I think the only way to prepare for each Xmas is to put some money away each week, fortnight or whatever and try NOT to use it during the year. It makes things so much easier and not so stressful. Buy presents during the year but it this doesn’t happen put a limit on each present and stick to it.
The same goes when buying groceries – stick to a limit and look for specials ALL THE TIME! If you haven’t got the cash on hand for Xmas items then the credit card nightmare begins and the start of the New Year is one big nightmare! Don’t go there!