An Early Bird Guide to Christmas Shopping: How to Get Ahead and Stay Sane

Shopping early for Christmas

We’ve all been there—fighting through December crowds, refreshing websites that keep threatening to crash during last-minute sales, or panic-wrapping gifts on Christmas Eve. Or even on one occasion the day after Boxing Day!

But what if you could avoid all the chaos and actually enjoy the run-up to Christmas? Welcome to the world of the early bird! 

Starting your Christmas shopping early doesn’t just save money and stress—it allows you to be more thoughtful, more organised, and maybe even a little smug come December.

Here’s your ultimate early bird guide to Christmas shopping, packed with practical tips, timing strategies, and a dash of festive cheer.

Why Start Christmas Shopping Early?

Better Deals (and Less Spending!)

Many retailers offer autumn sales, early-bird discounts, and pre-Black Friday deals. Starting early allows you to track prices and grab bargains before the December markup.

Avoiding the Rush

No more elbowing your way through packed high streets or dealing with “out of stock” notices online. Early shopping gives you the pick of the lot.

More Thoughtful Gifting

With extra time, you can choose or even create meaningful gifts rather than relying on last-minute panic buys.

Budget-Friendly Planning

Spreading out your spending from June to December can make a huge difference to your bank balance come January.

When Should You Start?

Summer (June to September)

Ideal for planners. Start jotting down gift ideas and budget estimates. Look out for clearance sales and “Christmas in July” style events.

Autumn (October  to Early November)

This is prime time. You’ll catch autumn sales, limited edition seasonal gifts, and early promotions.

Mid-November Deadline

Aim to have 80% of your shopping done before Black Friday. That way, you can use Black Friday and Cyber Monday strategically—only buying items you’ve already planned for.

Smart Early Shopping Strategies

1. Make a Master Gift List

Include everyone you need to buy for: family, friends, colleagues, even the postie. Add notes on preferences, sizes, and budget limits.

2. Set a Realistic Budget

Decide on an overall spend and break it down per person. Apps like Christmas Gift List or Giftster can help you track it all.

3. Embrace the Hidden Gems

Independent shops, markets, and Etsy sellers often release Christmas stock early. Buying now supports small businesses and guarantees more unique gifts.

4. Don’t Forget the Stocking Fillers

Pick up bits and bobs as you go—socks, sweets, mini toiletries—rather than panic-buying multipacks in December.

5. Store Your Finds Safely

Create a gift stash in a labelled box or cupboard. Keep a digital list so you don’t double-buy (or forget what’s inside!).

Early Bird Gift Ideas

Personalised items – These often take longer to produce and ship, so ordering early is essential.

DIY hampers – Stock up on bits across multiple shops to create custom hampers for foodies, tea lovers, or spa night fans.

Subscription gifts – Many companies let you pre-order a Christmas delivery for subscription boxes—ideal for ongoing joy!

A Note on Wrapping and Posting

Wrapping: Try wrapping gifts as you go. Set up a “wrapping station” with all your supplies, or schedule a relaxing wrap-and-watch session with a festive film.

Posting: If you’re posting gifts, beat the rush. Royal Mail’s last posting dates vary, but aim for the first week of December to be safe. Or check out courier services.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is meant to be joyful, not stressful. Getting a head start now means more time for mince pies, carol concerts, and quality moments with loved ones. So grab a notebook, brew a cuppa, and take that first step toward your calmest, merriest Christmas yet.

And remember—early birds don’t just get the best worms, they get the best wrapping paper too!

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

Share your tips and favourite early buys in the comments below or tag us on Instagram using #ThatsChristmas365!

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Golden Turkey - Not Just for Christmas

Golden Turkeys are produced by an association of like-minded farmers (Step forward The Traditional Farmfresh Turkey Association) spanning the UK, from Cornwall to Scotland. 

To promote the versatility of turkey meat, the farms have been working with award-winning chef Rachel Green to develop six new recipes. 

By popular demand, she has produced two recipes using turkey drummers to create recipes for the upcoming BBQ season, and even one for air-fryer fans too.

BBQ Tandoori Turkey Legs with Minted Yoghurt and Air Fryer Sticky Maple Syrup and Harissa Turkey Drummers. 

