Fall is officially here and that means Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas are right around the corner.

By starting now to prepare for the holiday season, you can save yourself time, money and stress.

What kind of holiday do you want? It may seem like a strange question to ask, but it’s important to decide if you’re traveling, if you want to host a party or gathering, or if you’re staying home.

If you need some inspiration, check out the 100 Days to Christmas e-book written by fellow professional organizer Jennifer Tankersley. The book actually covers the entire holiday season, and you will find tips, links and ideas to make each holiday special.

Make your list and check it twice. Make your gift-giving list and jot down ideas and your nieces and nephews favorite things. Personally, I use Evernote for my Christmas list, and I can pull it up wherever I am.

As you write your list, determine the amount you will spend on each person, and try to stick to your budget. If you have to, shop with cash or a pre-paid credit card to keep yourself within your limits.

Let’s Go Shopping. There are lists out there on when it’s a better time to buy certain items. For example, September is the best time to buy holiday airfares before the prices go up. Toys usually go on sale in October and November so that is a good time to buy. To avoid crowds, buy early before it gets really nuts.

Check out coupons offered by your favorite stores online or through their apps. Some stores will begin offering Black Friday days long before Black Friday arrives.
 
Instead of buying “stuff,” especially for family and friends, think of experiences or consumable gifts. For example, give your sister the foodie a special bottle of wine or an opportunity to visit a unique restaurant. And don’t forget yourself, Auntie! Holiday season outfits are already hitting stores.

Determine what can be done in advance. To save time, think about what you can do ahead of time. In addition to shopping for gifts, you can ready cards, menus and invitations.

When it comes to dinners and parties, determine what you can prepare ahead of time and freeze. If you’re ordering food, find out when holiday orders can begin and put a reminder on your calendar. 

If you send out cards, write a few each night while watching television. You can even order stamps online, and poinsettia stamps are available.

With a little planning, you can focus on having a great holiday season.


Published: September 24, 2014