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The holiday season is in full swing and many of us are busy planning several celebrations. We’ve got you covered with ways to help you work smarter, not harder.
Prepare Ahead of Time
With cleaning, cooking, and finding the perfect gifts for loved ones, the holidays can quickly become overwhelming. Preparation is key. Start by writing things down! Categorizing tasks will keep you on track, and research shows writing by hand helps with memory, unleashes creativity, and produces a meditative effect on the brain. Make a checklist for everything, including a cleaning schedule. Your home will be sparkling and guest-ready in no time!
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When in Doubt, Head Out
We are a local Bay Area builder that loves getting to know the people and places in our new home communities. Most cities offer festive holiday events, so minimize your hosting duties and head out with family and friends instead. Residences at our gated Acacia community in Oakley can participate in the City’s annual Holiday Decorating Contest. Download the contest map and listen to holiday music in your car as you check out the decorated homes. The Historic District in the city of Folsom hosts a seasonal ice skating rink and residents of our Legacy at Folsom Ranch community can host events here, too. Reserve fireside seating and let their event planner organize your holiday celebration!
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Have Everyone Bring A Dish
Are you hosting a gathering? Include signup options for guests to bring sides or desserts. For those super helpful guests, have a list of easy tasks ready, like filling the ice bucket or lighting candles.
For a smaller celebration with your immediate family, turn your kitchen into mini workstations by designating counter spaces for food prep. Group recipe ingredients in serving dishes for quick access. Our Cardiff at River Islands homes include spacious gourmet kitchens, so there is room for all the cooks in the kitchen. Lack space? Assign cooking and cleaning times in the kitchen leading up to the event.
Do Desserts First
Make desserts first, even if you eat them last. Many dessert recipes require overnight proofing or refrigeration, so investing a little time to review your recipes ahead of time can help avoid potential mishaps.
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Find Deals while Shopping
Need help shopping for gifts? Signature Homes communities are located near bustling shopping centers for all your gift-giving needs. Our Legacy at Folsom Ranch neighborhood is located near the popular Palladio at Broadstone center, home to Barnes & Noble, White House Black Market, and H&M. Also nearby is Historic Downtown Folsom, brimming with cozy places to dine and many independent stores.
For online shopping, look for promotions and coupon codes. Download trusted browser extensions like Honey to find deals at checkout or search for holiday specials and online coupons so you don’t break your budget. Add the Camelizer browser extension to track price drops on Amazon. Try to arrange in-store pickup of your internet purchases if you don’t want to wait for items to ship. Many small businesses now have online stores, which can be your secret weapon for finding the perfect gift.
A Gift from the Heart
While a gift you buy can be wonderful, nothing beats a homemade gift from the heart. The possibilities are endless with a stop at the crafts store or what can be found around your home! They can be as simple as handmade IOU coupons for back rubs to elaborately designed scrapbooks of inside jokes and shared memories.
Make the Holidays Worth Your While
The holiday season is about family, food, and memories. With these tips in your back pocket, we hope 2022 is your most relaxed and creative holiday yet! Explore our communities here if you are searching for a new place to start your holiday traditions.
From Signature Homes, Happy Holidays!
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