Preparing for Christmas Now: How to Set Gift Boundaries with Family (Ep 223)

Are you already dreading the avalanche of toys and trinkets that Christmas brings? You’re not alone! In this episode of Wannabe Clutter Free, we're diving into how you can start prepping for a more intentional, clutter-free holiday season—right now, in September. If you’re a busy, overwhelmed mom who dreams of a calmer Christmas with fewer gifts and more meaningful moments, this episode is for you.


We’ll explore why early planning is the key to reducing holiday stress, and how to have those tricky conversations with family about cutting back on physical gifts. Learn how to gently guide grandparents, aunts, and uncles toward experience gifts or contributions to a big-ticket item without offending anyone or feeling guilty. From practical tips to conversation starters, we’ve got you covered with all the tools you need to set clear gift boundaries and create a more joyful holiday season for your family.

Key Takeaways:

  • Why starting your Christmas planning in September can save you stress and headaches later.
  • The challenge of too many gifts and how it affects your home and your sanity.
  • Creative ideas for experience gifts that grandparents and extended family will love giving.
  • Step-by-step strategies for having kind and effective conversations about gift expectations.
  • How to handle pushback and stay firm on your family’s holiday vision.
  • The benefits of reducing physical gifts: less clutter, more joy, and lasting memories.

Let’s make this Christmas the most relaxed, clutter-free, and memorable one yet! Tune in now, and take the first step toward reclaiming your holiday season.


00:00 Welcome and Introduction

02:29 Planning for Christmas Early

04:49 Challenges of Too Many Gifts

07:48 Shifting to Experience Gifts

12:54 Having Difficult Conversations About Gifts

16:38 Handling Pushback and Benefits of Less Clutter

20:25 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

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Music: Fresh Lift by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com


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Thank you for joining us, and remember, it’s about progress, not perfection. Here’s to a more organized and less stressful life!

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About Deanna Yates

Based in San Diego, CA, Deanna helps high-achieving moms clear the clutter from their homes and lives.

Through coaching, courses, summits, and her top-ranked Wannabe Clutter Free podcast, she supports modern women in building organized, peaceful homes where they can thrive.

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