. Tip: tie a small fresh flower or berries to the stem of the glassware with ribbon.

Time saver Tip: Create a cheese display and wine paring. Select an area that’s large enough to encourage mingling and conversation.  The goal is to keep guests out of the kitchen and make them comfortable.

This will require minimal planning to eliminate the stress of rushing to prepare, so start at the very least a week ahead, make a list, and plan to gather nonperishable and some perishable items; such as dry salami that stay fresh for more than a few days, crackers, etc. Remember to include holiday appetizers, seasonings, and ingredient’s for side dishes, juices non-alcoholic beverages, wine, and/or cocktails. Tip: Some guests may prefer non-alcoholic beverages, soda, or sparkling water, and it is always a special touch to slice some fresh fruit. Tip: Slice garnishes the night before. There are no steadfast rules dictating that you must stick with lemon and limes. Below are some excellent garnish examples from raspberries, and oranges to cucumber slices, and grapefruit. In addition to flavoring the beverage, these garnishes turn ordinary into extraordinary! Plus aren’t they beautiful to look at? Thoughtful special touches are not only delightful but appreciated, and sure to make the holiday memorable for everyone.

Tip: Remember to add to your shopping list: garnishes, for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Definitely prep a day before and set aside cucumber slices, raspberries, blueberries, lemon and lime slices.

Desserts for the children and adults. The images below are beautiful to look at and even better to eat.

Floral Arrangements that will Deliver Compliments Galore.

Instead of a flower arrangement in a vase, you can opt for a pumpkin filled with seasonal flowers, surrounded by fresh produce like bosc pears, and small gourds. To craft the pumpkin centerpiece to the depth of the vase, scoop out the insides from an ivory or orange pumpkin and set a vase into the pumpkin to hold the flowers you select. If you are using a small pumpkin and need extra height on the table set the arrangement on top of a log slice cutting board, or a stack of dishes. Choose a size that is appropriate to your table and the available space.

Tip: Create an area for self-serve coffee and drinks. Decide upon a designated area for cheese and wine. If the temperature is not too cold, the patio is a perfect location. This will keep guests from standing in the kitchen (where everyone seems to naturally convene) and provide a comfortable area for conversation.

Thanksgiving Day Menu-Make-ahead Recommendations

This will require some advance planning to eliminate the stress of rushing to prepare, so start at the very least a week ahead to gather nonperishable items. Don’t forget to include holiday appetizers, side dishes, juices non-alcoholic beverages, wine and/or cocktails. Tip: Add in a few make-ahead side dishes, you will be doing yourself a favor by reducing your workload and hopefully you won’t be too tired to enjoy the special day.

Taste the Love

Make the stuffing a day ahead of time, as well as the mashed potatoes and gravy, which can keep in a slow cooker the day of. Add a bit of butter and milk to warm them. According to the experts at ALL Recipes: “Pies like pumpkin and pecan need to fully cool to set so they don’t just become sloppy when sliced. Even an apple pie, which is delicious warm, is better off fully cooled and then rewarmed. Fully cooling allows the juices in the pie to thicken allowing you to cut tall, impressive slices rather than jumbled piles of warm apples. If you really must have your pie warm, make your pie the day before, then let it cool, uncovered. A few minutes before you want to serve it on Thanksgiving, put it back in a warm oven for 20 minutes or so. The juices will stay thickened, but the pie will be warm, giving you the best of both worlds.” A favorite splurge for me is topping the warm slice of apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream sprinkled with cinnamon.

Tip: Write a Thanksgiving dinner checklist. It should be your timeline to success with all your Thanksgiving preparations.

Design on a Dime

Above we show two lanterns easily found and purchased online, and a poinsettia along with an adorable red birdhouse. Even if you are in an apartment, townhome/condo, your front entrance should not be forgotten when it comes to adding just a few items that welcome guests and create that special holiday feeling of warmth. Adding two or three festive items is not a budget breaker. Many seasonal items you can make yourself, such as a holiday wreath. If you have an old birdhouse, give it a fresh coat of spray paint, and glue on some pine and berry sprays that can be found at the dollar store, or online. Tip, these tiny floral sprays can also be used to decorate gifts placed next to a name tag.

Before COVID, no one thought twice about opening our homes in celebration of the season and the upcoming new year. Sharing joy, friendship, and love are the ingredients that create unforgettable memories. You may be wondering, how you can manage to celebrate in the face of a pandemic? So, we’re sharing stress-free seasonal activity and decor suggestions that we hope will spark some holiday creativity, inspire smiles, and warm hearts in the process. How can cookies that are too pretty to eat not bring a smile? Can you imagine a child’s eyes opened wide with delight upon receiving one of these cookies?

Wouldn’t you agree, with 2020 being a year filled with challenges galore for most of us, we owe it to ourselves to seek joyful moments? If you are away on business, living in long-term accommodation, there are outdoor activities that may provide an opportunity to connect with others safely and hopefully turn shared experiences into lifelong memories. If you are residing in your home then consider planning safe outdoor activities as well. At Stress Free Corporate Housing we believe in holiday magic, and we want to offer ideas and tips that may help you enjoy the Season, as we all say goodbye to a year unlike any other in our lifetimes.

