Creating Magical Moments: Special Messages from Santa for the Children in Your Life

Christmas is a time of wonder, joy, and the delightful sparkle of believing in magic. 

For children, few things are as enchanting as the idea that Santa Claus is keeping a watchful eye on their good deeds and has a special message just for them. 

This festive season, why not elevate the magic by arranging personalised messages from Santa?

 Whether it’s a heartfelt letter, a captivating video, a surprise phone call, or even a charming email, these special touches can create unforgettable memories.

1. Personalised Santa Letters

A handwritten letter from Santa can make a child’s Christmas truly magical. Imagine their excitement as they open an envelope stamped from the North Pole, addressed to them personally. Many online services offer beautifully designed templates where you can customise the letter with the child’s name, age, and even details about their achievements or wishes for the year. Some services even include extras like stickers, activity sheets, or a map of Santa’s route.

If you prefer a DIY approach, you can craft your own Santa letter. Use festive stationery, add a sprinkle of glitter, and write in a warm, jolly tone. For an authentic touch, consider using red ink or printing in a whimsical font. Mentioning specific details—like a new pet, a favourite hobby, or a recent accomplishment—will make the letter feel truly personal.

2. Magical Santa Videos

A personalised video message from Santa is a show-stopping way to bring the North Pole to life. Services like Portable North Pole (PNP) allow you to create videos featuring Santa addressing your child by name, showing their photo, and even referencing their Christmas wishes. The visuals of Santa in his cosy workshop or snowy surroundings add a layer of realism that’s hard to beat.

These videos are especially wonderful for young children who are mesmerised by seeing Santa “just for them.” You can even choose options for sibling messages or group videos, making it a delightful experience for the whole family.

3. A Call from Santa

Imagine the joy on your child’s face when the phone rings, and it’s Santa Claus himself on the line! Many services offer pre-recorded or live calls from Santa, tailored to your child’s details. You can schedule these calls at a convenient time, ensuring your little one is ready to hear Santa’s warm and encouraging words.

If you’re feeling creative, enlist a family member or friend with a jolly voice to play Santa. Prepare a script with personal details about your child’s year, and watch the magic unfold.

4. Emails from Santa

For tech-savvy kids, an email from Santa can be just as exciting. Many websites offer customised email templates where Santa can share updates from the North Pole, praise good behaviour, or remind children to leave out cookies and carrots on Christmas Eve. You can even add a short video clip or festive animation to make the email extra special.

This option is particularly great for older children who may prefer a modern twist on Santa’s traditional communication methods.

5. How to Choose the Right Option

When deciding which type of Santa message to arrange, consider the child’s age, personality, and preferences. Younger children often adore the visual and interactive nature of videos or phone calls, while older kids might appreciate the charm of a detailed letter or an email. 

Combining multiple options can also enhance the experience—a letter to set the stage, followed by a surprise call or video closer to Christmas.

6. Tips for Making It Believable

Include Specific Details: Mentioning unique facts about the child’s life adds authenticity.

Use Realistic Props: For letters, use North Pole-themed envelopes or stamps. For videos, choose high-quality services with professional visuals.

Time It Perfectly: Deliver letters or schedule calls and emails when your child least expects them for maximum surprise.

Involve the Family: Share the excitement by letting siblings or cousins join in the fun.

7. The Joy of Giving

These personalised Santa messages are more than just festive fun—they’re a way to nurture the magic of childhood and create cherished memories. Watching the wonder in a child’s eyes as they hear from Santa is a gift in itself, one that will be remembered long after the Christmas lights come down.

This year, take a little time to bring Santa’s magic to life for the children in your life. Whether it’s through a heartfelt letter, a dazzling video, or a surprise call, these small gestures can make this Christmas truly extraordinary. After all, the magic of the season lies in the joy we share and the memories we create.

To find suitable services Google "messages from santa to your child."

The True Origin of Saint Nicholas: The Man Behind Santa Claus

The jolly, red-suited Santa Claus who visits chimneys every Christmas Eve has become a beloved global icon. 

But his origins are rooted in the life of a real person: Saint Nicholas of Myra, a 4th-century Christian bishop whose acts of kindness and generosity inspired the legend we know today.

