By JENNY SMITH MATTFELDT Published December 18, 2024
When you're a kid Christmas morning is one of those scenes that feels like it belongs in a holiday movie. The twinkling lights, the smell of the tree, and the excitement of the season all coming together in one perfect moment. But as an adult a little of the magic is replaced by chaos or indifference. This year we are taking time to romanticize Christmas morning, taking our time, and going old school to create that magic again.
Set the Mood the Night Before
The key to a relaxed Christams morning is prepping the night before. Set the table for breakfast or brunch so you can check it off your list a day early. Lay out everything you will need for a cozy morning: coffee mugs, coffee, hot chocolate, and maybe some Godiva White Chocolate liqueur. You can even lay out some cozy clothes to wear all morning or sleep in your favorite, cute pajamas that night so you can lounge in them the next morning.
Create a Slow, Intentional Start
Resist the urge to jump into the day at full speed. Instead, set an intention to take your time. Wake up early (you may not have a choice here if you have kids,) savor your coffee, and let the house come alive slowly. Take a moment to watch the sun rise, turn on some music, take a minute to pray or read a passage and be grateful for the moment. It's crazy how much we have to be grateful for if we simpy take a step back and look around.
Focus on Breakfast as a Ritual, Not a Quick Meal
A leisurely Christmas breakfast or brunch can be just as magical as the gifts you open. Try making a festive meal like homemade cinnamon rolls, a decadent French toast bake, or a holiday-inspired frittata. Set up a hot cocoa or coffee bar where guests can top their drinks with whipped cream, marshmallows, or flavored syrups. The key here is to make it feel special, not rushed. If you want to make it extra cozy, light a candle or two on the table (think cinnamon, gingerbread, or pine-scented ones) to bring in that festive, warm vibe.
Embrace the Calm Before the Storm
If you’re hosting, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of preparation, but try to carve out a little time before things get busy. Sit by the tree and take in the moment: the glow of the lights, the warmth of the fire, the quiet excitement of the day. Even a 10-minute moment of stillness with yourself will help center you for the day ahead.
Create a Morning Playlist
Set the tone with a curated playlist of soft, festive tunes. Think instrumental holiday music, cozy classics or something by the queen of Christmas, Mariah Carey. Music can help create the atmosphere you’re looking for without having to say a word. Try searching Cozy Christmas Morning playlists for some good ones.
Incorporate Your Traditions
Include small rituals that elevate the day’s meaning. Maybe it’s taking turns sharing what you’re most grateful for this year or finding the hidden pickle on the tree (give that a google if you haven't heard of it but if you know, you know.) You could even start a new tradition like a Christmas morning toast with mimosas or a family walk after presents. These moments will stick with you far beyond the holiday season.
Create a Photo Moment
Designate a special spot for family photos on Christmas morning—by the tree, near the fireplace, or in front of the table. Take a few moments to capture those memories. Here's the thing, nobody likes having to pose for photos but everybody likes having photos to look back on. Keep it as painless as possible by only posing for one or two and then snapping some candids as the day goes on. To keep the nostalgic vibes going opt for a Polaroid or disposable camera to snap those imperfect, perfectly photos that will forever bring you back to the heart of the holiday.
Mind the Small Details
Little touches can turn an ordinary morning into something magical. Think personalized stockings, thoughtful gift tags, or even handwritten notes to your loved ones. It’s the details—like arranging the gifts in a special way under the tree or adding sprigs of greenery to the breakfast spread—that make the morning feel romantic and full of thoughtfulness. And if you're hosting or if you're a mom make sure you include your favorites, not just what you know everybody else will want.
Remember to be Present
Hosting can be overwhelming, but Christmas morning is meant to be savored. Don’t stress over perfection or the details that don’t go as planned. Instead, focus on being present with your loved ones. Let go of the pressure to do it all and focus on the moments of connection, laughter, and warmth. These are the memories you’ll treasure the most.
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