It might seem odd to begin thinking about Christmas in the middle of summer, but planning ahead can save a lot of stress and expense come December. Here are some tips for getting a head start on your holiday preparations.

Take Advantage of Early Bird Specials

It may seem strange to think about Christmas specials during the summer months, but it's becoming more and more common as businesses and services look for ways to keep audiences engaged and something special to look forward to.

Don’t Forget Those Holiday Cards

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget about sending out those cards until it’s too late. But don’t let that stop you! Set aside some time to make a list of the people you want to send cards to, gather all the supplies you need and take advantage of nature’s blooming bounty for great family photos.

Rethink Your Shopping Schedule

Many people wait until the last minute to do their holiday shopping, but that can lead to overcrowded stores, depleted inventories, and higher prices. Instead, take advantage of summer sales and start picking up gifts a few at a time. This not only spreads out your costs over several months but it also gives you more time to find exactly the right gift for each person on your list.

Get Creative with Decorations

If you're tired of the same old holiday decorations year after year, why not use the summer to create some unique and personal decor items? For example, you could collect seashells at the beach to make a wreath or garland, or use the abundant flowers and foliage of summertime to create a colorful centerpiece.

Make Your List and Check It Twice

It's easy to forget things when you're in a rush, so use the summer months to create a list of everything you need to do and buy for the holidays. This might include things like booking travel, preparing meals, and hitting the right sales. A little planning now can ensure that you don't forget anything important later.

By starting your Christmas preparations early, you can avoid the rush and expense of the holiday season. Take advantage of the summertime to get a head start on shopping, decorating, and planning, and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday season later in the year. And while Christmas prep in June may seem out of place, I like to think of it as a reminder that joy and cheer can be found year-round.