Saint Nicholas: The Historical Figure

Saint Nicholas was born around 270 AD in Patara, a Greek city in what is now Turkey. Born to wealthy parents, he was deeply religious from a young age. 

After losing his parents to an epidemic, Nicholas inherited a considerable fortune. Rather than indulging in wealth, he chose to use it to help those in need, guided by his Christian faith.

Nicholas became the Bishop of Myra (modern-day Demre, Turkey), where he gained a reputation for his unwavering generosity and commitment to justice. His acts of charity often involved helping those in desperate situations, and he became particularly well-known for anonymously giving gifts or money to the less fortunate.

The Famous Legend of the Three Daughters

One of the most enduring stories about Saint Nicholas concerns a poor man with three daughters. In those times, a dowry was essential for marriage, and without it, the daughters faced a grim future—possibly even being sold into servitude. 

Hearing of their plight, Nicholas secretly visited their home on three separate nights, tossing bags of gold coins through the window (or, as some versions suggest, down the chimney). These gifts ensured the daughters could marry and avoid destitution.

This act of anonymous generosity cemented his legacy as a protector of the vulnerable and a bringer of hope.

Nicholas’ Miracles and Canonisation

Nicholas was also credited with performing miracles, such as calming storms, saving sailors, and even resurrecting children. These stories spread far and wide, and after his death on 6 December (likely in 343 AD), he was venerated as a saint. His feast day, celebrated on 6 December, became a time of gift-giving in many parts of Europe.

Over time, Saint Nicholas became the patron saint of numerous groups, including children, sailors, and merchants.

From Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus

The transformation from Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus occurred over centuries. Dutch settlers in America brought the tradition of Sinterklaas, their version of Saint Nicholas, to New Amsterdam (later New York). Sinterklaas was depicted as a kindly figure who brought gifts to children on 6 December.

In the 19th century, the figure evolved further, especially in the United States. Writers like Clement Clarke Moore and his poem A Visit from St. Nicholas (commonly known as 'Twas the Night Before Christmas) reshaped the image into the rotund, cheerful man in a red suit. Later, Coca-Cola advertising in the 1930s popularised the modern image of Santa Claus as we know him today.

The Enduring Legacy of Saint Nicholas

Although Santa Claus has become a commercialised symbol of Christmas, his origins as Saint Nicholas remind us of the true spirit of the season: kindness, generosity, and compassion. The historical Saint Nicholas gave selflessly to improve the lives of others, and his story continues to inspire acts of goodwill around the world.

This Christmas, as we celebrate with presents, lights, and laughter, let us also remember the humble bishop of Myra, whose quiet acts of kindness laid the foundation for the magic of Santa Claus.

“Saint Nick of Bethlehem” Offers Heartfelt Alternative Programming Amid Blockbuster Season

This blogpost is mainly aimed at our American readers, but we feel that everyone else will like it, too.

As American theatres gear up for the release of “Wicked,” the highly anticipated adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, now is the perfect opportunity for audiences to experience an uplifting alternative.

“Saint Nick of Bethlehem” delivers a heartwarming story that critics and early audiences describe as refreshingly positive. 

Offering family-friendly themes and meaningful storytelling, “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” is positioned as powerful counter-programming to fantasy-based blockbusters, giving moviegoers a unique, emotionally enriching option this season.

The film tells the story of a humble, compassionate young man on a journey of kindness and healing, resonating deeply with viewers across all age groups. Early reviews praise the film’s ability to blend humor, humanity, and hope—qualities that appeal to those seeking an authentic, soul-stirring experience.

 This buzz reinforces that “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” offers more than entertainment; it’s a return to cinema that uplifts and connects with heartfelt values. While “Wicked” dazzles with spectacle, “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” captures the magic of the everyday, celebrating simple joys and humanity in a way that’s relatable and restorative.

Research shows counter-programming can be highly profitable for theatres by attracting an audience distinct from those flocking to fantasy-driven blockbusters. As “Wicked” dominates one side of the box office with its captivating world, “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” presents a timely balance. Theatres gain the opportunity to expand their reach to audiences yearning for something more festive, grounded and positive, which studies indicate can encourage multi-generational attendance and foster repeat viewership.

