Each year seems to go by quicker and quicker. Fall is here which means one thing; it is almost the holiday season. For most people, this time of year can be extremely stressful. There are parties to plan, food to cook, gifts to buy, and homes to decorate. The best way to make the most out of your holiday season is to get ready early. Why wait when you could start now?
- As most things go, the first step should be to make a plan. If you are hosting a celebration at your home, it is best to have the list of who will be coming prepared early. List out what others will be bringing so that you know what is left for you to do. Now you can identify what tasks you can get ahead on.
- Decide on what food you will be cooking. Having ample time to look through recipes and select something special for you and your family is a bonus. There is nothing worse than rushing around trying to figure out what to cook to feed 30 people. You can even begin shopping now for pantry items and frozen foods. We all know how crazy grocery stores can be the days leading up to a big holiday. Beat the rush and start stocking up now.
- If you plan to get crafty on decorations for both your home or the party, do not wait. Take these few weeks of downtime to get started. Now is an excellent time to make place cards if you are hosting a more formal dinner. Making decorations yourself could be great family time! Spend a day with the kids creating colorful hand turkeys or glistening snowflakes.
- If you are going to be purchasing gifts come December, try to get ideas as early as possible. Black Friday is a huge shopping day, but there tend to be sales the weeks leading up to it. Being prepared first will allow you to budget and get the best deals.
The holiday season is about spending time with family and enjoying yourself. So often that is ignored because planning gets in the way and it becomes too stressful. By getting ahead of the game, you will set yourself up for success. You can get so much done before the holiday season gets into full swing. Make the most of these days!