photo by vieux bandit

Plan ahead for the upcoming holidays. If you’re organized, you’ll avoid overspending. Don’t wait until the last minute. There are plenty of ways you can prepare so you’re not completely stressed out later. Previously, I mentioned putting together a frugal notebook (www.frugalvillage.com/2009/05/22/create-a-frugal-notebook). One section to include in your binder is a holiday planner.
How do you plan ahead for the holidays?
Here are some planning suggestions.

RECIPES: Gather holiday recipes. You have time to try them now so there aren’t any surprises. Buy baking and cooking items each week, such as chocolate chips, cookie decorations or herbs and spices, parchment paper, storage bags or aluminum foil, so it’s not a large expense all at once.

GIFT LIST: Start a master gift list so you know for whom you need to buy or make gifts. Take inventory of your gift closet to see what you already have. One reader, Sharon in Kentucky, shares: “I am gathering up ‘presents’ from my stockpile to wrap. Last year, several of my family members were having a rough time, and it was decided that we would not exchange gifts. We had typically each brought a gift and played “dirty Santa.” It was a game where numbers were drawn and everyone went in order, and they could choose a wrapped present or take something from another person. I wrapped up the stuff from my stockpile and labeled them with hints on what was inside, and it was a huge hit. For example, batteries, anti-aging moisturizer and cookie mix. I never thought that I would see 18 people running around laughing and snagging shampoo, Pledge, Windex and toilet paper. I guess we have a new tradition because people are already asking what the ‘presents’ will be this year.”

PAY ATTENTION: Keep your ears open to the people for whom you’ll be buying gifts. They sometimes mention things that they like or drop subtle hints. Whenever you recognize a hint, simply jot it down. You can also do a little investigating and notice items they already own or even casually ask questions that will assist you in your planning. And don’t forget any presents you want to regift, too. You did tag who they came from, right? You don’t want to make a regift mistake.

CARDS AND LETTERS: Start organizing photos and keep track of family highlights from the past few months so you can easily write a holiday newsletter to friends and family. You can type this up and publish it on a blog, e-mail it, or print and mail it.

SALES: Check multiple sources such as garage sales and thrift stores for tins, baskets or jars that can be gift containers. Shop clearance sales, too. Another reader, Kathryn Z. in Louisiana, shares: “I always make sure to buy Scotch tape either during the preschool sale or the clearance sale after school starts. Also, scissors and pens/markers. All this is great for gift wrap and holiday card time.” August and September are good months to find canning jars, summer toys, clothing, grilling accessories, cookware, camping gear, garden supplies and tools, too.

HOMEMADE AND HANDMADE: Root cuttings now for plant gifts. Organize craft ideas and supplies you need. Finish any incomplete projects, too. For some cute homemade gift ideas to use your clearance or secondhand canning jars, visit www.freshpreserving.com/pages/crafts/217.php.

DECLUTTER: With guests visiting and gifts and decorations coming into your home, you’ll want to purge items you no longer need. Work room to room and you’ll be well organized. Toss, share, sell or donate what you can.

SAVE: Set aside money each week to make holiday spending less painful. Even small amounts such as keeping a change jar for a few weeks will help.

FITNESS: Start healthier habits now, so you’re in great shape for the holidays.

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