Holiday Prep for Busy Moms - Your Guide to More Fun, Joy, Calm, and Peace

As the holiday season approaches, one of the most powerful things you can do is set a clear intention for how you want this time of year to feel.  Instead of letting the weeks and the magic of the holiday season rush by in a blur, choose your focus now: I intend to make this holiday season as peaceful, joyful, relaxing, and fulfilling as possible.  I intend to make this the best Christmas ever!  Maybe that means finishing your Christmas shopping early so you can enjoy your beautifully decorated home and relax without the stress and a mile long to-do list.  Imagine strolling through the malls with your favourite warm beverage in hand, the love of your life and a sense of ease, finding thoughtful gifts effortlessly, and truly enjoying the process rather than rushing through it.  You deserve a season that feels calm, meaningful, and aligned with what you want most.  

What matters just as much as setting a positive intention is avoiding the trap of focusing on what you don’t want.  It’s easy to think thoughts of stress, last-minute chaos, crowded malls, busy parking lots, and winter dread, but that negative mindset and energy only dims the magic of the season and brings you and everyone else around you down. 

This is the year for feeling your best, embracing joy, being grateful, and allowing yourself to be excited for what’s to come.  By choosing your mindset on purpose, you set the tone for your most enjoyable holiday season yet.  So to inspire you, I’ve put together some tips that will help you feel a sense of serene calm, fun, love, joy, and inner peace.

1. Shop for your holiday outfits sooner rather than later.  Think ahead to what parties or gatherings you’ll be attending, and shop accordingly so you can avoid the last-minute rush and feel confident, prepared, and effortlessly put together when the day arrives.  Spend some time just focusing on yourself and your own vibe and how great you want to look and feel and have fun with it but always wear what feels great to you!  Also, don't forget a new cozy jogging suit.  There are so many beautiful and rich colours out this time of season. Red, emerald green, deep purple, winter white or classic black.  Pair with some cozy slippers and you're all set!

2.  Book your hair, nails, facial, massage, waxing, and Botox appointments now.  Getting these scheduled early means one less thing to think about and a lot more space to simply enjoy the season.  When your beauty appointments are already in your calendar, you can ensure you look and feel your best!  Consider booking an extra day off just for yourself and schedule a day or half day at your favourite spa for some extra pampering.  If you're into new nail colours or designs start looking for inspiration online now so you can show up to your appointment and know exactly what you want.

3.  Clean your house from top to bottom, ensure all laundry is caught up and take time to go through closets and old clothes you no longer need, use, or want.  Ensure this is an ongoing thing as your home is so much easier to maintain when it's always clean and organized.  Or hire someone to do this for you if it's not your thing and you don't have the time.  Personally I love cleaning, decluttering and organizing and a wild Saturday night these days is me at my favourite Home Sense store picking up new items I love for my home!  Donate or dispose of anything that no longer serves a purpose or that you love or brings you joy. I even turn this into a fun tradition with my kids.  We go through their toys and closets together, choosing what they’ve outgrown or don't love, and making space for the new things Santa will bring. “Out with the old” becomes a shared ritual, and it not only clears physical space but also brings a sense of freshness and excitement for the season ahead.  We also clean out bathroom drawers and under the sink to make room for new makeup and beauty products. 

4. Get your matching Christmas Pyjamas early - if that’s a family tradition you love. Shopping for them ahead of time not only guarantees everyone’s size is in stock, but it also adds an extra layer of excitement as the season approaches.  And while you’re in planning mode, go ahead and book your family Christmas pictures early too.   Photographers’ schedules fill up quickly, and having your session locked in means you’ll get the photos you want without the stress of last-minute scrambling. Between coordinating outfits and booking a photo date and time that works for you, you’ll be set for gorgeous memories you can truly enjoy.  This year instead of getting super fancy, we decided to do plaid pants and hoodies for everyone.  By far, these were the cozy outfits my kids enjoyed and will definitely wear again.

5. Set up a hot cocoa or coffee station. Create a cozy little corner in your kitchen dedicated to warm holiday drinks.  Make it extra festive with new Christmas mugs, candy canes, peppermint sticks, sprinkles, marshmallows, flavoured syrups, and anything else you love. This simple touch adds instant holiday cheer and makes everyday moments feel cozy and special.  You can find tons of cute inspiration ideas online, then have fun shopping in person or online customizing it to match your home and your family's style.  

6. Pick a colour theme and decorate your home with intention.  Choose a fresh colour palette for your holiday decorations and let it guide your tree decorations, new ornaments, throw pillows, entryway mats, and all the festive touches that bring your space to life. Updating your home with a new theme instantly elevates your home and makes everything feel warm, joyful, and renewed.  New throw blankets and cozy pillows for those those nights where you snuggle up watching Christmas movies with your favourite cup of hot cocoa or favourite glass of wine is blissful!

