Wouldn't it be nice to wake up one morning and discover your home decorated in its finest party-ready garb? Our Southern Living Foods, Homes, Gardens, and Photography teams took on one of our most interesting challenges: to transform an entire house from everyday to holiday in just one week. Our goal was to experience the blitz of decorating, cooking, and hosting guests—just like you do every year. Once the last bit of tinsel was on the tree, we gathered our 12 best ideas plus other reminders and practical hints we couldn't resist sharing with you. Think of these pages as our gift to you, to be unwrapped room by room. Our quick tips and inspiring photos will guide you to the most memorable holiday season ever.

Come Visit Our Show House!
For this story, we chose one of our favorite locations, the Southern Living Showcase Home at The American Village in Montevallo, Alabama. Though the seasonal decorations were removed once photography was complete, this home will remain open for tours through December 16. It is located off I-65 at Exit 234, south of Birmingham.