Organizing Your Holiday Memories: Photo, Gift, and Card Systems

The memories we create during the holidays are precious but they can also leave us with clutter and stress if we’re not intentional. 

In past seasons, you may have found yourself surrounded by boxes of cards, hundreds of pictures on your phone, and a growing pile of gift wrap you’re not sure what to do with. 

That’s why I want to share a few simple systems to organize your holiday memories that actually work.

The One-Box-Per-Year System

I love using one box per year for holiday keepsakes. Kids' drawings, special cards with personal notes, a few ornaments, maybe that handwritten recipe your aunt shared.

When the box is full, that's it. This keeps memories contained and actually makes them easier to revisit.

Label it with the year, and store it somewhere accessible—not buried in the basement where you'll never look at it again.

Digital Photos Made Simple

Right after the holidays, create a folder on your phone called "Holiday 2025" and move your favorites there. Then pick 10-20 of the very best to print or add to a photo book.

You don't need to print everything. But the ones you do print should go somewhere you'll actually see them.

Gift Wrap Organization

Save your favorite wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift bags in one designated spot—a bin, basket, or drawer that keeps everything together.

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Keep what matters, let go of the rest, and give yourself the gift of a clutter-free, joyful holiday season. 

You deserve it!