If you’ve not already redecorated and laid new carpets, it’s now far too close to Christmas to be doing any of that. There are, however, many small things that you can do to help you enjoy your home over the festive period. After all, it’s a time that we tend to spend in our houses with family and friends. Here are some ideas for you:

• Choose your decorations carefully. You don’t want to overdo it, but equally, you don’t want to be the only person in your street who doesn’t have any decorations up. Take your lead from the neighbours whilst also not ignoring your own personal tastes.
• Decide what kind of tree you want. If you haven’t already purchased a tree for the big day, you’re cutting it fine! However, this might be the perfect time the buy one ready for next year, or to replace your current one, as shops are already beginning to cut their prices. You might be able to pick up a tree that is excellent quality for a very low price.
• Rearrange your furniture. Even the smallest change can help to make your house feel as good as new. Think about ways you can make your space feel larger, whilst also considering practicalities. For example, you could move coffee tables into the room to give people a place to rest plates and glasses during the day.
• Make sure your kitchen is ready for action. Christmas day itself will involve lots of cooking and eating, so make sure the dining space is sorted and the kitchen is completely ready for preparing food. Decide how you are going to use the space you have – you cannot plan this process too much. You may want to have a work area and a different surface for serving up. Make a timetable so you know when you need to be using each area, and what you should be cooking/ preparing.