Bringing Back Nostalgia for the Holidays
Create meaningful memories without buying more
The holiday season has a way of stirring up memories - the smell of sugar cookies in the kitchen, the sound of your favorite carols, the glow of twinkling lights. But every year, our celebrations can start to feel more about buying and less about being. This year, let’s simplify, slow down, and bring back nostalgia for the holidays. Let’s use what we already have and focus on what truly matters: family, connection, and tradition.
Start with What You Already Own
One of my favorite things to do in December when I was young was bring out the holiday decoration bins and decorate the house. Year after year I would get to pull out the same decorations that held special meaning, such as the small Santa sleigh that went on the end table, the crystal snowflakes that hung in the kitchen windows, and the stockings that my mom made for each of us that hung on the mantle. There’s something so comforting about being surrounded by familiar things and once those decorations were set out, it officially felt like the Christmas season.
As much as Target, Walmart, and Amazon would disagree, you actually don’t need to replace your holiday decorations with brand new ones every year.
Before heading to the store for new decor, take a look through your storage bins. Those handmade ornaments from your kids’ preschool days? The wreath that’s seen a few seasons? These pieces tell your family’s story. My kids love when I pull out the paper wreaths they made when they were younger with their hand prints on them and hang them up (hard to believe they used to be so little). Is it Studio McGee-level decorating? Absolutely not, but we love being surrounded by meaningful decorations.
Try grouping old decor in new ways. Put a collection of mismatched candles on a tray, vintage holiday cards strung along the mantle, or a mix of heirloom ornaments alongside your children’s handmade ones. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s personality.
Revive Old Traditions (or Create New Ones)
Think back to the moments that made your childhood holidays special. Maybe it was baking cookies with your grandmother or watching a favorite movie in pajamas. Use your favorite memories to recreate them with your own family.
Don’t be afraid to make new traditions too. Have a “memory night” where everyone shares their favorite holiday moments. Start a gratitude jar on December 1st and read the notes aloud on Christmas Eve. Simple, meaningful rituals build connection, and the best part is, there’s no shopping required.
You won’t remember how well your house was styled each year, and neither will your kids, but you will remember the traditions and the memories you made together.
Decorate with Heart, Not Hype
Instead of chasing the latest holiday decor trend, lean into what feels authentic to your family. That might mean using the same stockings every year, displaying holiday photos from years past, or wrapping gifts in recycled paper and ribbons.
If your kids love to help, turn decorating into one of those cherished traditions. Put on festive music, sip hot cocoa, and let everyone take part. Kids love to be involved and the process itself will become a cherished memory that will last for years to come.
Declutter to Make Space for Joy
As you unpack decorations, take the opportunity to simplify. If something no longer fits your style or holds meaning, donate it so someone else can enjoy it. Keeping only the items that bring joy helps your home feel lighter, more intentional, and lets the memories shine through.
If you do buy some new decor items, make sure you apply the ‘one in, one out’ rule. Donate something that no longer brings you joy so you can make space for the new one.
Make sure you keep your home in mind when you go shopping for new holiday pieces. If you come across something you like, first ask yourself if you have a place to display it AND if you have room to store it.
Turn Down the (Consumerism) Noise
Now’s a great time to take a step back from social media. During the holiday season, we’re bombarded with all of the things that we’re told we HAVE to have this season in order to make it truly magical. It seems like everyone online is selling us something these days. You don’t actually need that viral garland or those giant nutcrackers to make your season special. If you don’t want to give up your scrolling, try to focus on the social media accounts that encourage connection (providing ideas for fun experiences with your family) over consumerism.
Capture the Moments
Remember: the best memories don’t come wrapped in ribbons or tucked under a tree. They happen in the laughter, the shared meals, and the quiet evenings spent together. Snap a few candid photos, but be present, too. The magic is already here - you just have to notice it.
This holiday season, give yourself permission to slow down, use what you have, and savor the simple joys. The best traditions aren’t bought; they’re made, year after year, with love.
Need Help Decluttering Your Holiday Decor?
If you need help managing your holiday decorations (decluttering, storing, etc), I’d love to help you out! Click here to schedule a consultation.
Hey there! I’m Diana and I’m a professional home organizer in Sykesville, Maryland. I love helping families declutter and organize their homes so they can spend more time doing the things that they love. I can support you wherever you are in your journey so that you can feel more peace in your home.
Click here to schedule a complimentary consultation so we can talk more about what an organized home can do for you!