‘Tis the season! Happy November! I don’t know about you, but this year is more of a winter focused year rather than a fall-focused year for me. I’m decorating and preparing for the holiday season early this year and here’s how you can prepare with me!

1. Start Getting Gifts

I know it feels like Christmas is so far away, but with supply shortages and increased demand for literally everything during this time of year, it’s smart to start now. My pro tip: be looking for gifts all year. Once you find something for someone, buy it immediately. This way it helps your wallet by softening the blow over time and you won’t be scrambling to find the perfect gift last minute!

2. Wrap Now

If you can’t tell, getting ahead is a theme here. Wrap and label everything as soon as you get it. That way you can enjoy Christmas Eve and all other festivities knowing your work is done. Below is my wrapping aesthetic of the year that is so easy and chic: brown paper!

3. Create a Holiday Capsule Wardrobe

It can be exhausting trying to decipher dress codes for the copious amounts of holiday parties you’ve been invited to, right? Everyone has their own aesthetic when it comes to holidays like metallics or all-white trees, red and green whimsical or whatever. It can also be hard to find outfits based on your local weather. Find neutral and solid colored pieces that all work together that you can mix and match for the weather and occasion. My list: heavy body sweater, light body sweater, midi silk skirt, short shirt, trousers, tights, and calf-high or ankle boots.

4. Create a Holiday Party Menu

This time of year people are hosting all kinds of get-togethers, and that usually means having to bring a host gift or some sort of supplementary food item. I would create a list, or menu, of food items you are comfotable and conifent making and then use those continuously throughout the season to bring to said parties without stress. Make one of each of the following: appetizer, desert, cocktail, gift basket. You’re good to go!

5. Take Care of Your Health

It’s still cold and flu season, not to mention the lingering pandemic. It’s time to start builsing your immune system and keep your energy up so you can have fun all holiday season long! This is very perosnal and depends on your daily routine but can include things like taking vitamins, getting vaxxed, walking more, eating more fruits and veggies and just feeling good!

6. Bonus: Have fun and celebrate however you want

The holidays are for family, giving, and love. Celbrate however you do and enjoy it!