Every year we see people start talking about Christmas in July events. But where the heck did July go this year? While a few events occurred, many just passed us right by. So now we’re making up for it with figuring out ways to prepare for Christmas in August.
Why Prepare For Christmas in August?
If you thought that July flew by, just wait for the rest of the year to speed along. The autumn months are notoriously busy. Even in this time of continuing global pandemic, time feels rushed. There’s hardly enough time to accomplish what we need to do for back to school. Nevertheless, Christmas is going to be upon us before we know it. Finding small ways to start to prepare for Christmas in August can go a long way towards making the holidays easier and more fun for everyone.
Start Your Christmas Crafting Now
If you do any type of DIY Christmas activities, then you need to start now. After all, it takes time to plan and execute those things. Maybe you knit, sew, or make candles. Perhaps you DIY your decorations and ornaments or maybe you go all out and make handmade gifts for everyone. Whether it’s scrapbooks or sweaters, those thoughtful presents take time. So make a list. Figure out everything you need to make before Christmas. And then create a calendar with deadlines starting in August. For example, crafters Marly Bird and Briana K Designs are offering a (slightly belated) Christmas in July Stocking knitalong-crochetalong. It happens this weekend (although you get 6 patterns to keep and use as you’re ready). Joining now is a great way to prepare for Christmas in August!
Make Your Trip Plans … But Get The Insurance
Start thinking now about where you’re going to spend the holidays. What’s your ideal situation? What’s your back-up plan? Planning ahead can save you a lot of money. After all, it gives you the chance to comparison shop and look for the best deals on flights, hotels, AirBnbs, car rentals, etc. Therefore, if you plan to visit your family for Christmas, then start looking at those prices now. We suggest that if you see a good price, you should snag those tickets.
However, make sure that you get the trip insurance. Your credit card might cover it. If not, it’s worth the small extra cost to get coverage from whatever booking site you’re using. Normally this type of insurance is hit or miss as far as value. However, things are still very up in the air as far as COVID-19 travel regulations go. It’s better to be safe than sorry this year. You should plan but protect yourself with flexible planning.
Talk to Family and Friends About Expectations
As you prepare for Christmas in August, it’s a great time to ask everyone else what their thoughts are. It’s not Christmas yet, therefore these conversations are less loaded than they might be near the holidays. Ask friends and family what their hopes and expectations are around Christmas travel, meals, gift exchanges, etc. Just because you’ve been doing it a certain way forever doesn’t mean that you have to keep doing it that way. This is a great time to be open about what you all want for Christmas this year.
Extra Tips to Prepare for Christmas in August
Duct Tape and Denim recommends:
- Start deep cleaning one room per month until Christmas arrives.
- Write out all of your Christmas cards and thank you cards now. After all, you have time today.
- Begin marking all related holiday events, travel, etc. on a big calendar.
Minted’s Christmas Planning List doesn’t begin until October. However, we think you could start some of these things in August, including:
- Schedule a family holiday photo shoot.
- Set a budget.
- Make a Christmas gift list.
- Order online gifts in advance.
- Review your wrapping / decorating supplies to see if you need to stock up.
There are a lot of ways you can prepare for Christmas in August. And come November and December, you’ll be so relieved that you did!
Read More:
- Great Ways to Start Saving for Christmas in July
- How I’m Celebrating Christmas This Year Without Traveling
- Why My Family Stopped Giving Christmas Gifts
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