Being a Grown up at Christmas

Being an adult during Christmas can feel like a mixed bag of nostalgia, joy, and responsibility. As a child, Christmas is often magical, filled with the excitement of presents, colourful lights, and the anticipation of Santa. But as you grow older, the holiday shifts, revealing new layers of meaning, challenges, and traditions.

One of the most significant changes is becoming the one responsible for creating that magic. Whether you're decorating the tree, planning family gatherings, or finding the perfect gifts for loved ones, you're now the orchestrator of the holiday. It's a joyful, rewarding role, but it can also be overwhelming at times. There's the pressure to make everything just right - balancing the joy of giving with the stress of budgeting, coordinating travel, or juggling work deadlines.

Another layer of adulthood at Christmas is a deeper appreciation for family and togetherness. What may have once felt like obligatory visits to relatives or a tedious exchange of pleasantries can now take on new meaning. With age, you begin to value the fleeting moments with family members who you may see less frequently. Conversations around the table become more cherished, and traditions once taken for granted are held onto tightly.

However, the magic doesn't disappear entirely. It evolves. You find joy in simpler things - like watching the joy in children's eyes, the warmth of a quiet night with hot cocoa, or the comfort of a well-worn holiday movie. The season becomes more about reflecting on the past year, expressing gratitude, and reconnecting with loved ones.

With Christmas 2024 well on its way, if you're struggling to get into the festive spirit then we've got some of the best tips to get you feeling Christmassy in no time:

Few things spread festive cheer as effectively as Christmas decorations. Adorning your home with them is a wonderful way to make your surroundings reflect the holiday spirit, and research shows that our environment greatly influences our mood. When your space is filled with festive colours, baubles, tinsel, and glitter, it becomes almost impossible to miss out on the Christmas magic - especially if you're playing holiday music while you decorate!

If you've ever heard the term "hangry" (hungry + angry) or felt its effects, you know how much food can impact your mood. One fun way to get into the Christmas spirit is by baking holiday treats, decorating them, and of course, eating and enjoying them! Whether you're making gingerbread cookies, mince pies, or other festive goodies, the act of baking is sure to spark that holiday feeling. Imagine all the Christmassy aromas too! Yum! Plus, if you don't want to indulge in everything yourself, you can spread the Christmas cheer by sharing your creations with friends, family, or co-workers.

Sometimes, the easiest way to get into the Christmas spirit is by settling in with a few festive films and letting their holiday magic take over. If you're not quite ready to dive straight into classics like Miracle on 34th Street, you can ease in with something like The Nightmare Before Christmas or a movie that offers a touch of Christmas cynicism, like How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Get snuggled up with a blanket and a hot chocolate, fairy lights on, and just enjoy the warmth and simply pleasure that Christmas films bring.

Gaudy clothing and Christmas often go hand in hand - thanks in part to the big guy in the red suit. It’s hard not to feel absurdly festive when you're wearing a sweater with a reindeer on the front or one that lights up and plays a holiday tune at the press of a button. But if tacky jumpers aren’t your thing, we still suggest cosying up in some soft, fluffy pyjamas and thick, Christmas-themed slipper socks. There's nothing quite like curling up on the sofa, warm and snug, while it’s freezing outside to get you in the holiday spirit.

You know the festive season has truly arrived when you start picking out gifts for your loved ones. Shopping for presents can be a lot of fun, especially when you envision their joy and excitement as they unwrap their gifts on Christmas Day - it’s a warm and fuzzy feeling that’s hard to beat. This unique experience is something special to Christmas, as it's the one time of year when you get to shower all your family with gifts at once.

After buying the gifts, choosing beautiful wrapping paper, ribbons, and fancy bows adds an extra layer of excitement. Taking the time to wrap each gift carefully and placing them under your Christmas tree not only enhances the festive atmosphere but also boosts your holiday spirit. As the stack of wrapped presents grows beneath the tree, so will your enthusiasm for the season.

Christmas drinks are more than just beverages; they’re a delightful part of the holiday experience, each one adding its own special touch to the festivities. From traditional favourites to inventive new concoctions, these drinks capture the essence of the season and help set the mood for celebrations. Their aromas and tastes just encompass Christmas and implore you to get into the festive spirit... quite literally!

Here are a few of our festive favourites:

Hot Chocolate is a classic Christmas drink that warms the soul. Rich, creamy, and often topped with whipped cream or marshmallows, it’s the perfect cosy treat for cold winter nights.

Eggnog is another holiday staple, known for its creamy texture and spiced flavour. Made with eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of nutmeg, it’s often enjoyed with a splash of rum or bourbon.

Mulled Wine brings a touch of European tradition to your holiday gatherings. This warm, spiced red wine is infused with ingredients like cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest, creating a fragrant and soothing drink that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.

Christmas Cocktails offer a fun way to add some sparkle to your celebrations. From cranberry mojitos to spiked eggnog, there are countless creative recipes to try. These cocktails often feature seasonal ingredients like cranberries, pomegranates, and fresh herbs, making them both visually appealing and delicious.

Peppermint White Chocolate Lattes are a modern favourite, combining the richness of white chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint. This drink is not only tasty but also visually festive, often adorned with crushed peppermint and a drizzle of chocolate.

Hot Buttered Rum is a classic winter warmer that combines butter, spices, and rum for a rich, comforting drink. It’s perfect for a cosy night in, offering a deliciously smooth and spiced flavour.

If you’re looking for an extra dose of Christmas cheer, visiting a Christmas market is a fantastic way to get into the festive spirit. These charming events are packed with wooden stalls, unique gifts, live music, delicious European fare, and, of course, warm mulled wine. A Christmas market is a surefire way to immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere. For the full experience, consider going with friends or family to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season together.

Explore our Christmas Gifts page for a wide selection of presents that are sure to delight everyone on your list. Whether you’re searching for something special for a loved one or need a few stocking filler ideas, we offer a diverse range of thoughtful and unique gift options. From festive gadgets and cosy winter essentials to personalised keepsakes and luxury treats, you'll find everything you need to make this holiday season memorable. Dive into our carefully chosen collection and discover the perfect gifts that will bring joy and cheer to your celebrations.

For something even more unique, why not have a look at our Gift Experiences and give memories this Christmas!