By Sam Wylie-Harris

As Christmas approaches, it’s very easy to get caught up in the “more is more” whirlwind.

Especially with so many temptations at every turn…the pressure to buy gifts, decorate lavishly, host fancy get-togethers, and shell out for all those fussy extras.

But how about taking a different approach to the holidays and prioritizing meaningful, joyful experiences over material possessions?

“A minimalist Christmas encourages us to focus on what really matters, creating lasting memories with our loved ones by simplifying our celebrations,” says clean queen Lynsey Crombie.

“And reduce the stress and clutter that often comes with the season.”

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By choosing thoughtful gifts, adopting simple traditions, and setting clear boundaries, you can celebrate the season hassle-free, she says.

Here’s how to reduce excess while spreading joy…

Set clear boundaries

“As you start planning your Christmas, make it clear that you have minimalist intentions when it comes to gifts and hosting,” says Lynsey. “Setting expectations early on can help avoid excessive giving and unnecessary stress, and I hope more will follow.”

Plus, she says don’t forget to embrace the season by enjoying some downtime, reflecting on the year, and spending time with the people who matter to you.

“Think about how you can also approach 2025 with a minimalist head. »

Buy gift experiences

Lynsey suggests creating memories rather than buying things people don’t want, or even need. “Consider offering experiences that a few family members can enjoy together.

“For example, a day out, a music concert or afternoon tea, which bring back fun memories without adding to the clutter in the house. »

She says people will remember the experience and the memory much longer than the gift itself.

Secret Santa between the family

Talk to friends and family about a manageable gift limit for everyone, or why not even organize a family Secret Santa, suggests Lynsey.

“It takes the pressure of having to buy for everyone and it can work well if you have a big family. When choosing gifts, you will have more time to focus on finding meaningful gifts because they will be for just one person.

This avoids piles of unnecessary gifts, wrappers and wrapping paper around the house.

Choose simple Scandinavian-style decor

“Choose a theme that fits well with your interior design and style, and simply install a few elements with your tree,” says Lynsey.

“A few well-chosen decorations can be just as effective, save dust because there’s nothing worse than cleaning around Christmas decorations, save clutter, save time and ‘always look elegant.

“Why not forage for your own decorations, choosing natural elements like pine cones, greenery or wooden ornaments for a simple, festive look.”

Ditch the Christmas Cards

“Every year I notice that I receive fewer and fewer cards,” confesses Lynsey. “And now we tend to only send them to elderly relatives and neighbors.

“So why not ditch the bulk of the Christmas cards and send digital greetings, fancy text messages, or pick up the phone and call your friends and family.”

As she points out, this will save a lot of time, money, clutter and reduce paper waste.

“You could also consider donating what you usually spend on cards and stamps to a local charity – let your friends and family know via a digital card and encourage them to do the same. “

Two-in-one gifts

Lynsey believes in buying fluffy Christmas socks and using them to wrap a bottle of wine. “This way they get two gifts and there is absolutely no waste.” I have also seen this done with festive tea towels for wrapping chocolates, biscuits etc.

Also, never write on the labels of your bags. She says to keep them clean so you can reuse the gift bags year after year.

Simplify holiday meals

“Create a menu and stick to it, keeping it simple, and if you’re entertaining, ask others to bring a dish to save you time and avoid mess.

“Choose a few favorites and enjoy more quality time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen all day cooking and cleaning up after everyone else. »

Put things in the slow cooker in the morning and forget about them for the day, suggests Lynsey. “Serve a party and you don’t have to think about anything!”

“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.

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