How to Handle the Holiday Season Without Losing Your Mind

Listen up, bakers! I know this time of year can feel like a sh*t storm of stress: orders are piling up, you’re making TONS of trips to the store, and the holiday rush has you questioning if you can really keep up. 😫 The anxiety is REAL, but here’s the truth – you can get through this, and honestly, there are ways to make this season work in your favor without feeling like you’re drowning.

So let’s dig into some real-life tips to help you handle holiday demand, stay sane, and get through the season without burning out. Remember: you’re a BOSS, and you’ve got this!

1. Streamline That Holiday Menu

Repeat after me: More is not always better. Focus on the customer favorites that fly off the shelf every season and keep it simple. Cut out anything that’s going to eat up your time or add extra to your plate – trust me, your customers will be more than happy with a smaller but killer selection of treats.

2. Set Order Deadlines & Mean It

Friend, let’s be real – you can’t take on orders right up to the holiday without driving yourself (and your team) crazy. Decide on a cut-off date for orders, announce it loud and proud, and STICK TO IT. And offer a little incentive for early birds – maybe a mini discount or a freebie. Get those orders in early, so you can focus on baking and filling orders instead of scrambling last minute!

3. Batch Bake & Prep Ahead

Here’s the secret: batching is your best friend. Prep doughs, fillings, and frostings in advance and organize your production days so you’re making similar items at once. This saves you time and stress, and it makes you feel organized and prepared for anything this holiday season may throw your way. 💪

4. Pre-Set Packages Save Lives

This is key. Create some simple, pre-packaged holiday boxes that have all the crowd-pleasers. Holiday Cookie Boxes, Treat Samplers – whatever your customers love, bundle it up and make it easy. Trust me, people will love the convenience, and you’ll save time by not having to customize each order.

5. Ask for HELP!

If there’s EVER a time to get extra hands in the kitchen, it’s now. Whether you hire temporary help or ask a family member to help with simple tasks (packaging, cleaning, etc.), a little extra support will give you room to breathe and focus on what matters.

6. Plan Inventory & Order Early

Trust me when I say, you do NOT want to be out there hunting for sugar or flour last minute – and with how supply chains and shipping is during the holiday season, stock up early. Make a list, place bulk orders, and get those essentials secured so you’re not scrambling to find what you need when orders start pouring in.

7. Pre-Orders Only, Sis!

Think about setting up a “pre-order only” system for the holidays. Not only does this help you avoid waste, but it also lets you control your workflow better. Knowing exactly what’s on your plate will help you keep your cool and stay on top of it all.

8. Don’t Forget to Take Care of YOU

I’m gonna say it again for the people in the back: take care of yourself! You can’t pour from an empty cup, and the holidays can drain your energy fast if you’re not careful. Take breaks, rest when you can, and don’t be afraid to say “no” to last-minute requests. Your health and sanity matter too.

So, sis, take a deep breath. You’ve got everything you need to rock this season – and more. Trust that the universe, God, or whatever you believe in has your back. This rush is just a season, and when you look back, you’ll realize you made it through stronger, smarter, and even more of a badass than you already are.

Happy holidays, friends! 🎄 You’re going to be okay. 😘

Xo, Janelle