The holiday season is a magical time, especially when spent in a cosy alpine chalet surrounded by snow-capped peaks. So, for guests seeking an unforgettable Christmas getaway, it’s crucial to go the extra mile and create an enchanting atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the season.
To help you achieve this, we’ve compiled a complete checklist for decorating your rental chalet at Christmas…
Christmas decoration equipment list
Lamps and fairy lights
Create a warm and inviting ambience with strategically placed lamps and fairy lights. These can be hung on staircases, draped around windows, or entwined through the chalet’s architectural features inside and out.
Christmas tree and decorations
A beautifully decorated Christmas tree becomes the centerpiece of your chalet throughout the festive period. Ensure you provide a pre-lit tree and decorate it with a variety of tinsel, baubles, and ornaments, opting for a mix of traditional and modern decorations to suit different tastes. And if you have kids staying at your chalet over Christmas, why not leave some decorations in a box for them to finish the decorating as a fun activity?
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of scale when it comes to your tree. Too small and it won’t make an impact, too big and you’ll risk overcrowding the space. So make sure to measure your room in advance and get the correct size!
Wreaths and garlands
Adorn the chalet’s entrances, fireplace mantels, and dining areas with wreaths and garlands. These quintessential holiday decorations instantly create a sense of festive charm from the moment the guests arrive.
Stockings
Remember that guests will have limited luggage space, so they may not have been able to bring their own stockings. Hanging a few by the fireplace for the children can be a really thoughtful touch that guests will appreciate.
Candles and candleholders
Candles offer a warm and intimate glow that will create a cosy feel. Place them in safe spots around the chalet, such as dining tables and bathroom counters and make sure to provide replacement tealights. If you have children staying, consider opting for battery operated candles for safety.
Nativity scene or figurines
Adding a small nativity scene or figurines depicting winter scenes can bring a touch of tradition and story to the decorations.
Holiday linens
Consider providing holiday-themed tablecloths, placemats and napkins to enhance the dining experience during Christmas meals.
Festive food
Raclette and fondue machines
A quintessential alpine experience, having a raclette or fondue machine available year-round is a must, but even more so at Christmas. Guests can enjoy a communal eating experience, which is perfect for family get togethers.
Welcome basket
Curate a welcome basket filled with sugary treats like gingerbread cookies, local biscuits, jams, honey, and perhaps a bottle of Champagne for the adults to celebrate with. This heartwarming gesture sets the tone for a festive stay and makes guests feel special.
Don’t forget that Christmas is a peak week and holidaymakers will have spent a lot to stay at your property. Therefore, going the extra mile with your welcome basket can be the perfect way to enhance the guest experience and increase loyalty.
Consider upping your budget and including more luxurious items, or for repeat guests, think about offering experiences such as a meal voucher or activity.
Hot chocolate and marshmallows
Provide the ingredients for a cosy cup of hot chocolate, complete with marshmallows and whipped cream – perfect for sipping by the fireplace after a day in the snow.
Essential winter equipment
Snow ploughs and shovels
Prepare for heavy snowfall by making sure the paths and parking areas are cleared before guests’ arrival to ensure safety adn easy access.
Firewood
Nothing beats the charm of a crackling fireplace during winter. So if your chalet has a fireplace, make sure to provide an ample supply of wood to keep the chalet warm and inviting.
Cosy blankets and throws
Place extra blankets and throws in common areas and bedrooms so that guests can snuggle up while watching a film or reading a book.
Recommendations for Christmassy activities
Show your commitment to providing a unique and memorable Christmas week for your guests by recommending extra activities and services.
Here are some ideas that will help enhance their stay:
- Help to organise a private chef who can prepare Christmas dinner for your guests;
- Suggest festive activities such as local Christmas markets, Santa’ grottos, or torchlit descents;
- Recommend wine tasting services so guests can enjoy a unique in-chalet experience;
- Share details of local massage and wellness services so that guests can purchase a Christmas gift for a family member whilst on holiday.
Top tips for decorating your rental chalet
Plan in advance
Make sure to plan well in advance when it comes to decorating your property for Christmas. If an individual or company manages your property on your behalf, make sure to factor in extra time for them to decorate beforehand and pack away items once the festive period is over.
Budget accordingly
Consider the extra costs that you may incur in the run up to the festive season such as replacing decorations, buying the tree and purchasing the welcome basket items.
Remember that the January sales are a great opportunity to pick up discounted decorations, so don’t forget to stock up for next year!
Don’t neglect your outside spaces
When purchasing your decorations, bear in mind that your outdoor areas are equally as important as inside. Not only are they the first thing your guests see when they arrive, but when it’s dark, thoughtfully placed lights and ornaments can look extremely effective.
Clear space for storage
Make sure you’ve got somewhere out of sight where you can store the decorations ready for next year. This should be somewhere like a locked cupboard or in the loft – not in a communal area that guests have access to.
Prioritise sustainability
Where possible, opt for decorations made from natural, sustainable materials that are high-quality and can be reused or recycled. You can also support local businesses by purchasing decorations from artists and makers from the region.
Stick to a colour scheme
Selecting a cohesive colour scheme when decorating your chalet for Christmas is key. A thoughtfully chosen colour palette, whether it’s classic red and green, elegant silver and gold, or serene winter whites, unifies the decorations and creates a balanced theme.
Summary
It’s important to recognise that Christmas week at a rental chalet is not just another holiday, it’s a cherished time for families and friends to come together and create lasting memories.
By providing the right decorations and thoughtful touches, you can ensure that your guests have a magical experience that they’ll treasure for years to come. These extra efforts will not only make your chalet stand out but also encourage guests to return year after year for their festive holiday.
At OVO Network, we support owners in all aspects of their business, helping them build strong relationships with loyal guests. From guest communication to marketing, revenue/booking management, photography and more – our experts can help turn your chalet business into a success.
Interested in learning more about our solution? Head over to our website to discover more or arrange a call with one of our experts today.
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