Amid discussions about the future of independent films in theaters, “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” proves that these films still have a place on the big screen, even during a blockbuster-heavy season. Independent features like this don’t just survive—they thrive by providing genuine, accessible storytelling. 

Early reactions on Quora revealed moviegoers are increasingly seeking movies with positive messages, especially during times filled with high-stakes fantasy and drama. For theatres, programming “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” would mean not only offering diversity in entertainment but also fulfilling a growing demand for accessible, uplifting stories, especially at this time of the year.

Backed by glowing reviews, a universal story, and engaging characters, “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” invites audiences to enjoy a feel-good cinematic journey. In partnering with theatres, this independent film creates a rare opportunity to expand ticket sales and attract a broad range of viewers eager for a warm, uplifting tale.

For further information on screenings and bookings, visit saintnickfilm.com

How to Hunt Down Christmas-Themed Music Stations for 24/7 Festive Tunes

As the days grow shorter and the air gets a little crisper, many of us find ourselves craving the comforting and cheerful sounds of Christmas music. 

Whether you prefer traditional carols, modern pop hits, or instrumental classics, there’s something magical about having a stream of festive music playing in the background to accompany you through the season. 

However, finding the perfect source for 24/7 Christmas music can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. Worry not! Here’s a handy guide to hunting down Christmas-themed music stations on the internet so you can bask in the yuletide cheer all season long.

1. Search Internet Radio Platforms

Internet radio is your best bet for non-stop Christmas music. Websites like TuneIn Radio, iHeartRadio, and Radio Garden offer thousands of stations from across the globe, many of which dedicate themselves to Christmas music throughout the festive period.

TuneIn Radio: This popular radio streaming service features a variety of stations, some of which are Christmas-only during the festive months. Simply search for "Christmas" or "Holiday music" in the app or website, and you’ll be spoilt for choice with genres ranging from classic crooners to contemporary covers.

iHeartRadio: Particularly popular in the US but available worldwide online, iHeartRadio offers specialised Christmas stations such as iHeart Christmas, which broadcasts non-stop holiday music. They also have channels devoted to specific styles like iHeart Christmas Classics or iHeart Christmas Rock.

Radio Garden: This unique platform lets you spin a globe and listen to live radio from almost any country. By simply searching for stations or hopping around locations like the UK, Germany, or the US, you’ll stumble across holiday-themed channels perfect for different moods.

2. Explore Streaming Services

Streaming services have become a hub for all things music, and many of them launch Christmas-specific playlists and radio stations that run throughout December.

Spotify: Spotify is a treasure trove for festive playlists, but it also features dedicated Christmas radio stations. Try searching for “Christmas Radio” to find continuously curated stations that play a blend of classics and modern hits. For those looking for a particular genre, there are stations dedicated to jazz, acoustic, or pop Christmas tunes.

Apple Music: Apple Music also offers holiday radio stations, often curated by music experts and featuring a wide variety of genres. They also run exclusive festive shows and artist-created playlists during the season, making it a great option for a personalised experience.

Amazon Music: Amazon’s streaming service steps up its festive game with dedicated holiday stations like Holiday Favourites or Christmas Classics. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you may even find certain stations are ad-free, letting you enjoy your music uninterrupted.

3. Christmas-Specific Websites

Believe it or not, some websites are entirely dedicated to spreading Christmas cheer through music! These sites offer themed stations that play Christmas music around the clock.

AccuRadio: AccuRadio provides multiple Christmas channels, each focusing on a different style of holiday music. You can find stations dedicated to country Christmas, classical carols, indie holiday tunes, and more. Plus, it’s free!

Christmas Radio: As the name suggests, this website is 100% committed to Christmas music. Their stream runs year-round, but the magic truly kicks in from November onwards, with an uptick in variety and frequency of holiday classics.

XmasFM.com: This Irish-based Christmas station is one of the most beloved, playing non-stop holiday hits from November to December each year. They also offer an online stream, perfect for anyone wanting to get into the spirit from the comfort of their home.

4. YouTube Christmas Streams

If you’re more of a visual listener, YouTube is an excellent place to find 24/7 Christmas music streams. Some channels are devoted to broadcasting holiday tunes alongside cosy visuals like crackling fireplaces, gently falling snow, or festive street scenes.

