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Resources / Home & Family


HOLIDAY PLANNING CHECKLIST

Posted by Julie David



Whether you are a seasoned planning pro or want to adopt some new organizing
tricks this holiday season, this checklist will help you shape your holiday
season for the better (and not the bitter!). This list is less about adding more
to your list, and more about prioritizing for your family, leaving more time for
rest and enjoyment this holiday season. 


DECORATIONS 

 * Decorate Early - Don't judge those who start right after Halloween! For those
   who travel for Thanksgiving, using the slowish-time in late October and early
   November can maximize the time to enjoy those holiday favorites.
 * Decorate After Thanksgiving - If you are a strict
   no-Christmas-until-after-Thanksgiving person, use the few remaining days of
   November to get the decorations out of storage, make sure your lights still
   twinkle and get your halls decked before December sets in fast and furious.



 * Plan All the Trimmings - Set aside time to hang the lights and trim or, if
   time is an issue, make your outdoor light dreams come true by calling a
   seasonal company that will decorate for you. If you want interior help, call
   a specialty fabric or home decor store to see if they have designers who will
   work for an hourly rate.
 * Trim the Tree - If this annual event has lost its sparkle, consider adding a
   new tradition like watching a special movie or making hot chocolate or fondue
   while you decorate. Evergreens are lovely, but wait until early December to
   cut or buy them for decorating.
 * Create a Tablescape - A week before any dinner parties or entertaining, think
   about your table decor. Make sure you have enough settings for your guest
   list. If you are table fashionista, keep an eye out on websites and in stores
   for inspiration.
 * Scale Back - Donate extra decorations to a charity or display ornaments on
   the mantle if you want or need to pare down this year. You can always ramp it
   up another year when you feel up to it or your schedule allows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Organize holiday decorating with an online sign up! SAMPLE.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


HOLIDAY CARDS 

 * Plan a Photo Op - Get an appointment early with a photographer (November is
   best) if this is important to you or ask a neighbor or someone whose photo
   skills you admire to take a quick pic after church or another
   dressier-than-normal occasion.
 * Set a Mail Deadline - Set a date for yourself to drop off at the post office,
   then backtrack from there to determine when you will address and stamp.
 * Order Photo Cards - Many online sites offer discounts for early ordering.
   Give yourself at least a week to get these back before your mailing
   deadline. 
 * Gather Mail Supplies - Put stamps and mailing labels on your shopping list
   and consider ordering stamps online (back up another week from your mailing
   deadline to be sure these get delivered on time).
 * Create a Card Display - Find a table or spot in the house to display cards
   from friends/family. Save address changes right away in your address book or
   on your computer/phone files.
 * Go Digital-Only - Don't be afraid to push the easy button if your
   circumstances have changed and cards and postage need to be taken out of the
   budget (they can get expensive). This year send out an e-card or send one
   every other year.


HOLIDAY SHOPPING  

 * Budget - Plan a realistic budget. Start by listing who you’d like to give
   gifts to and an amount limit for each person. Don’t forget the cost of cards,
   postage, teacher gifts, baked goods and other holiday food needs.
 * Prioritize Gifts - Maybe this is the year to ask for experiences (show
   tickets, swim lessons, etc.) instead of gifts if toys and other items are
   taking over your house. Donate old items and determine what’s new that would
   truly be appreciated.
 * Ask Early - Start asking about gift requests early, especially any ones that
   will need to be ordered and shipped (and then shipped again to out-of-town
   family).
 * Shop Early - November is not too early to get that much-desired toy or
   clothing item and hide it away before they are all gone off the shelf. Shop
   an hour before store closings or after work on the weekdays to avoid the
   weekend crowds.
 * Think of Others - Grab a few toys to donate to a favorite charity or family
   in need.
 * Collect Super Deals - Black Friday or Cyber Monday shopping? Start checking
   ads as they roll out and keep in a central location. Make a list of items
   you’d really like to snag at a discount.
 * Stay Organized - Keep a notebook or folder with coupons and a list of what
   you need from specific stores to simplify shopping trips.
   
 * Buying Late - If you are a gift-procrastinator, embrace your love of getting
   that last boxed set of perfume and lotion off the drug store shelf. Warn
   those you love of this habit.
 * Wrap it Up - Buy wrapping paper early unless you like obscure cartoon
   characters or patterns that only the paper-designer’s mother would love. The
   same goes for bows.
 * Get Hostess Gifts - Buy these in early December to stash away as events
   approach. A kitchen towel given with a bottle of sparkling cider or a holiday
   plant (but take note of allergies!) can be a thoughtful gesture.
 * Draw Names - Got so many nieces and nephews your head is spinning? Gently
   nudge the elephant out of the room by suggesting a gift exchange and price
   limit.
 * Fill the Stocking - This is a great place to give a book, gift card or small
   tokens for fun. This can be done last minute or over time.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Set up holiday photo sessions with an online sign up! SAMPLE.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


