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Teresa’s Tips: Holiday Readiness for Vacation Rental Owners

By Teresa Purchase, Co-Founder & Head of Operations — Grey Bruce Cottages Inc.

The holiday season is one of the most meaningful times of year for guests — and one of the biggest opportunities for cottage owners. Whether it’s multi-generational families gathering on the Bruce Peninsula or couples booking a quiet winter escape, guests are looking for spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and thoughtfully prepared.

A little bit of holiday magic goes a long way.

Here’s how to get your property ready for a memorable (and profitable) holiday season — simply, safely, and in a way that aligns with our hospitality standards.

Should You Decorate for the Holidays? Absolutely.

Holiday décor adds instant warmth and helps transform your cottage from “a place to stay” into “a place to celebrate.” Guests consistently tell us it enhances their experience — and owners often enjoy higher nightly rates during the festive season.

But the key is balance:Simple, cozy, and non-denominational.
You want the space to feel festive without overwhelming your core aesthetic.

Keep It Simple — And Easy to Store

Holiday decorating doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. Thoughtful, minimal touches create the biggest impact. Here’s what we recommend:

Essentials That Always Work

  • A decorated artificial tree (classic and renter-friendly)

  • Greenery at the entrance for a warm welcome

  • A seasonal wreath or door décor

  • Soft interior touches: table runners, placemats, neutral ornaments

  • LED candles for ambiance

  • A simple outdoor light projector on a timer for evening charm

Most of these items can be purchased second-hand and stored easily in a single bin, ready for next year.

Make It Feel Like a Holiday Home — Not a Theme Park

Guests come from all backgrounds, so aim for winter-seasonal décor rather than anything tied to one tradition. Think:

  • Evergreen tones

  • Warm lighting

  • Wood textures

  • Soft winter neutrals

This keeps your space inclusive and elegant — perfectly aligned with today’s hospitality expectations.

Cozy living room with holiday decor
Sweeping lake views, glowing holiday décor, and fireside comfort—your perfect winter gathering space.

Update Your Listing Photos

One of the biggest missed opportunities owners face is forgetting to update their listing images.

Seasonal photos help guests instantly imagine themselves celebrating at your property. It builds trust, sets accurate expectations, and makes your listing stand out during peak holiday searches.

We recommend adding:

  • A living room shot with the tree lit

  • A cozy fireplace moment

  • Exterior winter ambiance

  • Any unique holiday touches (hot tubs, saunas, outdoor firepits)

Why It Matters

Holiday décor isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about hospitality.

Thoughtful touches:

  • Increase emotional connection

  • Encourage longer stays

  • Lead to repeat bookings

  • Boost review quality

  • Help your listing stand out during a competitive season

For owners, these details translate directly into higher performance and increased revenue.

Need Help Preparing Your Property?

Our Onsite and Special Projects teams can support with:

  • Tree setup and takedown

  • Interior staging

  • Safe light installation

  • Listing photography

  • Seasonal maintenance checks

  • Winter readiness and compliance

Just reach out — we’re here to make your holiday season smooth, safe, and successful.

A Final Note from Teresa

The holiday season is one of the most joyful times to host. With a few simple touches, your cottage can become part of someone’s most cherished winter memory. That’s the magic of this work — and why we take such pride in supporting you and your property.

Here’s to a warm, bright, and beautifully hosted holiday season.

Happy Hosting,

Teresa

About Teresa Purchase, Co-founder and Head of Operations

 
Teresa in floral top, kitchen background.
Teresa Purchase
Teresa Purchase, affectionately known as ‘Mama Bear,’ is the dynamic Co-Founder and Head of Operations at Grey Bruce Cottages Inc., where her leadership and vision have propelled the company to the forefront of vacation property management in Grey and Bruce Counties. With a rich background in hospitality, Teresa honed her skills managing one of the top Bed and Breakfasts on the Bruce Peninsula, mastering the art of creating welcoming and memorable guest experiences. Her journey into the property management industry was a natural progression, driven by her passion for impeccable service and a keen eye for detail. Teresa’s expertise extends beyond operations; she is a certified home decor stylist, a talent that significantly influences the aesthetic and functional choices in linens and decor across the properties managed by Grey Bruce Cottages Inc. This unique blend of skills ensures that every property under her care is not only operationally efficient but also beautifully presented, reflecting a commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the nuances of guest comfort and satisfaction.

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