8 pre-christmas home organizing mistakes you’re making

The holiday season is just around the corner, and while it’s a time for joy and celebration, it can also be a bit overwhelming! With all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can lead to unnecessary stress. At The Happy Space Co., we believe in making your home a happy place, especially during this festive season. Let’s chat about eight pre-Christmas home organizing mistakes you might be making and how you can avoid them to ensure a smooth and joyful holiday!

1. Not decluttering toys

The play area is overflowing!

Let’s face it: kids accumulate toys faster than you can say “Santa Claus and overzealous relatives.” If you haven’t gone through your child’s toys in a while, now is the perfect time to dig in!

  • Why it matters: an overflowing toy box can lead to frustration, chaos, and lost pieces. Plus, new gifts are on the way!

  • What to do: set aside some time to declutter toys. Involve your kids in the process! Ask them to choose which toys they still love and use. Consider donating any gently used toys that are no longer played with

Decluttering not only clears space but also makes room for new toys and helps your kids appreciate what they have. Get in touch with us to organize your play space and we will come to your rescue!

2. Ignoring old decorations

Do you change the color scheme each year?

As you pull out your Christmas decorations from storage, take a moment to assess what you have.

  • Why It matters: keeping decorations that you don’t love or use takes up valuable storage space and can make decorating feel like a chore

  • What to do: go through your decorations and ask yourself if each item still brings you joy. If not, consider donating or recycling them. This will make your decorating process much more enjoyable and efficient

Remember, it's about creating a festive atmosphere that you love! Our guide can help you declutter before the business of the holiday season.

3. Overlooking gift lists

Barbie or Gabby? Hot Wheels or Lego?

With so many people to buy for, it’s easy to lose track of who you need to shop for, which leads to last-minute panic shopping.

  • Why it matters: forgetting someone on your list can lead to stress and feelings of guilt. Plus, last-minute shopping often means settling for less thoughtful gifts

  • What to do: create a gift list as early as possible. Write down everyone you plan to buy for and jot down ideas next to each name. This will help keep you organized and on track!

Having a clear plan can save you time and money while ensuring that you give meaningful gifts.

4. Skipping the holiday meal planning

How many pounds of turkey do we need?

The holidays are often filled with family feasts and celebrations, but if you don’t plan your meals ahead of time, you might find yourself stressed out in the kitchen.

  • Why it matters: without a plan, you could end up scrambling to figure out what to serve, resulting in wasted time and food

  • What to do: take a moment to sit down and outline your holiday meals. Whether it’s a big family dinner or simple snacks for movie night, having a meal plan will make your life easier

Consider trying out a new recipe this year or sticking to family favorites—whatever makes the holidays special for you!

5. Not preparing your home for guests

Who else frantically tidies up before guests arrive?

If you plan to host family or friends this holiday season, don’t wait until the last minute to get your home ready.

  • Why it matters: a cluttered or unwelcoming home can create unnecessary stress for both you and your guests

  • What to do: start tidying up and organizing your spaces early. Make sure your guest areas are clean and welcoming, and consider adding some festive touches, like seasonal candles or fresh flowers

Creating a warm, inviting atmosphere will help you and your guests feel right at home. With our three-step magic and systems we help you put in place in your home, tidying up won’t be so daunting!

6. Forgetting about self-care

I need a break to recuperate from the holidays!

The holiday season can be a whirlwind of activities—from shopping to decorating to hosting parties. In all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself.

  • Why it matters: neglecting self-care during this busy time can lead to burnout and frustration. If you’re not feeling your best, it’s hard to enjoy the festivities

  • What to do: schedule time for yourself amidst the chaos. This could be as simple as taking a quiet moment with a cup of tea or going for a walk in the fresh air. Make sure to prioritize sleep and consider setting aside time for relaxation, like reading a good book or indulging in a favorite hobby

Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself ensures you’ll be in a better position to enjoy the holiday season and all its joy!

7. Rushing through the holiday spirit

Aren’t the holidays supposed to be magical?

It’s easy to get caught up in the commercial side of the holidays and forget what they’re truly about—celebration, gratitude, and togetherness.

  • Why it matters: when you rush through the season, you miss out on the little moments that make the holidays special

  • What to do: take time to slow down and enjoy the season. Engage in activities that evoke holiday spirit, such as watching classic holiday movies, baking cookies with family, or volunteering your time to help those in need

Make it a point to savor every moment this year. The holidays are about creating cherished memories, not just checking items off a list.

8. Not setting a budget

Ice skating is HOW much per person?

With so many holiday expenses—from gifts to decorations to food—it’s crucial to have a budget in place, yet many people overlook this step.

  • Why it matters: going overboard financially can lead to stress and regret long after the holidays have passed

  • What to do: sit down and determine how much you’re comfortable spending for each category (gifts, decorations, meals). Stick to your budget as closely as possible and look for creative ways to save, like making homemade gifts or planning potluck-style meals

Creating a budget helps you enjoy the season without the headache of financial stress afterward.


As we approach the holiday season, it’s important to be mindful of common mistakes that can detract from your experience. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that allows you to fully embrace the joy and magic of the holidays.


Ready to transform your home?

We invite you to experience the joy of a tidy and organized home. Let's create a living space that sparks your creativity and brings you peace. Contact us today for a free consultation!

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