Health and Wellbeing

If you are traveling and far from home, you may not have the option of going home for the Holidays. If by chance you have a day when you are feeling a little homesick and you’re in an area that offers a nearby park or safe wooded area, take a walk in nature as it melts stress away. You may be pleasantly surprised by comical squirrel or chipmunk antics or a curious fox- if you are lucky. We really don’t recommend any close wild animal encounters as we are all aware they can be enjoyed from a safe distance.

Bring along scissors on your nature walk and a bag to carry back plant trimmings. Look for ivy, fir branches, and pine cones to decorate your temporary lodging or home. Create a Christmas wreath, and make your own garlands. Instructional how-to videos are easily found online. Check Youtube. Don’t be surprised if you discover how one project leads to another. Before you know it-not only do you end up with great decorations-you may begin to enjoy the magic of the holidays and decide not to forgo the Season’s festivities.

It’s not easy being separated from those we love, but keep in mind this year may be the only opportunity you have to learn about your current location’s culture. If you are traveling for business, take photos to share with family and friends. Use the images to make gift tags, tee shirts, tote bags, and coffee mugs. The option to reproduce your images by transferring them to items of your choice is readily available on Amazon. If you enjoy writing consider beginning a journal and record all things you find interesting. When you look at your journal a year later, you will undoubtedly reminisce. One never knows you could begin a travel blog!

Be sure to check websites to see what is taking place in your city, as many activities have been canceled due to the pandemic.

When spending time indoors, make an ornament to commemorate your stay if you are away on business travel. Give your custom ornaments to office colleagues, friends, and family. You will need 3 ingredients: flour, salt, and water, to mix together.

Directions according to AllRecipes.com:

• Step 1-Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
• Step 2-Mix flour and salt well. Gradually add water, stirring with a large spoon. Finish mixing with hands. Knead until soft and pliable.
• Step 3-Roll out on a floured surface about 1/8 inch thick. Cut shapes with cookie cutters. Place on cookie sheets. With a toothpick make a hole in the top of the ornament for threading string. Bake at 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) until hard, about 1 hour. Decorate with paint and varnish to preserve.

If children are in your household allow them to place candy canes or unbreakable ornaments on the tree. They can also help to create flour or paper decorations and adorn the tree with their homemade ornaments. Handmade Holiday cards from children are a delight to receive. There are many ways to keep children engaged in the festivities. Assist them in repotting a small plant, and give it as a gift to a neighbor, or teacher-if back in school.

Twas the night before Christmas, and everyone was snuggly tucked in their beds or on the couch watching holiday movies on Hallmark. While this may be an ideal activity for well-earned rest and relaxation, you can surely mix in some outdoor activity plans on occasion. If in a cold climate, build a snowman, ice skate, check your town’s newspaper or website to find a list of local holiday happenings. Perhaps you will discover an outdoor Christmas tree farm, (a great activity to be shared with your kids) or even better, a holiday market to visit.

Look for safe, socially distanced outdoor events. Is the town holding an annual Christmas pageant or caroling outside in the town center? There happens to be a Hallmark movie about a holiday pageant, but don’t watch the move-go to the pageant, or do both.

After the outdoor activity of your choice, warm-up with a hot mug of yummy Snow Cocoa. The recipe is courtesy of Kistna Alper, who makes Snow Cocoa for our entire office each Holiday Season. Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed; let’s just say YUM is an understatement.

• 2 cups whipping cream
• 6 cups milk (I usually use whole milk or 2%)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 12 oz package white chocolate chips (try to use Ghiradelli if you can)
• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk

•  Directions –Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
• Heat on low for 2-2 1/2 hours or until chocolate is melted and the mixture is hot.
• Stir well to blend.
• Garnish with a candy cane
• Enjoy from a festive mug on a chilly day.

You don’t have to turn into Santa’s helper but consider volunteering to brighten the holiday for those less fortunate. Most volunteers will say it is they who received the reward-an incredible feeling. Area senior centers, churches, and synagogues may have suggestions of events they need help with staffing. Teach a class at a local library or college. I have volunteered to teach marketing at three area colleges and a library. I met great people and truly enjoyed the questions from the students and attendees. It was a wonderful experience forever etched in my memory. If you are not comfortable volunteering, then read a book to a friend’s child, such as the Polar Express. You will likely enjoy the interaction as much as the child.

Shine Bright This Season

“A candle is a small thing. But one candle can light another. And see how its own light increases, as a candle gives its flame to the other. You are such a light.” —Moshe Davis. A universal sentiment that is especially relevant during Hanukkah. In case you do not celebrate Hanukkah, this is why we light menorahs for Hanukkah, according to a feature in Readers Digest.

Hopefully, you will be pleasantly surprised with a gift you are fortunate to receive that doesn’t cost a thing-some extra courtesy on the roads, and in the stores. I don’t know what comes over people, but they seem more patient and courteous during the holidays. I wish that the Holiday Spirit could last year long. Someone should invent a transparent mask that shows a smile. In the grocery store, I came across a mom with a toddler in a cart. The little girl was singing. She was darling and I was smiling-though no one knew-because I had my mask on. I commented, “She is singing!” I think this horrible COVID ordeal has made many people notice and appreciate pleasant little things vs. rushing through life.

“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” —Hamilton Wright Mabie

Tis The Season To Be Jolly!

