It’s almost upon us again. That crazy time of year, when we all try and keep up with our day jobs, attend more festive events in one day than is humanly possible, shop until we drop, contact all our friends and family by writing them cards, decorate the house, invite guests over and entertain, host an elf on the shelf, and some people even think they can turn into Mary Berry for the season. Yes, that’s right, it’s almost Christmas.
To help those of you who need a little help to get organised, so they are able to enjoy the big day. Here is my simple day-by-day guide to a stress-free Christmas. A daily Christmas planner to follow, to help give you structure and keep you feeling accomplished.
1st Dec: Set a Christmas Budget – Outline spending for gifts, food, décor, and travel.
2nd Dec: Make a Gift List – List everyone you plan to buy for and some initial ideas.
3rd Dec: Plan Key Events – RSVP for any invites and decide on your own events.
4th Dec: Create a Christmas To-Do List – Add a few tasks each day from now to the 25th to keep things moving smoothly.
5th Dec: Check Gift Wrapping Supplies – Note any wrapping paper, tape, or tags needed and plan to buy early to avoid the rush.
6th Dec: Organise Christmas Cards – Start addressing and writing cards to send later this week.
7th Dec: Shop for Essential Decorations – Refresh any worn decorations or add a new festive touch.
8th Dec: Online Gift Shopping Day – Finalise online orders, especially for items needing shipping.
9th Dec: Post Gifts – Send gifts to family and friends if they live away to ensure timely delivery.
10th Dec: Gift Wrapping Session #1 – Wrap some gifts, particularly for those who don’t live locally.
11th Dec: Plan the Christmas Menu – Write out your Christmas meals and note any dietary needs.
12th Dec: Shopping List Prep – Create a list of ingredients needed for your holiday meals.
13th Dec: Check Your Party Supplies – Stock up on napkins, tableware, and festive essentials.
14th Dec: Christmas Baking Plan – List ingredients for festive bakes or treats you’d like to make.
15th Dec: Decorate the House – Go all out with festive decorations today!
16th Dec: Tree Trimming – Put up and decorate the Christmas tree, if not already done.
17th Dec: Final Gift Shopping – Buy any last-minute presents or stocking fillers.
18th Dec: Gift Wrapping Session #2 – Wrap remaining gifts to keep things tidy and organised.
19th Dec: Finalise Christmas Cards – Send out remaining cards to friends, family, and neighbours.
20th Dec: Check Pantry and Fridge – Go over your Christmas food list, double-checking staples.
21st Dec: Shop for Fresh Food – Get perishable items to avoid last-minute queues.
22nd Dec: Prep Your Kitchen – Organise utensils, serving dishes, and any make-ahead recipes.
23rd Dec: Christmas Baking Day – Spend the day baking festive treats (mince pies, gingerbread).
24th Dec: Set the Table – Prepare your dining area with all the holiday trimmings.
25th Dec: Celebrate & Enjoy! – Your work is done! Relax, enjoy the day, and savour the holiday with loved ones.
If you’d like this checklist in a user friendly format, please visit my website for a downloadable version. Let me know if you find this useful?