Tiny wins now = calmer you next December. This is my zero-overwhelm system for packing décor fast, protecting the pretty things, and making January feel lighter.

Why this works

• Time-boxed: one focused 90-minute session (or 3×30 minutes).
• Fewer decisions: same order, same labels, every year.
• Open-first box: you start next season with a win, not a dig.

The 5-Zone Pack-Away

Set five containers on one table or floor zone:

1. Open-First Box – the “start the season” kit: extension cords, light clips, command hooks, tree stand hardware, timer, scissors, tape, 2 rolls of neutral wrap, a Sharpie.
2. Ornaments – wrapped by type (glass, sentimental, kid-made) in small boxes within the big bin.
3. Lights + Tech – each strand wrapped around cardboard, one strand = one zip bag; remote batteries stored separately.
4. Textiles + Soft Décor – stockings, tree skirt, table runners, pillows.
5. Wreaths + Bulky – wreaths in clear bags, garland coiled, large figurals.

Mantra: Pack by category, not by room.

Step-by-step (90 minutes)

Minutes 0–10: Stage + sort

• Put the five containers out. Pull everything off surfaces into one staging area.

Minutes 10–35: Ornaments

• Wrap high-risk items first (glass, heirlooms) with tissue or coffee filters.
• One box = one label (e.g., “Glass—Silver/White”). Place box into the Ornaments bin.

Minutes 35–50: Lights + tech

• Wrap each strand around a cardboard “H”; tuck ends into the notch.
• Bag with a slip that says where they hang (e.g., “Mantel, 9 ft”). Into the Lights bin.

Minutes 50–70: Textiles

• Launder runners + stockings now so they’re fresh next year.
• Fold and stack by size; compress bags only if fully dry.

Minutes 70–85: Wreaths + bulky

• Bag wreaths; coil garland; secure with soft ties.
• Place the “Open-First Box” on top of everything else.

Minutes 85–90: Labels + done

• Add a large label to each bin + a small “Box #__ of __” sticker.

Labeling that makes next year easy

• Use Avery 5160 (or painter’s tape) and write like this:
  • HOLIDAY — ORNAMENTS — Glass (Silver/White)
  • HOLIDAY — LIGHTS — Mantel + 2 Windows
  • HOLIDAY — TEXTILES — Stockings/Tree Skirt
  • HOLIDAY — WREATHS — 24" Front Door
  • HOLIDAY — OPEN-FIRST — Hooks/Clips/Timer/Scissors

Want QR labels? I can generate a DIY set that jumps to a pre-filled row in your Google Sheet inventory. Say the word and I’ll attach the printable + sheet template.

Micro-declutter rules (so January is lighter)

• Repair or release: anything broken goes to a “Fix by Jan 15” bag; if not fixed, it’s gone.
• Half-used candles: consolidate to one jar or toss.
• Decor math: if it didn’t go up this year, it earns a donation tag.

The Open-First Box (your future self will cheer)

• Timer, remote batteries, command hooks/strips, light clips
• Extension cords, mini zip ties, twist-ties
• Scissors, tape, Sharpie, 10 spare ornament hooks
• 1 neutral table runner + 1 strand of working lights (for an instant start)

ADHD-friendly tweaks

• Use a playlist that ends at ~90 minutes—no clock-watching.
• Put a bright sticky on anything that needs attention next year (“Replace mantel lights”).
• Take one photo of your tree/mantel—tape a printout inside the Open-First Box.

Troubleshooting (quick)

• Tangled lights: if a strand tangles twice, cut your losses. Replace it next year; note it on the sticky.
• Glitter everywhere: slide glitter items into clear garment bags.
• Heavy bins: switch to more, smaller bins. Your back will thank you.

CTA — Join the Weekly Home Reset

Want calm systems that actually stick? Join the Happy Organized Me Newsletter for weekly tiny wins and pretty printables. January’s issue includes Pack-Away Labels + an Inventory Sheet to make next year even easier.
Subscribe now and get the download.

Nows your time to shine!

What goes in your Open-First Box?

Which bin filled up fastest for you—Ornaments or Lights?

What will you donate so next year is lighter?

Share in the comments below, I can hardly wait to hear your amazing answers.