The excitement of decking the halls often is replaced with a groan when it’s time to pack it away. Here are some ways to transform this task from drudgery to delight.
START WITH GRATITUDE
No matter how lavish or humble, each item that brought joy and meaning to our celebrations can inspire us to be thankful — for abundance, for shared moments with family and friends, for the beauty of the season. As you handle each one, take time to appreciate its role in making your holiday special.
REMOVE AND STORE SIMILAR ITEMS TOGETHER
Whenever possible, put away decor by category, such as lights, garlands, wreaths, ornaments, stockings, candles, mantel displays, holiday dishes and outdoor decor. Subcategorize as needed.
LOOK FOR DISCARD/DONATE/REPAIR
Notice the condition of each item before you pack it. If you don’t envision using it again, responsibly discard, donate or sell it. If you want to keep it and it needs repair, better to do it now than add to next year’s to-do list!
USE PROPER PACKING SUPPLIES AND STORAGE CONTAINERS
To keep decor protected, use plastic, sealable bags for groups of small non-fragile items, wrap less fragile decor in tissue paper, and use an extra layer of bubble wrap around your fragile treasures. Ornaments are easily stored in boxes with layered internal cardboard dividers. Wreaths can be placed in round or square boxes with their ornaments inside their centers. Artificial garlands should be coiled into their containers. Items too large to box up can be draped with a sheet to protect them from dust. As you pack the boxes and containers, note on an index card what goes inside, and then label, label, label!
With holiday decor joyfully appreciated, respectfully packed and strategically stored, the season can end as cheerfully as it started!
Heather Young, of Tidy and Calm LLC, is a certified KonMari consultant. She and her team use the KonMari Method™ to transform home organizing into a once-in-a-lifetime, joyful event. Reach her at www.tidyandcalm.com.