While Christmas in July generally doesn’t get as much attention and fanfare as the December festive season, it's still a fabulous chance to celebrate with friends and family for those who choose to partake. So, here are 7 simple ideas to help you prep for this mid-year celebration coming up on the 25th of July.

1. Create a Christmas in July budget

Christmas (including Christmas in July) can be an expensive time, but starting early allows you to budget more effectively. Make a list of potential expenses, including gifts, decorations, food, and travel. Set a realistic budget and stick to it, making adjustments as needed. This will help you to avoid unwanted financial stress and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.

2. Declutter your home

Carrying out a mid-year declutter should be a general rule for households regardless of whether they have Christmas in July to prep for or not. Doing this will help keep your home clean, tidy and clutter-free overall, while making your living space more inviting and freeing up room for decorations, gifts, and guests. Go through each room and identify items you no longer need. Donate, recycle, or give them away - now is the perfect time to regift.

3. Update your decorations

Take this opportunity to assess your existing Christmas decoration collection. Are they looking a little outdated or worse for wear? Make a list of what you have and what you might need to replace or add. Consider a new theme or colour scheme to refresh your festive look.

4. Create a thoughtful gift list

Think about each person you need to buy for, ask people close to them what they might want or need, and jot down ideas. You can also ask the giftee directly, if you really want to make sure they’re happy with what they receive and you’re okay to forgo a surprise. Create a list and start picking up items as you see them online or in store. Ideally, this process should start at least a few weeks before the event to account for potential shipping timeframes.

5. Go on a full home deep cleaning spree

With decluttering covered earlier in our list, a deep clean is the next logical step for getting your house clean and ready to host. Focus on areas that don’t receive regular attention, like the tops of cupboards, behind large furniture, and those tricky, often overlooked spots like tiles and grout. Then, focus on the more obvious, high traffic areas. A thorough clean now will make your home feel fresh and welcoming until your next deep clean, but if a quick, last-minute clean is all you can muster, that’s okay too.

6. Don’t forget about the gardens

If you’re planning to host outdoor gatherings, give your garden some attention. Trim the hedges, mow the lawn, and plant some flowers (choose natives for an eco-conscious gardening makeover). A tidy garden can make your home look more inviting and provide a lovely backdrop for decorations.

7. Sort out your pantry

Last, but certainly not least, a well-organised pantry is a lifesaver during any festive season. Go through your pantry and check expiration dates. Discard anything that's past its prime and make a list of staples you’ll need for celebratory cooking and baking.

Merry Christmas in July and happy planning!