Hey bestie, the holidays are here, and it’s giving cozy vibes only! Whether you’re all about the classic Midwest Christmas feels or you’re looking to sprinkle in some fresh new traditions, this list has you covered. Let’s make this holiday season one to remember with traditions that are as warm as your favorite oversized sweater. Ready? Let’s go!
1. Decorate with Fresh Flowers
Skip the poinsettias this year and go for something extra pretty! Add a Great Lakes Living bouquet to your mantel, dining table, or nightstand. Flowers bring those dreamy, hygge vibes that scream “Merry & Bright.”
2. Build a Gingerbread House
Building a gingerbread house is always a good time, whether you’re going for a Pinterest-worthy masterpiece or a chaotic candy explosion. Make it a competition and share the results on IG—the winner gets bragging rights (and maybe an extra cookie).
3. Bake Your Family’s Favorite Recipes
Nothing says Christmas like the smell of cookies fresh out of the oven. Call your mom, grandma, or fave foodie friend for those tried-and-true recipes. Then, make it a tradition to bake together every year. Bonus: you’ll have sweet treats to snack on while you wrap gifts!
4. Host a Holiday Tea Party
Why not channel your inner Bridgerton and host a festive tea party? Serve up cozy teas, finger sandwiches, and cute pastries. Decorate with fairy lights and a stunning bouquet to set the mood. Your guests will be spilling the tea (literally and figuratively) on how cute this is.
5. Create Hygge Gift Baskets
Think soft blankets, scented candles, homemade cookies, and a small bouquet of flowers. Wrap it all up in a cute basket, and voilà—instant cozy vibes. These make perfect hostess gifts or just a sweet surprise for your besties.
6. Have a Movie Marathon Night
Grab your coziest blanket and your favorite snacks and binge-watch holiday classics. Home Alone, Elf, The Grinch—you know the drill. Don’t forget to invite friends or family to join the fun (or keep it solo for ultimate chill vibes).
7. Start a Christmas Eve Gift Tradition
Get matching PJs for the fam or your friend group and open them on Christmas Eve. Add a book or a festive candle to make it extra special. Trust us, this one is pure nostalgia.
8. Go All Out with Gift Wrapping
Turn gift wrapping into an art form this year. Use kraft paper, twine, and flowers from your Great Lakes Living bouquet. Not only will your gifts look gorgeous, but they’ll also show how much you care.
9. Plan a Winter Walk or Snow Day
Bundle up and head outside for a snowy adventure. Take a walk through your neighborhood or hit up a local trail. Don’t forget a thermos of hot cocoa and a playlist of your favorite Christmas tunes. It’s a vibe.
10. Write Letters to Your Future Self
This one’s for the feels. Take a quiet moment by the fire, grab some pretty stationery, and write a letter to yourself for next Christmas. Reflect on the year, set intentions, and stash it somewhere safe to open next December. Cue the emotional music.
Take a Moment for YOU
Remember, the holidays don’t have to be all hustle and bustle. Take time to do what makes you happy—whether that’s decorating with flowers, sipping hot cocoa, or just sitting by the fire with a good book. Whatever you do, make it magical.
Which tradition are you adding to your list this year? Check us out on social media and share your holiday vibes on IG with #GreatLakesLiving. Let’s make this the coziest Christmas yet!
