Now more than ever, after several years of limitations and being parted from loved ones, we feel the value of quality time together. Christmas is a perfect opportunity to celebrate with your friends and family in the spirit of giving, gratitude and fun.
With so much to prepare and coordinate, you’ll need to start planning the five main components of a classic Christmas. Failing to do so may result in a key element being missed, which could spoil an important part of the day. So here’s how to prep for Christmas in 5 easy steps.
Determine a budget
For many people up and down the country, this is a time of financial challenge and change, and are looking for ways to save money. Many families report that they’ll struggle to afford the same as in previous years, with one survey finding that around a third of people will spend less on Christmas this year. Even if your available funds haven’t changed much from year to year, it’s so easy to overspend during the festive season.
It’s vital that you make a clear and thorough budget for the celebrations before you begin your preparations. Remember to factor in the obvious Christmas essentials, such as decorations and food, alongside the hidden costs of things like petrol and postage.
Decide who is hosting
In many cases, there comes a time in the year when you and your loved ones will discuss who is hosting Christmas. Perhaps you take it in turns or have an established routine. If you’re the one hosting, it will require a lot of domestic preparation. This includes cleaning the house and organising sleeping situations for anyone who is due to stay the night.
Alternatively, even when you’re the one to visit someone else’s home, you’ll still need to plan. Have you got your transportation sorted to account for cold weather conditions? Do you have a plan in place on how to bring the gifts? Have you organised a token of appreciation for your host? Do you need to bring a dish to contribute to a Christmas buffet meal?
It’s never too early to get logistics arranged so it’s one less thing to think about.
Write Christmas cards
Christmas cards are a very British tradition that many of us hold dear. There may be people who live far away and don’t get to see very often who love to receive a hand-written card to know they’re in your thoughts. Likewise, you may want to give a gift to customers or colleagues at your workplace as a token of support. Even better, a heartfelt message inside a Christmas card for mum will show how much you appreciate her throughout the year.
Write them in advance to make sure you don’t miss anyone. They take longer than you think when you’re personalising messages to so many people.
Plan the food
Whether you’re cooking for two or 20, planning the food for the festive period is a hefty task.
Confirm any dietary requirements in advance to make sure no one is missed on the day. This could prove embarrassing if you forget and a guest goes hungry.
If you get frazzled in the kitchen, don’t be afraid to plan simple dishes. Your guests would rather spend time with you.
Make a list of all ingredients and quantities before you shop as you won’t be able to get it all on Christmas Day if you overlook something.
Create a gift list
Note down a list of all the people you’ll be gifting to this year alongside ideas for their present and a cost. Total up the amount to make sure it sits within your budget before you begin purchasing.
You may be able to start buying a few months ahead of time. Many stores have Christmas return policies from October onwards. Don’t forget to check last posting dates for Royal Mail so your presents reach their recipient in time for the day itself.
