I know people complain about those people that buy their Christmas presents in the January sales but there is something to be said for getting organised. It really depends on two main factors - time and money. If you have plenty of both then Christmas shopping really is not a problem. If you work or shopping time is limited then you have to be organised and start early. If you really don't have the time to go out shopping more than once or twice then you will do better to rely on the wonderful world of internet shopping but again this is not something you can leave to the last minute. Even though companies promise next day delivery and all the rest of it they can only deliver what they have in stock. And if they haven't got it you can't have it.
Why start shopping for Christmas gifts early?
If you start early you will almost certainly get what you want and you'll be able to spread the cost. If you have children to buy for then you know it becomes increasingly difficult to track down that special doll or toy the nearer you get to the big day. My children are quite young and have yet to really express a strong desire for anything in particular thank goodness. But I know when that time comes I do not want to be outside a toy shop at 6am in the queue for some must-have robot thing. My motto now is if you see it, get it and tuck it away. Saves a lot of time and heartache. Not only will you then have your presents bought you can get them wrapped at your leisure instead of a frantic and exhausting Christmas Eve which nobody enjoys. There is also the bonus of shops having mid-season sales which helps you complete your list and saves you a few pennies as you shop for Christmas gifts.
Christmas gift shopping vs Christmas events
The lead up to Christmas is a busy time for all. Work parties, lunches, nativety plays and Christmas fairs. Most people enjoy this time and it's a shame to have it spoilt because you're fretting about finishing off you're shopping. If you have a family or if you are hosting Christmas then you will almost certainly be trying to get your house in some kind of order and planning the feasting. Catering at Christmas is a huge operation and one which needs careful organisation. There's the thinking about it, the list making, the cake and pudding making, the butcher's order, the filling of the freezer.
In conclusion shopping for Christmas gifts early frees you to do the planning and doing of decorating the house and ordering the food for the Christmas period without the panic buying and over-expending that happens to many each year.
