It’s that time of year again! Tinsel in the shops, Mariah on the radio, and the countdown to Christmas creeping ever closer. If you’re a freelancer or small business owner, this time of year can often feel a little chaotic, as you juggle work, health, events and festive chores. However, with a bit of planning (and a well-earned slice of cake), you can finish the year smoothly, keep your clients happy, and actually enjoy some time off.
As a VA business that supports freelancers and small business owners every day, we know what this season really looks like behind the scenes. So here are our 2025 festive top tips, especially for you:
First, why not consider swapping traditional Christmas cards for something easier and more meaningful. Online charity Christmas cards from platforms like DontSendMeACard – https://www.dontsendmeacard.com/ – let you spread festive cheer while saving trees and raising money for a good cause. No stamps, no post office queue, no panic when you realise you forgot someone. A few clicks, a good feeling, and it’s done, hooray!
Next, tell your clients when you’re closing before they start chasing you. Send an email outlining your festive opening hours early – ideally at the start of December – and save yourself from last minute requests that creep into the festive break. It’s also a good idea to make these dates visible on your website, email signature or social feeds so no one can say they missed them!
Make sure to protect a bit of buffer time too – both before and after any Christmas/New Year break. Keep your diary free for a day or two either side of your break, and use that time to finish tasks, send invoices, schedule social posts, set up auto responses or simply get organised for January. 2026 you will thank you!
Our next top tip – look after yourself! The mix of cold weather, late nights, central heating and boxes of chocolates can take its toll. Drink water, stay on top of your vitamins (mmm leafy greens!) and try to get a bit of sleep. It all helps keep winter bugs away.
And yes, you deserve a Christmas party even if you’re a team of one. There is no rule that says celebrations require an office, a sit-down meal or a dodgy Secret Santa. Treat yourself however you like. A festive hot chocolate, a cinema trip, a glass of something bubbly, or a trip to your favourite coffee shop for the biggest slice of cake and the most indulgent drink they can make. You have earned it – it’s been a long year!
Finally, remember you don’t have to power through December alone. This is exactly when a virtual assistant can make the biggest difference. From sending out client updates to preparing your Christmas closure message, sorting your inbox, scheduling newsletters or keeping things ticking over while you take time off, we’re here to help.
Christmas should feel joyful and festive, not exhausting. So here’s to you: freelancers, founders and small business owners! May your break be peaceful, your mug be full (of a still-hot beverage! Or Baileys), your inbox be quiet and your cake be extra festive. And if you need a helping hand to make December run smoothly, give us a call.