If you’re anything like me, a mere ten degree temperature drop from the norm is enough to have you pulling out scarves and boots. You get excited over sweater weather, the fall trends, and infinite cups of hot chocolate.
But the magic of the season is not just the temporary escape from Florida’s intensive heat. As finals rapidly approach and then are crossed off of our mind’s to do list, the excitement of the upcoming holidays sink in.
And although snow is not in forecast, there’s no way to better get into the holiday spirit than to decorate your dorm, apartment, house, wherever. Think of ways to incorporate that cozy warmth you felt back home into where you are staying now. Christmas Tree? Candy Canes? Garland?
The pressure of finals, or perhaps working extra in the holiday season, causes added tension as the days rolls through December. Walking into a house that is decorated reminds you to relax and enjoy this time, and reminds you of wherever your heart wants to be.
Decorating for the holidays need not be an expensive task. Most college students live with at least two other people. This enables the roommates to pool their money together. Make a budget and stick to it. Here are some must haves:
Your Very Own Charlie Brown Christmas Tree
Sure, a real tree would be wonderful, just as a colossal fake tree would be. But just because your budget doesn’t allow for that, doesn’t mean you can’t get a great tree at a fabulous price. My roommates and I purchased a six-foot-tall tree from Target for only $20. Candy canes can be purchased for a couple dollars, and offer a great snack while watching classic holiday movies; I’m thinking “Love Actually.”
Ornaments are a must. Check out your local dollar store to get some staples to get your collection started. Target is featuring an adorable collection of ornaments this season as well for a reasonable price.
Garland, Garland Everywhere
This can be purchased basically anywhere. If you are trying to save money, check out the dollar store. Some have a decent selection of garlands to choose from; garland is garland. It achieves the same purpose whether you spend one dollar or fifty dollars on it.
DIY Stockings
This is the recipe for a terrific roommate bonding moment. You can purchase the basic red stockings from the dollar store, and head to Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts store to buy anything you’d need to decorate them.
Really get creative with it, each roommate can create a unique, girly stocking. Hang them on the wall in the apartment.
Roommate Holiday Dinner
Although not something you can string throughout your apartment, a roommate holiday dinner brings that family season atmosphere into your home like nothing else. Schedule the dinner for after finals, and assign each roommate with a dish to make. Don’t limit yourself. Have each roommate invite a friend and you can show your adorably decorated apartment off.