November 2023 - Wigwam

The Christmas season is almost upon us! That means it’s time to deck the halls, sing some Silent Night, and over-indulge in delicious treats we’ve hidden in our secret stocking stash. But before you get too caught up in the festivities, you need to get your home ready for the Christmas break. After all, you want to create a warm and inviting space for family and friends to enjoy. So, grab your Santa hat and get ready to prep your home for the most wonderful time of the year!

Preparing the Shared Living Spaces

Spruce up the Front Door

Let’s start with the first impression your home makes: the front door. Give it a festive makeover by hanging a wreath or swag adorned with holiday cheer. Whether you prefer traditional evergreen plants, sparkling ornaments or a DIY creation, your front door sets the tone for what’s inside. Consider adding a welcoming mat with a seasonal message. “Ho Ho Home” or “Jingling All the Way” will surely put a smile on your guests’ faces as they arrive.

Decorate the Christmas Tree

Next is the Christmas tree; the centrepiece of your holiday decor. Whether you opt for a real tree that fills your home with the aroma of pine or an everlasting artificial tree, decorating it is a cherished and time-honoured tradition.

Start by stringing lights on the tree to create a sparkling foundation for your Christmas canvas. Then, let your creativity shine as you hang ornaments, garlands, and tinsel. Don’t forget the star or angel for the tree topper; it’s like the icing on the Christmas cake!

If you have kids, involve them in the decorating process. Their homemade ornaments and sweet enthusiasm will make your tree feel even more special.

Prepare the Guest Room

If you’re expecting overnight guests during the Christmas break, preparing a welcoming guest room is essential. Make sure the bedding is fresh and comfortable, and add some holiday-themed touches, like festive pillows or a cosy throw that keeps with the theme.

Remember to stock up on essential items like extra toiletries, towels, and blankets. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness.

Perform a General Declutter of the House

Work first to declutter the central living and high-traffic spots in the house:

In the kitchen, clear up the countertops, refrigerator, and pantry by removing unnecessary items and tossing expired food.
Wash out the cabinets and give every plate, cup, and pot a designated space; this will make cleaning up after those late-night holiday celebrations easier!
Dive into the coat closet by donating any old coats and shoes (the season of giving is here), and in the process, leave plenty of empty hangers for your guests to use.
Think about going through toys with your children. They’re often more willing to part with things at this time of year when they know more is coming.

Setting up a Christmas Atmosphere

Create a Holiday Playlist

Music sets the mood, so create a holiday playlist loaded with your favourite Christmas tunes. From classic carols to modern pop hits, there’s a vast array of songs to choose from. Let the music filter through your home, bringing joy and festive spirits. You can even have a dance party or sing-along with your loved ones.

Light up the Night

Hang some twinkling string lights along your roofline or trees in the garden. It adds a warm and inviting glow to your home, making it feel like a winter wonderland.

Bake Delicious Treats

The Christmas holidays are synonymous with delicious treats, and what better way to get into the spirit than by baking some goodies? Gingerbread biscuits, shortbread, and fruitcakes are classic choices, but be bold and try something new too. Set aside a day for a baking extravaganza, and invite friends or family to join in the fun. The smell of fresh-baked biscuits will make your home feel even more joyful.

Set Up a Hot Chocolate Station

Hot chocolate and eggnog are winter staples, so why not create a hot drink station for your family and guests? Set out mugs, a variety of hot cocoa mixes, marshmallows, whipped cream, and even some flavoured syrups. Let everyone customise their perfect cup of cocoa — it’s a delightful way to warm up after playing in the snow or a long day of holiday shopping.

Decorate the Dining Table

The dining table is where many cherished holiday meals are shared, so give it some extra attention. Set the table with your finest dishes, glassware, and silverware. Consider adding a festive centrepiece with candles or a beautiful holiday-themed tablecloth and napkins. It can and WILL make your Christmas meals feel even more special.

