Lifestyle · October 27, 2017

Planning for the festive season (without being socially unacceptable) AD


Post in collaboration with Selfridges, but love of talking about Christmas long before December all my own

There are several reasons why this year I’m thinking about the a certain festive season a little early:

1) I’ve been on a spending ban for the past month, so naturally present shopping for others is the next best thing.
2) It’s my first Christmas away from home, so naturally every other conversation with parents turns to ‘what are your plans for Christmas this year love?’
3) I always leave things too late and witness the dreaded ‘sold out online’ logo far too often.
4) It’s the first Christmas where I don’t have to hide presents in the back of my wardrobe so LET’S GO BIG PEOPLE.

So, I’m going to start the Christmas conversation here.

I’m not sure if it’s a little early (possibly as we still have a few days until Halloween)- but having spoken to a couple of pals who are already comfortably halfway through their Christmas shopping- it posed the Carrie Bradshaw-esque question of: can you ever start prepping for the best season too early? In all seriousness, with Autumn in full swing and it also being my first Christmas in my own place- I’ve started thinking about the festive season involuntarily early, hampers and all. With a wedding to save for, and the season of giving and spending with those you love being my absolute favourite- getting organised in true Monica Gellar style has become my new hobby of choice.


Having always done comprehensive gift guides on the blog (which you can expect popping up in December)- there’s always a few things that are worth taking note of a little before advent rolls around. Undeniably, one of these things- as well as one of my favourite gifts to buy for someone is a festive hamper. Not only do they always look thoughtful, but with so many to chose from- this year I know they’ll make for the perfect gift for everyone from grandparents to my mum and dad- and something you know they definitely wouldn’t already have.

Growing up my mum always used to pick them up for family that didn’t live in London- and always consisted of so many treats that people would always be thrilled to have in the cupboards too. This year one of my favourite department stores in London, Selfridges, have a ridiculously impressive selection with everything from salted caramel hampers (I know) to a breakfast in bed option– which, in my opinion would be the most beautiful gift for someone the morning after a dinner party (fancy, but perfect no?)

On top of that, one of my favourite memories of last Christmas was spending the 23rd walking around a chilly Marylebone and then on to a bustling Selfridges- so not only does the store hold fond festive memories, but this year I know their online selection is just as impressive too- so I’m taking advantage and getting in early! Read on for some more tips for prepping for the season early- hampers and all!

My tips for preparing early:

– Start making notes (phone or otherwise) on gift ideas! Drop hints into conversations, browse Pinterest boards and go shopping with friends if you can- taking pointers along the way!
– Pick up small bits when you go out so it feels less full on when the time comes around. Pick up a book of stamps with the food shop for Christmas cards (because 100 stamps isn’t cheap) and gift wrap when you see it to avoid missing out later.
– Look online for special gifts that’ll be harder to come by the nearer to Christmas you get. You don’t have to buy them instantly but keep an eye on things- beautiful hampers fly out so make sure you don’t leave it too late.
– Bake! A lot of seasonal treats, including delicious fruit cake, can be made well in advance and frozen- meaning more time for Christmas films and putting your feet up come December- not badio dadio!


x

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14 Comments

  • Reply
    Laura
    October 27, 2017 at 4:58 pm

    I’m so glad I’m not the only one who’s already excited about Christmas! I’ve done almost half of my Christmas shopping already, but typically I’ve left all the most difficult people last, and I’m still struggling what to get most of them – boys especially can be so difficult to buy for! I might just wait for your December gift guides for inspiration as I’m completely at a loss… :’D But other than that – yay for Christmas! x

  • Reply
    Abigail Alice Jones
    October 27, 2017 at 5:03 pm

    I always leave things until the last minute, I can’t believe you know people halfway through already! As much as I love Christmas I just cannot overcome my present disorganisation for it. I am so excited for it to swing around though. I hope you have a great one in your own place!

    Abigail Alice x

  • Reply
    Courtney Hardy
    October 27, 2017 at 6:45 pm

    Yes a Christmas post!! I’m planning for the holiday season too because it’s approaching so fast.
    http://sugarcoatedbears.blogspot.com/

  • Reply
    Jaqui Zamora
    October 27, 2017 at 9:01 pm

    I am so excited to see a Christmas post!! I have been in the Christmas mood so early this year and I think it’s because it’s the first Christmas my boyfriend and I are in our new house and I can’t wait to decorate! I may or may not have already started DIYing some decorations for around the house 🙂

    Good call on starting a list of gifts! It can be so frustrating when you know you had a good gift idea for someone then completely blank on it because you forgot to write it down! I keep one in my purse and on my phone so I’m always covered. I can’t wait to see more Christmas posts!

    http://www.blissfuljaqui.com

  • Reply
    Neeltje | Thoughts in Style
    October 28, 2017 at 12:28 pm

    Such a lovely blog post! X
    http://www.thoughtsinstyle.com/

  • Reply
    Anika May
    October 28, 2017 at 1:29 pm

    Baked goods are the best! I love having them anytime I’m hosting 🙂

    Anika | anikamay.co.uk

  • Reply
    Catherine
    October 28, 2017 at 9:58 pm

    It’s never too early to discuss Christmas! I feel like spreading out the festivities means you can fit more in too 🙂 I feel like buying early always prevents that Sold Out dread!! x
    http://www.cocoamay.co.uk

  • Reply
    Cat
    October 29, 2017 at 4:11 am

    Haha what a cute post! I enjoyed it! Don’t feel bad…I have already started the festive season!

    Cat
    https://cottonandhydrangeas.wordpress.com

  • Reply
    Sharni
    October 29, 2017 at 4:50 am

    Um how did I not know a Salted Caramel hamper exists? I feel like I need to buy it for myself!

    Sharni xo
    http://www.agirlandgrey.com

  • Reply
    Frances
    October 29, 2017 at 4:03 pm

    I LOVE Selfrdiges at Christmas. I used to work there so got to fully embrace the festiveness every single day and I really miss the vibe! xx

    Frances Kayleigh | Fashion Beauty Lifestyle

  • Reply
    Lauren
    November 6, 2017 at 8:04 pm

    I’m currently in the eavesdropping mode, trying to think of thoughtful and interesting gifts to get people – always a struggle with parents!

    Lauren x
    Britton Loves | Cruelty-Free/Vegan Beauty • Lifestyle • Photography

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