There’s also something deeply spiritual about this process.  Releasing old decorations, letting go of pieces that no longer resonate, and welcoming in new items can feel like clearing out old energy and making space for new blessings.  Just as you update and refresh your home, you symbolically refresh your spirit, inviting in lighter energy, new memories, and a renewed sense of excitement for the season ahead.

I also make decorating a fun tradition with my kids.  Each year, I take them shopping so they can pick out new holiday decorations for their bedrooms. They love choosing their own throw pillows, blankets, and little festive touches that make their rooms feel magical.  It’s a simple ritual, but one that fills their hearts, and mine with so much love and joy.  It becomes more than decorating; it becomes a memory and fun experience we all look forward to.

7. Look online for new festive holiday table settings.  Browse inspiration for a beautiful new  holiday dining setup with pieces that match your newly inspired colour theme. Consider picking up a new table runner, charger plates, napkins, wine glasses, or dinnerware to elevate your holiday meals and make every gathering feel extra special.  

While you’re in planning mode, start organizing your holiday meals early and put them into your calendar, as well as book any dinner reservations to ensure you get what you want!  Think about what dinners or gatherings you’ll be hosting, and make a list of the dishes you want to prepare, or order ahead of time.  If you're having your meal catered, be sure to book early.  Also stock your pantry and bar with the holiday essentials now.  This means fewer last-minute trips to the store and a lot more relaxation later.  Placing a few extra grocery deliveries now with some cases of water, pop, chips, cookies, chocolates, and whatever else that you need and enjoy over the holidays and that can be stored saves so much time later on.  Planning early allows you to focus more on the joy of hosting and less on the stress of scrambling.

8. Find a fresh holiday scent for your home.  One of the easiest ways to instantly make your home feel cozy and festive is by updating your candles and hand soaps with seasonal scents.  Take a little extra time to shop and find a scent that really makes your heart feel happy.  My current favoruites from Bath & Body Works include The Perfect Christmas, Twisted Peppermint, Sweater Weather, Frozen Lake, and Eucalyptus Spearmint.

While you’re stocking up, grab a few extras to have on hand for cute little hostess gifts or last-minute fillers. The small touches of scent and decor make your home feel cozy and welcoming, and they bring a little holiday magic to everyone who visits. Choosing your seasonal fragrance becomes more than just shopping, it’s a joyful ritual that sets the tone for the entire season.

9. Get your stocking stuffers, gifts, and teacher gifts sorted early.  Take the stress out of the season by ordering as many Christmas gifts online as possible, or start shopping early so you can have everything wrapped and ready well before December.  Try wrapping as you go as well, so that you're not left with a bunch of gifts to wrap in one single day.  Setting aside a few minutes a couple times a week to wrap presents sure beats spending hours doing it all at the very last minute.  Alternatively you can also hire someone to do this work for you.  If you enjoy the in-store experience, try to get to the stores early or carve out a few weekday mornings to shop when it’s quieter.

Shopping in crowded malls can overstimulate your senses.  Bright lights, loud music, and busy crowds can easily overwhelm your nervous system. By planning ahead and choosing calmer shopping times, you’re actually giving your nervous system a break.  You’ll feel more relaxed, grounded, and able to enjoy the experience rather than feeling frazzled or exhausted. Your body, and your holiday spirit will thank you for it!

10. Display your favourite Christmas pictures. Gather your favourite holiday photos from past years and put them into new picture frames that you’ve carefully selected to match this year’s décor.  This simple update not only refreshes your space but also allows you to relive cherished memories and celebrate the joy of past seasons.

Consider creating a small dedicated holiday photo display on a fireplace mantel, side table, or shelf where these framed memories can shine.  Involving your kids in choosing which photos to showcase can also become a fun tradition creating a sense of love and connection with your family. This is more than decorating, it’s creating a visual story of joy, love, and festive memories that grows year after year.  After the holidays are over you can pack them away with the holiday decorations and bring them back out the following year.

11. Get the kids’ winter gear ordered early.  Stock up on coats, snow pants, mittens, hats, and boots well before the first snow falls and don’t forget a few extra pairs of gloves or warm socks. Having extras on hand can save you from last-minute scrambling when the inevitable lost mitten or damp sock pops up.

Keep a basket or bin of gloves, hats, and socks for each child in an easily accessible spot near the front door or back mudroom so your kids can grab what they need quickly.  This simple step makes mornings and outdoor play much smoother and less stressful.  Being proactive with winter gear not only keeps your family warm and cozy, it also protects your sanity and lets you enjoy the season without rushing out and not being able to find what you're looking for.

