Bring Joy Home

'Tis the season to celebrate! Reader’s Digest worked with our friends at Family Handyman and Taste of Home to deliver the best tips and tricks to make your home merry and bright. Below, you’ll find decoration inspiration, editor-curated gift guides, and advice on ensuring every member of the family—yes even pets—gets into the holiday spirit.

Click on the numbers below to find ways to bring joy home.

Your perfect holiday plan is written in the stars. Let your zodiac sign give you inspiration for the season.

READ OUR GUIDE

Swap out traditional Christmas lights for a chic strand of garland.

SHOP DECOR

Use chalkboard cheese markers on your charcuterie board to make the selections clear to guests.

SHOP NOW

Don’t forget to stock your bar cart with a variety of liquors and glassware.

LEARN HOW

Save yourself holiday stress by designating guests’ sleeping spaces well in advance.

MORE HOSTING ADVICE

If you're short on space, folding beds are a great way to host overnight guests while retaining everyday floorspace.

SHOP NOW

Why settle for what’s on the radio when you can make a playlist of your family’s favorites?

GET SONGS

Invest in a dreidel that’ll stay in the family for generations.

SHOP NOW

To save money on presents this year, emphasize experiences over physical gifts.

MORE MONEY-SAVING TIPS

There’s no need to splurge on stocking stuffers. Socks, card games, and nail polish are great gifts that won’t break the bank.

SHOP NOW

Don’t forget an annual chimney sweep at the start of the winter season.

GET OUR GUIDE

Yes, you can fix burned-out Christmas lights! Learn how in just a few simple steps.

READ OUR GUIDE

Shop gifts to please everyone on your list with help from our editor-curated gift guides.

SHOP NOW

Get the best-wrapped presents under the tree with the Little Elf, a clever tool that makes cutting gift wrap a whole lot easier.

LEARN HOW

Don’t forget the mugs of cocoa when you settle in for a family movie marathon.

GET MOVIES

Looking around the house for a last-minute gift? Etiquette experts say candles are appropriate to regift.

GET MORE TIPS

Personalize your gift wrapping by doodling artwork or attaching the recipient’s favorite candy.

GET MORE IDEAS

A seasonal houseplant is always a thoughtful pick for your hostess.

GET MORE IDEAS

Start a new family tradition by reading through our keepsake collection of timeless stories in The Best of Reader's Digest 2021.

SHOP NOW

When setting the table, consider the number of guests, type of drinkware and festive decorations.

GET MORE TIPS

Choose a gravy boat with a warming base to ensure no one gets stuck with lukewarm gravy.

SHOP NOW

Not sure how many loved ones will attend the holiday meal this year? Have a folding table handy in case your guest list grows.

SHOP NOW

Create a dazzling front door decoration with seasonal wreaths, doormats and more.

SHOP NOW

Showcase your holiday sweets and treats with a multi-tiered serving tray.

SHOP NOW

Don’t forget Fido! A dog walk is a great excuse to look at all the holiday lights in your neighborhood.

GET PET IDEAS