Reading >>
The Christmas Invitation by Trisha Ashley
There’s nothing better than lighting the fire and cosying up on the sofa with a mug of hot chocolate and getting lost in the pages of a heart-warming festive read. This charming tale follows the story of Meg, a city girl who’s feeling anything but festive. Yet when she’s invited to spend the run-up to Christmas in the snowy countryside, rather than dreary London, she can’t refuse. Arriving at a warm and cosy family home in a small hilltop village, Meg soon begins to wonder what a proper Christmas might be like. But just as she’s beginning to settle in, she spots a familiar face that suddenly makes her want to get as far away from them, and their past secrets, as she can. As the story unfolds, Meg wonders if this could be the year she finally discovers the magic of Christmas. A classic festive tale guaranteed to leave you with that warm fuzzy feeling.
£7.99, waterstones.com
Watching >>
The Santa Clauses
You’ve seen him put on the suit, you’ve watched him take on the challenges of the job, now it’s time to retire. The Santa Clauses is a brand-new limited series on Disney Plus which is set sometime after the events of The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (the third film in The Santa Clause trilogy) which picks up with Scott Calvin on the brink of his 65th birthday. As he begins to lose his Santa magic, Scott realises he can’t be Santa forever and sets out to find a suitable replacement Santa while preparing his family for a new adventure in a life south of the North Pole. Magic, mayhem and oh-so nostalgic, it’s a must-watch this Christmas.
disneyplus.com
Listening to >>
Christmas Podding
Christmas Podding is the ultimate guide to Christmas. Hosted by fellow Christmas fanatics Liam Renton and Vanessa Gibson, this festive favourite is essential in the run up to the most magical time of year. The Christmas-loving duo have been friends for over a decade after instantly bonding one day at work over their mutual obsession with the film Love Actually and all things Christmas. This must-listen podcast is devoted to all things fun and festive. Covering Christmas food, films, music, events, lights, traditions, books and decorations. Christmas lives here.
spotify.com
Pampering with >>
Molton Brown Jubilant Pine & Patchouli Shower Gel & Lotion Set
No one does Christmas scented pamper products quite like Molton Brown. This dreamy set is infused with nostalgic tones of fresh pine, spicy cinnamon and crisp juniper berry. Indulge in a little R&R with the help from this foamy and luxurious set that leaves skin cleansed and scented with a seasonal, woody-aromatic fragrance. Light the candles, run the hot tap, it’s time to relax.
£58, moltonbrown.co.uk
In our basket >>
7ft Pre-lit Aspen Mountain Spruce Christmas Tree
The perfect centrepiece for your Christmas scheme, this majestic spruce style tree stands tall at seven feet, with more than 2,700 vibrant green tips and a traditionally bushy shape. Easy to assemble, beautifully full and perfectly realistic, each branch is posable to allow you to create the perfect festive look.
£450, coxandcox.co.uk
Following >>
@ruffledflowers
‘Tis the season to get florally festive. Guisborough based florist, Ruffled Flowers, is a botanical haven when it comes to decking the halls. We’ve recently been swooning over their Instagram page which is filled with creative masterpieces and stunning floral creations. When it comes to donning your doors and seeking out Christmas decor inspo, this dreamy Instagram page is the place to be.
instagram.com/ruffledflowers
Kitchen inspo >>
Baileys Chocolate Cake Recipe
For those looking for an alternative to the traditional Christmas Pudding, this recipe is for you. Sarah J Thomas, one of our favourite Luxe bakers in the region, has shared this delicious chocolatey recipe for a taste of something sweet this Christmas. With a few simple ingredients including; Baileys, white and dark chocolate, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, eggs, self raising flour and soured cream, this recipe is simple, yet effective – guaranteed to wow family members around the table on December 25. Click this link for a full list of ingredients and a step by step method!
Dreaming of >>
A winter escape
This season, we’re dreaming of escaping to a winter wonderland. From ski chalets and cosy cottages to hot tub lodges and city breaks, winter calls for a dreamy escape.
Perfect scent >>
Gucci The Alchemist’s Garden A Gloaming Night Eau de Parfum
Gucci’s A Gloaming Night is the winter fragrance we all deserve. The warmth and elegance of the scent is dictated by cinnamon, which effortlessly wraps its spiciness around the enveloping woody vetiver. A true collectors item, this is a scent that will stand the test of time. Encased in a beautifully intricate, crimson bottle with gold etchings, it makes for a beautiful festive treat.
100ml, £240, johnlewis.com
Living by >>
“May you never be too grown up to search the skies on Christmas Eve.”
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