12. Don’t forget your fur babies!  Treat your pets to a little holiday fun by picking out cute Christmas sweaters, toys, or a new dog bed.  This year I got personalized stockings with their names on them which are super cute!  Book their grooming appointments early to ensure they’re clean, comfortable, and looking their best too!

Planning ahead for your pets helps reduce last-minute stress and ensures everyone in the family can enjoy the season comfortably and happily. If you're travelling arrange for care or boarding ahead of time so you can ensure you have one less thing to worry about.

13. Honour your energy and set an intention to be peaceful with your relatives. Family gatherings can be joyful, but they can also be draining.  Before any family gathering, set a clear intention to stay calm, centered, and true to yourself.  Perhaps say a little prayer and send love and good energy ahead of you.  Decide ahead of time how you want to show up, and remind yourself that it’s okay to protect your energy.

Honour your boundaries by saying no when you need to, and don’t feel guilty about taking breaks or cancelling plans if it's beneficial for your own mental health.  During gatherings sometimes a quick "retreat" to the bathroom for a few deep breaths and a pep talk to compose yourself can make all the difference.  Other times, it might mean hanging out with the kids in the basement because they're probably having way more fun! 

Remember, protecting your energy doesn’t mean you’re being rude.  It means you’re staying true to your own needs and creating a space where you can fully enjoy the season, show up as your best self, and actually experience the peace and joy you set out to have.

14. Make the most of the season on your terms.  The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not tolerated.  If cooking or hosting dinner parties isn’t your thing, you absolutely don’t have to do it. You can say no, or create your own version of holiday traditions that feels joyful and stress-free. No one says you have to have a big holiday meal, follow past traditions, cook turkey and stuffing, or follow anyone else’s rules for how you want to experience the holidays.  You do what works for you.

Eat what you want, wear what you want, do what you want.  This is your life, and you get to design your holiday experience however it feels best for you.  Prefer going to a restaurant instead of being at home? Go for it!  Eating out can be wonderful because there’s less stress, you get to fully enjoy your meal without worrying about cooking, and the clean-up is someone else’s responsibility. You can control how long you stay, savour the food at your own pace, and enjoyed being served a hot meal without leaving your seat. These little choices make a huge difference in your enjoyment and energy during the season. It’s all about creating a holiday that truly feels like yours, and as always wherever you are, and whatever you are doing, please drink responsibly and stay sober if you're driving.  

15. Keep up with your wellness routine and keep honouring yourself.  The holiday season is busy, but taking care of your mind, body and spirit is always most important. Continue rising early to make time for yourself each morning, whether that’s meditation, prayer, a workout, an extra long shower, or simply a quiet cup of coffee, your journal, or a good book to centre yourself is everything.  One other great thing to do is aim for at least 30 minutes of walking outdoors daily.  Fresh air does wonders for your energy and mental health.   You might also want to consider some gentle yin yoga, or a warm sauna session or epsom salt bath to help you unwind.  Also ensure you’re still getting your 7–9 hours of sleep each night and always listen to your body.  Staying off social media, doing a complete digital detox, or deleting apps that are distracting and focusing solely on your own life and your own family is also wonderful!  

Stay hydrated, and consider adding electrolytes to your water to keep your energy levels steady. Eat nourishing foods to fuel your body, but also allow yourself to enjoy all the wonderful holiday treats guilt-free when the time comes.  The key is balance!  So savour those cookies, chocolates, and your holiday favourites while still maintaining your healthy habits to ensure that you keep your body strong, your mind clear, and your energy levels high.  When you honour both wellness and indulgence, you can fully enjoy the season without feeling deprived or overwhelmed.

16. Create your favourite holiday playlist on Spotify
Nothing beats some good Christmas music! Spend a few extra minutes to create a playlist of your favourite holiday tunes on Spotify and let it be your soundtrack for the season.  Choose upbeat songs for busy mornings.  This is perfect for getting the little ones off to school with a smile.  You can turn your kitchen into a mini dance floor or parade route, letting the music lift everyone’s energy.  Don’t be afraid to mix it up.  Create themed playlists for cozy evenings, holiday road trips, baking marathons, or dinner parties to keep the festive spirit going.

17. Honour your departed loved ones
The holiday season can bring feelings of sadness of those we’ve lost and one meaningful way to honour them is by choosing a new Christmas ornament in their memory, some fresh flowers, or by treating yourself and your family to their favourite holiday treat.  You can light a candle, play their favourite song, or share a story about them too.  Small gestures like these keep their presence alive in your heart.  But always remember that your loved ones would want you to feel joy and celebrate life, not be weighed down by grief, sorrow or sadness.  Celebrate their life and the happy memories you shared and know that they are always with you wherever you go.