Chef Rachel has also created four new recipes for the Christmas season, and these will be released over the coming months to prepare your tastebuds for the season of turkey and tinsel!

As with any food, customers require re-assurance on provenance, and of course, it all starts with the producer; turkey farming is no different. The trust in the Golden Turkey brand is provided with the Golden Turkey Quality Assurance Guarantee stamp, this gives a nod to the Accredited Farmers who put the welfare of the birds they breed and rear at the heart of their family farms. The journey from the farm to the fork is strictly regulated and must be of the highest quality.

Golden Turkeys live outside and spend the summer months roaming freely on the farms, eating a natural diet of cereals, foraging on meadow grass and depending on where they live, even cider apples. They get good exercise and have no end of socialising and stimulation.

Turkey isn't just for Christmas, today many people are making turkey a part of their regular diet. It's an excellent source of protein and provides essential vitamins like B vitamins (B3, B6, B12) and minerals like iron, zinc, potassium, and selenium. When prepared healthily it offers a balanced diet and contributes to overall well-being.

You can check out the recipes here:-

https://www.goldenturkeys.co.uk/

@goldenturkeyfarmers

@rachelgreen.chef

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Helping Your Customers (and Your Business) Through Tough Times: Why a Christmas Savings Club Makes Sense

As the cost of living continues to rise and economic uncertainty looms, both businesses and their customers are feeling the pressure.

In the face of these challenges, forward-thinking retailers are looking for practical ways to offer real value and build long-term loyalty. 

One such initiative is the Christmas savings club — a modern take on a trusted tradition that can make a significant difference for families planning ahead for the festive season.

But it doesn’t stop there. There are several ways your retail business can support customers while strengthening your own resilience in the market. Here's how.

1. The Christmas Savings Club: A Simple Solution with Big Impact

Christmas savings clubs have been a community staple in the UK for generations. The concept is simple: customers put aside a small amount of money each week or month throughout the year, then redeem it as vouchers, credit, or goods in your store in time for the festive season.

Benefits for customers:

Spreads the cost of Christmas, avoiding last-minute debt. For example, putting £10 a week into your savings club would, over a year, give your customer £520 toward the cost of their Christmas.

Offers peace of mind and a sense of control.

Encourages savings habits in a manageable, low-pressure way.

Benefits for your business:

Builds year-round engagement and customer loyalty.

Increases guaranteed footfall and festive period sales.

Helps with inventory forecasting and cash flow planning.

Tip: Make your club flexible — offer digital tracking, low minimum contributions, and rewards like a bonus for early sign-up or regular saving.

2. Offer Interest-Free Payment Plans

With many households watching every penny, flexible payment terms can be a lifeline. Offering interest-free instalment options on bigger-ticket items or bulk Christmas purchases (like toys, hampers, or electronics) can make your products more accessible without devaluing them.

Tools like Klarna, Clearpay, or your own in-house payment plan can be a practical way to support customers in spreading the cost over time.

3. Introduce a Loyalty or Points Scheme

Give something back to customers for sticking with you. A simple points-based system (e.g., spend £1, earn 1 point) that leads to discounts, vouchers, or even exclusive access to Christmas offers can foster loyalty and repeat visits.

In tough times, every little saving counts — and your customers will appreciate a retailer who recognises and rewards their custom.

4. Host Budget-Friendly Events and Workshops

Use your retail space (or online platforms) to host community-focused events. This could include:

Free festive craft or gift-wrapping workshops.

Christmas cooking on a budget demos.

Toy swaps or charity donation drives.

These low-cost or free events not only drive traffic to your store but also strengthen your role as a supportive part of the community.

5. Create a ‘Value Range’ or Highlight Budget Buys

Not every customer can splurge, especially in current times. Create a dedicated value section in your store or on your website featuring budget-friendly items for Christmas — whether it's gifts, décor, or food.

Clearly labelling multi-buy offers, value bundles, and affordable alternatives will help shoppers feel confident that they can celebrate without overspending.

6. Partner with Local Charities and Food Banks

Show your business’s commitment to the community by partnering with local organisations. Consider donation bins, "pay it forward" schemes, or matching customer donations with a small business contribution.

This kind of involvement builds goodwill and trust — and can make a real difference to those in need.

