Get A Head Start On Christmas Planning

Getting ready for the festive season involves more than simply ordering a turkey and a pack of chipolatas. You've cleaned the house and got the tree up, but what else can you do to ensure that your celebrations are a success?

Supermarkets release their delivery times for the festive period in November. Book your slot as early as you can to ensure that your large food and drink delivery arrives on your preferred date. Many shops and stores have seasonal promotions, so it's a good time to look for BOGOF deals on cards and gift wrap. If you plan to send cards or parcels by mail, do check last posting dates.

Buy extras for your festive table with your weekly shopping. This way you can gradually start to stock your cupboards without the last-minute rush. Cranberry sauce, pickles, cake, fruit in brandy, chocolates and nuts can all be picked up now. Don't forget to stock up on basics like pet food, toilet rolls, washing up liquids and, of course, sellotape.

Order that turkey. Whether you're buying from a butcher, deli or supermarket, they all take turkey and meat orders up to 6 weeks in advance.

Eat, drink, and be merry is the rule for Yule. Parties, family dinners, and the day itself can all take their toll. A quick detox about a month before can give your body a short break and set you up for the weeks ahead.

Juicing is popular, but if a full detox isn't your thing simply cut out alcohol and carbs for a week and stick to the healthy options.

You should also make appointments for haircuts, manicures, and other beauty treatments. Hairdressing salons and spas get booked up extremely quickly during December so booking by the end of November at the latest is essential.

The Black Friday sales, whether on the high street or online, traditionally signal the start of the festive shopping period. It's a good time to look for deals on larger items like games consoles or TVs as well as random bargains that can be used as stocking fillers. It's also the perfect time to grab a festive jumper or outfit for the big day.

If you do intend to shop in stores and perhaps see the festive lights, be sure to check transport and other details. Most UK cities have extra attractions like chestnut stands, artificial snow, animated installations and costume characters to make shopping special.

A time for children: The youngest members of the family really make all the hard work worthwhile.

Check those letters to Santa. Often children have asked for toys that are very popular. As the day draws near, shops and websites often run out of the latest dolls, character toys or games. Buy them early to avoid sad faces.

Events and shows: Get your tickets for pantomimes, ice shows, new cinema releases and other family events well in advance. Not only do you get in before top Christmas shows are sold out, you get better seats too.

Travelling over the festive period: If you intend to visit family or friends over the holidays you should get train tickets or flights between late October and mid November. That way you will be sure of a seat and you won't pay premium fares.