18. Create a Signature Festive Holiday Drink
Make your holiday celebrations extra special by crafting a signature festive drink both alcoholic and non-alcoholic so everyone can join in the fun.  Think peppermint martinis, Baileys with coffee, or a classic eggnog with a twist. For non-drinkers or kids, try sparkling cranberry mocktails, hot chocolate with flavoured syrups, peppermint mocha latte, or warm apple cider with cinnamon sticks.

Make it a full experience!  Buy some new glasses, fun coasters, or festive straws to elevate the presentation and be sure to include whipped cream, sprinkles, or a candy cane stirrer. 

19. Treat yourself to fresh flowers or a beautiful arrangement.  Whether it’s a bouquet of seasonal blooms, a beautiful holiday centerpiece, or even a high-quality fake arrangement, flowers have a way of instantly brightening your space and lifting your mood. Take a moment to appreciate their colours and let them remind you to slow down and savour the little joys life has to offer you. Place them where you’ll see them often, like your desk, dining table, or nightstand, and let their presence inspire calm, creativity, and gratitude throughout your day. For an extra touch of fun, try arranging them yourself or buy a larger bouquet and let your kids help you make smaller arrangements.  It can be surprisingly therapeutic and rewarding.

20. Replace old water bottles and choose something festive.  A simple swap can bring a surprising amount of joy, especially when your new bottles match your holiday colour theme.  Imagine a row of cheerful red and green bottles on your kitchen counter or a sparkling new Starbucks cups that instantly puts a smile on your face each morning.  Treat yourself to a design or colour you truly love.  It’s a small daily luxury that can lift your mood every time you take a sip.

Take this opportunity to also declutter.  Store away bottles that are still looking fresh and full of summer colour.  Get rid of any scratched, worn-out, or faded bottles that are also in your cupboard.  Clearing out the old makes space for the new and sets a festive and organized tone for the season ahead. 

21. Buy a new Santa hat and go watch a Christmas parade.  There’s something magical about the energy of a Christmas parade.  The streets alive with music and lights.  Kids laughing, families singing along to songs, dancers twirling down the street, and candy flying into excited hands, it’s a celebration that sparks joy for all ages. Then, of course the grand finale of Santa arriving at the very end, waving and spreading cheer.  You’re never too old to feel that childlike excitement, so get your Santa hat ready, bundle up if it’s chilly, leave early so you can get a good spot, and bring along a warm drink to sip as you take it all in.  Let yourself enjoy these simple moments.  It’s a reminder that holiday magic isn’t just for kids, real magic lives in all of us!

Extra Bonus Points:  Completely unplug on Christmas morning.

There’s something truly magical about waking up a little earlier than usual, hopping in the shower, getting yourself ready, getting yourself a warm cup of coffee, setting out some breakfast nibblies like muffins, croissants, cinnamon buns, and fresh fruit, and simply waiting for your kids to wake up and seeing first hand the look of excitement on their faces.  And yes… that might mean starting your day before 5 a.m. if your little ones are early risers, but that quiet, peaceful anticipation is part of the magic.

Even more magical?  Putting your phone down and being fully present with the people right in front of your face.  Sure, snap a few photos of your kids opening their big gifts, but don’t let yourself get lost behind a phone screen videoing every moment or sharing it with random strangers on the internet.   

This is your time to savour the laughter, the excitement, and the tiny moments that turn into memories that you’ll cherish forever.  Text messages, emails, work, business, and social media can all wait.  Right now, it’s about connection, love, family, and the simple joy of being together.

Take a deep breath, soak it all in, and let yourself feel the wonder and all the hard work that went into this day and don't forget to give yourself some praise for all that you do and continue  to do.  These moments don't last forever, but the love, laughter, the energy you bring, how you show up and memories you create are timeless.  You'll remember them most when you're fully there, and not lost in digital distraction.  Be present, be joyful, be happy, and let this Christmas morning remind you that the best gifts aren’t bought or wrapped, but rather the real treasure is always felt in your heart.

So there you have it!  The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not stressed, or rushed through and the magic really shines when you plan ahead, be intentional with what you're creating, honour your energy, and make space for joy in every little moment.  Instead of the holidays just flying by, you are being present and can enjoy each and every single day as they come!  

Whether it’s picking out your new holiday outfit, cozying up with a cup of cocoa with whip cream and sprinkles on top, watching your kids decorate the tree or pick out their own decorations, meditating, lighting your favourite smelling candle, being more patient and present, enjoying your favourite treats, watching the excitement on your kids faces on Christmas morning, or simply taking a quiet walk in the crisp winter air, these small intentional choices add up to a season full of peace, laughter, love, and lasting memories.  Remember, this is your holiday, your traditions, your life, your family, and your joy to create.  Embrace it fully, savour the moments, always be grateful, stay blessed, and let this be the most joyful holiday season yet. 

Recommended Life Transformation Programs and Products:

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Additional Reads:

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