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As the Christmas season approaches, it’s very easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of more is more.
Especially with so much temptation at every turn… pressure to buy presents, decorate lavishly, host fancy get-togethers and fork out for all those fussy extras.
But how about embracing a different approach to the holidays, and prioritising meaningful and joyful experiences over material possessions?
“A minimalist Christmas encourages us to focus on what truly matters, creating lasting memories with loved ones by simplifying our celebrations,” says Lynsey Crombie, Queen of Clean.
“And reducing the stress and clutter that often accompanies the season.”
By choosing thoughtful gifts, adopting simple traditions, and setting clear boundaries, she says you can celebrate the season with minimal fuss.
Here’s how to pare back the surplus while still spreading the joy…
Set clear boundaries
“When you start to plan your Christmas, make it clear you have minimalist intentions when it comes to gifting and hosting,” says Crombie. “Setting expectations early can help prevent over-gifting and unnecessary stress, and hopefully others will follow.”
Moreover, she says don’t forget to embrace the season by enjoying some time off work, reflecting on the year and spending time with the people that matter to you.
“Think about how you can go into 2025 with a minimalist head too.”
Buy gift experiences
Crombie suggests creating memories rather than buying things people possibly don’t want, or even need. “Consider gifting experiences a few family members can do together.
“For example a day out, music concert or afternoon tea, which brings fun memories without adding to household clutter.”
She says people will remember the experience and memory for much longer than the actual gift itself.
Secret Santa between the family
Chat with friends and family on a gift limit that’s manageable for everyone, or why not even do a family Secret Santa, suggests Crombie.
“It takes the pressure of having to buy for everyone and this can work well if you have a big family. When choosing gifts, you’ll have more time to focus on finding meaningful gifts as it will be for one person only.”
This saves piles of unnecessary presents, packaging and wrapping paper around the house.
Select simple, Scandi-style decor
“Choose a theme that matches well with your home décor and your style, and just put up a few bits with your tree,” opines Crombie.
“A few, well-chosen decorations can be just as effective, saves on dust as there is nothing worse than cleaning around Christmas decorations, saves on clutter, saves on time, and still looks stylish.
“Why not forage for your own decorations, choosing natural things like pinecones, greenery, or wooden ornaments for a simple, festive look.”
Ditch the Christmas cards
“Each year I find I am getting less and less cards,” confesses Crombie. “And now only tend to send to elderly relatives and neighbours.
So why not ditch the bulk of the Christmas cards and send digital greetings, fancy text messages, or pick up the phone and call friends and family instead.”
As she points out, this will save so much time, money, clutter and reduces paper waste.
“You can also look at donating what you would usually spend on cards and stamps to a local charity – let friends and family know in a digital card, and encourage them to do the same.”
Two-in-one gifts
Crombie believes in buying fluffy Christmas socks and using them to wrap up a bottle of wine. “This way they get two presents and there is absolutely no waste at all. I’ve also seen this done with festive tea towels to wrap up chocolates, biscuits, etc.”
Also, never write on those bag tags. She says to keep them clear, so you can reuse gift bags year after year.
Simplify festive meals
“Create a menu and stick to it, keeping it simple, and if you are hosting ask others to bring a dish to save you time and mess.
“Pick a few favourites and enjoy more quality time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen all day cooking and cleaning up after everyone.”
Pop things in the slow cooker in the morning and forget about it for the day, suggests Crombie. “Serve of an evening and you don’t have to think about a thing!
“Do the same with drinks… set up a mini drinks station with a few bottles and soft drinks, and allow people to help themselves. Again keep it simple with limited choices to make your day easier,” she adds.
