If you promise yourself every year that this Christmas will be less stressed and more organised, then today, right now, is when you start planning.
Yes, December 25th is nearly three months away but it will be here faster than a snowflake melts, so use our countdown planner to take the edge off that last-minute festive-season panic.
You can get a lot done in October.
Where will Christmas be?
Discuss with the family where, and when, Christmas will be hosted. Are you staying at home, visiting relatives or staying in accommodation? Small children to consider? Factor this in to avoid tears and tantrums.
If you are travelling, booking and paying for your bus or plane tickets in October will give you some relief for December payments. If you’re headed to the seaside, shop around now for holiday items like sun-cream and perhaps a beach umbrella.
What to buy now
Start to stock up on non-perishable festive season items such as:
- Alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks
- Boxes of chocolates, nuts, or savoury biscuits
- Wrapping paper or gift bags
- Serviettes and paper plates
- Gift vouchers (check the expiry date that allows time for it to be redeemed)
Tip: If you can, set aside a larger portion of your October and November salaries towards monthly bills that you know will hit you in January. Also, if possible, pay any bills due over the Christmas period in advance.
As November starts, add key dates and activities to the kitchen calendar and then look around the house to check what needs to be done for catering, cooking and gifts.
At Home or Away?
- Having visitors? Ensure you have enough linen, including towels and pillows. Pack out dishes and glasses to check that they are clean and not chipped or cracked. This is also the time to start Christmas baking such as the cake and other treats that can be frozen. Wrap well and freeze.
- Going away? Organise for someone to look after pets and, if you are driving a long distance, to book your vehicle in for a service.
Gifting guide
Draw up a “master” gift list, with names for who you need to buy for and set your budget. If you have children, ask them to write their letter to Santa.
Black Friday sales are on November 26, but many retailers start earlier so keep an eye open for good deals (and don’t forget to buy batteries if any toys need these).
Organise any Secret Santa gifts. It’s easier to do this if you know who you are buying for, but chocolates are generally a winner with all ages. Other unisex gifts include airtime (especially for teens) or perhaps a minty-fresh smelling shower gel.
Try to get gifts bought and wrapped a few days before Christmas as presents under the tree adds to the atmosphere – and keeps the kids guessing!
Putting up the tree
Haul out the tinsel, dust off Christmas ornaments and untangle the fairy lights because, if you haven’t done it yet, the start of December is time for the most exciting part of the holidays: putting up the tree!
Check if anything is broken or needs replaced then call the kids to help decorate the tree – let them choose a few of their favourite ornaments.
Final food prep
Now your home has taken on a festive sparkle, move on to the menu for Christmas Day and make sure everyone knows what they are to bring or prepare. Write up a shopping list and order your turkey, ham, or other meats. Start to freeze your own ice.
Take advantage of the longer opening hours many shopping centres offer after Thursday December 16th and go as early in the day as possible to avoid the crowds.
Two days before the big day, put frozen meats into the fridge to defrost. Buy fresh ingredients and start food preparation. Ideally, try to finish most of the prep and cooking the day before. Add a fresh touch to the table with trailing ivy and other treasures free from nature.
Then, on Christmas Eve, pour yourself and your loved one a chilled drink, sit back and relax, you’ve put in the planning and it’s almost time to say Merry Christmas with a smile!
Date Published: 01 October 2021
