First year with a real tree- when to buy?

[SquishySquirmy]

Hi.
This year we are going to have a real tree for the first time. I am ridiculously excited, and want it asap!
But if I buy it now, will it be sad and bald by Christmas?
How far in advance of Christmas can I buy it and still have it looking nice?
I'm assuming the cheap supermarket comes will drop their needles sooner? I only need a little tree, happy to spend a little more for a nicer type - what type to buy?

We have never used a stand. We use a bucket and weigh down the tree with a couple of bricks inside. Lots of water helps.