As a busy mom of 4, I used to dread the holidays…

Not because I didn’t love the magic, but because the clutter, chaos, and bright mismatched décor made my home feel overwhelming instead of peaceful.

So I made a promise to myself:

If it doesn’t bring peace, beauty, or purpose into my home… it doesn’t stay.

That’s how Minimalist Nest Design was born, and today I’m sharing the exact minimalist holiday favorites I use every year to keep our home calm, cozy, and still incredibly festive.

These are the pieces I truly cannot live without.
They transform your home without adding clutter or stress, and yes, the kids love them too!!

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🎄 1. Neutral Holiday Throw Pillow Covers

The fastest minimalist upgrade for the holidays.

Instead of buying new pillows every season, simply slip soft, neutral holiday covers over the pillows you already own. This creates an instant “holiday glow” without the mess or storage issues.

Why I love them:
• Neutral tones match any home
• Easy to wash (kid-friendly!)
• Budget friendly
• Instantly elevates your space

My Favorite Neutral Pillow Cover Set:
👉 Find on Amazon (affiliate link)

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🕯 2. Flameless Candle Set for Cozy Nights

This is one of my most-used holiday items. The warm flickering glow makes your home feel magical — without worrying about open flames around kids.

Why these are a must-have:
• Safe for kids and pets
• Beautiful soft lighting
• Remote-controlled
• Perfect for trays, mantels, and shelves

My Go-To Candle Set:
👉 Find on Amazon (Affiliate Link)

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🌿 3. Minimalist Eucalyptus Garland

Instead of traditional red-and-gold décor, a simple neutral garland brings calm, cozy elegance to your home.

I drape it across:
• the TV console
• open shelving
• the dining table
• bedroom ledges

My Favorite Neutral Garland:
👉 Find on Amazon (Affiliate Link)

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☕ 4. Minimalist Neutral Mugs

This is such a simple upgrade, but it changes the entire feel of your kitchen during the holidays.

They look stunning on a coffee bar and make your morning routine feel special.

Why moms love these:
• Cozy and simple
• Aesthetic for photos
• Great gift idea
• Budget-friendly

My Favorite Minimalist Mug Set:
👉 Find on Amazon (Affiliate Link)

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🧣 5. Chunky Knit Throw Blanket

If I could recommend only one thing for the holidays, this would be it.

A soft, neutral throw instantly makes your home feel warm, intentional, and inviting. It’s the easiest “holiday magic” you can add. You may have to fight your family to have a chance to snuggle with it. The very reason we have more than one!

My Most-Loved Throw Blanket:
👉 Find on Amazon (Affiliate Link)

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🎄 6. Neutral Minimalist Ornament Set

Once I switched to neutral ornaments, my tree went from “busy” to beautifully calming.

TIP: Don’t get me wrong, I love my kid’s homemade ornaments!! We chose to have 1 tree super colorful to show off these wonderful memories and then 1 tree as our neutral ‘show stopper’ tree that makes jaws drop.

Cream, champagne, and matte white tones make your tree look expensive — without buying new décor every year. Plus, they are shatterproof and lightweight, perfect for families with children of all ages!

Favorite Minimalist Ornament Set:
👉 Find on Amazon (Affiliate Link)

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✨ Final Thoughts

These items don’t just decorate your home — they transform it.
They bring peace, warmth, and intentionality into your space, even during the busiest season of the year.

Start with one or two of these minimalist favorites, and you’ll feel the difference instantly. TIP: My kids LOVE to help decorate. So, to save my sanity, I make sure to choose decorating items that can be enjoyed by all, but also withstand a drop or two or THREE!

As always, thank you for reading my blog. Without your support (clicking on my links), I would not be able to spend the time with my kids as I am able to do so now. As always, I only share what I truly love. Have a Merry Christmas.

-Kristen