Our 041parenting columnist, LUCHAE WILLIAMS, dives into the art of early holiday preparation, sharing savvy tips to ensure a stress-free festive season for parents and families.
Sooo fellow parents… are we prepping for the holiday season already? Whaaat, don’t look at me like that Penny! Mid-year is usually when I start to make my lists (and check them twice… okay, more than twice). Preparation is the secret sauce for a stress-free holiday season. It’s never too early to prep, in my opinion, especially if you have kids! But fear not, because I’ve got some tips to help us all end this year well!
Plan your moola
While preparing for festive cheer, don’t forget to plan your moola! Yes, I’m talking about budgeting. Those “big days” have a knack for turning even the most frugal among us into accidental spendthrifts. Start by setting a realistic budget for gifts, decorations, and all the trimmings. Consider using apps or spreadsheets to track expenses. And, most importantly, start saving for all those festive season wants and needs! You’ll have a four-month head start – smart, right?! By planning your moola early, you can jingle all the way through the season without the stress of overspending. Your future self—and your wallet—will thank you!
Strategic shopping
Let’s face it, the kids’ wish lists are already as long as Santa’s naughty-and-nice list. Start planning early and take advantage of those mid-year sales. It’s also a great time to jot down your Black Friday wish lists. You may even score your holiday decorations and gift wrap at a fraction of the price if you purchase it now. (Tip: You’ll probably score some sweet deals on those summer clothing items during winter too.)
Avoid the crafting chaos
If you plan to DIY your Christmas gifts or decorations, now’s the time to do some research and maybe even do a few trial runs, so you can get them just right by the time the festive season hits. Experiment with different ideas and materials to find what works best for you. Not only will this save you from last-minute crafting disasters, but it’ll also give you the chance to turn those Pinterest dreams into reality. (Or, in my case, it might convince you to give up the dream of being a craft mom. It’s okay, we have other strengths.)
Schedule, schedule, schedule!
We may have about four-ish months before December arrives, but trust me, your calendar will soon be filling up faster than you can say “Santa Claus is coming to town.” Between school plays, end of year parties, shopping sprees, family gatherings, and planning Secret Santa gift lists, things can get hectic. Take a breath, grab your planner (or open your favourite scheduling app), and start pencilling in those important dates now. And maybe block off a few nights of rest, for good measure.
Kick-start that vacation
If you’re considering a vacation during the busy season, now’s the time to start planning! Whether it’s a peaceful retreat in the countryside or a sunny escape to the beach, booking early ensures you snag the best deals and have something special to look forward to amidst the holiday hustle. Plus, it’s a great way to create memories with your loved ones outside of the traditional festivities.
Leave a Reply