Preparing Fun Christmas Activities

Stock up on Board Games

What’s a Christmas break without some friendly competition? Stock up on board games, card games, and puzzles to keep everyone entertained. Classic games like Monopoly or Scrabble are always a hit, but you can also find holiday-themed versions to add in that extra festive touch.

Plan a Movie Marathon

Planning a movie marathon is a great way to spend time with loved ones during the Christmas break. Pick your favourite holiday films, make some popcorn, and settle in for a comfy movie night. Whether you love classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life” or have new favourites like “Elf”, there’s a Christmas movie for everyone.

Send Out Invitations

If you plan to host a Christmas Eve dinner, send out invitations well in advance. You can go the traditional route with paper invitations or go for a digital invite via email or social media. Be sure to include all the essential details, like the date, time, location, and any special instructions or requests.

Prepare for Guests

If you’re hosting guests for an extended period, ensure they have everything they need to feel comfortable. Stock up on extra toiletries, towels, and bedding. Create a little welcome basket with snacks, water bottles, and any local information they might find useful. It’s these thoughtful touches that make guests feel at home.

Organise a Gift Exchange

One of the highlights of the Christmas break is exchanging gifts with your loved ones. Organise a gift exchange with friends or family, and set a budget to ensure everyone’s comfortable with the spending level. You can draw names, play Naughty Santa, or simply exchange gifts over a festively delicious meal.

Embrace the Spirit of Giving

While you’re enjoying the holiday season, remember it’s also a time to give back. Consider donating to a local charity, volunteering your free time, or participating in a Christmas toy drive. Giving to others is one of the most heartwarming parts of the Christmas season.

Capture the Memories

Finally, be sure to capture all the beautiful memories you’ll create during the Christmas break! Take photos and videos of your festive decorations, family gatherings, and special moments. These memories will be treasures you can look back on for years to come.

The Christmas break is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. With a little preparation and a lot of holiday spirit, you can create a warm and inviting home that will make the season truly magical. So, let the festivities begin, and may your Christmas be filled with love, laughter, and all the tasty treats you can possibly eat!

Finding your home a little overcrowded with new presents and possessions? Not sure where you’re going to put those Christmas decorations come New Year? Wigwam Self Storage has all the storage space you need to make sure your Christmas isn’t a cluttered one!

Self storage has gained in popularity over the years, providing a convenient solution for all kinds of space-related needs. However, it’s not uncommon to have a few questions before you dive into this service.

In this blog post, we’ll address the five main questions everyone has about self storage. These questions cover the basics of self storage and are essential for anyone considering renting a storage unit.

How Does Self Storage Work?

The concept of self storage may be unknown to some of you reading, so it’s natural to wonder how it all works. Self storage facilities offer variously sized units that you can rent on a monthly basis. You are responsible for moving your items in and out of your rented unit, although many facilities have moving services that can help assist with this part of the journey. Here’s how the process works from start to finish:

Looking: The first step of renting a storage unit involves contacting a local self storage facility, either in person, by phone, or online, to inquire about their availability and pricing. Many facilities have websites that allow you to reserve and pay for a unit online.
Choosing: Units come in various sizes, from small lockers to spacious warehouse-style spaces. To determine the best size, create an inventory of the items you plan to store. Most facilities have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right size based on your list, and some even have online size calculators.
Moving: Once you’ve rented a unit, it’s time to move your belongings in. This step is typically a DIY process. Some facilities offer moving equipment like forklifts or helpful staff to assist with this process. Be sure to pack your items securely and use appropriate storage containers (like cardboard moving boxes) to protect them from dust and potential damage.

What Are the Different Types of Self Storage?

You didn’t think there was just one type, did you?

Self storage facilities have come a long way from being a standard 4X4 metre room. They have evolved into versatile spaces catering to various storage needs. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or student, there’s a type of self storage ideally suited to your situation.

Types of Self Storage

Personal Storage

Personal storage is the most common type of self storage and is mostly used by individuals for residential purposes. These units come in various sizes, allowing you to store furniture, appliances, seasonal items, and more.

