As May rolls around, the last thing on many people’s minds is Christmas. However, for us it’s never too early to start thinking about the most wonderful time of the year. Here in the UK, where Christmas festivities are cherished traditions, getting a head start can make all the difference. So, here are six things we do to kickstart our Christmas preparations in May and make good use of the Bank Holidays that are coming up.

Budgeting and Savings
One of the most crucial aspects of a stress-free Christmas is financial planning, especially in the current financial climate. In May, we begin by setting a budget for gifts, decorations, food, and any other festive expenses. By starting early, we can allocate a portion of our monthly income towards a Christmas savings fund. This proactive approach helps us avoid the last-minute scramble for funds and allows us to enjoy the season without worrying about overspending. Did you know that we run a Christmas Savings Club? Pop into the shop for more details!

Crafting Homemade Decorations
May is the perfect time to unleash our creativity and start crafting homemade decorations. From ornaments to wreaths, there’s no shortage of DIY projects to tackle. Pinterest is a great source of inspiration for such tasks. Not only does crafting decorations allow us to personaliour home, but it also serves as a therapeutic outlet amidst the busyness of life. It’s also a great way of getting the kids involved. That one person on the list you never know what to get them? A thoughtful home crafted item is always a winner and a joy to cherish for many years.

Planning Festive Menus
Planning the Christmas menus is one of our favorite parts of the holiday season. In May, we begin researching new recipes and compiling a list of dishes to try out. It’s often when we actually get to read the Christmas Food magazines we’ve been saving since November! Whether it’s traditional roasts or innovative vegetarian alternatives, starting early allows us to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Additionally, you can use this time to make note of any specialty items that may need to be ordered in advance, chat to local suppliers when they are not surrounded by the Festive rush ensuring a seamless culinary experience come December.

Early Gift Shopping
Avoiding the December rush is a priority for us when it comes to Christmas shopping, mostly because we are so busy in our wee shop ourselves. That’s why we start brainstorming gift ideas as early as May. By keeping an eye out for sales and promotions throughout the year, we can snag thoughtful gifts for loved ones without breaking the bank. This is also the perfect time to order any bespoke gifts you require from local Artisans and Crafters as most of them are fully booked up by the end of October. Not only does this approach save us time and stress later on, but it also allows us to focus on finding the perfect presents rather than settling for last-minute options.

Volunteering and Giving Back
Christmas is a time for giving, and what better way to spread joy than by volunteering in your local community? At this time of the year we like to research local charities and organisations to see how we can lend a helping hand during the festive season. Mostly we give out raffle prizes and gift vouchers for local schools and events to support our community as well as booking our spots at Summer fayres and markets. By having a spring clear out and gathering up any unwanted gifts you received means the local charity shops can be fully stocked for the coming year. If you need a Christmas jumper for a Christmas in July party then head to your local charity shop!

Reflecting on Traditions
Lastly, May provides an excellent opportunity for us to reflect on cherished Christmas traditions and plan new ones for the upcoming season. Whether it’s watching classic films, attending festive markets, or hosting a themed gathering, we use this time to map out a calendar of activities that will bring joy and excitement to our loved ones. By starting early, we can ensure that each tradition receives the attention it deserves, creating lasting memories for years to come.

While it may seem premature to start preparing for Christmas in May, taking proactive steps now can make the holiday season all the more enjoyable. From budgeting and crafting to volunteering and reflecting on traditions, there’s no shortage of ways to get into the festive spirit early on. So why wait? Let the countdown to Christmas begin!