Christmas Songs and Carols - Love to Sing: This YouTube channel features live Christmas music streams as well as individual songs and albums. The perfect blend of traditional and modern, it’s great for both background music and singalongs.

Lofi Christmas: For those who enjoy the more relaxed side of holiday music, lo-fi Christmas music streams are the perfect soundtrack to a cosy day indoors. A simple search for “lo-fi Christmas music” will reveal several streams that play soft, chill Christmas tunes around the clock.

5. Mobile Christmas Radio Apps

If you want your Christmas music on the go, downloading a dedicated Christmas radio app can be a great option. Here are a few reliable ones:

Christmas Radio (available on iOS and Android): This app pulls together a variety of Christmas stations from around the world. Whether you’re looking for classical carols, jazz renditions, or a more contemporary mix, you’ll find it all in one convenient spot.

Simple Radio: This app offers a straightforward way to search for and listen to Christmas stations from across the globe. Many stations switch to a Christmas format in December, and you can easily find them through the app’s search function.

Final Thoughts

From streaming services and dedicated websites to apps and YouTube channels, there are countless ways to surround yourself with festive cheer through 24/7 Christmas music. Whether you’re after nostalgic hits, modern pop, or instrumental tunes, a little searching online will help you find the perfect station to suit your taste.

The holiday season is about more than just presents and parties; it’s about creating an atmosphere that lifts spirits and brings joy. Christmas music has a special way of doing just that. So, wherever you are, fire up your computer, smart speaker, or phone, and let the festive tunes play on! 

The Origins of Santa Claus: From St Nicholas to Father Christmas

The figure of Santa Claus is synonymous with the joy and magic of Christmas. 

Each year, he graces homes worldwide, delivering presents to children and symbolising goodwill and festivity. 

But how did this jolly figure, dressed in red with a flowing white beard, come to be? 

To understand the origins of Santa Claus, we must embark on a journey through time, from the legend of St Nicholas to the transformation of Father Christmas.

The Legend of St Nicholas: The Real-Life Inspiration

The roots of Santa Claus can be traced back to the 4th century and a figure known as St Nicholas of Myra. Born in what is now modern-day Turkey, Nicholas was a Christian bishop famed for his kindness, piety, and generosity. 

The most famous tale associated with him involves a poor man with three daughters. Unable to afford dowries for them, the man feared his daughters would remain unmarried and possibly face a life of hardship. 

Nicholas, hearing of the man’s plight, secretly dropped bags of gold down the chimney of their home, with one bag purportedly landing in a stocking hung by the fireplace to dry. This act of charity would later form the basis for the tradition of hanging stockings by the fire at Christmas.

St Nicholas’ reputation as a bringer of gifts grew over time, and after his death, he was canonised as the patron saint of children, sailors, and the poor. His feast day on 6 December became a time for gift-giving in many parts of Europe.

The Dutch Sinterklaas: Santa Begins to Take Shape

In the centuries following Nicholas' death, his legend spread across Europe. By the Middle Ages, he had become a central figure in Christmas celebrations in countries such as the Netherlands, where he was known as Sinterklaas. Dressed in bishop’s robes, Sinterklaas was said to arrive from Spain by boat, bringing presents to well-behaved children. Dutch settlers brought the Sinterklaas tradition with them when they emigrated to the American colonies in the 17th century.

Over time, the name "Sinterklaas" evolved in the New World, particularly in New York (formerly New Amsterdam), where it was anglicised to Santa Claus. However, the figure still bore more resemblance to the European gift-giver, with connections to St Nicholas.

Father Christmas in Britain: A Parallel Tradition

While the Dutch were celebrating Sinterklaas, Britain had its own figure who represented the spirit of the festive season: Father Christmas. This character, however, was not initially associated with gift-giving or children. Instead, Father Christmas was a personification of merrymaking and feasting. First emerging in the 15th and 16th centuries, Father Christmas was often depicted as a large, jolly man dressed in green robes, symbolising the arrival of spring after the long, cold winter.