FOOD PLANNING 

 * Use a Formula - If you research online, there are actual FORMULAS advising
   how much guests consume in regards to meat or drinks, etc. If you feel
   overwhelmed with a place to start, start with a formula for feeding your
   guests.
 * Make a Meal Plan, Check it Twice - Fold a paper into thirds, with one column
   each for breakfast/lunch/dinner. Then make horizontal lines for how many days
   you will have guests. Fill these in with meal plan ideas.
 * Freeze It - In early December, make a list of what you can make ahead and
   freeze (your best bets are side dishes, desserts and breakfast casseroles). 
 * Plan a Cooking and Assembly Day - Invite other friends who are hosting guests
   for a fun holiday food prep party.
 * Go Simple – Pick up convenience foods like pre-made muffins, frozen pizzas
   and pantry-friendly supplies for a taco night. Plan on shopping the week
   before company arrives.
 * Buy Perishables - Buy these four or more days ahead of time to make sure the
   store isn't out — and save yourself some holiday panic.
 * Make a Cooking Timeline - Do this both for when you’d like to make holiday
   baked goods such as cookies, as well as the big meal. What can you prep ahead
   of time? When does the rib roast need to go in the oven the day of?
 * Gift Food - If you have a bread maker, fresh bread is always a nice treat for
   a neighbor, co-worker or service person. Set aside a Saturday for baking if
   this is something you enjoy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Organize a holiday cooking party with an online sign up! SAMPLE.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


HOSTING AND/OR TRAVELING  

 * Set the Guest List - Confirm with guests the length of stay and start
   thinking about the meals, beds (do you need to borrow some inflatable ones?),
   bath towels and linens you will need a week or two before their arrival.
 * Be Prepared - Have your phone on you (with your ringer on) during arrival day
   for any last-minute travel changes.
 * Stock Your Guest Bath - Include all the comforts of home so your guests can
   look under the sink or in a basket in their room for extra toiletries, clean
   hand towels and disposable bathroom cups.
 * Purchase Snacks (Lots of Them) - Place a bag of trail mix and water bottle in
   their room so guests don't have to troll around in your pantry if they need a
   late-night snack.
 * Play it Safe - Get some sidewalk salt and make sure the snow shovel is in
   good shape if you might get some of the white (or frozen) stuff.
 * Get a Tune-up - If you are driving, make sure your car’s oil change is
   current, tires are fully inflated and you have your emergency car kit with
   jumper cables where you can get to it. 
 * Share Details - If traveling by air, make sure all flight information is
   clearly communicated to your host.
 * Double Check - A week before traveling, confirm hotel reservations or call
   your host to see if you need to BYOB — bring your own (inflatable) bed.
 * Check the Weather Forecast - Don’t just think about your destination but
   places in between that might get a band of snow or ice. If you are hosting,
   check it for guests and suggest attire for your climate.
 * Pack Early and According to Your Destination - Stuff snow boots under a seat
   in the van in case there’s light snow at grandma and grandpa's house.


EVENTS, TRADITIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS  

 * Make a Note - Start filling out your December calendar as each event rolls
   in. Check with schools and extra-curricular activities for any end-of-season
   concerts or banquets.
 * Send Invites Early - Having an early-December gathering? Start making your
   guest list and consider sending a "save the date" in November so guests can
   get it on their calendar.
 * Plan a Wardrobe - Get clothing for the above events and make sure dry
   cleaning gets done early, fancy shoes still fit, and black pants aren't too
   short for the holiday concert.
 * Go Ugly - Ugly Sweater Party? Shop early or they are pretty scarce unless you
   want to pay top dollar for one (on the plus side, it can be your go-to for
   the next few years). Consider making your own with a hot glue gun and
   stockings from a dollar store.
 * Clean House - Start early with bedrooms (especially if company will be
   sharing them), and focus on frequently used rooms closer to when guests will
   arrive.
 * Reclaim Supplies - Take back your tape and scissors from the kids. Hide them
   until after the holidays (but not from yourself!).
 * Plan Traditions - If you are a family that hides elves or goes caroling,
   those are things that take a little planning as well. Be sure to make a plan,
   but also hold it loosely as you prioritize what's most important to you and
   your family.
 * Rest - This may sound silly, but you might be wise to pencil in a nap or an
   early bedtime, especially if you will have a long stretch of houseguests or
   holiday activities. Don't let yourself get rundown and sick.

Even if you're not a checklist-type person, the holidays are one time you will
find they really help cut down on stress. Use this as a guide to jumpstart your
holiday planning for a season that is merry and bright. 

Julie David lives in Charlotte, N.C, with her husband and three daughters. 


Create a Sign Up View Plans

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create sign ups for a variety of events from potlucks to reoccurring events. It
is my go-to tool.

