Wow! What a response. Thank you for the feedback from last weeks blog I shall be using the suggestions and insights from you in the coming year. I’ve had a break from running workshops for a couple of years and intend to start them again in 2016 so get your name down quick if you’re interested because historically, the spaces fill quickly.
I’ve started several blogs for this week, none of which I seemed able to finish!
So I’m going to keep this one short and just share a few tips for getting ahead of the game with Christmas looming.
Stress hack: Save time and make a list.
I know lists are boring but not as much as dragging around shop after shop looking for that ideal gift. Snuggle down with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie and really give some thought to each person that you’re going to buy for, really think about what they might like or what suits them. Just half an hour spent doing this should give you a plan.
Can you save any time by shopping online?
I know it’s stating the obvious but can you cut down on the shopping trips by making some of your purchases online? Check it out, you can buy just about anything online nowadays.
If you’re like me and actually enjoy the atmosphere and idea of a bit of Christmas shopping, set a day aside for it and make sure you schedule a couple of breaks in for yourself, a nice coffee somewhere and a light lunch should stop you from feeling grumpy! It’s easy to go into overwhelm when you go into the bigger stores and many of us space out, wandering around without a plan. Decide which shops and departments you’re going into and put them in some sort of order.
Put an evening or afternoon aside. Play a good old mushy Christmas film or some seasonal music and wrap your gifts in one fell swoop! Job done.
If you’re entertaining do the same thing. Sit and plan your dinner party or gathering when you’re in a peaceful space.
Think through the evening from start to finish, work out timings including your own space for getting ready and having a bit of time to relax before the event starts. Little things like preparing garnish ahead of time, slicing lemon for drinks and having them in a bag in your freezer can save time. As can thinking ahead about something as simple as what dishes you’ll put the crisps in will allow you to do these jobs robotically or to ask someone else who’s helping out to follow your list. You stand more chance of enjoying your own evening by planning ahead.
If you’ve got any great tips to share remember to email in.
If you’ve run out of Christmas present ideas, I’ve got a bumper sale coming up in my shop so keep your eyes peeled and I’ll be in touch soon.
Sue x
