Holidays before Halloween?!
Pumpkin Spiced Lattes (PSL) are just now showing up at coffee shops, and it feels like the holidays are still far away, but you know that they will be here before we know it! With the days getting shorter (and cooler), this is the perfect time to start planning ahead. Making time now to think about this will help you get ready to create meaningful gifts and creative keepsakes, without the last-minute stress (plus it could save you money by not having to pay for any unnecessary ‘RUSH’ fees).
A little preparation now will make your holidays brighter, more joyful, and filled with cherished memories. Follow these tips and tricks for stress free gift giving holiday prep!
Step 1: Sort & Organize
Gather your photos in one place. Create a digital folder called Holiday 2025 Gift Ideas and move your favorite photos there. If you’re working with printed photos, grab a decorative box for the ones you’d like to use. For both digital and physical files, start a document or note page with cute gift ideas you have seen online or in stores (or create a board on Pinterest!).
Step 2: Cull with Intention
You do not need to keep or use every photo you have. While sorting photos for gifts, consider culling your collection. These include duplicates and those images that just do not capture any stories. Focus on keeping the ones that make you smile, capture a special moment, and are legacy worthy.
Step 3: Make It Fun
Sorting photos should not be a chore! Pour a cup of tea, put on holiday music (yes, even in October!), and invite a friend or family member to join you. You may be surprised at the laughter and stories that come up while looking through your pictures (from the past year or past decade(s))!
Step 4: Create Collections
Consider grouping photos in themes: “Family Adventures,” “Kids Growing Up,” “Furry Friends,” or even “Best of 2025.” This will make it easy to see what you can turn into a gift.
Once these steps are done, then the fun can truly begin!
Some Creative Photo Gift Ideas:
Custom Calendars: This is where some of your themes can come into play. Looking for a gift for that loved grandparent – share photos of their grand kids growing up.
Story Photo Books: Are you a grandparent? Share your wisdom and your favorite photos by combining them with short captions or anecdotes.
Photo Ornaments: Whether you have a Christmas Tree or a Hannukah Bush, ornaments are something fun and easy to make that can be hung from just about anywhere.
Recipe + Photo Cards: (one of my favorite ideas this year!) Do you love to cook or have a cherished family recipe? Combine the two for a heartfelt and long-lasting gift (be sure it is laminated!).
Digital Slideshows: The options are limitless on this one!
Getting started now means you will have plenty of time to enjoy the process and avoid the holiday rush. Your future self will thank you when December rolls around and your photo gifts are already wrapped and ready to share!
If you’d like help creating your holiday photo gifts—or just want a jump start on organizing your collection—let’s schedule a time to chat. Let’s talk! Schedule a free consultation , I would love to help make your memories shine this season.
GIVING OPPORTUNITY!
Are you looking for a unique gift this holiday season for that special someone (including yourself)? Please consider the gift offer Start Here is making.
If you do not know this about me, I am an active Rotarian and I am off on my first International trip! In November, I am traveling to Mexico with Finding Sophia to build a house (in one day!!!).
If you are open to making a donation of a minimum of $200 to my efforts, I will provide a 3-hour work session (a $330 value) in return. If you are interested in supporting me for a few dollars - I would also be most grateful!
Juana is a mom of three and is very excited for us to come down, spend time in her town, and to build her a home. Kian Uzel, 1 year old, Digan Ivan, 5 years old, and Cristal, 12 years old.