If you celebrate Christmas, the smell of pine can be a magical thing, transporting folks back to fond childhood memories of Christmas’s shared long ago. Looking to add a little festivity to your holidays? Invite a work friend or a couple of friends over to help decorate the tree. Make hot chocolate (recipe option above) garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or offer a cup of coffee with a dash of Grand Mariner, or Ameretto-you are allowed-after all, it is the Holidays. Egg nog and warm cider are great non-alcohol alternatives for those who have to drive or do not care to partake in alcoholic beverages.

Turn on some holiday music to decorate by and put out some Christmas cookies, or cheese and grapes-accompanied by wine or champagne to create a seasonal celebration. Any of these options are a sure-fire way to make spirits bright! Speaking of fires, if you have a fireplace, take advantage of the ambiance and warmth a fire in the fireplace offers. Bob Villa will tell you everything you need to know about starting one safely at his blog link: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-start-a-fire-in-a-fireplace/

Let’s Talk DIY-Christmas & Holiday Crafts

You can go for a rustic look as pictured above or add ornaments, gold beads, ribbon to the potpourri, and use a crystal bowl or transparent vase to create more shine and glamour.

Holiday Potpourri

A DIY holiday potpourri is sure to infuse your apartment home with the inviting scents of the holiday season. Oranges can be dried in the oven and then can be used to adorn wreaths, and or garlands, or be displayed decoratively in bowls mixed with holiday decor items; such as dried cinnamon sticks, pinecones, ornaments, or whatever makes you smile. This is in addition to being used in your homemade potpourri. Did you ever think there would be so many uses for an orange slice!

Potpourri preparation

Start by slicing oranges into 1/4 inch thick slices for a wreath, less for potpourri.

1. Set on a paper towel and pat dry. Place them on a metal cooling rack over a baking tray.
2. Place into a low oven (100°C) for about three-four hours.
3. Turn them over every half hour or so to prevent them from sticking to the tray.
4. Allow the slices to cool completely.

Sprinkle in some cloves easily found in grocery stores, as are the cinnamon sticks. Your home will surely smell delicious!

Lavish Tablescapes

It is easy to create an eye-catching tablescape. Start collecting items, and just have fun setting it on top of the table runner. Mix in small ornaments, cinnamon sticks, pine cones, and ivy. Select a bright fabric napkin, some votive candles in pretty holders, and feel free to mix all sized and shaped candlesticks and holders. Some faux apples and berries, add a pop of color and don’t forget the ribbon to serve as a napkin holder if you do not have holders you wish to use.

Mix fabric table cloths, placemats, and napkins. Below blue fabric placemats complement a neutral taupe cloth. The color scheme is carried through to the mantel. Blue and silver are beautiful together.

Deck the Hall’s–Accessorize Your Furniture and Interior.

Think of it as the jewelry you would wear with formal attire; only it finishes your house interior. Select your favorite holiday colors, use silver and/or gold accents on your mantle, place bright red or green throw pillows on the sofa and bed. Use a striking blanket or throw over the couch, put out fresh flowers and even a small potted plant. A low maintenance plant that can last for decades and is easily found during the Holiday Season is a Christmas Cactus, also called a Holiday Cactus. The blooms come in a variety of color choices from hot pink to pale, white, and red. A succulent prefers bright indirect sunlight. Holiday cactus are hearty plants that require little care. The following is a link to the Chicago Botanical garden for more detailed care of the plant. https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plantinfo/christmas_cactus

As we become adults, we realize that the most cherished gifts of the Season are not objects at all, but the gifts of love, friendship, and connection, which bring us joy. Being kept apart from our loved ones due to this pandemic has presented challenges for most of us. Advent Health offers tips to brighten your spirits during these socially distant holidays. View this advice that you can share with a friend or family member that may not be taking the pandemics’ forced separation from their loved ones well, as it has been a prolonged period. https://www.adventhealth.com/blog/7-ways-brighten-your-spirits-during-socially-distant-holidays

If ever in need of temporary accommodations, please don’t hesitate to call; we are happy to answer all of your questions. The Stress Free Corporate Housing team wishes you and your loved ones a Happy Holiday Season. We hope we have provided information to help you make the most of this special time of year. Stay well, and safe.

Whether you require corporate housing or not, this blog will help you make the most of your holidays. With the season fast approaching, the Stress Free Corporate Housing team felt what better time for safety and activity planning tips.

Brief Introduction

People utilize corporate housing for several reasons. Business travel continues, and International students need temporary housing near campus. During a crisis, when medical workers are called in to care for patients, they need apartments. The patients’ families also look for furnished accommodations offering a comfortable home-like environment. Rest assured, Stress Free Corporate Housing has availability anywhere in the U.S. to meet individual requirements. We will find you a front door that leads to a home you’ll look forward to sharing with your loved ones.

Home Away From Home

You do not have to forgo the Holiday Season due to the COVID19 pandemic; just be sure to take precautions to help protect your family and friends. This blog will provide comprehensive information, spiced up with a dash of festive flavor to inspire your creativity, and hopefully help you share the love without the germs.

Autumn Skies and Pumpkin Pies!

Can you recall the wonderful aroma from the pumpkin pie in the oven-making the house smell delicious? Is there a fond memory you have from your childhood of a special Thanksgiving? We’re here to help you make new memories for those you love.

