Words by Cynthia Wihardja, Beau Nash Antiques
The Bath Christmas market runs late this year only ending on the 14th of December. Usually locals like you wait until the market wraps up before starting your “real” Christmas shopping, as the city centre can be a bit of a challenge to navigate. But if you hold off this year, you might find yourself in a last-minute dash, scrambling for gifts amidst the cocktail evenings that fill the calendar in December.
So, to help you avoid that familiar festive panic, here are a few tips to make your Christmas shopping stress-free, merry, and maybe even enjoyable:
Shop early.
Everyone has a secret hiding spot in their home to stash away gifts. By shopping early, you’ll beat the rush, secure parking with ease, and have your pick of the best gifts before the crowds descend.
Have a list.
If you’re shopping for multiple people, a list can be your saving grace. Some simply need a pen and notepad, while others unleash their inner elf with a colour-coded spreadsheet, complete with budgets. Whatever your style, a list keeps you focused and prevents “gift drift.”
Enjoy the physical shopping experience.
Online shopping might seem efficient, but it can be draining and impersonal. There’s real joy in stepping into a shop, touching the items, and finding the perfect gift that just feels right. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse for a pit stop — a hot chocolate never hurt anyone.
Make a day of it.
Turn your shopping trip into an outing rather than a chore. Invite a friend, start with brunch, and tackle the gift list together. Have fun spotting deals and share a laugh over ridiculous jumpers. Shopping can be a festive memory.
Wrap as you go.
There’s nothing worse than a mountain of unwrapped gifts on Christmas Eve. Set aside time each weekend to wrap a few presents at a time with a Christmas film. By the final week, you’ll be sipping champagne while everyone else scrambles for tape.
With a bit of planning, you can glide through this Christmas season cool, calm, and merry — long before Santa even gets the sleigh ready.
And if you’re wondering whether it’s too early to start — it’s not! In fact, as early as two weeks ago, we helped a customer find the perfect gift for his loved one. So start early, stay merry, and enjoy every sparkle of the season.
Beau Nash Antiques – Antique Shop in Bath, 28 and 31 Brock St, BA1 2LN
beaunashbath.com; info@beaunashbath.com; www.antiquesilver.shop
07535137808 @beaunashbath
