The Christmas Planner

Is ‘Less Stress’ At The Very Top Of Your Christmas Wish List? Follow Our Action-packed Prep Guide To Ensure Your Big Day Is Easy-breezy And Enjoyable For Everyone.

- Vanessa Keys

THERE’S NO DOUBT the pressure of planning the perfect Christmas Day can be a little overwhelming. There are all the practicalities to consider – mouths to feed, guest rooms to prepare, kids to entertain. Then there are the touches that turn a regular day into the most magical time of the year: homemade decorations, serving up Nan’s pudding and sharing gifts with loved ones. The earlier you start, the more achievable – and relaxed – it all is. Here’s our go-to guide for the best Christmas Day yet.

PLAN YOUR MENU

“I love to get inspired by a visit to my local fresh produce market to check out what’s abundant and what’s in season,” says HB food director Imogene Abady. “Then, I flip through magazines, cookbooks and create a Pinterest board so I can plan the look of my feast.”

FINISH YOUR ONLINE SHOPPING

Leaving gift-buying until the last minute can mean no one-of-a-kind presents, warns Alexis Teasdale, founder of The Festive Co. “You also need to allow for shipping and the crazy-busy postal services,” she says. “I always find treasures on etsy.com, hardtofind.com .au and notonthehighstreet.com.”

CHAT TO YOUR BUTCHER AND FISHMONGER

It pays to visit your go-to butcher and fishmonger in person – and well in advance. Their advice may sway your menu decision and inspire you to serve something different on the day.

MAKE A LIST, CHECK IT TWICE

Organisation queen Rebecca Mezzino from Clear Space Organising Services uses the four-week mark to crack out a new notebook and start making lists. “Keeping your lists in one place means you’ll feel totally in control when things get busy,” she says.

TEST OUT THE GUEST ROOM