Holiday Hacks and Tips That Will Help Keep You On The Nice List

The holidays are always a busy time of year! There’s no doubt that while it’s the most wonderful time of the year, it also can feel like the most rushed. We hurry to find the right gifts either bustling through busy stores or scrolling through websites. We scurry between band concerts, choir concerts, pageants and plays. We even spend our evenings attending office parties, festive get-togethers or hosting family and friends.

Avoiding Holiday Headaches

Trying to find the time to do it all sometimes only adds to the stress. But, before you grab that bottle of bubbly, turn on those Hallmark Christmas movies and call off the whole season, (What? You know it sounds appealing!) here are a few easy, holiday hacks that will not only keep you on the nice list, but also impress all those holiday guests.

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Holiday Party Hacks

I love cooking and baking, but only when it doesn’t feel like a chore. As much as it makes my heart happy, when I’m short on time and stressed it just doesn’t have the same feel. Whether it’s entertaining in your own home, wanting a dish for the company potluck or even needing a special gift, these hacks are either super simple recipes or better yet, super easy to order!

Popped Passion

Crave that salty, sweet combo? Need a quick and easy gift or gluten-free treat to add to the dessert table? Want to impress those guests? These popcorn cakes can do it all and they are delicious. I’ve had the pleasure of creating a few tasty combinations. From a pastel-themed Easter delight full of chocolate and coconut to this holiday-themed cake complete with dried cranberries and white chocolate–they have a custom creation sure to please everyone. Just make sure to get those orders in by December 10th!

Easy Cranberry Orange Sauce Recipe

This one is an easy recipe that you can make in a large batch. It’s great to layer in cute, decorative jars and doubles as a delicious side dish and a beautiful gift. Plus, the left over syrup is delicious on ice cream and pancakes.

Christmas Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies

In keeping with the idea of treats that also make perfect presents, these Funfetti cake mix cookies from Lisa at Stress-Free Christmas. These cookies are a special family tradition to Lisa and along with a warm story, the cookies are perfectly soft and chewy.

Holiday Decoration Hacks

Decorating is sure to bring out your holiday spirit, but it can be time consuming and expensive. Save both your cash and your patience with these incredible holiday decor ideas.

DIY Holiday Wreaths

The front door is the first thing your guests see when they arrive. Take a few minutes to dress it up with these incredibly, easy DIY holiday wreaths.

Classic Elegant Wreath

Find classic elegance and traditional colors with this DIY holiday wreath by Michele at A Fit and Fabulous Michele.

Shabby Chic Rag Wreath

Or enjoy a pop of color with this shabby, chic rag wreath made by Lisa at Retro Housewife Goes Green. The possibilities are endless depending on which fabric scraps you decide to use.

Handmade Ornaments

I’m a sucker for filling our tree with handmade ornaments made by the kiddos. They also make a great present for the grandparents and far away family. These are simple enough for kids of all ages (with a little help) and a cute addition to anyone’s tree.

Block Snowman Ornament

These smiling snowman by Donna at Blog by Donna are adorable. They would be perfect on the tree and also greeting guests on the table as a take home name card. I even found the perfect wooden blocks on Amazon.

Holly Wreath Ornament

Rachel at Pretty In Baby Food shared this adorable idea that is not only cute, but would also be perfect to keep kids entertained during dinner parties or holiday events. Print, get a few supplies and let them create!

Other Items

Embellished Candles

Another easy idea that works as both decor and a gift are these festive candles from Rajean at RajeanBlomquist.com. I love that these look great, are simple to make and Rajean shares how she keeps them affordable.

Holiday Hacks & Tips

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to keep your cool using a few holiday hacks and tips. What stresses you out most about the holidays? I’d love to hear the reasons and see if I can find a hack for them.