Every Diwali, the same thing happens. A week before the festival, a list appears in someone's phone,
half-finished and full of names nobody has checked. The shopping then happens in a rush, and the
choices are rarely the ones we would have made with more time.
A better way is to start with relationships. Write down every person you want to remember this
season, then group them into three simple circles: immediate family, close friends and extended
family, and colleagues or neighbours. Each circle needs a different level of planning. Immediate
family usually needs the most thought. Extended family and colleagues often work well with a
simpler, consistent gift.
Next, add the occasion. Some people will be visiting you. Some you will visit. Some are new in the
family, or have a new home, or are hosting. Writing the occasion beside each name shows you where
a gift needs to be ready by a particular date, and where a card and a simple item will do.
Then check the timing. Festival orders slow down in the final week, and deliveries can take longer.
Mark a date by which you want every gift ordered, and aim for that date rather than the festival itself.
A list with dates is far less stressful than one without them.
Finally, keep one line free. Most years, someone unexpected turns up. Leaving a small space in the
budget and in the list means you can respond with warmth rather than panic.
If you are working through your own list this year and want help matching gifts to people, message us
on WhatsApp at 9840734384. You can also browse our festive options at sukhamhandmade.com.
