Christmas shopping tips

Write a list
Many of the goodies we all love at Christmas will stay fresh in their packets for weeks. Instead of putting strain on your budget by loading up on sweets, chocolates, nuts and selection boxes all at once, buy them over the whole month. Write a list and each time you go shopping pick one item to buy from it. This trick also works for presents, drinks and decorations.

Shop smart (cheat!)
Consider buying an easy-to-carve turkey crown, pre-made stuffing, bread sauce and gravy mix etc. While it would be great to be able to serve everything home-made, there are many pre-made elements of the meal in the shops which taste as good as your own, are cheaper to buy, and will save you time and stress on the day itself.

Buy online
Why traipse around town in the cold when you can curl up on the sofa with your laptop and credit card. Make sure you check delivery times and stock, especially on this year's must-have toys and games. Visit www.lastdelivery.co.uk for last delivery dates for all the major retailers such as Amazon, Argos and Hamleys.

Chosen by House to home

Don't let Christmas shopping get in the way of your festivities

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