An Organizing Expert's Top Holiday Hack: Simplify Your Face Off

When it comes to the holidays, the best organizing hack isn't a clever trick or a hidden compartment — it's adopting a "less is more" approach. The more we simplify, the more we can focus on what truly matters: joy, connection, and the beauty of the season.

Here's how you can apply this philosophy to every part of your holiday planning, from gift wrap to decor. Your future self (and your sanity) will thank you.

An Organizing Expert's Top Holiday Hacks

Gift Wrapping

Instead of stockpiling a closet full of mismatched gift wrap, bows, and tags, try sticking to a streamlined approach. Pick one or two reusable options, like a classic Kraft paper or versatile white wrap, and dress it up with simple twine or ribbon and maybe a sprig of greenery or cinnamon stick. It's a major space saver and much more sustainable and cost-effective — so many wins.

Actionable Tip: Create a small "gift wrap kit" consisting of your wrapping paper, a roll of twine or ribbon, a pair of scissors, and a tape dispenser. Store it all in one container or bin for quick, easy access.

Gift Buying

Less is definitely more when it comes to holiday shopping. Rather than scrambling to buy gifts for everyone on your list, focus on those closest to you who will truly appreciate a thoughtful, well-chosen item.

For everyone else, consider skipping the usual items in favor of a heartfelt note, a homemade treat, or a simple card. You might also consider opting for experiential (read: clutter-free) gifts, like breakfast in bed, a night of babysitting, dinner and a movie, or tickets to a concert or event.

Actionable Tip: Use a gift tracker and limit each person to one special item. Not only will you save time and energy, but each gift will feel more intentional and meaningful.

Hosting

If you're hosting, also embrace simplicity. Choose a limited menu of reliable, crowd-pleasing dishes instead of overloading yourself with options or trying to dazzle with your cooking. Think along the lines of charcuterie, cheese, crudités and an array of mini sweets. Light a few candles, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and invite guests to bring their favorite beverage to share. Simple, cozy, and delightful: Your goal is to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere without stretching yourself too thin.

Actionable Tip: Curate a hosting bin with nonperishable items like high-quality chocolate, crackers, nuts, and a bottle of bubbly or two. This will keep you "host-ready" for last-minute gatherings without needing a frantic shopping trip.

Parties and Events

Holiday party invites seem endless, but saying "yes" to everything can quickly lead to burnout. Prioritize events that mean the most to you, whether it's a close friend's gathering or a family get-together, and let go of those that feel like obligations. You'll find that the less you overcommit, the more present and energized you'll feel at each event you do attend.

Actionable Tip: Curate your ideal connection cadence. Mark the parties and events that feel most meaningful on your calendar first, and set a cap for the total number you'll attend. This creates a nice balance between social time and downtime for yourself.

Decor

Holiday decor doesn't have to overtake your home or your life. Rather than trying to cover every corner in tinsel, choose a few special areas to highlight, like the mantel, entryway, or a small tree. Keep your decor natural and timeless; a few candles, some evergreen sprigs, and warm lighting create a festive feel without clutter or stress.

Actionable Tip: Gather all your decor items and pick just a few to display this year. Store the rest away or donate items you no longer love. This approach keeps things simple and frees up storage space after the season.

The Bottom Line

In the end, my best holiday organizing "hack" is really just a mindset shift toward simplicity. By applying the less-is-more philosophy to your holiday approach, you'll be able to focus on what really matters most, like time with loved ones, shared experiences, and creating memories. So this year, try the less-is-more method and give yourself the gift of a calm, intentional holiday season.

Shira Gill (she/her) is a globally recognized home-organizing expert and author with a minimalist philosophy. She's inspired thousands of people to clear clutter from their homes and lives through a process she developed that applies to anyone, regardless of budget, space, or lifestyle. Shira is the bestselling author of "Minimalista," "Organized Living," and her forthcoming book "LifeStyled," and has been featured by 100+ media outlets. Shira is a PS Council member.