What's better than pizza? Not much! But...a stress free holiday season might even be better. Come January 2nd the majority of us are drained from the world wind of the holidays. We all make the promise that this year will be different. This year we will be better prepared, organized and focused on precious time with our family. As the holidays approach it’s time to live up to that vow. Here are 5 essential tips to help you get started.

1. Book Holiday Portraits Now & Order Cards and Custom Gifts early

Not only will you appreciate being able to check this annual tradition off your list you will avoid the last minute rush. By booking your photography session before the end of October, you will have more options to choose from, nicer weather and easier family schedules to coordinate. Once you have your images you can finally order your holiday cards on time. Ensure they arrive on time and enjoyed for more than a week. As a bonus you will have access to customized archival gift options and a greater selection of products not available through your local store.

Pssst...check out our holiday mini and full session dates and packages below.

2016 Dates

Mini Holiday Sessions: Saturday October 8th & 22nd

Full Holiday Sessions: Sunday October 9th & 23rd 

2. Outline a Budget and Make Holiday Plans Now!

Figure out your holiday game plan, take advantage of early bird rates and maximize time with loved ones. Be present in your choices and celebrate the way you’ve envisioned versus choosing from what’s left over. There will always be surprise expenses and added scheduling demands. Make a list of those you can expect and create a budget outlining the cost of travel, visitors, gifts and entertainment. Refer to it often to help you stay on track.

3. Clean Out Closets and Donate

Purging your closets isn’t just for spring-cleaning. There’s no better way to get organized and be ready for the New Year than by ridding your life of unwanted clutter. Freshen up fall sweaters blankets, guest linens and towels.

4. Stock Up on Non-Perishables

Avoid last minute trips to the store by making a list of non-perishable cooking and baking essentials like cranberry sauce, stuffing, gravy and cooking stock. Don’t forget extra flour, sugar and baking soda for those traditional treats. Most importantly, stock up on often forgotten household necessities like toilet paper and staple toiletries.

5. Enlist the Help of a Pro

There is no shame in asking for help. Bring on you’re A game and hire a professional. Organization is key and sometimes a fresh set of trained hands can help you get ready for the busy months ahead. Here are 5 professionals that will make this holiday season your best ever!

• Contact the National Association of Organizers to find a qualified professional near you.
• Save time by leaving the dirty work to someone else! Hire a local housekeeping service.
• Light up your home with a little magic from a holiday decorating service.
• Check out over 70 Long Beach catering options.
• Take advantage of resources like TravelAgents.com and Trivago to get the best deals on travel and find overflow housing at http://www.airbnb.com for out of town guests.
• Learn valuable budgeting tools or keep track of your finances on the go by downloading an app like Mint.
• This year wow friends and family with a gift that will last a lifetime by enlisting the expertise of a photographic specialist. Here at Blossom Blue Photography we offer a wide array of professional unique archival gifts and services not available at your local box or drug store.

There you have it! Become the envy of your stressed out friends by utilizing this full launch pad for success to keep you organized, on budget, healthy and happy this holiday season!

Ready to get on board with a stress free holiday? Call us at 562-706-0032 or email us here.
Blossom Blue Photography
4720 E 2nd St #5
Long Beach, CA 90803
562-706-0032