Hi Reader,

Isn't this time between Halloween and Thanksgiving funny? Some folks put up their holiday decorations the day after Halloween, and while I admire their enthusiasm, that seems a bit too early for me!

Personally, I like to wait until after Thanksgiving. Fall is my favorite season, and I love to enjoy the beautiful colors of nature during this time.🍂 I don’t want the blinking bright lights just yet! Plus, I want to keep my focus on the purpose of Thanksgiving—taking time to be thankful for family, friends, a roof over my head, and a warm bed to sleep in every night.

Whether your decorations are up yet or you are waiting until December, there are still ways you can prepare for the upcoming Holiday Season.

If you've missed the last few emails, we are following an plan of 8 weeks leading up to week of December 25. Each week we are focusing on a different aspect of holiday preparation, helping you stay organized and enjoy every moment.

(You can catch up by reading the blog post here or download our FREE Holiday Harmony Guide here).

Week 3: Gift Planning

The focus this week is on planning for gifts. Gift-giving is a cherished part of the holiday season, but it can also lead to stress if not planned properly. So, we're spending time this week focusing on thoughtful gift ideas and budgeting.

Week 3 Tasks:

Make a List of Recipients ✍️
Start by writing down everyone you want to give gifts to—family, friends, coworkers, and anyone else who deserves a little holiday cheer! 🎉 Having a clear list helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t forget anyone important. You can even categorize them into groups like “Family,” “Friends,” and “Work,” which makes it easier to brainstorm ideas later on.
Brainstorm Gift Ideas 💡
Now comes the fun part! Think about what each person loves or needs. Consider their hobbies, interests, and any hints they might have dropped throughout the year. Unique options like experiences (think cooking classes, concert tickets, or spa days) can create lasting memories. Homemade gifts, like baked goods or crafted items, show that you’ve put in extra effort and love. ❤️ And don’t forget about charitable donations in their name—it’s a meaningful way to give back during the season of giving! 🙏
Set a Budget 💰
Decide how much you can spend on each person. This step is super important! Setting a budget helps you avoid overspending and keeps your finances in check. 📊 Remember, it’s not about the price tag; it’s about the thought behind the gift. You might even find that some of the best gifts don’t cost much at all! 🎀

Pro Tip:

Use a spreadsheet or a budgeting app to track your spending. This way, you can easily adjust if needed and stay on top of your gift-giving game! You can create columns for the recipient’s name, gift ideas, budgeted amount, and actual spending. This will give you a clear view of your holiday spending and help you stay organized.

🎄Grab Your FREE Gift & Budget Tracker🎄

Included in our Holiday Harmony Guide!

Keep an Eye Out for Black Friday Sales! 🛍️

As the holiday season approaches, don’t forget to look for Black Friday sales, especially for larger ticket items like technology or that “big” toy your child has been asking for. Retailers often offer significant discounts during this time, making it a great opportunity to snag those high-ticket gifts at a fraction of the price. Planning ahead can help you take advantage of these deals without the last-minute rush! ⏰

Are People Asking What You Want for Christmas? 🎄

If you haven't started thinking about what YOU want for Christmas, now is the perfect time to begin! Remember, this isn’t selfish; it’s actually helpful! The people around you want to show their love and appreciation, and having a few ideas in mind can make it easier for them. It saves them the guesswork and time spent shopping, ensuring they find gifts that truly resonate with you.

So go ahead and jot down your wishes—your loved ones will thank you for it! 💖 Here are a few ideas that will help you stay organized in the coming year and make time for well-deserved self-care:

Organizational Tools: High-quality planners or stylish desk organizers can help streamline your schedule and keep your workspace clutter-free. 🖊️
Self-Care Experiences: Gift yourself experiences like spa vouchers, manicure/pedicure, or yoga classes. These gifts encourage relaxation and help you recharge amidst your hectic schedule. 🧘‍♀️
Meal Prep Services: A subscription to a meal prep service or healthy snack box can save you time and promote healthier eating choices, allowing you to focus on your work without sacrificing nutrition. 🍽️

Reflect and Share

Remember, the best gifts come from the heart, not the wallet. 💝 You’ve got this! If you have any questions or need more ideas, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you navigate this busy season with ease.

Feel free to reply to this email or share your thoughts on social media! Let’s support each other in making this the best holiday season yet!

Warm wishes,

Sandy