CHRISTMAS MADE LOVELY
Your Christmas preparation checklist

01. Make room for your Christmas

[ ] Choose three things you most want to enjoy this Christmas.
[ ] List your gatherings, likely guests and any travel or overnight stays.
[ ] Set a total budget, then allow for gifts, food, travel and decorations.
[ ] Agree who is hosting each occasion and what help would be welcome.

02. Gather the details

[ ] Check dates with guests and note when you need their replies.
[ ] Ask about dietary needs and practical access or sleeping arrangements.
[ ] Make a gift list with a spending limit and ideas for each person.
[ ] Check what you already own before buying decorations or supplies.
[ ] Check current delivery and postal cutoffs with your chosen services.

03. Bring the lists together

[ ] Choose a manageable menu and save the recipes you plan to use.
[ ] Compare ingredients with your cupboards, fridge and freezer space.
[ ] Split shopping into buy-ahead items and a separate fresh-food list.
[ ] Book any deliveries, travel or collection slots you need.
[ ] Give helpers a clear task, due date and a way to confirm it is done.

04. Prepare for your gathering

[ ] Confirm guest numbers, arrival plans and what each person is bringing.
[ ] Write a preparation order from your recipes; check oven and hob space.
[ ] Check recipe instructions and current official food-safety guidance.
[ ] Set out serving dishes and check seating, linen and useful supplies.
[ ] Wrap and label gifts, then check your lists for anything still missing.

05. Make the day easier

[ ] Put your plan and key contact details somewhere easy to find.
[ ] Complete the preparation your recipes safely allow in advance.
[ ] Check what is still to do, who can help and what can simply be skipped.
[ ] Leave a little time between tasks, and pause to enjoy your company.

YOUR NEXT SMALL STEPS

The three things that matter most to us:


My next task and when I will do it:


A task I can ask someone to help with: