6 WEEKS TO GO

• Draw up a list of people you need to buy presents for. Write down gift ideas and where you could get them, so that if one store has multiple gifts you can get them all in one trip. Keep the list in your bag and cross off items when they're bought.
• Save trudging around the shops and consider shopping online. You could save money and have the items delivered to your door or your post office. If you're ordering online, buy soon to ensure delivery in time for Christmas. Items from Australia can take from one to four weeks to be delivered.
• If you have a large family or group of friends, now is the time to organise a Kris Kringle or Secret Santa draw. Everyone puts their name into a hat and draws one out themselves. It's great for older family members. Everyone gets a gift, yet they only have to buy one! If you don't need the secrecy element, do the draw yourself and tell people their allocations over the phone or email, which is handy if they don't live locally.
• Start a party calendar so you can keep track of all the family's social events for the upcoming season.

5 WEEKS TO GO

• If you're sending cards and gifts overseas, post them now. Airmail to the UK and US takes from four to six working days, but it's recommended you send a bit earlier during Christmas.
• Keep an eye out for specials on drinks and non-perishable food. Stock up on nuts, olives and chips so you've got nibbles when guests drop in.
• Make a Christmas-card list and buy cards and stamps, or order online. Support local charities at www.charitygreetingcards.com.au, or design personalised cards with a family photo. Check out www.vistaprint.com.au.
• Take a family photo and slip copies of it into regular Christmas cards.

4 WEEKS TO GO

• Write and send Australian Christmas cards, or deliver them personally.
• Pick some outfits to wear or treat yourself to a new dress or accessories, avoiding last-minute what-to-wear dramas.
• Make your Christmas cake or pudding so you can start soaking it in brandy or rum over the next couple of weeks.
• Order turkey, ham, chicken and seafood to avoid the last-minute rush. Arrange to pick up two days before Christmas.
• Put up your Christmas tree and replace any broken decorations.
• Start buying presents and pick up a couple of small general gifts like bath bombs, chocolates or wine for any unexpected guests.
• Confirm plans for Christmas Day so you know how many people you're catering for. If you're going to someone's house, confirm attendance and check what you need to bring.

3 WEEKS TO GO

• If you're making shortbread or mince pies as gifts or desserts, bake them now. You can freeze the pies for easy reheating later.
• Check the date for Carols by Candlelight.
• Collect any drinks you've ordered and stock up on beer, wine and soft drinks.
• Buy wrapping paper, gift tags, etc, and wrap presents to go under the tree.
• Think about your table - do you have napkins, tablecloths and enough plates and cutlery? If not, borrow some or use disposable plates and cutlery.

1 WEEK TO GO

• Do your big final shop at the supermarket, except for fruit and vegetables. Don't forget custard and cream! Get there early to avoid the crowds.
• If you get a store-bought cake or pudding, start decorating it yourself or soaking it in alcohol.
• Don't forget to look at your local Christmas-light displays.
• Borrow eskies, plastic chairs and trestle tables if needed.
• Get any last-minute presents and finish wrapping gifts. Don't forget batteries for toys.

CHRISTMAS EVE

• Prepare salads, dressings and other food which you are able to make ahead, plate them up and store it in the fridge covered in cling wrap.
• Put nuts, lollies and crackers in bowls, ready to serve. Do up fruit platters and cheese boards, storing in the fridge.
• Get younger kids' outfits ready for the next day so they can dress themselves as you're preparing food.
• Charge cameras, camcorders and make sure you've got enough room on your memory card.
• Get an early night! It's a big day tomorrow and Santa needs to visit.

CHRISTMAS DAY

• Get cooking if you're having a hot lunch. If you're having a cold lunch, slice the cold meats and put everything on serving platters.
• Defrost mince pies, cut up slices and whip cream ready for dessert.
• Put ice and drinks in eskies.
• Set the table and put out nibbles.
• Open presents, relax and have a wonderful day!

If you have any great tips on a stress-free Christmas, let us know by leaving a comment below.

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