Why It’s Not Too Early to Begin Your Christmas Gift Shopping

You may be thinking it’s far too early to start thinking about Christmas — after all, Thanksgiving hasn’t even arrived yet.
And you may be right.

But here’s the thing: holiday gift-buying stress is real. The long lines, the endless scrolling, the rush to “just find something.” What if gift-giving could be something else entirely?

What if it could be beautiful — not rushed, not last-minute, not dreaded — but a thoughtful journey to find special items that truly speak to the people you love?

At this time of year, many of our artisans’ most meaningful pieces arrive in-store — handwoven scarves, ceramic mugs, carved nativity sets, jewelry with a story. And yes, the best treasures tend to be discovered early, before the busy December days sweep in.

So, if you’re ready to reclaim a little peace in this season of giving, here are three gentle strategies to make your gift shopping feel like an act of joy instead of stress.

 

1. Begin with Meaning, Not a List

Before writing names and budgets, pause and reflect: What do I want my gifts to say this year?
Maybe it’s gratitude. Maybe it’s comfort. Maybe it’s connection.

When you start with the meaning, you’ll naturally be drawn to items that carry story and purpose — things made by real hands, not factory lines. A mug that warms twice: once in your loved one’s hands, and once in the life of the artisan who made it.

 

2. Shop Early, Shop Intentionally

It’s easy to put off Christmas shopping until the last minute — we all do it. But waiting often means more pressure, fewer meaningful options, and less time to enjoy the process.

Starting early lets you slow down and be intentional. You can take time to learn the story behind each piece, to choose colors and textures that reflect the person receiving it, and to support artisans whose livelihoods depend on fair, steady income.

It’s not about buying sooner. It’s about buying better.

 

3. Let Giving Become Part of the Season’s Joy

Gift-giving doesn’t have to feel like another box to check. It can be part of your spiritual rhythm — an expression of gratitude, stewardship, and care.

As you wrap a handwoven scarf or tie a ribbon around a handmade ornament, pause and give thanks for the hands that created it. Each gift becomes a quiet prayer — for peace, for provision, for connection across the globe.

 

This year, let gift-giving be a journey of thoughtfulness and peace.
Step into the season early — not in haste, but in hope.

Explore Ten Thousand Villages Abbotsford’s new Christmas arrivals and discover handcrafted treasures that make this season truly meaningful.