How to Use Seasonal Decor to Boost STR Bookings
Seasonal decor is a powerful tool for making your short-term rental (STR) stand out in a competitive market. By tailoring your property’s ambiance to reflect the time of year, you can create memorable experiences for guests and boost bookings. This article explores how to incorporate seasonal decor in your STR, attract more guests, and enhance their overall experience without overhauling your budget.
Why Seasonal Decor Matters
1. Increases Guest Appeal
Seasonal touches make your property feel welcoming and relevant.
2. Creates Instagram-Worthy Moments
Guests are more likely to share their stays, giving you free social media exposure.
3. Encourages Repeat Bookings
Unique, themed stays leave a lasting impression, making guests want to return.
4. Justifies Higher Rates
Enhanced decor can position your property as a premium choice during peak seasons.
How to Incorporate Seasonal Decor
1. Keep It Simple and Versatile
Over-the-top decor can feel overwhelming or exclude certain guests. Opt for subtle yet impactful changes.
Tips for Subtle Seasonal Updates:
Add themed throw pillows and blankets.
Use fresh flowers or seasonal greenery as centerpieces.
Switch out wall art or accents to match the season.
Pro Tip:
Choose decor that complements your property’s style to maintain a cohesive look.
2. Focus on Key Areas
Not every corner needs seasonal decor—prioritize high-impact spaces.
High-Impact Areas:
Living Room: Add seasonal pillows, throws, and coffee table accents.
Dining Area: Use themed table runners, centerpieces, or seasonal dishware.
Outdoor Spaces: Incorporate string lights, lanterns, or seasonal plants.
Pro Tip:
Showcase these decorated spaces in your listing photos to attract guests.
3. Highlight Seasonal Features
Enhance your property’s natural assets with complementary decor.
Examples:
Fireplace: Decorate with garlands, candles, or seasonal stockings during winter.
Pool Area: Add tropical touches like beach towels, umbrellas, and vibrant cushions in summer.
Pro Tip:
Mention these seasonal touches in your listing description to pique guest interest.
Seasonal Decor Ideas by Time of Year
1. Spring
Spring decor celebrates renewal and freshness.
Ideas for Spring Updates:
Use pastel colors in linens and decor.
Add floral arrangements or greenery.
Provide rain gear, such as umbrellas or boot trays, for guest convenience.
Pro Tip:
Mention nearby springtime events or attractions in your welcome guide.
2. Summer
Summer decor emphasizes outdoor living and vibrant colors.
Ideas for Summer Updates:
Incorporate bright, beachy hues in cushions and rugs.
Stock outdoor games or picnic sets for guest use.
Use lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen for bedding.
Pro Tip:
Highlight outdoor amenities like grills, pools, or fire pits.
3. Fall
Fall decor evokes coziness and warmth.
Ideas for Fall Updates:
Use warm tones like orange, red, and gold in decor.
Add pumpkins, gourds, or dried flowers as accents.
Provide cozy touches like throw blankets and scented candles.
Pro Tip:
Offer fall-themed welcome packages with items like hot cider or pumpkin spice snacks.
4. Winter
Winter decor should feel festive and inviting.
Ideas for Winter Updates:
Add fairy lights or LED candles for ambiance.
Use plush, warm fabrics like faux fur or wool.
Provide seasonal touches like stockings, wreaths, or a small tree (if appropriate).
Pro Tip:
Highlight any winter-specific amenities, such as sleds or hot tubs.
How to Stay Budget-Friendly
1. Use Reusable Decor
Invest in high-quality, timeless pieces that can be reused each year.
Examples:
Neutral-colored throw blankets and pillows that work year-round.
Seasonal wreaths or centerpieces that can be refreshed annually.
Pro Tip:
Store decor in labeled bins for easy access and organization.
2. Shop Smart
Take advantage of off-season sales and discounts.
Where to Look:
Online marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy for unique items.
Local thrift stores or clearance sales for budget-friendly finds.
Pro Tip:
Set a decor budget and stick to it to avoid overspending.
3. DIY Decorations
Add a personal touch with handmade decor.
