Urban Market Bag’s Holiday Survival Guide

We love the holidays! And to preserve that love, each year we try to incorporate new ideas to make them a little less chaotic without stealing the magic or joy. From taking a moment to breathe to simplifying gift giving, here are some of our favorite holiday survival ideas. 

Simplify Your Gift List
Create a Theme – We have holiday gift lists and other product marketing being directed at us from every direction. To help reduce decision fatigue, try picking a theme like local or sustainable gifts, or gifts under $50 and stay on track.

One and Done Gifting – Urban Market Bags are THE reusable bags that have stood the test of time. One gift for everyone on your list will make your holidays easier!

Stocking-Stuffer Strategy – Have fun with items that are consumable or reusable to get your recipients something they will actually use versus adding to permanent clutter.

Mindful  Holiday Errands and Organizing
Cup Holder Ready Prep – Keep some essentials (snacks, phone charger, Urban Market Bags) in your cup holder so you never have to scramble.

One-Trip Shopping – Organize your errands in advance and by neighborhood and check off items on your to-do list with all your extra time.  

Tidy It Up – A quick daily decluttering reset keeps the chaos in check when guests and gifts start to pile up. 

Save Time (and Sanity!) in the Kitchen
Plan Anchor Meals – Save your creativity for holiday festivities and giving and plan a few of your favorite recipes and put them on repeat. 

Sunday Pre Chop – Holiday recipes can ask for a lot of chopping! Try pre chopping in bulk on Sundays, store the extra in nontoxic containers and buy yourself some extra wrapping time through the week. 

Signature Holiday Dish – Holidays can mean potlucks galore! Whether it’s a cheese and charcuterie board, favorite dip, dessert, or a festive dish, find a go-to and become a pro. 

Peace and Immunity Boosters
Vital Tonic – Add a simple mixture of turmeric, ginger, cayenne, and lemon, served hot, to your day. Both immunity building and anti-inflammatory, this concoction will keep you on your holiday A game. 

Quiet Hour – Take a moment each day to dim the lights, turn on your favorite holiday music, and light a nontoxic candle. Sit back and take it all in.

Gratitude Journal – It is well documented that expressing gratitude can reduce stress by shaping your perspective around the positive things in your life. Give yourself a gift this holiday: grab a gratitude journal and take note!