When do you put your Christmas decorations up? It’s a question that’s asked annually. But as festive decorations made an appearance in stores back in July this year, it’s clear that there might be an appetite for the early bird when it comes to getting ready for 25 December.
From major retailers to small independent boutiques, reindeer baubles and oversized stockings adorned shelves just as the summer weather started to warm up. While some people were surprised, there were others who started to stock up. Are you among those who can’t resist setting up your outdoor Christmas lights in November and adding a bit of tinsel well ahead of Christmas Day?
Timing is everything
Traditionally, people put their trees up around advent. In fact, research from last year revealed that almost half (47%) of us are putting our decorations up between 1 and 10 December. Almost two-thirds of us (62%) believe that December is officially Christmas season.
So, why are shops targeting people from midsummer? Many people believe that stores selling festive decorations so early is too early. This tallies with the research findings that most of us are happy to hold off until we’re closer to Christmas Day before we start thinking about stringing up lights and trimming the tree.
Go all-out
If you happen to live on one of the most festive streets in the UK, you might want to start stocking up now. After all, to stand out among your neighbours it takes some strategic thinking.
However, there are those who love Christmas enough to start planning their decorations early, whether they’re in a Christmassy suburb or not. Getting organised can, for some, be a great way to feel ready come December.
Money planning
Spreading the cost of Christmas is also something that many people could be considering. By buying everything from stocking fillers to new decorations now, it’s possible to stick to a budget.
Setting aside some income each month over the course of a few months can be better for your bank balance than spending a lot of money as December rolls around. With the cost-of-living crisis continuing to affect a lot of UK residents, making the most of festive treats being in the shops now could be helpful in the long run.
Feel-good factor
Of course, you might decide to start planning for Christmas simply because it makes you happy. You might find joy in discovering a great gift or a cute decoration that would work well.
If you’re having guests over the festive period, getting the essentials for your table and working out how you want your home to look now can also be helpful.
Ultimately, when you decide to decorate your home for Christmas is totally up to you. It’s only too early if you think it’s too early!
