I have to admit, I’m in full Christmas mode. The sights, the smells, the lights, the music – for me, it’s really the most wonderful time of the year, however cheesy that sounds. I love making subtle and not so subtle efforts at maintaining that festive mode throughout the whole month. I know 24-hour Michael Bublé and random Christmas singers on the streets can drive a lot of people crazy, but I choose to go with the flow and really immerse myself in the holiday spirit.
Related: 10 tips to find your Christmas balance
Here are some of my favorite things to spark the Christmas mood.
Create a Christmas aroma //
How often do we say, “It smells so Christmas-y”? It’s most likely due to a combination of cinnamon, cloves, orange, pine tree, nutmeg, or peppermint. Check out 18 easy DIY ways to make your home smell like Christmas – the easiest way to evoke the Christmas spirit.
Go to a Christmas market //
Visiting a Christmas market, drinking some mulled wine, and eating some Christmas candy or roasted chestnuts are essential parts of my Christmas preparation.
Blast the Christmas music //
From December 1, no one around me can escape my never-ending Christmas playlist. For me, there’s simply no better way to get in Christmas mood than listening to Christmas music. While my musical taste is quite diverse, when it comes to Christmas, I think nothing beats the classics of Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby, Doris Day, and Nat King Cole. Throw in some Nutcracker and some rock adaptations for some variety, and I’m good.
Pick a wrapping theme //
I think wrapping and packaging are so important and can add a lot to the gift-giving experience. I like to pick a theme and a color palette – this year I’m going with a very minimal style, with whiteish/brownish paper, a rustic simple string as a bow, and some pine leaves as decoration. I also love these free printable minimalist style gift tags courtesy of Amy from Homey Oh My (left), as well as Victoria from Oh So Pretty and Molly from Almost Makes Perfect (right).
A cozy movie night //
A cozy night-in with my favorite Christmas movies, having a hot cocoa, and wrapping presents is kind of the perfect holiday plan. I wouldn’t call my Christmas movie taste very sophisticated though – let’s just say Home Alone and Die Hard are at the top of my list. But whatever puts me in the mood, right?
Try your DIY skills //
I’m not a huge DIY person – except when it comes to Christmas. Somehow this holiday brings out an otherwise deeply buried enthusiasm for creating something out of scratch. It’s so fun, relaxing, and really puts me in Christmas mood.
I love making Christmas wreaths, door decorations, or Christmas ornaments. This year, I plan to try some homemade food gifts as well – this list is pretty awesome.
Also, if you love minimal Scandinavian décor, check out Ingrid’s gorgous curated list of Christmas DIY decor ideas with a nordic look.
Go to a holiday event //
There are so many things happening at this time of the year: light displays, festivals of trees, ballet performances, holiday concerts, Christmas shows at the theater –pick something light and fun and go out for an evening.
What puts you in a Christmas mood?
I want to step up my gift wrapping game – I’ve seen so many unique and gorgeous ideas but haven’t tried any yet!
I love going to a Christmas market! Or watching Harry Potter with a cup of hot chocolate (yes, I’m a child at heart)
Seppy | http://www.elleisforlove.com
There are so many gorgeous wrapping ideas on the Internet! Excited what you end up trying. I’m going with quite minimal this year (lol, surprise). And watching Harry Potter with a hot chocolate sound like the best night ever:)
Thank you so much for including me in this lovely post! I will save it for next years Christmas inspiration.
Ingrid | thatscandinavianfeeling.com
No problem dear, I loved your inspiration post! xx