Now that Christmas is over, it’s time to start thinking about breakdown!  Every year I have a very specific way I take down my Christmas decor, making it easier to decorate for next Christmas.  Organization is key!  Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

Tip 1: Divide & Conquer

Divide all your holiday decor into 3 piles: the first is for Next Christmas , and it gets packed away.  The second is Donate/Discard, and finally Winter Decor, which becomes the basis for your January decor.  The hardest of these is definitely the donate/discard pile!  Some items are easy to part with, others may take more effort.  But this is the time to really evaluate each piece and make decisions.  PRO TIP: The hardest items are always the sentimental ones; even if they don’t match anything or you don’t even like them all that much.  A simple idea is to take a small element of the decor piece (especially helpful with handmade items that are falling apart!) and put it into a simple clear glass ball and add a small tag with the provenance.  That way you still have a keepsake!

Tip 2: Crafty Storage

Now that you have your keep pile, divide it (as best you can!) into groupings for the various areas you will be decorating: mantle, table, porch, etc.  Then you can take each section and pack it away safely for next year.  Don’t forget things like styrofoam cups, drink carriers and egg cartons for divided storage!  PRO TIP: One of the very best storage containers I’ve ever found is wine boxes.  They are sturdy, don’t get too heavy when loaded, and come with dividers.  Wine shops and bars will usually give them away for free, too!

Tip 3: Make a Plan (and WRITE IT DOWN!)

Now is the time to make plans for next year; color schemes, styles, new ideas, etc.  And here is the important part: write it down.   I always think I’ll remember my plans a year later – it seems to be the favorite way in which I fib to myself. 😉  Trust me – you probably won’t remember.  And while you make plans, note the items you’ll need for next year – then start looking for them this season when they’re on sale!  PRO TIP:  Take your carefully written notes and pack them away in your FALL decor box.  Then you’ll have them in advance. 🙂

BONUS TIP:  I always like to stash clippings from magazines, photos of holiday decor, and printouts of ideas I’ve seen online with my notes.  It’s a great way to get a mental jump next year!

So there you have it – the last #decortip of 2022.  It’s been a great year!  Thanks for reading along.  And remember – I always take requests for post topics. 🙂  Have a happy New Year!