? Getting Your Game Plan Together: How to Prepare for the Holidays Like a Pro ?

Because a peaceful holiday season doesn’t happen by accident—it happens by intention.

Right now, it might feel like you have plenty of time. But let’s be honest—this year has flown by.

Think about how many moments have already come and gone.
Now, think about the ones that truly mattered.

Are you making the memories you want to make—or does it feel like life’s racing past you?

Wherever you stand, there’s good news: it’s never too late to pause, refocus, and set the tone for the season ahead.

And the best way to do that? A solid, soulful holiday game plan.

So grab your planner, your favorite drink (spiked cider counts), and let’s start mapping out a calm, beautiful, and joy-filled holiday season.

???? 1. Set Your Holiday Intentions and Priorities

Before the whirlwind begins, ask yourself: What do I actually want from this season?
Peace? Connection? Simplicity? Magic?

Write it down. Define it. Then let those intentions guide your choices—how you spend, what you plan, and who you say “yes” to.

???? 2. Start with a Holiday Brain Dump

Get everything out of your head and onto paper—every gift, meal, trip, event, and errand. Don’t edit, just list.
Then, go back and mark what truly matters—the moments and tasks that would make you sad to skip. Those become your non-negotiables.

????? 3. Plan and Schedule Your Priorities

Go ahead and block your calendar now. Add community events, family dinners, or that long weekend you’ve been promising yourself.
Check local sites (like your Chamber or community pages) for parades, markets, and tree lightings you don’t want to miss.

(Pro Tip: You can find a full list of local events in The Livable Forest App—right at your fingertips!)

?? 4. Prepare Early for Holiday Travel

Talk with family and friends about Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s plans. Setting expectations early avoids the last-minute chaos later.
And yes, book your flights—or pet-sitters—now. You’ll thank yourself in December.

???? 5. Prioritize Your Holiday Budget

Decide now what you’ll spend and who you’ll shop for. Create a list, jot down gift ideas, and start hunting sales early.
If you love giving experiences, research local adventures or workshops in advance.

Bonus: Wrap gifts as you buy them—no more 2 a.m. wrapping marathons!

???? 6. Get Ahead on Cards and Photos

Update your address list, order or design your cards, and book your family photo session before schedules get hectic.
You’ll be so glad when that task is off your plate before Thanksgiving.

???? 7. Refresh and Declutter Your Home

Before the décor bins come down, take a moment to declutter. Donate what no longer serves you and make space for the memories (and guests) to come.
Tidy common areas, closets, and guest rooms—future you will breathe easier.

????? 8. Curate a Cozy, Beautiful Home

Choose your seasonal color palette and decor theme early. Pull out what you already own, then fill in the gaps with a few new pieces on sale.
Think of it as creating an atmosphere, not just decorating—a home that feels warm, intentional, and welcoming.

????? 9. Test-Drive Your Holiday Recipes

Start collecting ideas now and test a few favorites ahead of time. You’ll know exactly what works for your big gatherings—and your freezer will thank you.

???? 10. Prepare Your Heart, Too

The most beautiful homes are filled with peace.
Start nurturing habits that center you—morning journaling, prayer, affirmations, gratitude, or even a quiet coffee on the porch before the house wakes up.
Balance the doing with being.

???? 11. Give Back with Intention

Kindness never goes out of season. Donate gently used items, volunteer at a local drive, or surprise someone with an anonymous act of love.
If you’ve been blessed this year, share it. The joy multiplies.

???? The Secret to a Magical Holiday Season

You don’t need perfection—you just need a plan rooted in peace, presence, and purpose.

So take a deep breath.
Pour another cup.
And start crafting the kind of season you’ll remember—not for how busy it was, but for how beautifully it felt.

???? Ready to bring your plans to life?
Find local holiday events, gift markets, home inspiration, and seasonal stories inside The Livable Forest App.
? Download now and catch the holiday vibes at thelivableforest.com