The Ultimate Checklist for Xmas & New Year

We Aussies love Christmas when we traditionally have Xmas dinner on the beach or on the terrace and with only a few months until the festive season starts, here is the ultimate checklist for Xmas and New Year.

• Xmas gifts – Many people start buying Xmas gifts in September, which allows a lot of time for viewing potential gifts; if you are one of those people who leaves it until the last-minute, online shopping is the best solution.
• Xmas tree & decorations – Every Aussie home will have Christmas decorations and with a stunning artificial Xmas tree, your home will have that classic Xmas ambience; don’t forget exterior lights to brighten up the neighbourhood. Artificial trees are ideal as there is no mess to clean up and if you buy a tree storage bag, storage is easy.
• Xmas & New Year cards – It is still traditional to send family and friends Christmas cards and wish the recipient a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. If you prefer, send greetings cards via email, which most people find just as nice.  Here are a few tips on blending natural light into the home.
• Christmas food and drink – The smart way to go about this is to buy an Xmas hamper online and all the tasty extras that go with the festive season. Buy your alcohol online, as it is a bit cheaper than normal retail and if you buy bulk, you’ll get free delivery; a few bottles of Beaujolais, sherry for the ladies and your favorite spirits and mixers. How about a bottle of 12-year malt for Xmas Day? 
• Christmas music – If you have a few Bluetooth speakers, place them around the house and create a playlist on your smartphone. Nothing gets you into the festive mood like Xmas music and if you are having a party, make enough playlists so it won’t be repetitive.
• Party preparation – You are probably going to have at least one party over the holiday period, so do plan and prepare accordingly. Send out the invites, order the ice and make some music playlists, while make sure delicate ornaments are safety stored away. The patio should be the centrepiece for a summer party and don’t forget to invite the neighbours.
• New Year party – If you are hosting the end of the year bash this year, start planning a couple of weeks before Christmas and you won’t regret it. Make provisions in case guests are worse for wear and shouldn’t drive home.

Christmas comes but once a year and we hope our checklist ensures you don’t overlook anything; if you don’t have a tree yet, order a stunning artificial tree and a range of decorations. Let’s all be safe on the roads this year and don’t make the mistake of driving after a couple of drinks, it simply isn’t worth it.