After months of physical distancing, most of us are more than ready to celebrate the upcoming holidays. This blog should help you do just that in a caring, smart way, which you can customize to create a holiday season that will best suit your family, friends, and budget.

This “new normal” continues to force lifestyle demands on us all to slow the spread of COVID19 and keep people safe. The pandemic brought consequences that have impacted peoples’ livelihoods, health, and happiness. So how do we make the best of it, and what are our options to celebrate as safely as possible? If helping those you love to have a happy holiday season is your goal, there are ways to accomplish it with safety in mind. The good news is that we can still experience joy, gratitude, and connection as we have shared in previous holidays, but achieve these emotions by different or adjusted methods adapted to help keep friends and loved ones as safe as possible. 

Coping with separation from extended family, friends and numerous other adjustments to our daily routines have caused disruption and worse. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your safest option is to celebrate with your household alone. However, if it is important to you to share your Thanksgiving meal and holidays with extended family and friends, you may be concerned about how to accomplish this. The CDC released a set of recommendations to keep seasonal gatherings safe. Below are tips and a link from the CDC offering relevant information. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays.html

The CDC recommends the following lower risk activities.

• Having a small dinner with only people who live in your household
• Preparing traditional family recipes for family and neighbors, especially those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and delivering them in a way that doesn’t involve contact with others
• Having a virtual dinner celebration and sharing recipes with friends and family.
• Shopping online rather than in person on the day after Thanksgiving or the next Monday
• Watching sports events, parades, and movies from home

Consider the Location of the Gathering.

Indoor gatherings generally pose more risk than outdoor gatherings. Indoor gatherings with poor ventilation pose more risk than those with adequate ventilation, such as open windows or doors.

Moderate Risk Activities

• Having a small outdoor dinner with family and friends who live in your community
  • Lower your risk by following CDC’s recommendations on hosting gatherings or cook-outs.
• Visiting pumpkin patches or orchards where people use hand sanitizer before touching pumpkins or picking apples, wearing masks is encouraged or enforced, and people are able to maintain social distancing.
• Attending small outdoor sports events with safety precautions in place

Higher Risk Activities

The CDC states the following are Higher risk activities and recommends that we avoid these activities to help prevent the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19:

• Going shopping in crowded stores just before, on, or after Thanksgiving.
• Participating or being a spectator at a crowded race
• Attending crowded parades
• Attending large indoor gatherings with people from outside of your household

Tip to Reduce Stress

Upon researching to write this blog, I was pleased to learn that gratitude can be a valid coping response. Research shows that people who nurture daily celebratory and gratitude habits have more energy, less anxiety, and better physical health. Many acknowledge gratitude around the Thanksgiving table, as each person shares a few blessings, they are most grateful to have.   https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/pdfs/GratitudePDFs/6Emmons-BlessingsBurdens.pdf

Reflect on your present blessings, on which every man has many, not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some. —Charles Dickens (M. Dickens, 1897, p. 45) Sage advice never goes out of date.

The American Red Cross put together a useful list covering cooking to safety tips. It gets right to the point and it’s easy to print and use. https://www.redcross.org/local/california/los-angeles/about-us/news-and-events/press-releases/20-tips-to-help-have-a-safe-thanksgiving.html

Many families and close friends develop unique Thanksgiving traditions. One activity I have heard of is a way of expressing gratitude to those you hold dear. Here is how it works. After the meal, the hostess provides cards and stamped envelopes so everyone can write a card of thanks telling a family member how they have made a difference in their life. They write the person’s name on the envelope, and the hostess can complete the address. The following day the cards are mailed. It is a heartwarming wonderful surprise and keepsake for the recipient.

Many organizations advise forgetting the buffet this year. If guests are in attendance, opt for one person serving food with a mask on versus a buffet-style service or having everyone pass casseroles and side dishes around the table.

Do you miss that special feeling that generally arrives with the Holidays? Are you wondering if there is a way to feel that inspiration in your heart this year with everything we have all gone through?

If the budget is a conservative one this year, crafting with the kiddos is a holiday activity they will remember through the years. Just today, one of my friends in her fifties was reminiscing on Facebook about how special her mother always made Halloween. Her memories included making caramel apples and baking cookies together. The interaction shared can become a treasured memory and perhaps an activity passed down to children and grandchildren.

A Great Grownup Activity for November or December!

Host a small outdoor wine tasting. Place chairs six feet apart in a circle. Invite six to eight people to your holiday gathering. You can supply the wine or ask each couple or individual to bring a Varietal, a Merlot, Chardonnay, or a Cabernet Sauvignon of their choice with information about their selection to share with the other guests. Ask your guests to prepare a presentation offering interesting facts. Serve a cheese selection, crackers, hor’s d ‘oeuvres, served in small individual dishes. Wipe the bottles down, and have one person pouring and passing hor’s d ‘oeuvres wearing a mask and gloves they put on just before the foodservice. Remember it is a tasting, so keep the pours small. Mail and or email invitations with a rain date.

Varietal – Wikipedia, A varietal wine is a wine made primarily from a single named grape variety, and which typically displays the name of that variety on the label. Examples of grape varieties commonly used in varietal wines are Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot.

Even with the pandemic, you can still decorate your home with Autumn accessories, make your grandmother’s traditional Thanksgiving casserole and share fun activities with the children, such as building gingerbread houses.

