It’s that time of year again—holiday season! The playlists are loaded with Mariah Carey, your email inbox is full of *holiday sale* notifications, and suddenly, you’re wondering how it’s November and you still don’t have a plan. Prepping for the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful or Pinterest-perfect. In fact, it can be low-key fun and realistic—like you, a millennial thriving on good vibes and smart shortcuts.
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Whether you’re prepping for yourself, your family, or your friends (or all of the above), here’s a guide to slay the holiday game without breaking a sweat.
1. Holiday Prep for You: Self-care is the Main Character
First things first—you can’t pour from an empty cup (or an empty wine glass). Before diving into the whirlwind of family dinners and gift shopping, take a minute (or an hour) to set yourself up for success.
Make Your Space Festive, Not Overwhelming
Who said decorating has to look like a Hallmark movie set? Grab a cute mini tree, string up some fairy lights, and call it a day. Pro tip: scented candles = instant cozy vibes.
Plan Some You-Time
Whether it’s a holiday-themed Netflix binge (*hello, cheesy rom-coms*) or an at-home spa day, carve out time to enjoy the season your way. Bonus: No one will judge your third hot chocolate of the day.
Set a Budget
Yes, adulting strikes again. Before you get carried away buying novelty mugs for everyone you know, figure out how much you can realistically spend—and stick to it. Future You will thank you.
2. Holiday Prep for Family: Keep It Chill (and Snack-Filled)
Let’s face it: family gatherings can be… interesting. Whether hosting or just showing up, a little prep can go a long way.
Delegate Like a Pro
If you’re hosting, don’t be a hero. Aunt Carol can bring the pie, and your cousin can handle the playlist. Your job? Make sure there’s wine and maybe a charcuterie board (because we’re fancy now).
Start a New Tradition
Tired of the same old “awkward dinner conversation” routine? Introduce something fun like a game night or a holiday movie marathon. Bonus points if it gets everyone laughing instead of debating.
Pack Your Patience (and Snacks)
If you’re traveling, remember: delays happen, kids scream, and traffic is inevitable. Stock up on snacks, download a good podcast, and breathe. You’ve got this.
3. Holiday Prep for Friends: Keep It Low-Key and Fun
Friendmas is where the real magic happens. No awkward politics, just good vibes and people who get you.
Plan a Potluck
Fancy dinners are overrated (and expensive). A potluck lets everyone show off their cooking skills—or lack thereof. Pro tip: have someone bring dessert *and* wine. Double the fun.
DIY Gift Exchange
Skip the overpriced candles and get creative. From homemade cookies to personalized playlists, thoughtful doesn’t have to mean pricey. Plus, it’s way more memorable.
Schedule Something Festive
Go ice skating, hit up a Christmas market, or just walk around looking at lights. It’s not about what you do, it’s about having fun together—and maybe getting that perfect Insta shot.
4. Avoiding Holiday Burnout: The Real MVP of Prep
Here’s the tea: the holidays can get overwhelming if you let them. Keep things manageable with these simple hacks:
Say No When You Need To
You don’t have to attend every party or say yes to every plan. It’s okay to prioritize your energy (and your couch).
Prep Gifts Early
Avoid the last-minute panic by shopping ahead of time. Or better yet, go digital: e-gift cards are lifesavers and way better than panicking in a crowded mall.
Keep Expectations Realistic
The holidays don’t have to be perfect. Sometimes, the best memories come from the messy, unscripted moments—like when your cat knocks over the tree.
5. And Remember: The Holidays Are Yours Too
At the end of the day, the holidays are about joy—your joy, not just everyone else’s. So, whether you’re lounging in pajamas, hosting a rager, or FaceTiming your family from across the country, make sure you’re having fun too.
Because let’s be real: you’ve made it through another year. If that’s not a reason to celebrate (with an extra glass of eggnog), what is?
Keep the holidays simple, fun, and full of moments you enjoy. And hey, if all else fails, at least there’s pie.