How to Plan for the Holidays Early

Anybody who knows me well is very aware that I am a planner. I'm out of control when it comes to planning, organizing, and lists. I start thinking about menus for events I'm having months in advance, and I try to nail down every last detail far ahead of time. It's just my nature, and it's good and bad--but it's me! It's no different when it comes to the holidays, I like to plan as much as I can to avoid some of the madness. It is my favorite time of year, but I love to be able to enjoy it rather than running around like a crazy person. (though I will inevitably do that anyhow)

So I along with many others that I know try to plan for the holidays a bit early. This can be something as simple as making your Christmas lists early, or even shopping if you are me. I'm not somebody that can brag about being done with my shopping in July, but I try to pick things up along the way that I know will be a good gift for somebody. It takes the stress and financial burden out of the master list that comes up two weeks before Christmas comes.

I suggest a few things to help keep you on track, they work for me so why not give them a try.

*Figure out what holidays or parties you will be hosting, and make a master list. Make a guest list, figure out your invitations in advance so they're ready to go at a reasonable time, and figure out what kind of party it will be. If you're having the family over for Thanksgiving or Christmas, then figure out the number of people, where you'll put them, if it's casual or formal, and some of the basic details. This will save you panic at the other end of it!

*Determine your menu, it can be as simple as writing down some of the things you want to make. I usually start with a list of all the things that I want to make and then narrow it down to a reasonable number of entrees, side dishes, appetizers, or whatever I'm serving. Then once I have the menu determined, I make a grocery list off of that. I try to write down everything that I know I'll need ahead of time and then start shopping for the staples far ahead of the actual event, and then get the perishables right before everyone is coming over. This helps by not only preventing a mad rush at the grocery store, but means you won't have one huge bill either.

*Start looking for things that you know you'll need, particularly wine or pop. There is almost always a sale on wine, pop, bottled water, or mixers at the local store. Take advantage and stock up, or better yet but a little bit at a time. This will help you from going crazy and means you always have drinks on hand for company. Saves you bundles!

*Buy gift wrap, Christmas cards, gift tags, and decorations at the end of each Christmas season. This not only saves you a ton of money, but helps you to stock up for the year that's coming. The key is to remember that you have these items next year, but it's a great time and money saver! We determined that we needed a new Christmas tree, and went last year the day after Christmas to get a great one at 75% off.

With a little planning and organization, you can stay ahead of things for the holidays. It's not to say that you won't have your moments of craziness, but planning ahead can make the holidays enjoyable and fun as they should be.