As a host, you naturally want your guests to feel welcome, especially during the holidays. But what about Christmas decorations in your vacation home? Many experienced hosts have already experimented with this, and their insights will help you make the best decision for your vacation home and guests. Let’s discover together whether decorating your vacation home for Christmas is something that suits you and your guests.
Why decorate for Christmas?
The holidays are a special time of year for many people, and you can easily convey this atmosphere in your vacation home. Many hosts choose to decorate their property festively and get positive feedback from their guests. Pam, an experienced host, shares, “I decorate my property grandly and mention in my ad that if guests don’t feel comfortable with Christmas decorations, they may want to book another time period. So far, all my guests love the extra atmosphere!”
By adding subtle decorations such as a Christmas tree or some lights, you give your guests a warm and festive experience. Chris, a host who has been putting his home in the Christmas spirit for years, says, “We place a large Christmas tree in the living room and add small decorative elements. This immediately creates a cozy atmosphere.”
Decorate your vacation home subtly during Christmas
Not every guest is keen on elaborate Christmas decorations, and that’s okay. So some landlords take a more subtle approach, making sure the decorations are seasonal and neutral. Think winter elements such as snowflakes, lights and a small tree. Alecia, a host with an eye for detail, shares her approach, “I use a tree and lights, but avoid religious decorations like a manger or angels. That way I make sure it’s cozy for everyone.”
By choosing neutral decorations, you maintain the festive atmosphere without making it too emphatic or specifically religious. This is how you make your home appealing to a wide audience.
When decorations are less suitable
Some guests do not appreciate Christmas decorations, and of course, as a host, you want everyone to feel comfortable. Doris, an experienced host, once received complaints from a guest about her winter decorations: “My decorations had snowflakes and a wreath on the door, nothing religious. But still a guest felt uncomfortable.”
Since then, she asks her guests in advance if they want the house to be decorated. This gives you a chance to cater to your guests’ preferences and offer them a personalized experience.
Practical tips for Christmas decorations
If you are considering decorating your vacation home for Christmas, here are a few practical tips:
- Ask your guests about their preferences: Like Doris, you can ask your guests in advance whether they want the home to be festive or prefer neutral. This provides clarity and avoids unexpected reactions.
- Make decorating interactive: You can allow guests to put up the decorations themselves. Some hosts leave a box of Christmas decorations for families to decorate the tree themselves. This can be a fun and memorable activity for families.
- Communicate via online: Mention on your website or in your Airbnb ad whether Christmas decorations will be present during the holidays. This avoids surprises and helps guests make an informed choice when booking.
So, what do you do?
Decorating your Airbnb for Christmas can be a great way to give your guests a memorable, festive experience. Whether you choose elaborate decorations or subtle, neutral accents, the most important thing is to respond to your guests’ needs. By consulting in advance and communicating clearly, you will create an atmosphere that suits both the holidays and your guests.
Are you ready to get your vacation home into the Christmas spirit? It can be a wonderful gesture that takes your guests’ experience to the next level!