A.G.
We're like Melissa and don't use credit cards for anything, so we start about September (sometimes earlier) so that we spread out the expense. I'm almost finished now. :)
This year I decided I didn't want my closet crowed with gifts I was hiding, so I have wrapped everything as I bought it, so I have a pile of wrapped gifts in the corner of my room. I love it!
I'm a Christmas girl, though, and my boys love the holidays, too. We've been listening to Christmas music 'round the clock for a month already, and we've managed to talk my husband into decorating next weekend. We won't decorate outside until later, but inside will be beautiful! I love decorating and shopping early because then the holidays aren't stressful for me at all, and I can enjoy the season with my family stress-free.
However and whenever you choose to shop and decorate, happy holidays! Too soon for that? ;)