Baking is a timeless example of how we can spend quality time together. Make sure to allow the children to help prepare your home for family and your guest’s arrival. Put them in charge of holiday decorations; craft a cornucopia together. Baking goodies, gathering pinecones, folding napkins, and other age-appropriate activities help children feel like they have contributed. You can also allow the kids to serve the Thanksgiving dessert.

If you are short on a full set of dishes to serve everyone a meal and dessert, no worries, many hosts mix and match plates in varying sizes. It is considered Cest’ Chic.

When I was a child, and Grandma would visit from the city, I took it upon myself to make construction paper signs displaying our photos together to welcome her. Your kids can cut portions of old cards to embellish the “welcome, and we love you signs,” adding a bit of tape on the back of the family photos to secure them to their sign, without damage. Give them safety scissors, some Elmer’s glue, and small silk flowers from the dollar store. A tiny peppermint candy in a wrapper and a ribbon can adorn their sign. There are no rules establishing what can be used as decoration. Let the children’s creativity flourish, and you will be amazed by the outcome.

Small Updates that Make Big Impact

From tablescapes to festive bowls and vases filled with gleaming goodies, trinkets, and potpourri. Opt to go rustic, or get your shine on!

Thanksgiving tablescapes exude both charm and the comfort of home. They also let your guests know an extra special meal is ahead. Gather pine cones for a pretty basket or your table. Add a touch of gold, silver, or white paint to the cone tips to achieve a dash of natural elegance to a rustic look. Mix in a few candles and candlesticks along with some holiday greens placing everything on the table runner for Thanksgiving dinner. If you live in an area where pine cones are not available outdoors, they are readily available in craft stores and online.

Fill your crystal bowls and vases with potpourri and gold beads, silk flowers, or leaves, artificial glittering fruits, or any pretty items, to add that extra bit of “holiday magic” to the celebration.

Better Homes and Gardens recommends you “cover your Thanksgiving bird in bacon and relax.” The flavorful bacon will baste the meat and crisp the outside to succulent perfection. This easy twist on your Holiday main course will delight guests and may even become the newest tradition for your family feast.” https://www.bhg.com/party/thanksgiving-hosting-hacks/

With Christmas soon to follow…

It is your time to shine your special light. Dust the menorah, or unpack your cherished Christmas ornaments. Create fun for all by sharing activities with loved ones. Make decorating the Christmas tree into a family party. Consider baking and crafting, as handmade ornaments make cherished gifts. Video your family singing together to share online. If you like being outdoors, enjoy time spent gardening. Set some time aside for holiday decorating with the kiddos. Grab some markers and art supplies so the kids can make holiday cards. Paint a canvas, then take a photo to create a custom coffee mug, tee-shirt, or mouse pad to be given as holiday gifts.

Remember, there are drive-through events in most cities-beautiful light displays many set to music. Be sure to check and see what your city has planned. Keep a positive outlook, find safe activities you can participate in, and make plans to enjoy them!

Activities that are safe include… 

Fantastic light displays to thrill children and adults, sure to get the entire family in the Holiday Spirit!

• Drive around town and look at everyone else’s holiday decorations. Take a family vote for the first place winner of the best holiday display. 
• Seek daily moments that bring a smile and make one into a cause for celebration, bring the kids into the planning. Allow them to contribute to the family celebration.    

It is wonderful that we have the technology to keep connected to loved ones that live a distance away keeping us in touch during what can become lonely times if little effort is made to connect those we care about. A virtual party can be organized. During the holidays, you can use Zoom to host a Christmas caroling group and invite viewers. 

To foster holiday cheer, keep in touch with friends and distant family members on social sites. Hold an ugly Christmas sweater competition; an event sure to be just as funny virtually. Have participants post photos and give a prize (gift card) for the winner that has the most votes.

For those with children who will miss getting to see Santa, check out JingleRing, which allows you to schedule a live or prerecorded virtual call with Ol’ St. Nick.

• Plan to reduce indoor shopping trips to reduce health risks. Unfortunately, not everyone in the store sticks to the 6 feet away rule. Retail stores are racing to adapt to online service, as are food stores, so you are likely to find everything you need online.
• No matter what your plans are-start early, a time crunch and heavy workload to accomplish your holiday to-do list can add to the stress.

The Stress Free Corporate Housing team wishes you and your loved ones a bountiful and blessed season. We hope we have provided resources along with activity options to help you and your family enjoy safe and happy holidays.

Many people are wondering if remote work is here to stay, remaining a workforce option after the pandemic. Leading into recovery, it seems as if remote work will likely transition into the ongoing “new normal,” according to data compiled from the 2020 State of Remote Work report by Buffer, and AngelList.

In addition to the data being reported, it is no secret that Twitter, Facebook, Google, and Zillow have announced plans to allow workers to continue remote work until 2021 and, in some cases, permanently.

Remote work does not require you to work from home; many employees opt to travel to other countries or destinations where employers need the best talent to help facilitate corporate growth. A short-term or long-term deployment requires temporary accommodations, also known as corporate housing. This growing acceptance of remote work is expected to increase the demand for temporary housing.

