I am a huge fan of Christmas, i love to go all out. Make things magical for the whole family.
One of the ways I plan for Christmas is to start shopping early. And I mean October early! As soon as Christmas is out in the shops, I’m onto it. I start by planning my theme, and then I look for all the pieces that go with it. I’m talking wrapping paper, decorations, table settings – the lot.
I’m not someone that redesigns our Christmas tree decorations every year. I’m a big believer in a Christmas tree of memories, rather than changing the theme every year, but this doesn’t extend to my wrapping or table themes.
Christmas Planning: Styling
This year I’ve been choosing between silver and blush pink, or gold, silver and blue. While in life I’m definitely more drawn to the silver and blush pink theme, I just love the idea of gold, silver and reds! I am already thinking about things i would like to buy to make it look perfect.
I’ve also started picking up the little things the kids love – reindeer ears, Santa hats, some cute decorations. If you’re just spending a few pounds here and there you don’t notice the hit in your shopping bill.
Christmas Planning: Food
There are a whole bunch of Christmas food items you can start buying now, that will last until Christmas. You’ll see that fruit mince pies, fruit cakes, puddings, biscuits, and rum balls are all appearing on the shelves. I am going to pick up a Christmas pudding when they become available, i left it last minuet last year and struggled to find a nice one. Tins of sweets are always a firm favorite in this house i do have to hide things or they will be eaten way before Christmas. There are plenty of things you can buy in October ready for the Christmas season.
Christmas Gift Shopping
To help you prepare for Christmas and not break the bank, look out for special offers. There is a website called Playpennies that i always keep an eye on They keep you up to date on amazing offers for gift ideas. There are so many other bargain hunter websites online that list some great special offers. Christmas doesn’t have to be expensive, spreading the cost
Forward planning for Christmas can reduce the stress and spread the cost. This is why i like to start early.