Simple DIY Ideas:
Create mason jar candleholders with seasonal themes.
Make garlands from dried leaves, flowers, or ornaments.
Paint wooden signs with seasonal greetings.
Pro Tip:
Showcase your DIY creations in your listing photos to highlight your effort.
Promoting Seasonal Decor in Your Listing
1. Update Photos Regularly
Ensure your listing reflects the current season with fresh images.
Tips for Effective Photos:
Use natural lighting to capture the ambiance of your decor.
Showcase seasonal touches in key areas, such as the living room or outdoor space.
Pro Tip:
Mention the season in your photo captions, such as “Cozy Winter Retreat.”
2. Emphasize Seasonal Appeal in Descriptions
Highlight your decor and seasonal features in your listing text.
Examples:
“Experience a cozy fall getaway with warm-toned decor, a crackling fireplace, and pumpkin spice treats.”
“Perfect for summer, our property features vibrant outdoor spaces, a poolside grill, and beachy decor.”
Pro Tip:
Use seasonal keywords to boost search visibility, such as “fall retreat” or “holiday escape.”
Case Studies: Seasonal Decor Success Stories
1. Lakeside Cabin in Michigan
Challenge: Competing with similar properties during the off-season.
Solution: Added winter decor, including fairy lights, wreaths, and cozy blankets, while promoting the cabin as a holiday retreat.
Result: Achieved 85% occupancy during winter months.
2. Urban Loft in Austin, TX
Challenge: Attracting guests during springtime festivals.
Solution: Updated photos with spring-themed decor and included floral arrangements and local event details in the listing.
Result: Secured multiple bookings from festival-goers.
Seasonal Decor Success Stories (Continued)
3. Beachfront Condo in Florida
Challenge: Standing out in a saturated summer rental market.
Solution: Decorated with bright, tropical colors, stocked beach-themed accessories like umbrellas and towels, and highlighted proximity to summer activities in the listing.
Result: Booked 90% occupancy throughout the summer at a premium rate.
4. Mountain Retreat in Colorado
Challenge: Filling dates during the quieter autumn season.
Solution: Introduced warm fall tones in the decor, added fire pit accessories, and promoted nearby leaf-peeping tours and cider tastings.
Result: Attracted long-weekend travelers and achieved 70% occupancy during fall.
How to Evaluate the Impact of Seasonal Decor
1. Monitor Guest Feedback
Guests often comment on memorable aspects of their stay, including decor.
How to Track Feedback:
Read reviews for mentions of seasonal touches or ambiance.
Ask for direct feedback through post-stay surveys.
Pro Tip:
Highlight positive guest comments about your decor in your listing description.
2. Analyze Booking Trends
Evaluate whether seasonal updates correlate with increased bookings.
Metrics to Track:
Occupancy rates during themed periods.
Changes in average daily rate (ADR) compared to non-seasonal periods.
Pro Tip:
Compare performance year-over-year to determine the return on investment for seasonal updates.
3. Use Social Media Engagement
Seasonal decor often generates shareable moments that boost visibility.
How to Leverage Social Media:
Encourage guests to share photos of their stay using a custom hashtag.
Feature your seasonal updates in posts and stories on platforms like Instagram.
Pro Tip:
Run seasonal photo contests offering discounts for future stays to increase engagement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overdoing Seasonal Decor
Too much decor can feel cluttered or alienate guests with different tastes or cultural backgrounds.
Solution: Stick to subtle, versatile updates that appeal to a broad audience.
Neglecting Functionality
Excessive decor can interfere with practicality, like blocking access to appliances or storage.
Solution: Prioritize guest comfort and convenience over aesthetic choices.
Using Low-Quality Items
Cheap or poorly maintained decor can negatively impact the guest experience.
Solution: Invest in durable, reusable pieces that maintain their appearance over time.
Conclusion
Seasonal decor is a cost-effective and impactful way to elevate your short-term rental, boost bookings, and create memorable guest experiences. By focusing on subtle yet thoughtful updates, you can align your property with the changing seasons and attract guests seeking unique and immersive stays. Combine decor with strategic marketing efforts, and your STR will stand out as a must-visit destination year-round.
