Three Things to Do in March to Help Prepare for Christmas

 

We have just entered the last month of the first quarter of 2024. Did that go by quickly or what? There are only 271 days until Black Friday, the typical start to the holiday shopping season. 

Part of why holidays can seem so stressful is that we try to jampack so many activities into the last two months of the year. Tackling holiday preparation a little at a time can reduce the stress and allow you to enjoy the holidays more. 

Here are some March tips. 

Shop Sales

For years now, I've trusted things like after-Christmas sales to stock up on supplies early. That keeps me from rushing around in November to buy lights, cards, wrapping paper, etc. Current, a direct marketing company that helps people keep in touch with family and friends, is running an After-Christmas sale with deals up to 75% off*. 

Here are a few other places to save:

• Christianbook.com has a last chance bargain section where you can find deals up to 80% off*. 
• LTD Commodities is still selling Christmas merchandise on their website*. 
• You can also check out Etsy.com for some unique goods. 
• If you are visiting your local store, check out their clearance section for slippers, scarves, hats, and mittens, which are often great gifts.

Make Your Crafting Plan

If you're making gifts this year, March is a good time to put together your plans and inventory your supplies. JOANN Fabric and Craft is the closest store to us, so I shop there. Back when I had more time, I would check out their clearance racks for cheap crafts to entertain the kids while I was working on my own handmade items. HOBBY LOBBY has some Christmas on clearance on their site*. 

Update Your Address Book

Whether you have a spreadsheet or a book that you tuck away with your latest batch of holiday cards, now is a good time to update the addresses for anyone who moved. This is one reason I save the envelopes from the cards. That way, I can check the return address on each envelope and update my list before the holidays kick off. 

What are some early preparations you make for the holidays?

* This information is accurate as of today.