The holidays on the Carolina coast are a little different. The air feels crisp but gentle, the light sparkles off the water in a way that makes even familiar spaces feel festive, and there’s always a steady stream of friends and family ready to visit. If this is your first season in a new coastal home, or if you’re simply looking to refine your hosting routine, now’s the time to prep your home for holiday guests – The Wallace Way.
Start with the Welcome
First impressions begin before the front door opens. Sweep porches, pressure wash entryways, and refresh planters with cool-season greenery like dwarf yaupon holly or rosemary. A well-lit entryway – both for ambiance and safety – is essential for shorter winter days. Coastal lighting fixtures made from weather-resistant materials will stand up to salt and moisture while setting the tone for your guests’ arrival.
Make Room to Gather
Coastal homes are designed for connection, and the holidays are their time to shine. Rearrange furniture to create open flow between kitchen, dining, and living areas. Pull extra seating out of storage and add accent tables for drink and desserts. If your home features a screened porch or outdoor living area, add outdoor-rated throws and a few string lights to extend the gathering space into the fresh evening air.
Prepare for Coastal Comfort
Humidity can sneak back even in cooler months, so check your HVAC filters and run ceiling fans on a low reverse setting to circulate warm air evenly. Add soft textures – layered rugs, plush throws, and linen slipcovers – to balance out the bright, airy finishes common in coastal interiors. For guest bedrooms, provide extra blankets and a luggage rack; thoughtful details go a long way in making guests feel at home.
Simplify the Kitchen and Pantry
The holidays bring feasts, but they don’t have to bring chaos. Clear counters, check appliance filters, and organize your pantry before the first grocery run. Stock essentials like local coffee, teas, and grab-and-go breakfast items so guests can help themselves. If you have a butler’s pantry or beverage station, this is the moment to make it shine – polish glassware, restock your favorite spirits, and create a welcoming morning coffee setup.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Coastal living means embracing the occasional surprise – from weather to power flickers. Double-check your generator (if you have one), stock up on candles and flashlights, and keep an emergency contact list handy for out-of-town guests. A little preparation ensures everyone can relax, rain or shine.
Add a Coastal Touch to the Holidays
Instead of the usual red and green, think driftwood, oyster shells, and sea glass. A simple wreath of pine and palmetto fronds, or a tree decorated with sand dollars, keeps your decor authentic to its surroundings. Coastal style isn’t about excess – it’s about balance, natural textures, and letting the beauty of your home shine through.
Remember Why You Built Here
As you welcome friends and family this season, take a moment to appreciate what coastal living represents: simplicity, connection, and comfort. Your home isn’t just a place to stay – it’s part of a lifestyle that celebrates doing things the right way, even when no one’s watching.
At Richard Wallace Builder, we believe your home should always feel ready for the people and moments that matter most. Whether you’re preparing for guests or planning your next coastal dream home, The Wallace Way ensures every detail is built for living beautifully – season after season.
Visit richardwallacebuilder.com and let’s start your journey The Wallace Way.
About Richard Wallace Builder: Richard Wallace Builder is a trusted custom home builder serving North Carolina’s southern coast for 20 years. Known for its commitment to craftsmanship, accountability, and personalized client experience, RWB offers homeowners peace of mind through its proprietary process, The Wallace Way. With clear communication, transparent pricing, meticulous project management, and exceptional coastal expertise, Richard Wallace Builder creates homes that reflect the timeless character and lifestyle unique to Coastal Carolina. Learn more about Richard Wallace Builder at richardwallacebuilder.com.