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Writer's pictureNaia Geni

Holiday List Checklist: Shop & Plan Strategy

Updated: Oct 20

Your Stress Free Ultimate Holiday List Checklist Guide to Early Shopping!


The holiday season might seem far off in the summer heat, but starting your holiday prep in July can make the busiest time of year feel stress-free and enjoyable. With a little planning and organization, you’ll be ready to enjoy the festivities while avoiding last-minute chaos. Here’s a detailed month-by-month checklist to help you start preparing early and sail smoothly into the holiday season. Plus, we’ll explore the benefits of shopping early!


Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents Handcrafted Lifestyle
Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents
Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents Christmas Tree Decor Handcrafted Lifestyle

Holiday List Checklist: Quick Links


- Simply select a quick link from the Table of Contents


1.) Holiday List Checklist: Getting Ahead by Starting in July


- Laying the Foundation for an Organized Holiday Season


1. Set a Holiday Budget

Start by creating a realistic holiday budget, breaking it down into categories such as gifts, travel, decorations, and entertaining. By doing this early, you avoid overspending later and can better plan your expenses.


  • Benefits of Early Budgeting

- You can save money gradually instead of relying on last-minute credit cards or loans.

- It’s easier to take advantage of summer deals when you already know what you can spend.


2. Start Your Gift List

Begin listing who you need to buy gifts for, including family, friends, and work associates. Start brainstorming ideas and noting down any special preferences or wish lists they’ve mentioned.


  • Benefits of Early Gift Planning

- Avoid panic buying and take time to select thoughtful, meaningful presents.

- You can keep an eye out for discounts or exclusive items without stress.


3. Begin Crafting Holiday Cards

If sending personalized cards is part of your holiday tradition, July is a perfect time to start. Consider what kind of theme or style you want, and even take advantage of summer backdrops for your family photo card.


  • Benefits of Planning Cards Early

- Photographers and card printing services are less busy, so you won’t face delays.

- You can avoid last-minute shipping costs for cards during peak holiday season.




Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents Christmas Tree Handcrafted Lifestyle
Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents Christmas Tree


2.) Holiday List Checklist: In August Simply Take Action


- Start Early, Shop Smart, and Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season.


1. Shop the End of-Summer Sales

Retailers often offer significant discounts at the end of summer. Look for deals on gifts, décor, and other items that will help you later in the year. Begin buying non-perishable gifts that you won’t need to worry about until the holidays.


  • Benefits of Shopping Early

- Access to discounted items before prices surge during the holiday shopping rush.

- Less chance of items being sold out or unavailable closer to the holidays.


2. Declutter and Prepare Your Home

Use this month to clean and declutter your home. Make space for new décor, gifts, and holiday essentials. You can even start packing away unused summer items to make room for seasonal decorations.


  • Benefits of Decluttering Early

- You'll have a fresh, organized space ready for holiday decorating.

- Less chaos when you're preparing for guests or festive gatherings.


3. Plan Your Holiday Events

If you’ll be hosting any parties or attending any gatherings, start scheduling and organizing now. Confirm any travel arrangements or book venues for holiday get-togethers.


  • Benefits of Early Event Planning

- You’ll secure better rates and availability on venues and travel accommodations.

- Scheduling ahead ensures that your loved ones can prioritize important events.



Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents Christmas Tree Ornament Snowflake Decor Handcrafted Lifestyle
Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents Christmas Tree Ornament Snowflake Decor
Holiday List Checklist Wrapped Presents Christmas Tree Ornament Decor Handcrafted Lifestyle

3.) Holiday List Checklist: September Finalize Shopping and Décor


- Get Ahead of the Holiday Rush with Early Shopping Tips and Stress-Free Planning


1. Finalize Your Gift Shopping

By September, you can have most of your gift list completed. Take advantage of early-bird holiday promotions that start rolling out. This month is perfect for online shopping, as many stores offer fall discounts.


  • Benefits of Finishing Early Shopping

- You avoid the shipping delays and higher prices that hit during the holiday season.

- Shopping early gives you more time to personalize gifts or create DIY presents.


2. Plan and Buy Holiday Décor

If you enjoy decorating, start planning your theme for this year’s holidays. Whether it’s rustic, modern, or traditional, consider purchasing décor now while selections are still available.


  • Benefits of Early Décor Planning

- Early shoppers get the best selection of holiday décor before it’s picked over.

- You’ll have plenty of time to try out DIY décor projects or holiday crafts.


3. Set Your Holiday Schedule

By now, you’ll have an idea of where you’ll be traveling and what events you’ll be hosting. Set your holiday timeline and make any final adjustments to your budget.


  • Benefits of Early Scheduling

- You’ll be able to confirm plans with friends and family and adjust if needed.

- Having a set schedule allows you to manage your work-life balance and avoid feeling overwhelmed.


Starting your holiday checklist in July through September gives you ample time to enjoy the end of the year without stress. By spreading out your tasks and embracing early preparation, you’ll have the luxury of enjoying the magic of the holiday season with less last-minute hustle. From gift shopping to organizing events, your proactive approach ensures a smooth and joyful holiday season ahead! #EarlyHolidayShopping #StressFreeHolidays #HolidayPlanningTips #HandcraftedLifestyle



Cheers to a Handcrafted Lifestyle!

- Naïa Genï



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Sources For This Article
  • Author - Naia Geni | Senior Editor | @naiageni

  • Photos - Naia Geni




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Naia Geni Floral Designer Interior Designer Handcrafted Lifestyle Blog Design Podcast

Hello! I am Naia.

A Handcrafted Lifestyle is an empowered ethos; where wanderlust meets culinary delights and where design authenticity is explored and nurtured. Join me as I navigate the tapestry of culture, share delectable recipes, and deliver unfiltered insights through honest product and eatery reviews. This blog is your go-to lifestyle resource with intentional spatial design tips, curating functionality over aesthetic within your environment to optimize your daily routine.

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