Gift-giving doesn’t have to feel like an extreme sport.

In fact, with a little planning, you can conquer 2025 without a single frantic shopping spree.

Let’s break down how to plan ahead, keep your budget in check, and save yourself from those frantic, last-minute online shopping marathons.

This may require a spreadsheet or two. 

Calendar First, Shop Second

The easiest way to avoid panic is to know what’s coming.

Start by grabbing a calendar (digital or good old-fashioned paper) and marking every important date: birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and any “just because” occasions.

Next, add reminders a month or two ahead of each major event. This way, instead of realizing your best friend’s birthday is tomorrow, you’ll have a cozy buffer to brainstorm something thoughtful.

I know this may go against every grain of living the procrastinator’s life, but embrace the change! 

Budget Like a Pro

Gifting doesn’t have to equal debt.

Set a clear budget for each occasion right from the start. It doesn’t need to be complicated—just list the event and how much you’re comfortable spending. Be honest with yourself.

To avoid those December meltdowns, start a “Gift Fund” now. Toss a little money into it each month. By the time the holiday season rolls around, you’ll already have a stash ready to go.

Future You will be eternally grateful.

Keep a Gift List

Ever been struck by inspiration in July for the perfect December gift?

Write it down! Keep a running list (your phone’s notes app works wonders) of ideas for each person in your life. This way, when the time comes, you’re not starting from scratch.

Pro tip: If you see something on sale that screams your mom’s name, buy it early and stash it away. You’ll thank yourself later.

Batch Your Shopping

Dedicate specific times of the year to knocking out multiple gifts at once.

Think mid-summer sales or Black Friday for holiday shopping. This saves time, money, and mental energy.

Bonus: Group gifting works, too. Chip in with family or friends for bigger gifts—it lightens the financial load.

Organize and Declutter

Sometimes the best way to prepare for gifting seasons is to organize what you already have.

Open your office closet and take stock of wrapping paper, gift bags, cards, and moth balls well in advance. Set aside a space to keep all your gift supplies so you’re not scrambling to find tape at the last minute. Having an organized system reduces stress and makes the gifting process feel effortless.

🚨 SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT 🚨

Add this one to the top of your list: our Cookies & Cocoa Gift Basket. This gorgeous gift is wrapped in buffalo plaid and features Cocoa Lover’s gift box, Full size bag of Fireside marshmallows, Flathaus snaps shortbread cookies, and Pirouline wafer rolls

Happy gifting!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

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