Thanksgiving may have come and gone, but that means the holidays are really just getting started. The invitations have been sent, the stockings have been hung and the menus have been meticulously planned.

1. Preparing the Kitchen

2. Thanksgiving may have come and gone, but that means the
holidays are really just getting started. The invitations have been
sent, the stockings have been hung and the menus have been
meticulously planned.

3. Through the remainder of December and into New Year’s Eve,
people are frantically working to prepare their homes for the
holidays, and for most people the kitchen is likely at the center
of this prep work.
Preparing a kitchen for the holidays can keep it in great
condition, make guests feel welcome, and most importantly,
help preserve the host’s sanity.

4. Basic Kitchen Prep
De-clutter the kitchen, especially the countertops. For
homeowners with granite countertops, this time of year is
perfect for displaying their natural beauty. Unfortunately,
countertops can become a catch-all for everything from mail to
schoolwork. Before the holidays begin, take the time to remove
the clutter and find organized and out-of-sight places for it.
Guests will be able to enjoy the granite countertops, and the
space will be easier to work in when preparing food.

5. Clean those appliances—including those icky insides. It’s easy
to overlook the importance of cleaning appliances, although it’s
an important detail—it will not only simplify cooking, but
guests are likely to notice if appliances are not looking their
best.
Sharpen knives and take an inventory of current serveware. For
a host who’s afraid they don’t have enough necessary items, or
that something is missing altogether, now is a good time to add
to the collection, rather than being unprepared when guests
arrive.

6. Preparing Granite for the Festivities
Leading up to the holidays is the ideal time to add a fresh coat of
sealant to granite. This will protect it from whatever wear and
tear it may endure.
Granite is easy to maintain, and simply requires cleaning using a
damp cloth and a stone cleaner that’s pH neutral. Keep an
appropriate cleaner close by while during cooking, so that it’s
easy to quickly disinfect areas, preventing guests from
becoming sick due to food-borne illnesses. When cleaning
granite countertops, avoid soap, citrus cleaners and abrasive
solutions.

7. Prior to the holidays, invest in a collection of decorative trivets
that can be used to place hot pans and dishes on countertops, to
prevent damage from occurring.
As a final tip, never use the same sponge to clean both dirty
dishes and the countertops—this spreads germs and can lead to
sick guests. It’s best to use disposable cloth or dishrags, and if
sponges are used for clean-up, designate a separate one for the
countertops.

8. Adding a Bit of Holiday Cheer to the Kitchen
With all of the focus that’s often placed on the kitchen during
this time of year, don’t forget it during holiday decorating.
Choose items that highlight the natural beauty of the materials in
the space, including kitchen countertops and stone flooring.
For homeowners with sleek white countertops, opt for modern,
metallic decorations that will perfectly complement the stone.
Consider adding a silver display tray filled with holiday-themed
items on the counter. For darker or more traditional countertops
and kitchen finishes, incorporate natural beauty in the form of
evergreen accessories and pinecones.

9. Floating candles are a great way to add ambiance and cheer to a
kitchen. Place themed-items, like cranberries, along with a
floating candle into a jar or clear glass holder and place them on
the kitchen counter. The glow of the candle will highlight the
stone surface, and create a warm, welcoming environment.
Finally, as an easy way to spruce up kitchen countertops for the
holidays, use a basic cake pedestal and create a “cake” from
wrapped presents. Complete the look with a rich, beautiful bow.

10. During the holidays, guests should enjoy the beauty of the
kitchen as much as homeowners do on a yearly basis. Take the
opportunity to showcase the best features of the kitchen, and in
particular those beloved granite countertops. Don’t simply look
at the kitchen as a utilitarian space this season—look at it as the
focal point of a home.

11. Allied Stone, Inc. specializes in unique and customized kitchen
countertops and bathroom vanities. We take pride in crafting our
exceptional designs in granite, marble, onyx, soapstone at the
highest quality. Our mission is to provide our customers with
only the highest quality stone and level of workmanship. Our
streamlined production process, combined with our stunning
inventory of natural stone, allows us to offer our customers
elegance and efficiency. Visit us at www.alliedstoneinc.com.