When to Book Your Christmas Decorator (And Why Waiting Might Cost You)

Let me tell you something, I see every single year, without fail. Around mid-November, our inbox starts filling up with messages like: “Hi, is there any chance you still have space for a tree install this week?” Or: “We left it a bit late... do you have any availability before our office party?”

It breaks my heart, but most of the time, by then, the answer is no.

Booking your Christmas decorating service — whether it’s for your home, business, or short-term rental — is a bit like booking the best caterer or photographer. The good ones get snapped up fast. And waiting until the baubles start appearing in the shops? That’s already a little too late.

The Christmas Rush Is Real (And It Starts Early)

We (Xmas Decorators UK) start receiving serious enquiries as early as July, and by November, prime dates for installations in November and early December are already filling up. Why? Because people who’ve experienced the stress of last-minute Christmas decorating before... never want to go through it again.

Those who book early get the whole experience — plenty of time to plan their design, choose colour palettes that speak to their space or brand, and enjoy the process without panic. We get to take our time crafting something truly tailored. And let me tell you, the difference in the final result is noticeable.

Why Late Bookings Can Backfire

Now, if you're someone who tends to leave holiday decorating until the last minute, here’s the reality: it becomes a scramble. Availability shrinks, especially for weekend installs or popular midweek slots right before events. You might find that your dream colour scheme isn’t available anymore, or we simply can’t fit your date into our packed calendar.

It’s like trying to book the best table in town on Christmas Eve — you can try, but chances are, you’ll end up with something rushed and compromised. Not ideal, especially when you want your guests or customers to walk into something magical.

And if you’re a business, this isn’t just about pretty lights and baubles. Early Christmas styling helps set the tone, boost foot traffic, and create that polished look customers associate with trusted brands.

Behind the Scenes of a Thoughtful Christmas Setup

What many don’t see is how much goes into a seamless Christmas install. We don’t just show up with a tree and a box of ornaments. From August, we’re already building out design concepts, sourcing speciality pieces, matching materials to brand colour palettes, and planning installation logistics. It’s an entire creative process.

That’s why the earlier we hear from you, the better. Some of our clients — especially retail spaces and corporate offices — book us in as early as spring or summer, because they know it guarantees the best outcome and peace of mind.

When Is the Right Time to Book?

Ideally, get in touch before summer ends. If you’re planning something grand for a hotel lobby, restaurant, or corporate showroom, then August is a great time to lock in your install date. For homes and short-term lets, September and early October are perfect. By November, we’re often down to just a few last slots — and they go quickly.

Let’s Make Magic — Without the Stress

If you’ve ever felt the pressure of untangling fairy lights or wondered why your tree doesn’t look quite like the ones in magazines, it might be time to let a professional handle it.

Our calendar for 2025 is now open, and I’d love to create something truly special for your space. Whether it’s timeless red and gold, icy blue and silver, or something unique, your festive vision deserves the time and care to be done right.

Enquire Now – Serving Guildford and Surrey with expert Christmas decorating that’s anything but ordinary.

By Viktoriia Savchenko | Christmas Stylist at Xmas Decorators UK