According to a report by Upwork, 73 percent of all companies will have remote workers by 2028. It is the common consensus that Corporate Housing is safer, minimizing the chance of exposure to viruses than hotel stays because there is less traffic with controlled access. Other desirable perks especially for a longer stay include a more spacious home-like environment normally at a lower cost per night. These benefits along with several others, makes this solution a safer and smarter choice for extended short or long term stays.

Working from home or from temporary housing in a comfortable environment can still produce the results employers are looking for. In fact, Global Workplace Analytics stated, “56% of employees have a job where at least some of what they do could be done remotely.” Top executives have been pleasantly surprised to learn that productivity has actually increased during the pandemic stay at home mandate.

Remote work can be done from any location other than your employer’s office and does not require you to work from home. Business travelers have more autonomy with the abundance of technology available. They can self-service housing options and travel tickets and call for an Uber ride upon arrival. With Millennials reshaping the formerly structured business world, furnished apartments offer the accommodation of choice, with a community-centric, home-like environment often available to be booked in real-time.

Companies have recognized that employee health and satisfaction are directly tied to their successful business results. As incentives, they are implementing travel policies that may include a few days “bleisure” stay geared towards employee wellness, happiness, and you guessed it, retention of talent.

It is true that the majority of people love the flexibility that comes with working from home. However, along with the benefits of remote work, came new challenges for some. employees who had no prior experience with working from home. It is an adjustment, HR managers need to address. Some workers accustomed to a collaborative office, are not coping well with extended isolation. Additional problems reported include miscommunication or the lack of communication as a frustrating factor on the top of remote employees’ lists.

If a person has never worked remotely, they may not be able to achieve a work-life balance and could begin to feel drained. Certain employees could lack strong organizational skills that could be compounded by a make-shift work area. Then there are unplanned disruptions, such as Amazon delivery, the lawn men’s arrival, a relative that continually calls, or Wi-Fi going down, and the list goes on, creating another one of those days when you ask-why me? We have all had them, but while some people can maintain their focus; others can not deal with distractions as well. Many may claim these annoyances may not be as stressful as a long commute, yet they still take a toll on productivity and well-being. This where empathy and flexibility come into play from HR professionals and managers.

Working remotely necessitates leaders creating practices that make employees feel informed and connected to their team and workplace. Consistent communication with colleagues remains a necessity to facilitate a productive workflow. Employees that feel a part of the organization want to do their part to add value.

Technology supports collaboration and if used correctly, can eliminate employee disengagement. Yet even with a host of benefits delivered from technology, it may not provide access to specific information needed from a manager or colleague. Innovation is not limited to technology; today’s virtual workplace includes innovative corporate cultures.

Leaders are faced with navigating what is next, and will undoubtedly continue doing so after the crisis has passed. Most see a restructuring of the way businesses operate. Some believe the crisis will create opportunities to improve business structure and processes.

Techniques HR and managers can use to support remote employees include letting employees know the best way and time to reach HR and management. Set rules to let employees know what is expected of them. Encourage daily check-in’s amongst teams, perhaps on slack or another group means of virtual interaction. If your team has been out of touch for several months, consider holding virtual social interaction for opt-in team building outside of work, and talk about a variety of topics.

Because COVID-19 has caused a strain for many people facing detrimental financial consequences, and required extended isolation, employers need to focus on inclusion-a critical driver of outcomes like productivity and engagement. Management can hold and encourage participation via virtual meetings. Many corporations are taking on an offensive strategy vs. a defensive reaction to disruption.

According to a research study called: “How Many Jobs Can be Done at Home?” By the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business, June 19th, 2020, and included in a SHERM feature, found that 37 percent of jobs in the United States can be performed entirely at home, with variation across cities and industries. These jobs typically pay more than jobs that cannot be done at home and account for 46 percent of all US wages.

Many large corporations are moving forward with a vision for the future far beyond recovery. In a NY Times article written this past May, Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook’s chief executive, told workers during a staff meeting that within a decade, as many as half of the company’s more than 48,000 employees would work from home. Do you wonder why Zuckerberg made this decision? I would be willing to bet that it makes business sense, as companies can reduce operating costs.

“Mr. Zuckerberg said the shift could offer more benefits than inconveniences for the company. Allowing remote work will allow Facebook to broaden its recruitment, retain valuable employees, reduce the climate impact caused by commutes, and expand the diversity of its workforce”. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/21/technology/facebook-remote-work-coronavirus.html

In a SHRM feature called Top Tips from SHRM 2020 where what changes that are here to stay were discussed, the below hybrid work model was identified as including the following:

• A hybrid work model where people will be allowed to work from an office, home, or anywhere.
• Increasing the flexibility of work schedule and location.
• “Gig” or project work will become a greater part of how organizations get work done.
• Employee engagement and wellness, especially regarding employees’ safety and mental health, will remain paramount.

https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/global-hr/pages/top-tips-shrm-edge-2020.aspx

Many people may find themselves with a choice to make in the not too distant future as according to a Cisco survey, “54% of all CFOs say their companies will make remote work a permanent option for roles that allow it.”

https://www.thepalmbeaches.com/arts-culture

It isn’t hard to see why The Palm Beaches’ scenic beauty has inspired generations of artists and collectors. Art is a way of life in Delray Beach, where Pineapple Grove and Old School Square brim with galleries and artist studios. Browse prestigious collections and exhibits at the Boca Raton Museum of Art and the Norton Museum of Art. In Palm Beach, transport your self to another era in history at the Flagler Museum, Whitehall.

