10 Christmas Planning Tips Every Family Needs to Know in 2024

Christmas is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like us, you’re already wondering how to juggle festive fun with all the planning. Don’t panic - we’ve got the best Christmas planning tips to help you breeze through everything from the turkey to the to-do list, all while keeping the Christmas cheer high. Let’s get this festive season wrapped up nice and early!

1. Declutter Your Space before Christmas

Before you put up the Christmas tree and all the twinkly Christmas lights, declutter your home. It’s the perfect time to sort through those old toys and knick-knacks. Give your space a fresh start so you’ll have more room to enjoy the festive season. Bonus points if you donate unwanted items – good for the soul and good for charity!

2. Make Your Own Christmas Cards

Instead of buying generic cards, get creative and design your own cards! This is your chance to show off your artistic flair, and it’s much more meaningful than a shop-bought card. It’s an easy, fun way to make your loved ones feel extra special, plus you’ll have a laugh making them.

3. Decorations

Sure, the tree’s a classic, but this year, let’s make every corner sparkle! Hang some LED Christmas garland along your stairs or fireplace to bring in that twinkling magic, and add festive non-slip kitchen rugs for a cosy touch underfoot. Don’t forget Christmas mugs for your hot chocolate – perfect for sipping by the fire! Decorate your windows with festive stickers to spread the cheer, and before you know it, your home will be a Christmas wonderland. Let’s make this festive season shine in every room!

4. Go Green with Sustainable Gifts & Wrapping

This year, go green - but make it fab. Choose sustainable gifts that keep on giving, like eco-friendly beauty products, reusable coffee cups, or a plant you can watch grow all year. For wrapping, grab some fabric or newspaper, or better yet, wrap it in a scarf - two gifts in one!

5. Early Christmas Shopping & Secret Santa

The earlier, the better when it comes to Christmas shopping. Not only will you dodge the mad rush, but you’ll also be able to choose gifts with care. Consider doing a Secret Santa with a twist: set a theme (like "something edible" or "personalised"), so everyone gets a bit of a fun surprise.

6. Potluck-Style Christmas Dinner

Why spend a fortune when everyone can chip in? Host a potluck-style dinner where each guest brings a dish. You can even assign categories – mains, sides, and desserts - to keep things balanced. Not only does this make the meal more diverse, but it also makes everyone feel included and takes the pressure off your wallet and Christmas schedule!

7. DIY Christmas Crafts for the Whole Family

This year, go beyond the usual crafts and try something quirky! How about creating your own Christmas tree from old newspapers or making an advent calendar out of socks? Get the kids involved by designing funky tree ornaments or making your own festive family board game.

8. Reinvent Christmas Eve with New Traditions

Forget the same old Christmas Eve movie marathon. Start a new tradition like a Christmas karaoke night with your mates, or create a festive scavenger hunt around the house. You could even hold a "pajama party" for all ages with a Christmas playlist and homemade hot chocolate station.

9. Make Christmas Special for All Ages

This year, give everyone a role in the holiday cheer. Kids can design the festive playlist or wrap presents, while grandparents can share family stories and traditions (perhaps with a cheeky glass of mulled wine). It’s all about creating memories, so mix it up to make sure everyone has a role in the fun!

10. Self-Care

Between decking the halls and ticking off your Christmas to-do list, it’s easy to forget to care for yourself. But trust us, you’ll enjoy the festivities much more if you’re feeling your best. Take a little time for self-care - and if you’re looking for a treat, check out our spa deals that will have you refreshed in no time!