How to Make Moving a Breeze

Moving to a new home can cause stress on you and your family from packing and unpacking your belongings, moving your furniture, leaving a home filled with memories, and moving into a home to make new memories.  But it’s time to take the stress and pain out of moving with these helpful tips.

1. 1.     Start Early- As soon as you have made the decision to move, start going through all of your belongings.  Create separate piles and boxes- one for keep, one for donate, and one for toss.  Finally, box up the seasonal items you will not use until after you move.
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3. 2.     Create a System- Devise a system to help you keep track of your stuff and organize everything before packing it away.  Ensure that all of your items are in the correct boxes- color code your boxes by rooms, number each box, and write the destination of where your boxes are going.
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5. 3.     Pack a Suitcase- Pack items you will need to use the week of moving and the first week you are in your new home.  This way you can take time unpacking all of your belongings.
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7. 4.     Set Out Two Empty Boxes- Place items you want to toss or donate after you move.  Even if you have already sorted your boxes, you will still find items you will not need.
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9. 5.     Remember to Reward Yourself- Take a break from unpacking and enjoy a snack, drink, or even a massage.

Wishing You and Your Family a Happy Holiday

Warmest Thoughts and Best Wishes for a Wonderful Holiday and a Happy New Year!  Thank you for the support throughout the year! I look forward to assisting you this upcoming year!

How to Decorate Your Home for the Holidays on a Budget?

The holidays can be an expensive time a year and establishing a budget is key.  When you create your budget it usually consists of gift buying, food, entertainment, and lights for the outdoors but generally not decorations for the home.  Here are some budget-friendly tips to help keep the money in your wallet and your holiday guests happy.

1.     Check Your Inventory- Look for leftover items or extra throws that can be used for decorating.  Collect candles, leaves, branches, and sticks to create a centerpiece for your guests.  Core some apples and stick candles in them to add to your centerpiece. Put extra throws on your couches to give your home a cozy feel.

2.     Look in Nature- Collecting items from nature is not only free but it can add pine scent to your home or you can create your own wreath with your findings. In nature, locate pinecones, pine tree branches, and red berries. 

3.     Find Mismatched Dinnerware- One challenge when it comes to hosting a party is finding enough dinnerware for everyone to use.  Pick up used dinnerware at a local thrift store to help accommodate for all of your guests.  Try sticking with the holiday colors.

4.     Get Help From Your Kids- Have your kids help you collect items from nature, decorate and even clean your house to help you save money and time.  Even have your kids make a centerpiece for your guests.

5.     Create a Storage Place- Create space in your home that is in good condition and well maintained to ensure your decorations do not get ruined.  Invest in good storage bins and wrap all decorations properly before storing them.