There’s always something happening in the West Palm Beach Arts and Entertainment District and Harbourside Place in Jupiter-the premier downtown destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and boating. Nestled along Jupiter’s Intracoastal Waterway, Harbourside Place conveys that classic, coastal vibe.

Festival of the Arts BOCA is a glittering celebration of culture, while Shakespeare by the Sea draws fans of The Bard to Jupiter’s Carlin Park. And SunFest in West Palm Beach packs the waterfront for four straight days of great music, art, good vibes, and dancing in the street! There is never a shortage of fun in Palm Beach Country, with plentiful entertainment and activity options for every age, mood, and interest.

A great family activity sure to delight is the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center-Boca Raton. On a visit here, the parents are just as fascinated as the children. This joint project between the City of Boca Raton, Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District, Florida Atlantic University (FAU), and Friends of Gumbo Limbo hosts environmental programs for all ages, as well as sea turtle-themed activities and events: sea turtle summer camps, turtle walks, hatchling release observations, and free outdoor marine feedings, to name a few.

Flagler Museum

Take a trip back in time with a visit to magnificent Whitehall, Henry Flagler’s Gilded Age estate in Palm Beach. View exhibits on the history of Henry Flagler’s life and career. Explore Flagler Kenan Pavilion, designed in the style of a 19th-century Beaux Arts railway palace, which houses Henry Flagler’s private railcar. Discover the museum’s temporary exhibit gallery, which features materials on topics related to Florida history and America’s Gilded Age. Guided tours, audio tours, printed self-guided brochures and the Flagler Museum Audio Tour are available, all included with museum admission. You may not want to leave. Special events and programs are hosted throughout the year. To learn more visit their website at https://www.flaglermuseum.us/

Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, 500 Captain Armor’s Way, Jupiter
Jupiter is a town on the southeastern coast of Florida. On a hill overlooking the Loxahatchee River, the red 1860 Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse offers panoramic views. The site also has a preserved pioneer-era homestead and a museum devoted to regional history, housed in a WWII U.S. Navy building. Nearby Jupiter Beach faces the Atlantic Ocean. Running along the beachfront, Carlin Park has playgrounds and tennis courts. Even on a cloudy day, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is inspiring and iconic. Below is a link for exquisite images of Jupiter to really appreciate the areas natural beauty. http://Jupiter+fl&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=bCdPNyJPlvaWqM%253A%252CBubRqpfhg5jCNM%252C%252Fm%252F0rq76&vet=1&usg=AI4_-kTPPBStniy3ayBaUNUA-DRPd6IZoQ&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiq6_Sj0P7nAhWkTt8KHfKXDeMQ_B0wF3oECAUQAw#imgrc=bCdPNyJPlvaWqM:

photo by: Richard-Sagredo

Delray Beach is a small city on Florida’s southeast coast. The Pineapple Grove Arts District is dotted with public art and galleries. Nearby, Cornell Art Museum displays contemporary works. The lakeside Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens offers tea ceremonies, calligraphy workshops and serene outdoor spaces. Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a park featuring a raised boardwalk with views of birds, turtles and alligators.
58th Annual Delray Affair-https://events.palmbeachculture.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=events&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuNjzs_vv5wIViZWzCh1X7QouEAAYASAAEgICJPD_BwE
Friday, April 3 through Sunday, April 5th, Downtown Delray Beach.

Presented by Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce
In 2020, the Greater Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 58th year of the Delray Affair. Nicknamed the “Greatest Show under the Delray Sun”, the Delray Affair is one of the largest arts & craft festivals in the Southeast United States. The event takes place along the palm tree lined downtown streets of Delray Beach and stretches 12 city blocks.
The Delray Affair has received numerous awards for its ‘eclectic’ mixture of art, great crafts and funky products from around the world. Artists and crafters from all around the US exhibit at the Delray Affair. Visit the Delray Affair as you stroll the streets of The Most Fun Small Town in US!
Fri & Sat: 10 am – 6 pm

Clematis By Night
Saturday, April 4, 2020 @ 6:00pm
West Palm Beach Waterfront
Presented by City of West Palm Beach Community Events Division
Clematis by Night is West Palm’s favorite Thursday night tradition for more than 20 years. During Clematis by Night, “Where the Party Begins,” guests will enjoy live music, food and drink specials and the hottest local social scene, creating an unmatched seaside happy hour setting. For more information, please visit Wpb.org/events

Jupiter Outdoor Center offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, guided eco-tours, lessons, memberships and a variety of camps and youth programs. You can kayak with sea turtles in the Loxahatchee Aquatic Preserve, see birds on the islands, or paddle with manatees in the Indian River Lagoon, the most bio-diverse estuary in the country! https://www.jupiter.fl.us/

Pristine Palm Beach Beaches

Even if you came to The Palm Beaches to relax…that doesn’t mean you have to forgo fitness completely. There are golden beaches to walk along the shoreline, and nature trails can double as the most scenic outdoor gym ever. Just ask Jennifer Martin, an internationally recognized yoga instructor and spiritual life coach. “It’s easy to have enthusiasm for the outdoors and embrace the beauty that’s around you in The Palm Beaches,” she says. “For a complete mind, body and soul experience with yoga, there’s no better way to rejuvenate yourself than to connect with nature.”