During the Puritan period in the 17th century, Christmas celebrations were suppressed in England, and Father Christmas disappeared for a time. However, he returned with the restoration of the monarchy and became a symbol of joy, warmth, and goodwill, particularly in the Victorian era.

The Transformation: From St Nicholas to Santa Claus

The 19th century was a pivotal time for the evolution of Santa Claus. In 1823, an American writer named Clement Clarke Moore published a poem entitled "A Visit from St Nicholas," now more commonly known as “The Night Before Christmas.” This poem described Santa as a plump, jolly man who travelled in a sleigh pulled by reindeer and entered homes through the chimney to leave gifts for children. It was a dramatic shift from the traditional image of St Nicholas and laid the foundation for the modern depiction of Santa Claus.

Around the same time, political cartoonist Thomas Nast drew illustrations of Santa that helped cement his image as a rotund, cheerful figure in a red suit trimmed with white fur. These depictions, alongside the growing commercialisation of Christmas, particularly in the United States, spread around the world and popularised the version of Santa Claus we recognise today.

Coca-Cola’s Role: Cementing the Image of Santa Claus

One of the most iconic images of Santa Claus in modern history is the one crafted by artist Haddon Sundblom for Coca-Cola’s Christmas advertising campaign in the 1930s. While Santa had already been associated with a red suit before this, Sundblom’s portrayal of a jolly, rosy-cheeked figure enjoying a Coca-Cola helped solidify this version of Santa Claus in popular culture. The red and white colour scheme, incidentally matching the company’s branding, became the definitive look for Santa worldwide.

A Fusion of Traditions

The modern Santa Claus is an amalgamation of several traditions. His charitable nature and association with gift-giving come from St Nicholas, while his festive cheer and joy are rooted in Father Christmas. The reindeer, sleigh, and North Pole residence, though, are American innovations that have been embraced globally. Today, whether you call him Santa Claus, Father Christmas, St Nicholas, or even Kris Kringle, he remains a symbol of the Christmas spirit.

Conclusion: The Ever-Evolving Santa Claus

The figure of Santa Claus has evolved through centuries of legend, myth, and tradition. From a 4th-century saint to a beloved modern icon of the festive season, his journey is one that spans continents and cultures. What remains constant, however, is his representation of generosity, kindness, and the joy of giving—values that lie at the heart of the Christmas season.

As we hang stockings by the fire or place gifts under the tree, it’s worth remembering that the Santa Claus we know today is more than just a jolly figure in a red suit. He is the embodiment of centuries-old traditions, a fusion of historical characters that, together, create the magic and wonder of Christmas.

The Weird Side of Christmas Revealed by Mug Shots

Santa could be in for a feast of Playdoh cakes and Cornettos this year whilst Rudolph nibbles on Twiglets and carrot cake, if the Mug Shot’s hilarious and heart-warming snapshot into Christmas traditions is anything to go by.

And rest assured children have all his travelling needs and present delivery welfare well catered for too according to the insights unearthed in instant hot snack brand’s Tree-riffic Christmas Survey.

One thing is certain, when Mug Shot decided to stoke up some early festival cheer among its thousands of social media followers to celebrate the launch of its new festival flavour Pigs in Blankets, it’s clear it’s the wonderfully British Christmas traditions, and a few quirky ones, which help to keep the magic alive, no matter what age you are.

Risotto and Spam butties await!

Depending on how you look at it, Santa is in for a treat of some kind this year largely due to children having both a creative and practical way of looking at what Santa would fancy for that warm and welcome midnight snack.

For many Mug Shot followers the traditional mince and sherry or cookies and milk are shunned for a whole host of bizarre snacks and ‘helpful items'.

When asked what their youngsters like to leave out on the most magical night of the year lettuce and sugar sandwiches, soup, Spam butties, risotto, Playdoh cakes, Kombucha and a Cornetto all made it on to the list.

Responses also included Jack Daniels and an After Eight, red wine and pizza and salt and vinegar crisps and a can of lager which tends to suggest parents might have been planning their own supper.

Rudolph has also been enjoying a feast.

Reindeer nibbles including cat biscuits, parsnips, Twiglets (‘because they look like tiny antlers’), sweet potatoes, carrot cake, sprouts (‘wind power for the sleigh’) boiled red cabbage and moss.

