Anna Andrews, a 54-year-old grandmother from Birmingham, has already finished all her Christmas shopping for her three children and four grandchildren—months before December. She sticks to a strict £800 budget and spreads purchases across the year, starting as early as the Boxing Day sales.
How she does it
Anna buys one or two gifts each month, listening to what her grandchildren talk about throughout the year. She also asks her children for specific requests. Her festive preparations begin with discounted cards, wrapping paper and tags from the Boxing Day sales, which she hides around her home—including bags in her bedroom and an ottoman at the end of her bed.
Avoiding the rush
“I just want to make sure I don’t forget anyone and I have a big family,” said Anna. “We have a set budget otherwise you could spend more than you need. I don’t have a spreadsheet to keep track but I buy one or two things each month.” She says being organised helps her avoid last-minute shopping and focus on family time. “Christmas is about family, not just presents. I don’t think it takes the magic out of Christmas, I just find it more calming.”
Adapting to challenges
Anna’s early planning proved vital when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2022. She had already sorted Christmas that year, but spent much of 2023 undergoing major surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy while off work for nine months. She advises: “Just save a little every week or buy a gift and put it away and you’ll be surprised what you have by December.”
Family reactions
Despite her organisation, Anna refuses to wrap any presents until 1 December, in case she has forgotten someone or needs to ensure equal gifts for grandchildren. Her friends call her “so organised” but say she spends too much. Her children approve, but her husband thinks the pile in their room makes her look like a hoarder. The family takes turns hosting a traditional Christmas dinner.
