The 6 stages every mum goes through when she’s getting party-ready

The time has finally come. After fantasising wildly about having a night off from watching endless episodes of Peppa Pig, and after re-scheduling twice due to babysitters cancelling on you, it's finally time for you to enjoy a night out with the girls.

Yep, this Christmas you've decided to RSVP to not one, but a few parties where you can let your hair down and reclaim back some 'me time'. And here's how you'll probably be getting ready for the parties...

Stage 1: Distract The Kids

This stage normally consists of distracting the kids with the TV or iPad, so that you can have some alone time to get ready and prep yourself for a much-needed night out. Thank goodness for technology, eh?

Stage 2: Quick Body Wash

A relaxing bath would be your first choice, but you're running slightly late as you had to cook dinner for the kids. So instead, you quickly jump into the shower and scrub, exfoliate and shave until you're primed to perfection for your big night out.

Stage 3: Chuck On An Outfit

BC (before children) you used to spend hours picking out an outfit, but now that you've got kids, you've learnt to make an executive outfit decision in a matter of minutes. One look through your wardrobe and you've already decided what you're wearing - something super stylish but also comfy.

Stage 4: Apply Makeup

Now for the fun part: makeup time! For the festive season, you want to look timeless and elegant, so you opt for a bronzed smokey eye and nude lip. You apply the Loreal Paris True Match Foundation from Boots to even out your skin, then contour with the Sleek Makeup Cream Contour Kit to create some killer cheekbones.

Using the Smashbox Full Exposure Palette from Boots, you create a gorgeous smokey eye that's perfect for party season. The No7 Lash Extender Mascara from Boots helps you fake your way to a false lash effect. You've never looked more party-ready.

You complete your classic Christmas look exfoliating your lips with the e.l.f. Lip Exfoliator to remove any dryness, before creating a Christmassy red lip with the Bourjois Rouge Velvet in Rubis Cute. Then, your set all of your makeup with the NYX Professional Make Up Setting Spray Matte Finish from Boots, because you plan on being out for a few hours.

Stage 5: Fix The Hair

A quick brush through the mane and a few spritzes of hairspray later, you've managed to scrape your hair into a party-worthy hairstyle. You're pretty pleased with yourself, and you should be, because your hair looks great!

Stage 6: Ready To Party

Thanks to the help of the Boots party makeup and your new evening outfit (cue lots of Christmassy sequins and some comfortable heels) you're ready to hit the town and let your hair down! This is what the festive season is all about.

Get ready for the festive season by shopping these beauty products and more at Boots.