How to set up out-of-office messages, plan and schedule content, prepare for January and finally step away guilt-free.
For many small business owners, the run-up to Christmas can feel less “festive fun ” and more “crazy chaos.” When you’re juggling clients, admin, content, inboxes, and planning for the year ahead, the thought of taking a genuine break can feel impossible.
But here’s the truth: you deserve some down time, and with the right systems in place, you can switch off without guilt.
As a Virtual Assistant based in Margate, Kent, supporting entrepreneurs across the UK, I help business owners prepare for the festive season. Whether you're a solo founder or a growing team, these practical steps will help you enjoy a stress-free Christmas break while keeping your business running smoothly in the background.
Set Up a Clear and Professional Out-of-Office Message
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to set boundaries over Christmas is with a well-crafted out-of-office (OOO) message.
Your OOO should:
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Reassure clients that their message has been received
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Clearly state your return date
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Provide an alternative contact (if applicable)
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Manage expectations on response times
Example Out-of-Office Template:
Hello and thanks for your email! I’m currently on Christmas break and will return on [date]. During this time I’ll be away from my inbox, but I’ll reply as soon as possible when I’m back. If your message is urgent, please contact [alt contact]. Wishing you a wonderful festive season!
Schedule Your Social Media and Content in Advance
Consistency is key for SEO, social media growth, and client engagement, but that doesn’t mean you need to post live from your family Christmas dinner....relax and enjoy your wine instead.
Use tools like:
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Meta Business Suite (Instagram & Facebook)
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Buffer
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Later
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Trello for planning content
Aim to schedule 2–4 weeks of posts before you switch off. They don’t need to be ground-breaking, you can use seasonal greetings, year-in-review posts, thank you for your custom and soft offers, these all work perfectly at this time of year.
If content creation feels overwhelming, a Virtual Assistant (hello!) can batch-write and schedule your posts for you, ensuring your online presence stays active even while you’re eating your mince pie watching Home Alone - its the best movie isn't it?!
Prepare for January
January can feel brutal if you don't prepare in advance. Setting up simple systems now can save you hours and panic, next month.
Here’s what to organise before you clock off for Christmas:
Update your January calendar
Block out admin time, meetings, and any key deadlines.
Refresh your task lists
Start January knowing exactly what needs to happen in Week 1 - again use Trello to keep your lists - I do love Trello!
Review pricing, services, and processes
If you plan to increase prices or introduce new offers, schedule emails or announcements for early January.
Clean up your digital space
A tidy inbox, sorted folders, or updated CRM can work wonders for your January mindset.
Want someone to help prep these? A Virtual Assistant can organise everything behind the scenes so you walk into January feeling completely focused—not frazzled.
Create Digital Boundaries and Actually Step Away
This is the step small business owners struggle with most.....but it’s also the most important.
You cannot pour from an empty cup.
To make your break genuinely restorative:
Turn off notifications
Social, emails - everything.
Delete work apps temporarily
(You can re-install them on January 2nd!)
Share your “offline” hours with clients
Setting expectations ahead of time removes the guilt.
Give yourself permission
You run a business, not a 24/7 emergency service. Breaks are not a luxury, they’re essential for creativity, productivity, and long-term success!
A stress-free Christmas break is possible. With the right preparation, plus a little virtual support - you can enjoy a genuine break, knowing your business is taken care of.
This season, give yourself the gift of rest. You deserve it!
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