Business Storage

Business storage is tailored to the needs of companies and entrepreneurs. It’s an excellent option for storing excess inventory, office equipment, and business records. Whether you run a small e-commerce business or a large enterprise, business storage can help streamline your operations by providing additional space for your business-related items.

Student Storage

For students, self storage offers a flexible solution during transitional phases of student life, such as moving between semesters, studying abroad, or dealing with everyday limited dormitory space. Student storage is ideal for storing furniture, textbooks, and personal items while you focus on your studies or travel.

Document Storage

Document storage facilities specialise in securely storing sensitive documents, files, and records. Businesses, law firms, healthcare providers, and government agencies often use document storage to meet legal requirements and maintain well-organised archives. It’s a smart choice for protecting valuable information and freeing up essential office space.

Container Storage

Storing your personal belongings or business goods in a secure storage container is not only a convenient storage solution but a cost-effective one. These containers are expertly designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide maximum protection for your belongings.

What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?

Choosing the right size storage unit can be a challenge. The size of your unit directly impacts how efficiently you can store your belongings and, ultimately, how much you’ll pay in storage costs. By taking the time to assess your belongings and plan accordingly, you can ensure that your self storage experience is as cost-effective and space-efficient as possible.

To find the perfect fit, do the following:

Make a list of all the things you intend to place in storage
Categorise your items based on their size and how frequently you’ll need to access them
Check the unit sizes available
Talk with the self storage staff about your needs

What Are the Costs of Renting a Self Storage Unit?

Before you dive into renting one, it’s vital to understand the different costs that come with this spacious service.

1. The Monthly Rental Fee

The most obvious cost of renting a self storage unit is the monthly rental fee. This fee varies based on several factors, including the location of the facility, the size of the unit, and any additional amenities or services provided.

2. Security Deposit

Many storage facilities require a security deposit, which is a refundable fee meant to cover any potential damage to the unit or unpaid rent. Make sure you ask about the facility’s policy regarding security deposits and under what circumstances they may refund it.

3. Insurance Costs

While storage facilities will have security measures in place, insurance coverage for your belongings is sometimes an extra cost. Find out what insurance options are available at the facility and choose a level of coverage that best suits your needs. The insurance cost will depend on the value and nature of your stored items.

4. Late Payment Fees

To avoid late payment fees, paying your monthly rent on time is important. Storage facilities typically charge late fees for overdue payments, which can vary in amount. Make sure you understand the facility’s policy on late payments to avoid any unexpected charges.

5. Additional Services

Some self storage facilities offer additional services, such as moving and packing supplies, truck rentals, or assistance with moving your items in and out of the unit. These services can come at an extra cost, or they may be included as free features, so be sure to ask before you sign any contracts.

What Amenities Are Available at the Best Self Storage Facilities?

When you’re renting a self storage unit, it’s not just about having a place to store your belongings — it’s also about enjoying convenient amenities that enhance your storage experience. Here are some of the best features a self storage facility will offer in addition to taking great care of your stuff!

Van Hire: Hiring a van can be a game-changer when you’re moving your belongings to or from your storage unit. It saves you the hassle and cost of renting a moving van separately.
On-Site Packaging Shop: Whether it’s sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, or other essential packing materials, having a well-stocked packaging shop on site simplifies the process of preparing your items for storage.
24/7 Access: Modern life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you need access to your stored items outside of regular business hours.
Modern Security Features: The best self storage facilities invest in modern security features to protect your items. These may include surveillance cameras, access control systems, and individual alarm systems for each unit.

Where Is the Best Place To Rent a Self Storage Unit?

Wigwam Self Storage, of course! Check out our exceptional self storage facilities in Chipping Norton, Bromsgrove, and Shipston-on-Stour. We provide a wide range of storage unit sizes, catering to your diverse needs. Whether you require personal storage for household belongings, spacious storage containers, or a dedicated space for business growth, securing an affordable self storage solution has never been more convenient.

Get your quote with us today!

Month: November 2023

How To Prep Your Home for the Christmas Break