Get a Head Start on Holiday Preparations

(November 2011) – There is no shortage of exciting things going on as the holiday season kicks off. From shopping and baking to planning for fun get togethers, you have one exciting, yet full, calendar. But, with a little preplanning you can get ahead this holiday season.

Try these tips to help you on your way:

• Shopping lists: Get a start on your shopping list by jotting down notes as you hear friends and family mention things that might make for a great gift. Find that one thing they’ve been looking for forever or give them something you know they need just by being a little more observant than usual so you can pick up on any suggestions.

• Get a jump on your holiday card list: Purchase your holiday cards early in order to get the best selection and to avoid holiday shipping delays.

• Make a list and check it twice: With your holiday cards in-hand, all you need to do is give your address book a quick update before signing, addressing, and popping them in the mail (or bundle them and wait until December 1 st if you want to send a little closer to the holidays.)

• Smile for the camera: The holiday season is the perfect time to take a family photo, and there’s no better way to share warm wishes than with those beautiful smiles. Look for great options for creating your very own personalized holiday cards.

• Bake and freeze: Lots of holiday cookie recipes can be made in advance and frozen so that you always have a tray of treats to take to a get-together. Consider starting a cookie exchange with a group of friends so that you can get the most out of your bulk-baking.

• Master calendar: Now’s a great time to create your master calendar for the holiday season. Don’t forget to include all holiday parties (marking which ones you’ll need gifts for), gift shopping lists, and a plan for set up, cleaning, and cooking for all your get-togethers.