And the ingenuity of a child’s mind also ensures the health, safety and welfare of Santa and his reindeers are taken into full and careful consideration on their potentially hazardous rooftop journey around the world on a cold Christmas Eve night.

Alongside refreshments, little ones have insisted on leaving woolly tights in case he gets cold, hats ‘in case he loses his own’, gloves, a hair bobble so his beard doesn’t catch fire, flea treatment for the reindeers and dog poo bags to scoop up the reindeer droppings.

Families embrace generational traditions

For many, children are the focus of Christmas, helping us to reignite the magic and special memories of our own childhood Christmases – and that’s certainly the case for our Mug Shot followers.

When asked how they keep the Christmas magic alive as their kids get older, our Mug Shot followers all had their own special little ways to help their youngsters to keep believing.

And that magic seems to last until the little kids become big kids and have children of their own.

Keeping the same tried and tested traditions going year after year was voted as the way to stop the wonder from waning including hanging up stockings, baking, Christmas stories, crafts, listening to classic Christmas tunes, watching films and plenty of festive family outings such as markets and pantomimes.

Many of Mug Shot's social media followers said that more than anything, if grown-ups keep dreaming and believing it helps to keep the magic and Christmas spirit alive for all the whole family.

Pigs in blankets gets the thumbs up

With Christmas dinner being one of the main events, Mug Shot asked their followers to dish up their likes, dislikes and favourite trimmings – even how they’ll be cooking it.

With the air fryer now a kitchen gadget staple, followers were asked which elements of Christmas dinner they’ll be bunging in there this year.

36% said roast potatoes, a fifth said pigs in blankets and almost 10% said they were bravely attempting to cook to the whole thing in an air fryer.

For those who don’t have an air fryer, many are hoping Santa will bring them one!

Overwhelmingly the most popular part of Christmas dinner was pigs in blankets, music to the Mug Shot ears!, followed by, no not the turkey, but roast potatoes (20%).

Other favourites included parsnips, gravy, Yorkshire puddings, bread sauce, stuffing and a rogue lobster.

They were also asked what accompaniment should never be part of Christmas dinner - tomato ketchup, mayonnaise, mushy peas or Yorkshire pudding.

Ketchup got the thumbs down from 40% of Christmas dinner devotees followed by mayonnaise at 27% and a quarter pushed mushy peas to one side.

One much maligned festive food which did surprisingly come out on top was the humble sprout.

When asked what the best thing was to do with them – eat them, bin them, don’t go within a mile of them or use them for an amusing game, a whopping 70% said eat them.

Trips to A&E and very awkward text messages

With the weeks of prep, stress and military precision planning that goes into Christmas you want it to run as smoothly as possible but that’s sometimes not the case.

From drunkenly falling into a Christmas tree and ending up in A&E looking like a pin cushion to being unable to turn down invitations and forcing down five Christmas dinners in one day, there was a whole raft of hilarious festive faux pas.

In the awkwardness stakes, a daughter messaged her boyfriend to tell him what a terrible Christmas day she was having at her mum’s, and accidentally sent the message to her mum.

Tales of exploding kitchen appliances, defrosting prawns with a hairdryer, forgetting the presents and having to buy substitutes from a service station on the M1 and forgetting to the turn oven on in a Prosecco haze were on the list.

There were also wonderful and heart-warmingly memorable Christmases for many respondents including a mum who rushed home from hospital with her new-born son because all her daughter wanted for Christmas was a baby brother.

And sticking with the baby theme a gran-to-be who was given a ‘Find the Peanut’ game for Christmas which turned out to be an early scan of her first grandchild which she described as “the best present ever and the gift that keeps on giving”.

Husbands rightly get the brush off for ‘housework’ gifts

When asked what was strangest present found under the tree top honours went to a deactivated First World War hand grenade.

And it seems many husbands have been in the dog house over the years thanks to their choice of more practical gifts for their wives including dusters, an extendable paint roller, a washing up bowl and cleaning products and two serving spoons.

Work place Secret Santas often result in a combination of hilarious and controversial gifts with participants ranging from thoughtful and mischievous to downright ambivalent.

