While most people are still enjoying summer, some UK mums are already fully immersed in the festive season. Maddy, a savvy TikTok user, sparked debate online after revealing she had completed her Christmas shopping in August, months ahead of the traditional holiday rush.
Maddy’s Early Christmas Shopping Spree
What started as a casual trip to B&M turned into a full festive haul for Maddy, who posted the moment on her TikTok account @moonlitmaddyx.
Surprised by the store’s shelves stocked with gifts, decorations, and toys, she decided it was the perfect chance to beat the November and December crowds.
In the clip, which has racked up over 155,000 views, she said: “It is August the 23rd, and I’m going to see my Christmas shopping… I went to B&M yesterday and it had so much Christmas stuff.”
Maddy enjoyed the calm and organized experience, noting that shopping early helped avoid the usual holiday panic.
Budgeting Hacks and Stress-Free Shopping
Maddy also shared her secret to staying financially prepared for the holidays: putting aside £50 a month for gifts and decorations.
“I just had the money sat there, and it seemed like the perfect opportunity,” she explained.
Her haul included presents for her family, Christmas hampers, and even Halloween baskets, despite her family not participating in trick-or-treating.
“I managed to get nearly everyone in my family something, which means I won’t be joining the holiday crowds this year,” she added.
Her strategy seems to be a mix of practical planning and festive enthusiasm.
Social Media Reacts to Early Festivities
Responses to Maddy’s approach were mixed. Some praised her for reducing stress and spreading costs, with one follower noting they start in August and are finished by Guy Fawkes Night.
Others argued that early shopping takes away the joy of the season.
“People need to slow down and appreciate the time we’re in,” one critic wrote.
Maddy countered that B&M’s deals make early shopping worthwhile.
Another Mum Goes All-In on Christmas
Maddy isn’t the only early festive enthusiast. Another UK mother, Janet (@janet777799), went as far as decorating her entire home in August.
From twinkling lights and cushions to a 5-foot Christmas tree indoors and in the garden, her home looked like a scene from a Christmas card.
Janet shared clips showing the full setup, teasing festive wrapping livestreams for her followers.
Her children were thrilled, rushing to the loft to help with the tree.
“It’s Christmas! It’s Christmas! You should have seen how excited the kids were,” she said.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
Like Maddy, Janet received both praise and criticism online.
Some called it “ridiculous” to celebrate so early, while others admitted jealousy, saying they wished they could start decorating sooner too.
“I always put mine up 1st November as I LOVE Christmas! I’m so jealous of you,” one viewer admitted, while another called the display “absolutely gorgeous” and cozy.
Experts Explain the Early Festive Obsession
Clinical psychologist Professor Erlanger A. Turner from Pepperdine University says early decorating can be understood through the “anticipation of joy” theory.
By extending the period of excitement, people can boost mood and well-being.
“As people begin to mentally prepare for enjoyable experiences, anticipation of joy helps to prolong the happiness associated with the holiday season,” he told MailOnline.
For Maddy, Janet, and their followers, starting Christmas early is less about rushing the season and more about maximizing festive joy—weeks ahead of the crowds.