Running a Christmas savings club and offering thoughtful, community-minded support isn't just the right thing to do — it’s good business. In uncertain times, customers are more likely to stick with retailers who understand their reality and offer solutions that ease financial pressure without sacrificing the joy of the season.

By becoming a partner in your customers’ wellbeing, your retail establishment can build loyalty, generate goodwill, and secure a more stable, community-focused future.

How to Organise a Christmas Charity Event in Summer

Who says Christmas spirit is only for December? Hosting a Christmas charity event in summer is a fantastic way to raise funds for a good cause, inject some festive fun into the warmer months, and remind people that giving back is always in season. 

Whether you’re fundraising for a local food bank, children’s hospital, or a global cause, here’s how to bring the magic of Christmas to life — even in flip-flops.

1. Choose Your Cause and Set Clear Goals

Start with purpose. Decide what cause or charity your event will support and set specific, measurable goals. For example:

Raise £1,000 for a local animal shelter

Collect 500 toys for underprivileged children

Provide 200 meals for the homeless

Contact the chosen charity ahead of time to coordinate, promote the event together, and ensure your efforts align with their current needs.

2. Pick a Suitable Date and Venue

Aim for a weekend date during early or mid-summer when people are more likely to be free and the weather is relatively predictable.

Venue ideas:

Community centres

School fields

Church halls

Local parks

Your own garden (for smaller gatherings)

Make sure the venue has enough space, facilities, and accessibility for your expected turnout.

3. Create a “Summery” Christmas Theme

Mix festive traditions with summer vibes for an unforgettable theme. Think "Christmas in July" or "Santa on the Beach".

Decoration ideas:

Inflatable snowmen wearing sunglasses

Red-and-green bunting with palm leaves

Festive fairy lights strung around gazebos

Sand snowmen (yes, really!)

Encourage guests to dress up — Christmas jumpers are optional, but Santa hats and Hawaiian shirts? Perfect.

4. Plan Activities and Entertainment

A charity event needs attractions to draw a crowd. Blend traditional Christmas elements with summer favourites.

Fun activity ideas:

Christmas BBQ or picnic with festive treats

Summer carol karaoke

Santa’s Grotto (with a fan to keep the suit bearable!)

Craft stalls selling summer-Christmas fusion goodies

Raffles and tombolas with Christmassy prizes

Outdoor games with festive twists (e.g., reindeer ring toss)

5. Involve Local Businesses and Volunteers

Reach out to local businesses for sponsorships, donations, or services. Many will be keen to support charity work, especially if it gets them some positive local PR.

Ask for:

Raffle prizes

Catering support

Venue discounts

Volunteers for setup and cleanup

Promote their involvement on your flyers, social media, and banners at the event.

6. Promote Your Event Early

Use the surprise factor of a Christmas event in summer to your advantage with fun and creative marketing.

Promote via:

Facebook Events and local groups

Instagram Reels or TikTok videos showing “Summer Santa”

Flyers in community hubs (cafés, shops, schools)

Local press or radio

Your blog or website (hello SEO boost!)

Encourage pre-registration or ticket sales to estimate numbers and cover costs.

7. Prepare for Weather Surprises

Yes, it’s summer — but it’s also Britain. Have a wet weather plan, such as renting a marquee or choosing a venue with indoor options. If it’s hot, provide shaded areas, plenty of drinks, and sunscreen stations.

8. Keep It Eco and Budget-Friendly

Consider reusing Christmas decorations from December, encouraging attendees to bring reusable cups/plates, and sourcing supplies locally. Keep costs low so more money can go directly to your cause.

9. Capture the Festive Fun

Hire a photographer or set up a DIY photo booth with themed props. Share the photos online with your donation links to generate more support even after the event.

10. Follow Up and Say Thank You

After the event, thank everyone — attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and donors. Share how much was raised and how it will help the chosen cause. A heartfelt social media post or newsletter goes a long way.

Final Christmassy Thoughts

Organising a Christmas charity event in summer is a brilliant way to combine festive cheer with the feel-good factor of fundraising. With the right planning, a bit of creativity, and a splash of sunscreen, you’ll not only support a worthy cause but also give your community a truly memorable day.

Because the Christmas spirit should never take a holiday.