Asked what the worst gift was that they’d received in a Secret Santa revealed an eye patch, a ‘Grow your own Boyfriend’ kit, a Cliff Richard calendar, a Busted poster, used body cream and a 39p bag of sweets.

Recycling and repurposing at its best

Mug Shot asked its followers to be completely upfront and honest and confess whether they’d ever re-wrapped a present they’d received and given it to someone else – which you could argue is recycling and repurposing at its best.

50% said they had and skincare product and toiletries were the most regifted items along with scarves and candles.

Emma Boyle, Senior Brand Manager at Mug Shot said: “We love hearing from our Mug Shot social media followers and this was a great way to find out more about how they like to spend this special time of year.

“We’ve had lots of laughs and really enjoyed reading the responses which show that despite these difficult times families everywhere cherish Christmas and spending time with their loved ones.

“It’s reassuring to know the wonderful traditions which have kept the magic going for many, many years – and the little traditions we invent as families and are personal to us - are still the things people turn to to make memories.”

“At Mug Shot as well as creating delicious, warm and comforting healthy lunch options, we like to have a bit of fun with our festive flavours.

“Pigs in blankets have been around since the mid 20th Century and are now an absolute Christmas Dinner favourite so it was an obvious choice for us.”

Festive Limited Edition Pigs in Blankets Mug Shot is available at B&M stores nationwide. Featuring pasta twists and the favours of bacon, sausage and sage, it’s good to go in five minutes as a tasty, healthy and low in fat lunch or snack.

Festive farm fun at Willows Farm Village Willows Farm Village, Hertfordshire

Until Saturday 24th December 2011!

Families can expect a day filled with festive farm fun this Christmas when they visit Santa in his Spectacular Grotto at Willows Farm Village, near St Albans, between 23rd November and Christmas Eve.

Children can enjoy a magical journey leading up to Santa’s Grotto with sparkling festive scenes, before meeting Santa and receiving a golden key that unlocks the door to his Toy Shop. Once inside, they can choose any gift from the selection of toys suitable for all ages.

Children can also stop off at the Elves’ House to send Santa a letter filled with their Christmas wishes.

After visiting the Grotto, children can help Santa by taking part in a special hunt to find his missing reindeer.

Those who find all nine missing reindeer cut outs from around the farm will receive a box of Reindeer Dust – a magical mixture of reindeer food and glitter that will help guide Santa and his reindeer to their house.

Families can also visit Santa’s real reindeer that are resting at Willows before their big night on Christmas Eve.

Willows farmer Anna Wolfe says: “We’re never short of Christmas cheer at Willows, but we’re particularly excited this year as it’s Star the reindeer’s first Christmas with us. She’s still too young to help the older reindeer pull Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve, but she’s looking forward to showing off her growing antlers to our guests in the run up to Christmas!”

Later, families can get their skates on and enjoy the Willows Magical Ice Rink, which returns for a second year. Thanks to the synthetic ice surface, children can stay warm and dry while gliding around.

Each day, the nativity story will be brought to life in Woolly’s Showtime Theatre and there is a tractor ride through the Festive Woods where visitors can get into the Christmas spirit thanks to twinkling lights and carol singing.

In addition to the special Christmas events, there will be all the usual fun activities to enjoy including farmyard animals and – if it gets chilly! – plenty of indoor play in Woolly Jumpers and Captain Chicken’s Egg Dodge.


To top off their visit, families can also browse Willows Farm Shop’s selection of British and locally-produced Christmas fare.

Santa is at Willows from to 24 December 2011, 10am to 5.30pm (closes 4pm Christmas Eve).

For more information please visit www.willowsfarmvillage.com or call 0870 129 9718.

New Santa and reindeer app launched by Rantmedia donates 15% proceeds to Action Duchenne

iphone and iPad developer launches festive app on iTunes store and donates proceeds to charity dedicated to combating devastating life wasting disease

Rantmedia has launched a Christmas iPhone & iPad app, Santa’s Sleigh Ride, with 15% of proceeds from sales donated to the charity Action Duchenne. The app costs just 69p to download from the iTunes store, http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/santas-sleigh-ride/id47766816...

