IKEA isn’t just great because it’s cheap, although we aren’t going to hate on a 1000 AED eight-drawer dresser. The Swedish powerhouse really wriggled its way into our design-loving hearts because IKEA products are the heroes in those fraught moments when there seem to be no good solutions. Like when you have the tiniest kitchen known to man and there’s just no. space. anywhere. for your pots and pans. Enter the rail-and-hooks system. Problem instantly solved. All this to say, it’s not surprising that IKEA would become an essential resource for holiday entertaining, too. The company managed to squeeze 100 holiday tips into a 100-minute Facebook LIVE segment and it was one of those open-Notes-and-start-frantically-typing-ideas moments. Below are 10 of our favorite tips; find the rest by watching IKEA’s video.
Use trays to whip your bar cart into shape
Those glasses and garnishes (not to mention your bottle opener collection) won’t organize themselves! And IKEA makes a good point: Trays also do double duty as last-minute serving dishes.
Switch out candles for strings of lights
They’re just as cheery but last way longer. “String them on the wall in fun designs like a tree or a snowman,” says IKEA.
An ottoman makes for the comfiest extra seating
Folding chairs that actually look nice are also great to have around.
The holidays are when nesting tables really prove themselves
Need more space for drinks? Separate them and scatter as needed. Dying for a little breathing room? Stack ’em in a corner to open up the space.
You can never have too much task lighting
Because the coffee table/console/desk you turned into a mini dining setup for the night shouldn’t be hidden in shadow. “Adjustable lamps help you direct lighting where you want it so you can set the perfect mood,” IKEA notes.
Turn a jar upside down and you’ve got yourself a snow globe
If you’re not the crafty type, just stick a succulent and some metallic garland in there like IKEA did and call it festive.
Swap wrapping paper for an…oven mitt?!
You read that right. Up your gift-giving game and “wrap” that cheese knife for your mom in another handy kitchen item.
Hide your summery floral pillows with cozy removable covers
No one will ever be the wiser.
Not just any tea lights will do on your table
Shiny ones are where it’s at. According to IKEA, “Metallic tea light holders give a soft glow to the room when the light reflects off the brass color.”
A faux sheepskin is your secret weapon
Chairs, benches, the foot of the bed in the guest room…you name it and a fluffy sheepskin will make it 10 times cozier.