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Resources / Home & Family


HOLIDAY PLANNING CHECKLIST

Whether you are a seasoned planning pro or want to adopt some new organizing
tricks this holiday season, this checklist will help you shape your holiday
season for the better (and not the bitter!). This list is less about adding more
to your list, and more about prioritizing for your family, leaving more time for
rest and enjoyment this holiday season. 






DECORATIONS 

 * Decorate Early - Don't judge those who start right after Halloween! For those
   who travel for Thanksgiving, using the slowish-time in late October and early
   November can maximize the time to enjoy those holiday favorites.
 * Decorate After Thanksgiving - If you are a strict
   no-Christmas-until-after-Thanksgiving person, use the few remaining days of
   November to get the decorations out of storage, make sure your lights still
   twinkle and get your halls decked before December sets in fast and furious.



 * Plan All the Trimmings - Set aside time to hang the lights and trim or, if
   time is an issue, make your outdoor light dreams come true by calling a
   seasonal company that will decorate for you. If you want interior help, call
   a specialty fabric or home decor store to see if they have designers who will
   work for an hourly rate.
 * Trim the Tree - If this annual event has lost its sparkle, consider adding a
   new tradition like watching a special movie or making hot chocolate or fondue
   while you decorate. Evergreens are lovely, but wait until early December to
   cut or buy them for decorating.
 * Create a Tablescape - A week before any dinner parties or entertaining, think
   about your table decor. Make sure you have enough settings for your guest
   list. If you are table fashionista, keep an eye out on websites and in stores
   for inspiration.
 * Scale Back - Donate extra decorations to a charity or display ornaments on
   the mantle if you want or need to pare down this year. You can always ramp it
   up another year when you feel up to it or your schedule allows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Organize holiday decorating with an online sign up! SAMPLE.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


HOLIDAY CARDS 

 * Plan a Photo Op - Get an appointment early with a photographer (November is
   best) if this is important to you or ask a neighbor or someone whose photo
   skills you admire to take a quick pic after church or another
   dressier-than-normal occasion.
 * Set a Mail Deadline - Set a date for yourself to drop off at the post office,
   then backtrack from there to determine when you will address and stamp.
 * Order Photo Cards - Many online sites offer discounts for early ordering.
   Give yourself at least a week to get these back before your mailing
   deadline. 
 * Gather Mail Supplies - Put stamps and mailing labels on your shopping list
   and consider ordering stamps online (back up another week from your mailing
   deadline to be sure these get delivered on time).
 * Create a Card Display - Find a table or spot in the house to display cards
   from friends/family. Save address changes right away in your address book or
   on your computer/phone files.
 * Go Digital-Only - Don't be afraid to push the easy button if your
   circumstances have changed and cards and postage need to be taken out of the
   budget (they can get expensive). This year send out an e-card or send one
   every other year.


HOLIDAY SHOPPING  

 * Budget - Plan a realistic budget. Start by listing who you’d like to give
   gifts to and an amount limit for each person. Don’t forget the cost of cards,
   postage, teacher gifts, baked goods and other holiday food needs.
 * Prioritize Gifts - Maybe this is the year to ask for experiences (show
   tickets, swim lessons, etc.) instead of gifts if toys and other items are
   taking over your house. Donate old items and determine what’s new that would
   truly be appreciated.
 * Ask Early - Start asking about gift requests early, especially any ones that
   will need to be ordered and shipped (and then shipped again to out-of-town
   family).
 * Shop Early - November is not too early to get that much-desired toy or
   clothing item and hide it away before they are all gone off the shelf. Shop
   an hour before store closings or after work on the weekdays to avoid the
   weekend crowds.
 * Think of Others - Grab a few toys to donate to a favorite charity or family
   in need.
 * Collect Super Deals - Black Friday or Cyber Monday shopping? Start checking
   ads as they roll out and keep in a central location. Make a list of items
   you’d really like to snag at a discount.
 * Stay Organized - Keep a notebook or folder with coupons and a list of what
   you need from specific stores to simplify shopping trips.
   
 * Buying Late - If you are a gift-procrastinator, embrace your love of getting
   that last boxed set of perfume and lotion off the drug store shelf. Warn
   those you love of this habit.
 * Wrap it Up - Buy wrapping paper early unless you like obscure cartoon
   characters or patterns that only the paper-designer’s mother would love. The
   same goes for bows.
 * Get Hostess Gifts - Buy these in early December to stash away as events
   approach. A kitchen towel given with a bottle of sparkling cider or a holiday
   plant (but take note of allergies!) can be a thoughtful gesture.
 * Draw Names - Got so many nieces and nephews your head is spinning? Gently
   nudge the elephant out of the room by suggesting a gift exchange and price
   limit.
 * Fill the Stocking - This is a great place to give a book, gift card or small
   tokens for fun. This can be done last minute or over time.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Set up holiday photo sessions with an online sign up! SAMPLE.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


