The Busy (and cheap) Persons Guide to the Holidays

[Debra Bowis]

Getting your home ready for the holidays doesn't have to be as stressful as we make it neither does it have to break the bank. Here are 5 ways to make your home look like a million dollars the easy way.

1. Appeal to the senses - Nothing says Christmas like the smell of a fresh tree but even if you don't have a tree you can simmer holiday poptpourri to smell. Make up a batch of holiday cookies for taste. Play your favorite holiday music for hearing. Snuggle up with a cozy afgan for touch and create a decorating focal point to appeal to your sight.

2. Use the same color story throughout - This is a classic decorating trick but it works for holiday decor as well. Use one color palette, say red, green and gold, but vary the proportions from room to room. For example make red dominant in the living room, green dominant in the kitchn and gold dominant in the dining room. You can even coordinate ribbons throughout the rooms to create a cohesive and polished flow.

3. Put a bow on it - Everything, from a package to a poinsettia, looks better with a bow. Don't know how to make a bow? Check out this video from Better Homes and Gardens.

4. Be ready for a party - Have geat tasting pre-made appetizers on hand that can be pulled out of the freezer and popped in the microwave when guests show up unexpectedly. I love the On the Go Bistro Collection from Sweetbay

5. Remember the reason for the season - Joy, family, friendship are the cornerstones of the holiday season. Enjoy what you have and quit worrying about what didn't get done.