Holiday Planning

Over the years, I've learned to take the stress out of the holidays by careful planning and getting my gift shopping done early.  I think the key to successful holiday shopping is good organization. To help me stay organized, I use an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of my holiday gift purchases.  It keeps my shopping within budget, so I don't end up with credit card debt after the holidays are over.  You can download the spreadsheet template here. 

I also do quite a bit of gift shopping online.   Many online sites offer free shipping and other discounts this time of year.   For example, right now, if you're an Old Navy cardholder, you can enjoy a 30% discount on your entire order at oldnavy.com.  Just enter the coupon code ONSTUFF30 when you check out.  Plus if you spend over $50.00, your order will ship free.  Also, many items are on sale now.  I found some great deals for the family and saved $47.06!   Of course, in addition to getting great deals, I was able to shop from the comfort of my sofa wearing lounge pants.  Now that's my kind of shopping!

Once I have purchased my holiday gifts, I note it in my holiday spreadsheet. As I buy the gifts locally or when they arrive, after purchasing them online, I wrap them.  This eliminates spending hours wrapping gifts all at once.   My goal is to have the holiday shopping  done and wrapped by Thanksgiving. After Thanksgiving, I can focus on the holiday tasks I enjoy, like decorating, baking and planning our holiday celebrations. 

Speaking of decorating, right now is a good time to add a bit more sparkle to your holiday décor.  Stores like Michael's are well stocked with gorgeous holiday decorations.  Wreaths, florals, themed ornaments and holiday ribbon are 40% off this week at Michaels!   And, if what you're looking for is not on sale, Michael's has a coupon on their website for 40% off one regular priced item.

I also like to plan my holiday tablescape ahead of time, right down to the the centerpiece, table linens, dishes, and napkin rings.  Right now, Michael's has their holiday chargers on sale for $1.99 each.  I picked up a few  of the plum ones.  They coordinate with the colors in my dining room, so I can use them throughout the year.

With some careful planning and frugal shopping, it is easy to keep the holidays stress free.

Thanks for stopping by!