Half of 2023 is behind us, and that means it won't be long until we have to start making plans and spending money for the holiday season. July may feel a little early to start thinking about it, but the more effort you put into preparing now, the less stressful it will be as the time draws nearer. When it comes to the financial side of things, the stress can be particularly great. Give yourself a chance to stay ahead of the curve.
1. Try a Special Savings Account
The more you can save throughout the year, the better prepared you'll be when the holidays get closer. If you have a big family and/or a lot of friends to buy for, the season can get very expensive, especially if you'll also be splurging on decorations and other seasonal items. Consider setting up a specialized savings account, and start putting money into it right away. That way, it will be there when you need it. Keep adding to it as the months go by, and you'll be glad you did. Remember, just because you saved the money, it doesn't mean that you have to use it all on holiday shopping. If you have any left over, you can transfer the money to other accounts, keep it there to save for another goal, or simply roll it over to begin saving for next year.
2. Buy as Opportunities Present Themselves
Whenever you're out shopping or if you happen to see things online, try to keep an eye out for items that you know people in your life will be interested in, especially if you will be buying for collectors. Go ahead and buy them early to get a head start, and keep them in a safe place until you're ready to gift them.
3. Think About the Holidays While on Holiday
Many of us go on vacation during the summer. If this includes you, think about picking up some gifts that you can give for the holidays later in the year. This is a good time to find items that you wouldn't find in your home town. That doesn't necessarily mean buying travel-related souvenirs. Think about unique gifts made by local artists or craftspeople. Visit interesting shops or go antiquing. It can make your trip more enjoyable while also helping you check off gifts on your list.
4. Watch for Summer Deals
You might be able to find good bargains when you start your holiday shopping in the summer, if you are paying attention and watching for deals.
"With lots of retailers offering their Black Friday and Christmas in July sales, the summer has great deals on a variety of items, especially electronics, clothing and apparel, jewelry, tools, and vacation packages," says Kasia Lorenc at Personalization Mall.(1) "It’s also a good time for purchasing home décor, including holiday decorations, as many shops are starting to plan for their Christmas season and want to downsize their stock of last year’s items."
5. Make Cooking Plans Early
Of course, shopping isn't the only thing worth planning for when it comes to the holiday season. Food is just as big a part of the festivities.
"If you're planning to cook for the holidays, chances are high that you'll need to cater to at least one dietary restriction," says Emily VanSchmus at Better Homes and Gardens.(2) "And while Grandma's classic recipes have always served us well over the years, it can be fun to try a new holiday recipe. Whether you need to provide a vegan side dish or a paleo dessert option, plan out your new recipes and test each one at least once before the holiday season. You can even get a head start on meal prep with delicious make-ahead meals you can freeze."
Make this the year that the holidays don't sneak up on you. Even though it's only July, now is a great time to begin making plans and buying gifts. This will help ease the burden you'll otherwise feel once November and December roll around.
1. https://blog.personalizationmall.com/how-to-diy/how-to-prepare-for-christmas-in-the-summer
2. https://www.bhg.com/christmas/planning/summer-christmas-prep/