Believe it or not, the holiday season is coming … and so is all of the holiday planning that comes with it. While you might not be ready to haul out the holly just yet, now is the perfect time to start thinking about those plans for December.
You’ll get the best options, pricing, and, most importantly, lower your stress levels for that festive fun that’s not too far off in the future.
Embrace the Early Bird
It is a truth universally acknowledged that the holiday events will sell out. They’re traditions for a reason, and it’s because everyone and their cousins, grandkids, nieces, nephews … you get the point.
Whether it’s a concert, a production of “A Christmas Carol,” or the local lights festival, holiday destinations tend to book groups well in advance. To get the best availability and pricing, it pays to be ahead of schedule (sometimes literally).
Save Room for Magic
We love a holiday tradition, something that you come back to year after year. But if you’re looking for something new, planning early can give you the space to discover it. Explore your options and see what’s out there. Maybe it’s a world premiere holiday show, a different restaurant for festive cocktails, or a very merry long weekend.
Don’t be afraid to throw out the usual checklist (or at least be flexible). Taking the time now means you have the luxury of dreaming bigger with time and space for discovery.
Make Your Lists, Check Them Twice
We know, we just said throw out the list. It was a metaphor. You’re going to need a few lists. And guess what? You have a lot of time to build them because you started planning in July.
- Past: Now is the time to think back through what’s gone well and what can be improved from past holiday outings. Think through everything: food, transportation, that favorite light display you can’t miss, everything.
- Present: Once you have a good grasp on what’s working and what’s not, make your wishlist. As we said above, don’t be afraid to go big, you have time to reign it in (or not).
- Yet to Come: Even with the early start, you can’t do everything. But don’t let those brilliant ideas go to waste. Get a head start on next year by tracking those items that you don’t quite have time for this year.
Keep Things Very Merry and Bright
Nothing kills the holiday spirit faster than holiday stress. By getting ahead of the season, you can get a jump on those usual stressors of last-minute plans. Better yet, skip them altogether and let us help you find the perfect holiday outing for your group.
And remember, while it might feel like we need a little Christmas (right this very minute), you still have months to prepare. So take a deep breath, marvel at your forethought in planning ahead, and sit back and relax.