Preparing for Christmas / How to be the best gifter

8 ways to prepare for Christmas AND become the best gifter

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. It’s a season of joy, celebration and quality time with loved ones. Preparing for this magical season is part of what makes it so special. Careful planning goes into making this time special and thoughtful organisation with a touch of creativity can go a long way. Whether you’re a seasoned holiday planner or a first-time host, this blog will help you navigate the process of preparing for Christmas with ease and enthusiasm.

1. Create a checklist

At the risk of being obvious, the most important thing to start with is a checklist. Outlining the tasks and responsibilities ahead is half the battle, and getting everything on paper will provide clear direction in the days to come. Divide your list into categories like decorations, gifts, food and events. This visual aid will keep you on track and prevent any forgetfulness that is likely to occur during this busy time.

2. Decorate your home

The next step in creating a festive Christmas atmosphere is to decorate your home! Start by setting up the tree, hanging ornaments, displaying lights and putting up garlands. This alone will give your home a cosy holiday feel, but you don’t have to stop there. Consider adding wreaths to doors and windows, placing candles throughout the house, potting poinsettias or adding other seasonal decor.

If you have a Nixplay digital photo frame, you can even add festive photos from holidays past or Christmas graphics to a seasonal playlist. 

3. Plan your menu

If you’re hosting Christmas dinner or a holiday party, having a plan for food is essential. Decide on the main dishes, sides and desserts before creating your shopping list. Once that’s done,  you can make a cooking schedule so your dishes will be timed perfectly and you can avoid any last-minute chaos. Don’t forget to ask your guests about any dietary restrictions they may have before starting.

4. Gift shopping (for digital photo frames!)

If you haven’t finished your gift shopping yet, now is the time to do it. First, make a list of all the people you want to buy for and a few things that would suit them. Avoid crowds by shopping online, and make it more thoughtful by getting something that you can personalise. A great way to check both of those boxes is with a Nixplay digital frame. Digital photo frames are thoughtful, easy to use for all ages, and convenient to shop for online. 

5. Wrapping & prepping presents (and your digital photo frame)

Once you’ve purchased your gifts, set aside some time for wrapping and prepping. With Nixplay, you can even preload the digital photo frame to make the gift that much more thoughtful and personal. We’ve included some unique ideas for preloading your frame in this blog to get you started if you’re feeling stuck.

6. Ideas for preloading a digital photo frame gift: 

Make it truly personalised

Start your digital photo frame preloading with the gift of personalised memories. Create a unique digital photo frame that showcases a collection of special moments with the loved one you’ll be giving it to. Whether it's family holidays, weddings, or the first day of school, you can curate a digital slideshow that tells a beautiful story. Choose a frame that complements your recipient's style for a gift that truly resonates.

Celebrate your family history

For many, Christmas means precious time spent with family. Encourage your loved ones to relive their favourite moments by gifting them a family time capsule digital photo frame. Collect photos and videos from previous Christmases, milestones, and celebrations. Create a slideshow that encapsulates the essence of your family's journey and showcase it in a timeless frame. Watching these cherished memories year after year will become a beloved holiday tradition.

Create a treasure trove of recipes

For the food enthusiasts in your life, consider a digital photo frame turned recipe book. Collect family recipes, heirloom cooking secrets, and seasonal classics. Compile them into a digital cookbook, complete with mouthwatering food photos. With this gift, your loved ones can easily access their favourite recipes and culinary inspiration for the Christmas season and beyond.

Don't forget favourite pets

Pets are cherished members of many families, and their antics make for heartwarming memories. For the pet lovers in your life, gift a digital photo frame that captures the essence of their furry friends. Create a slideshow filled with adorable pet photos, funny moments, and heartwarming interactions. This gift will undoubtedly bring a smile to their face.

7. Make travel arrangements, or prepare for guests

If you'll be travelling for Christmas, be sure to book your travel or accommodation - the sooner the better to make sure you secure availability and affordability. Check your travel itinerary, make a packing list, and ensure your travel documents are up to date.

If you'll be hosting overnight guests, make their stay comfortable and welcoming. Prepare a guest room with clean linens, cosy blankets, and toiletries. Consider creating a festive basket of treats and essentials as a special touch.

8. Take a moment to enjoy it all

Remember, the true magic of Christmas lies in the warmth of your heart and the love you share with those around you. So, embrace the spirit of the season, spread joy, and create lasting memories that will bring you happiness for years to come. And don’t forget to take a few photos and videos to cherish in your digital photo frame!