FOOD PLANNING 

 * Use a Formula - If you research online, there are actual FORMULAS advising
   how much guests consume in regards to meat or drinks, etc. If you feel
   overwhelmed with a place to start, start with a formula for feeding your
   guests.
 * Make a Meal Plan, Check it Twice - Fold a paper into thirds, with one column
   each for breakfast/lunch/dinner. Then make horizontal lines for how many days
   you will have guests. Fill these in with meal plan ideas.
 * Freeze It - In early December, make a list of what you can make ahead and
   freeze (your best bets are side dishes, desserts and breakfast casseroles). 
 * Plan a Cooking and Assembly Day - Invite other friends who are hosting guests
   for a fun holiday food prep party.
 * Go Simple – Pick up convenience foods like pre-made muffins, frozen pizzas
   and pantry-friendly supplies for a taco night. Plan on shopping the week
   before company arrives.
 * Buy Perishables - Buy these four or more days ahead of time to make sure the
   store isn't out — and save yourself some holiday panic.
 * Make a Cooking Timeline - Do this both for when you’d like to make holiday
   baked goods such as cookies, as well as the big meal. What can you prep ahead
   of time? When does the rib roast need to go in the oven the day of?
 * Gift Food - If you have a bread maker, fresh bread is always a nice treat for
   a neighbor, co-worker or service person. Set aside a Saturday for baking if
   this is something you enjoy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Organize a holiday cooking party with an online sign up! SAMPLE.



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


HOSTING AND/OR TRAVELING  

 * Set the Guest List - Confirm with guests the length of stay and start
   thinking about the meals, beds (do you need to borrow some inflatable ones?),
   bath towels and linens you will need a week or two before their arrival.
 * Be Prepared - Have your phone on you (with your ringer on) during arrival day
   for any last-minute travel changes.
 * Stock Your Guest Bath - Include all the comforts of home so your guests can
   look under the sink or in a basket in their room for extra toiletries, clean
   hand towels and disposable bathroom cups.
 * Purchase Snacks (Lots of Them) - Place a bag of trail mix and water bottle in
   their room so guests don't have to troll around in your pantry if they need a
   late-night snack.
 * Play it Safe - Get some sidewalk salt and make sure the snow shovel is in
   good shape if you might get some of the white (or frozen) stuff.
 * Get a Tune-up - If you are driving, make sure your car’s oil change is
   current, tires are fully inflated and you have your emergency car kit with
   jumper cables where you can get to it. 
 * Share Details - If traveling by air, make sure all flight information is
   clearly communicated to your host.
 * Double Check - A week before traveling, confirm hotel reservations or call
   your host to see if you need to BYOB — bring your own (inflatable) bed.
 * Check the Weather Forecast - Don’t just think about your destination but
   places in between that might get a band of snow or ice. If you are hosting,
   check it for guests and suggest attire for your climate.
 * Pack Early and According to Your Destination - Stuff snow boots under a seat
   in the van in case there’s light snow at grandma and grandpa's house.


EVENTS, TRADITIONS AND MISCELLANEOUS  

 * Make a Note - Start filling out your December calendar as each event rolls
   in. Check with schools and extra-curricular activities for any end-of-season
   concerts or banquets.
 * Send Invites Early - Having an early-December gathering? Start making your
   guest list and consider sending a "save the date" in November so guests can
   get it on their calendar.
 * Plan a Wardrobe - Get clothing for the above events and make sure dry
   cleaning gets done early, fancy shoes still fit, and black pants aren't too
   short for the holiday concert.
 * Go Ugly - Ugly Sweater Party? Shop early or they are pretty scarce unless you
   want to pay top dollar for one (on the plus side, it can be your go-to for
   the next few years). Consider making your own with a hot glue gun and
   stockings from a dollar store.
 * Clean House - Start early with bedrooms (especially if company will be
   sharing them), and focus on frequently used rooms closer to when guests will
   arrive.
 * Reclaim Supplies - Take back your tape and scissors from the kids. Hide them
   until after the holidays (but not from yourself!).
 * Plan Traditions - If you are a family that hides elves or goes caroling,
   those are things that take a little planning as well. Be sure to make a plan,
   but also hold it loosely as you prioritize what's most important to you and
   your family.
 * Rest - This may sound silly, but you might be wise to pencil in a nap or an
   early bedtime, especially if you will have a long stretch of houseguests or
   holiday activities. Don't let yourself get rundown and sick.

Even if you're not a checklist-type person, the holidays are one time you will
find they really help cut down on stress. Use this as a guide to jumpstart your
holiday planning for a season that is merry and bright. 



Julie David lives in Charlotte, N.C, with her husband and three daughters. 


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