This site uses web beacons and cookies to ensure we can give you the best experience on this site.
To learn more, read our privacy policy. By accepting this message you are agreeing to the use of cookies throughout the site.
Discover the lifestyle that awaits at The Fitzgerald Channelside. Our studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans will suit the needs of every resident and our community amenities will allow residents to find the perfect place to spend their days. Our spacious homes will offer the perfect backdrop for any holiday gathering and we have gathered a few tips that will help residents plan their celebrations. See our holiday hosting tips here and get ready for the season at our apartment homes in Downtown Tampa!
One of the easiest ways to elevate your holiday gathering is by creating a beverage station that doubles as a fun activity for your guests. Transform a corner of your kitchen or dining area into a self-serve drink bar, where everyone can help themselves to holiday-themed drinks. Whether you opt for a classic hot cocoa station with marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, and whipped cream or a festive cocktail bar with eggnog, mulled wine, or spiced cider, having everything prepped and ready allows guests to customize their drinks to their liking.
To make it even more festive, decorate the area with some seasonal touches. Think holiday mugs, colorful napkins, or even small ornaments or garlands to tie into your existing décor. A few decorative trays or bowls filled with candy canes, gingerbread cookies, or cranberries add a charming touch while offering guests a little snack to go with their drinks. The best part? It’s a space-saving solution that keeps things organized, minimizes spills, and encourages guests to mingle and interact.
Creating the perfect ambiance goes far beyond just looking festive—it’s about engaging all the senses. Setting the right mood with music and scent will instantly transform your apartment into a holiday haven. Begin by curating a playlist of light, upbeat holiday music that can play softly in the background. Think of classics that everyone knows or perhaps a jazzier take on traditional tunes. Having background music keeps the atmosphere warm and inviting, without overpowering conversation or activities.
To complement the sounds, incorporate holiday scents that evoke feelings of coziness and nostalgia. Place a few candles with festive scents like cinnamon, peppermint, pine, or vanilla in key areas like the living room, kitchen, and bathroom. A good rule of thumb is to keep scents light and unobtrusive to avoid overwhelming guests. If candles aren’t your thing, try a reed diffuser or an essential oil diffuser with seasonal oils. If you have an oven-safe scent, like baking cookies, leave it on in the kitchen to fill the apartment with a delightful aroma. These simple touches can make your apartment feel like a festive winter retreat, ensuring your guests are wrapped in warmth and holiday spirit.
One of the biggest challenges of decorating is balancing seasonal décor with your existing furniture and the need for practicality. Start with items like throw pillows and blankets in cozy, wintery textures and holiday colors. A soft, knit throw in deep red, green, or silver adds comfort to your couch while immediately enhancing the seasonal vibe. Toss a few holiday-themed pillows onto your seating area for extra cheer—think patterns like plaid, snowflakes, or subtle gold accents that match the tone of your apartment.
For the dining area or kitchen, you can easily dress up your table without overloading the space. A simple, elegant table runner or set of festive placemats, combined with seasonal napkins or a centerpiece will set the tone for your holiday meal. These décor pieces are easy to store once the season is over and are perfect for future gatherings, keeping your home both beautiful and functional.
Other great options include multipurpose trays that can be dressed up for the holidays. A sleek tray can hold candles, holiday treats, or even small wrapped gifts to give a polished look to your coffee table or dining area. By using décor that can be easily stored or reused year after year, you’ll not only make your space festive but will do so without compromising on practicality.
These tips will get your home ready for the holidays! See all that awaits at our apartment homes in Downtown Tampa and contact us to schedule your visit today!