Let Stress Free Corporate Housing find your ideal temporary accommodation so you can begin a wonderful life enriching experience in Florida. Contact us to learn more.

Join Stress Free Corporate Housing in creating a home you can’t wait to come home to.

The holiday decorating elf is ringing your doorbell to sprinkle some inspiration on you.

Bring on the jolly holiday cheer! We want to share a bevy of festive ideas for making your home a winter wonderland with tips to jazz up your interior and exterior with affordable unique decor. Discover eye catching front door design and beautiful tablescapes to make the most of holiday meals. Learn how to create easy DIY money savers to add to your existing decorations. Whatever options you select will delight your family and friends providing that holiday magic right from your welcoming front door. The best part is all of this eye swoon can be packed up and enjoyed for future holidays.

Festive Front Doors

Make a grand entrance with fun and festive presentations welcoming your friends and family into your home. Show your joy! We love that red front door. In addition to being festive, it denotes the warmth of hearth and home, in celebration of the season.

Many of these front door decorations are from Grandinroad. https://www.grandinroad.com/christmas-decor. Even if you do not select the exact item you can used these spectacular examples for inspiration to create your own work of holiday art.

Wow Factors

Light fixtures add character. You can easily elevate the style of a room, making it more casual or elegant with the design the fixture. Think of light fixtures as the jewelry that adds the special touch to attire. Light fixtures are the finishing touches in home decor, many add architectural interest. Have fun adding festive ribbon, ornaments and foliage to the lighting fixture. Chandeliers are ideal to decorate with the holiday theme of your choice, adding to the impact of the tablescape.

Cookie Swaps Bring Smiles

Make the Best Time of Year even better with party theme ideas:
Of course the ugly Christmas sweater contest is always a popular theme for a Christmas party, but if you want a gathering that is a bit more relaxed you can opt to hold a Christmas cookie swap, complete with a hot coco beverage bar. Nothing says you can’t also hold a contest for the ugliest Christmas sweater, too.

We’ve included party themes to inspire you. If your looking for some clever Holiday party themes, consider transforming the popular Christmas carol “The 12 Days of Christmas” into a fun scavenger hunt. Hide the items mentioned in the song and poem–like the golden rings–it’s OK to improvise. Look for a bird toy as a stand-in for the turtle doves. The dollar store is a cost effective resource to find the props. Hide the items throughout your house and yard. If you could ask Alexa to play the song while the hunt takes place that would be ideal. Feel free to leave written clues to help the players along. Pinterest has numerous pages with scavenger hunt clues that are printable. Everyone should count their presents at the end of the hunt and whoever has the most wins a gift! For help creating your own clues here is a link to the 12 days of Christmas poem. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/42913/the-twelve-days-of-christmas

Special Touches at Little Expense

Do you visit thrift stores? On your next trip to one look for mismatched vintage spoons. When you collect your unique spoons add a dollop of melted chocolate, and perhaps some coconut flakes to turn a typical cup of coffee to a heavenly treat.

Do You Enjoy Craft Projects?

DIY centerpiece or candle holder made with tiny inexpensive ornaments. All you will need for the candle holder is a coaster or a tea cup plate for the base, a hot glue gun, or permanent glue like E6000 in a tube, and tiny ornaments. With no stead feast rules get creative by mixing in any type of small trinket that you desire.

Tablescapes

Create a set of matching candlesticks with gold spray paint. Add greenery and the end result will look like your hired a florist. It will be our secret, as no one will imagine that it took minimal effort. Gold and white color schemes can be used to achieve an elegant tablescape. Can you eye-spy the angel on the table? Place ornaments down the center of your table.

Think Vintage Yuletides of Yesteryear

Kid friendly unbreakable decorating. Perfect to hang from a mantle, or use as a swag above a window. Do you have six or more odd mittens around the house? Can you knit? This is a fun project that can become a conversation starter when guests visit your home. This clever up-cycled use for mittens is perfect in a cozy farmhouse style home.

Vintage brooches and jewelry can become elegant conversation pieces.

Re-purpose grandma’s mid-century jewelry to modern day masterpieces. Create jewelry collages in the shape of wreaths and trees, or just make a single ornament.

Additional popular vintage items to consider are table clothes, a collection of vintage Santa’s, the ceramic Christmas trees that light up. New or vintage snow globes remain a well loved item as do nostalgic plates, and vintage toys. Create a shelf displaying your favorite vintage collection. The charm of old fashioned items is making a major comeback. The Etsy.com site can be a resource for vintage treasures. Or hunt through thrift stores for festive decor when time allows. Fill vintage tea cups with candy and holiday ornaments or whatever you find appealing; such as flowers and berries.

Magnificent Mantles

Light up your evenings with a high and low (varied height) candlestick display. Mantels are the perfect place to showcase a variety of candle holders in different shapes and sizes, from lanterns, and votive’s in a holder, to tall sticks. You can mix sizes, colors and shapes, or select a monochromatic color scheme of winter white, silver, or gold. Many will add some greenery, a reindeer, a miniature tree, or a special ornament to the display, but that’s up to you.

From the Stress Free Corporate Housing family to yours, we wish you a memorable Holiday Season and a healthy, joy filled New Year!