In this episode, we're sharing five gentle ways to get ahead on holiday prep while you're still enjoying those pool days and popsicles. From stocking up during back-to-school sales to finally starting that wishlist you always forget about, these low-key tasks are all about making December feel more joyful and way less stressful.

No tinsel required—just a little July planning that will make your future self want to send you a thank-you card.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:22] - Tradition Spotlight on a summer picnic

[00:01:02] - Tip 1 - Stock up on school supplies for stockings

[00:02:03] - Tip 2 - Start making your gift lists

[00:04:55] - Tip 3 - Make your own wish list

[00:06:37] - Tip 4 - Think about how you want to spend the week after Christmas

[00:09:22] - Tip 5 - Inventory the supplies you have for hosting guests

[00:11:56] - This week’s Get A Headstart Tip for starting your planning in the right place

[00:14:50] - What’s on our to-do lists this week

[00:19:03] - Our Nice Lists

Resources Mentioned:

• Splendor Duel
• Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix
• Grab The Holiday Headstart Playbook
• Take the Holiday Profile quiz
• Follow on Instagram @theholidayheadstart
• Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts!

• Episode 20: 5 Things for January
• Episode 23: 5 Things for February
• Episode 27: 5 Things for March
• Episode 28: 5 Things for April
• Episode 30: 5 Things for May
• Episode 31: 5 Things for June

Welcome to The Holiday Headstart podcast, where we get intentional about kicking overwhelm to the curb and bringing joy back to your holidays (and every day). We’re Heidi and Emily, two sisters and former elementary school teachers, who’ve taken the simple strategies and practical tips we mastered in the classroom and put them to work in our personal lives.

And we’re here to help you do the same! Join us each week as we share how, with a little planning and a little prep, you can ensure that the days that make life special don’t become the days that make you stressed.