“Going through a busy shopping centre in December and fighting for a parking space is a no, thank you”
17:38, 02 Sep 2025Updated 18:56, 02 Sep 2025
The mum-of-three who is ready for Christmas in August
An organised mum says she has already bought her Christmas gifts despite summer only ending days ago, splashing out £2,000 on her three children.
Charlotte Chandler began organising the big day for her daughters Harley, 14, Evie, 13, and son Myles, six, back in June.
The 36-year-old from Stockport claims that stocking up early takes the pressure off her when the festive period begins. “Getting organised early makes a massive difference,” Charlotte said.
“I usually start in June after my daughter’s birthday, but sometimes I start earlier. When I was growing up, I watched my mum struggle.
“Even though she always worked her magic and I always woke up to Christmas gifts, I could always see the panic in the build-up.
“This way, I can spread the cost, but also be less stressed nearer Christmas and have spare money for activities.
“Going through a busy shopping centre in December and fighting for a parking space is a no, thank you.”
Charlotte celebrating Christmas last year with her children, Harley, Evie and Myles.
Charlotte bought two 7ft tall cupboards for £40 to hide all of the gifts What’s The Jam reports. The carer has bought 40 gifts each for Evie and Myles and five for Harley, who can’t decide what he wants.
Never miss a story with the MEN’s daily Catch Up newsletter – get it in your inbox by signing up here
She said: “I have two metal cupboards that have locks on. I’ve probably spent around £2,000 so far.
“I’m not concerned that they’ll go off the things I’ve bought because I know what they like.
The mum-of-three who is ready for Christmas in August
“My youngest is into anything and has told me what he wants. My daughter likes clothes, make-up and skin care.
“My eldest likes all things PC or Xbox. I don’t keep going until Christmas, I’m done now.
“I only have a few more items to buy for my eldest. If I see anything nearer Christmas, I will buy it and put it away if it’s something really good.”
Charlotte also added £10 a week to her food shop to buy classic Christmas snacks such as Celebrations, which she’ll save for December.
She added: “I’ve bought things like pretzels, popcorn, Pringles, all kinds of nuts, hot chocolates, fizzy drinks, Quality Street, Celebrations and dry foods like stuffing, herbs, pickles and custard. “Anything to keep those stress levels down and enjoy Christmas.”