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Low-Stress Holiday Checklist: Plan, Prepare & Play

December 03, 20251 min read

Hey Hosting Queen,

We’ve arrived in December, Queen! Can you believe another year has flown by?

Tell me — are you the person with a mile-long to-do list this month, rushing from one thing to the next… or do you prefer to under-schedule so you can truly soak in the season? Maybe you’re somewhere in the middle.

Wherever you land, here’s your reminder: this holiday season can be magical without being overwhelming. Let’s fill it with more joy, less stress.

Here are my favorite ways to protect your energy and enjoy the magic:

✨ Plan Ahead

  • Decide which events and activities are non-negotiable

  • Be honest about what can be cut (it’s OK to say no!)

  • If you’re hosting, set your menu early and buy what you can in advance

  • Write your gift list and, if possible, do your shopping in one weekday sweep

✨ Prepare

  • Keep a few premade or freezer-friendly items ready for “bring a plate” gatherings

  • Schedule rest + downtime (and guard it fiercely)

  • Eat a little something before parties so you don’t arrive starving

  • Set a “leave time” so you can get the rest you need to shine

✨ Play

  • Schedule sledding, Christmas movies, or a holiday lights tour

  • Prioritize cozy time with friends and family

  • Add in simple traditions that light you up

This time of year can be busy and over-commercialized, but Queen — you have permission to pause. To play. And to enjoy the season in a way that feels good for you. ✨

Less Stress, More Magic ~ Always

With Love,

Krista

PS. Hosting Christmas dinner? I’ve got a gift for you:A Hosting Queen’s Guide to a Stress-Free Holiday Dinner. It’ll help you stay on track, on time, and stress-less this year.

Krista is a certified event planner, theme-party enthusiast, and the heart behind Made With Love Gatherings. With over 20 years of experience creating meaningful moments, she helps women host beautiful, stress-free gatherings that reflect their style and story. When she’s not planning parties, you’ll find her journaling by the fire, paddleboarding with her kids, or dreaming up the next themed celebration.

Krista R | Made With Love Gatherings

Krista is a certified event planner, theme-party enthusiast, and the heart behind Made With Love Gatherings. With over 20 years of experience creating meaningful moments, she helps women host beautiful, stress-free gatherings that reflect their style and story. When she’s not planning parties, you’ll find her journaling by the fire, paddleboarding with her kids, or dreaming up the next themed celebration.

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