5 Top Tips for Stress-Free Christmas Shopping
Christmas is such a special time for families, especially the little ones, but let’s be honest – have you found it to be stressful?
Between organizing events, buying gifts for family, friends, and colleagues, the pressure can sneak up on us. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some tips I share with new parents and families to help make Christmas shopping a breeze.
- Plan Ahead
Start now! Making a list with a budget will save you from that frantic last-minute rush that often leads to overspending and unnecessary stress. Think carefully about who you're buying for and what they’d actually need or appreciate. Sticking to a budget will help you stay calm and in control.
- Support Local
This Christmas let’s support our local Kiwi businesses. Small, local businesses offer unique and bespoke treasures. You can also check out craft markets like Devonport Market or Auckland Mama Market, and farmers’ markets such as Clevedon Village Farmers Market and Matakana Farmers Market and larger expos like the General Collective, and Baby Expos NZ.
For one-of-a-kind gifts, ShopLocalNZ on Instagram is fantastic and even has a Christmas Gift Guide. Some of my favourites:
- Our own Paul & Paulie Organic Cotton Boutique for babies, kids & mums – Paul and Paulie for beautiful, ethically made clothes for babies and kids!
- Ara Home in Pukekohe for indoor plants
- Natures Touch for natural baby skincare products like their healing botty balm
- Keep It Simple for the Little Ones
Babies and toddlers don’t need much! Keep gifts simple and focus on creating happy family memories. Start your own family traditions like decorating the tree with homemade ornaments or counting down with an advent calendar. These moments are the true essence of Christmas.
- DIY Gifts
Not everything has to be store-bought! Get creative and make some DIY gifts:
- Potted plants in pretty containers
- Homemade goodies like cookies, jams, or herb rubs
- Handmade bath salts, soaps, or candles
- Framed artwork from your child makes a perfect gift for grandparents!
Or head to your local Op Shop like the Salvation Army for unique treasures, new or pre-loved.
- For the Person Who Has Everything
What do you give someone who has it all? Consider a gift that gives back! When you shop with charities like World Vision, Tearfund, or Trade Aid, you’re helping disadvantaged communities. You could even gift something meaningful like school supplies for a child in Uganda, with a card sent to your loved one explaining how their gift is helping others.
And finally, don’t stress! Christmas is about joy and family. One of my fondest memories is when my aunt used to say all she wanted for Christmas was “a cuppa tea and time with you.” So, I made her little ‘gift vouchers’ for a tea date or a pamper session, and we created lovely memories together.
So, relax, sip some hot chocolate, and enjoy the season!
Merry Christmas everyone! ✨
Rachel