How to Prepare for Christmas when your a BUSY MOM on a BUDGET!

Christmas is my favorite and most crazy time of year, it's full of joy, warmth, family and of course chaos. Preparing and getting everything done can be a stressful and daunting task that can take away from the enjoyment of the holiday. The last few years I've found a few things that have helped me get things done, and make the process of gift buying and preparation easier, so I can be present and enjoy the season. 

1. START A LIST. 

Even now. Its the end of September and I started a list of everyone I'm getting a gift for, and I start brainstorming what I would want to get them. Keep the list either in your notes in your phone or a book that you have with you, this way when you think of something you can jot it down. Knowing what your getting ahead of time saves so much stress trying to last minute pick something for someone. there's always some people you just have no idea what to get for, ask other family members for ideas then write it down! I don't know how many times I would get a brilliant gift idea then completely forget it.

2. DECIDE ON A BUDGET. 

Having a budget for Christmas shopping helps so you can plan out what extra money you need to account for the holiday, and can make it less stressful. Go through and figure out roughly your budget for each person. Gift buying can get out of hand fast, and overspending is a real issue so just keep your list in mind and add to it when you make a purchase so you can remember for who and what you've already bought, so you don't go over budget. For myself when things are tight finance wise, I get creative. There's so many amazing DIY gift ideas you can do, you can bake, or get the kids involved! I encourage My daughter to paint or make gifts for people. Not only do I feel this teaches her the value of compassion and giving, its a meaningful gift that people always love. They don't need to be complicated either, simple crafts that are simple and inexpensive.

Comment below if you'd like my list of DIY craft ideas for the holidays :)

3. START BUYING EARLY. 

I make it a task starting September/October that I set aside and extra $20-$50, for my Bi-Weekly grocery shop to get at least one gift every shop. This eliminates the need to go out and do a massive shop right before the holidays when the stores are packed, and isn't as hard on the budget.

4. SHOP LOCAL/HANDMADE.

I personally love receiving handmade items and I appreciate the love and value that comes with it. There are so many craft and vendor shows that pop up everywhere in the fall/winter months. Take a day and go look around, you can find so many amazing custom gifts. Not only that but rather then supporting a big chain store, your supporting another hardworking person and helping them provide for their family this season. 

5. WRAP AS YOU BUY.

You got your list to help you remember what you've bought, so each night before bed, take a couple mins and wrap a couple gifts. My husband thought I was crazy doing this, but it saved me so much time and stress closer too. It was one less thing I had to worry about. (Plus he doesn't wrap them anyway so its not his concern
LOL)

These are the things I've been doing now for a few years and It's made the entire experience more enjoyable when I feel more organized and not last minute rushing. I can be present with my family and children and love every loud, wonderful moment.
Hope this helps you take back some control this season and fully embrace your Christmas holidays!

Much Love, Teesha.