You probably think we're off our rocker, talking about the holidays when your mind is occupied with the lake and sunbathing. But the reality is that the holiday hustle and bustle will be here in a blink! Home stores will start putting Christmas decorations out before we even celebrate Halloween. So, to help prepare you, we’ve created a guide that can help you navigate the last six weeks before the holiday ordering season deadlines.

These suggestions are especially useful if you plan on pursuing custom gifts this season as they take a little longer to prepare!

As your print partner, our goal--and responsibility--is to make sure you are ahead of the game. Check out these special tips and offers to jump-start your holiday preparations!

To receive your custom apparel and gifts on time, please take note that our guaranteed delivery deadline is typically the 9th of December. We may be able to fulfill requests beyond that time, depending on the quantity and item selection. Please let us know about your goals, and we'll strive to see them through!

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6 WEEKS LEFT

Gifts/Cards

• Revise holiday budget for planning (Note: Consider tiered giving to spread more holiday cheer!)
• List employee gift recipients
• List VIP gift recipients
• List Directors/Board recipients
• List customer gift recipients
• List customer card recipients
• List vendor gift/card recipients

Holiday Party

• Determine if hosting a customer and/or employee event
• Develop guest lists
• Secure date(s) and location(s)
• Define a theme
• Design/order branded Save-the-Date cards

5 WEEKS LEFT

Gifts/Cards

• Brainstorm branded gift options for each group with team
• Order branded cards and envelopes (Note: Flywheel can assist with mailings, too! Ask ahead of time for further details!)

Holiday Party

• Send Save-the-Dates
• Design and order branded invitations
• Secure food and beverage caterer

4 WEEKS LEFT

Gifts/Cards

• Consult with your Flywheel Client Success Specialist for branded gift options
• Determine if direct delivery is possible where needed
• Have team/leadership sign cards (if applicable)

Holiday Party

• Consult with your Flywheel Client Success Specialist for branded door prizes/party favors
• Send invitations
• Book DJ & A/V (if applicable)
• Book Santa
• Recruit/hire a photographer

3 WEEKS LEFT

Gifts/Cards

• Finalize gift selections for VIPs, customers, vendors and employees
• Seal and mail cards

Holiday Party

• Purchase decorations

2 WEEKS LEFT

Gifts/Cards

• Order all branded gifts (Note: Ask about packaging and shipping options!)

Holiday Party

• Order gift tags (Note: Ask us about bulk orders!)
• Order all branded door prizes/party favors
• Finalize music playlist
• Purchase/make centerpieces
• Purchase/make decorations

1 WEEK LEFT

Gifts/Cards

• Order any last-minute gifts! (Note: Be sure to record delivery dates and locations to ensure a timely delivery.)
• Purchase wrapping paper, bags, tissue paper and/or bows as needed

Holiday Party

• Secure waste receptacles
• Tie up any loose ends!
• Breathe a sigh of relief!