Action Duchenne is the only charity that campaigns for research and treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

The disease affects one in 3,500 male births in the UK, and is the most common and severe type of muscular dystrophy – sufferers are diagnosed as children usually by the age of five and rarely live past their twenties.
The app is ideal for gamers of all levels – easy to play yet highly addictive. Santa and his reindeer are in training for their annual Christmas Eve dash - travelling as far as possible through the ultra-festive surroundings. The duo travel past Christmassy villages, up and over snow topped hills, while avoiding the many seasonal objects that block their way.

Anton Faulconbridge, Director at Rantmedia said; “We wanted to use our expertise and skills to really make a difference to those who need it most. Our Santa app is a great way to have fun at Christmas yet also remember the true spirit of giving and charity. Our hope is that this app might go viral and raise thousands to support such a deserving cause as Action Duchenne’s.”

Young Saul Catlin, aged 11, who has Duchenne said; “Santa’s Sleigh Ride is a really cool app and makes you feel like it is Christmas already.”

Saul’s Dad, Nick Catlin, who is CEO of Action Duchenne commented, “We are delighted to continue to work with Rantmedia who has supported the Charity with their development of our Patient Registry and our website.

“For many families living with Duchenne, Christmas can mark a difficult time as another year passes with a decline in health. Our cause is striving to raise funds to find treatments and a cure for this devastating disease. Successful iPhone/iPad apps like Santa’s Sleigh Ride could generate lots of much needed funds, so we are calling on as many people as possible to download and enjoy the game and support our cause at the same time. ”

Itsyourstory launch unique photo-personalised letter from Santa

If you think you've seen every festive letter on the market, you could be in for a surprise. 

Because this year, with the help of Itsyourstory, you can make the run up to Christmas extra special with a unique photo-personalised letter unlike any you've seen before.

The Father Christmas photo-personalised letter features your child in the illustrations dressed as Father Christmas's elf. Share in your child's excitement as they see their photograph on Father Christmas's notepaper and information above them woven into the letter.

Each letter is personalised when ordering to feature the child's address, the name of two of their friends, their age and a uniquely personal PS at the bottom of the letter. This will create even more magic as it is written by the sender and relates to something personal in their lives eg – how well they’re doing at school, getting a new pet etc. The letter also reveals which friend or family member has asked Father Christmas to get in touch.

Priced at £4.50, the Father Christmas photo-personalised letter is available exclusively from Itsyourstory.co.uk. Customers can choose from two letter designs featuring the child alongside Rudolf or Father Christmas. The letter arrives in a Christmas-themed envelope addressed to the child and complete with a North Pole stamp. What better way to build the excitement in the run up to Christmas!

Orders are being taken NOW. Last delivery date before Christmas is December 19th.

FACTFILE:

Itsyourstory launched in 2004, specialising in photo-personalised children’s books. It was the first company in the UK to offer books which include the child’s face in the illustrations as well as their name and information about them in the text. It has a range of 20 books for children aged two to eight and also sells personalised birthday cards, thank you cards and party invitations. The Love Is… book is its first product for adults. For further information please visit www.itsyourstory.co.uk.

A message from Father Christmas direct to your child!

You will have seen letters from Father Christmas to children, before. Some are better than others. But the best by far is the letter produced by Itsyourstory, because it will help you make the run up to Christmas an even more magical experience for you and your children, with the unique photo-personalised Christmas letter. You will never have seen anything like it before!

The Father Christmas photo-personalised letter features your child in the illustrations dressed dressed as Santa's elf! You will be able to share in their glee and excitement as they see their own photograph on Santa's notepaper and the information about them cleverly and carefully woven into the letter.

Each letter is specially personalised when you order it to feature your child's address, the names of two of thier best friends, their age and a unique PS at the bottom of the letter. This will generate even more special Christmas magic as it is written by the sender and will relate to something personal in the lives of the child, something that is important to them and that they will relate to. The letter will also reveal who asked Santa to write to them!

The cost of the letter is a very modest £4.50, but do not let the modest price put you off, it's a very well produced product which your child will treasure. There's a choice of letter styles and the letter will arrive in a special Christmas envelope with a highly apropriate North Pole stamp!

Last delivery date before Christmas is 19th December. To order just visit www.itsyourstory.com.