Christmas Planning
Planning ahead can save a lot of money and frustration. It gives you time to buy or make great gifts and avoid those last minute panic buys.
September
- Think about where you are spending Christmas and who you will invite. Remember that you might have to change plans depending on COVID restrictions.
- Set budgets for gifts and entertaining. Have open discussions with family and friends about whether you are going to exchange gifts remembering that some will have lost jobs or businesses.
- Make a gift list and to-do list.
- Decide what decorations and gifts you will make. Christmas craft projects for under-5s can be found at 0to5 Christmas Activities
- Decide on any household projects (cleaning, landscaping) and start/book as early as possible.
- Reconsider office parties and club functions. What could you do instead?
October
- Create your Christmas card/email/zoom list. Buy or order cards
- Work on craft projects.
- Work on household projects.
- Check last years Christmas tree, decorations, etc.
- Planning a BBQ? Get your supplies and even go on a BBQ cooking course.
- Start buying gifts.
- Write Christmas cards.
November
- Post international cards.
- Buy Christmas hampers online for best choice and early bird specials.
- Buy or make Advent calendars for children.
- Continue working your way through your gift list.
- Order cakes, puddings online or from your local baker.
- Decide on a menu for Christmas Day.
- Write Australian Christmas cards
- Make or buy Christmas decorations, bonbons etc online.
- Make any hairdresser appointments etc.
December
- Put up Christmas tree, decorations, etc.
- Children can begin using their Advent calendars
- Buy Secret Santa gifts for the office and stocking fillers for the kids.
- Post Australian Christmas cards
- Buy Christmas hampers and gifts online.
- Make or buy Christmas decorations, bonbons etc online.
- Finalise your guest lists and plans for Christmas dinner and other visits.
- Check out the Christmas lights and gardens in your neigbourhood
December – second weekend before Christmas
- School Holidays begin!
- Housework and garden work if you are entertaining at your house.
December – Final week
- Final week to buy Christmas gifts. Check each site carefully as some may have already closed. Last-minute orders for Christmas hampers. Check each site carefully as some may have already closed. You may need to pay more for express delivery
- Be honest about any craft projects that won’t get finished and buy alternative gifts.
- Gift stocktake – order all remaining online gifts to allow time for delivery.
19 & 20 December 2020 – weekend before Christmas
- Final check – check gifts lists, menus, budgets.
- Online gifts may still be available for delivery from some online shops in your city and or consider Gift Vouchers for gifts, hampers, toys, magazines and experiences.
- Final housework and garden check.
- Make sure you have all the groceries and toiletries you’ll need.
Wednesday 23 December 2020
- Final check – batteries, non-perishables, wrapping paper, bonbons, etc.
- Wrap remaining presents, check gift list again – just in case.
- Buy any emergency gifts – experience vouchers, magazines subscriptions, gift vouchers from online gift and toy shops.
- Get supplies of medicines, non-alcoholic drinks, etc.
Thursday 24 December 2020 – Christmas Eve
- Pick up perishables (preferably preordered).
- Buy any emergency gifts – experience vouchers, magazines subscriptions, gift vouchers from online gift and toy shops.
- Check supplies of medicines, non-alcoholic drinks, etc.
- Ensure all presents are wrapped. If you are doing the rounds on Christmas Day, make sure all necessary presents are packed.
- Leave a gift out for Santa and Rudolph.
- Relax.
Friday 25 December 2020 – Christmas Day
- Avoid stress and enjoy your Christmas Day!
Saturday 26 December 2020 – Boxing Day
- Stay away from the shops and save money
- Research and create meals from leftovers to save even more money