That's Books and Entertainment: The Royal Butler by Grant Harrold — A UK Lens on L...

That's Books and Entertainment: The Royal Butler by Grant Harrold — A UK Lens on L...: Grant Harrold’s memoir The Royal Butler: My Remarkable Life in Royal Service invites readers into an often-hidden world: not the pomp of sta...

How to Find Christmastime Church Services in Your Area

Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without the joy of gathering for a church service. 

From candlelit carols to Midnight Mass, these moments bring us together to celebrate the heart of the season—the birth of Christ. 

Whether you’re looking for a service in your hometown, or you’ll be travelling and want to join a congregation elsewhere, it’s easier than you might think to find a Christmas service near you.

Here are some simple ways to make sure you don’t miss out on this special part of the festivities.

1. Look at Your Local Church Noticeboard

Most churches proudly display their Christmas schedules on noticeboards outside. You’ll often see details of Christingle services, carol concerts, and of course the all-important Midnight Mass or Christmas morning service.

2. Visit Church Websites and Directories

Many churches now share their Christmas service times online. For Church of England congregations, the “A Church Near You” website is a fantastic tool—you can simply enter your postcode and find services nearby. Catholic and other denominations also have parish finders to help you locate a welcoming church.

3. Check Local Papers and Magazines

Community magazines and regional newspapers often print special Christmas service listings. These can be especially helpful for smaller churches or chapels that may not have an online presence but are still very much part of the local Christmas spirit.

4. Ask Your Community

Neighbours, colleagues, and friends will often know what’s happening locally. Many services—especially carol evenings and Christingles—are community highlights and widely attended.

5. Explore Social Media

Facebook community pages, local WhatsApp groups, and church social media accounts frequently share Christmas timetables. Some churches also livestream their services, giving you the chance to join in even if you can’t make it in person.

6. Attending Away from Home?

If you’re travelling this Christmas, why not make visiting a local cathedral or historic church part of your festive plans? Many larger churches host grand, atmospheric services that welcome visitors from near and far.

The True Magic of Christmas

Amidst the presents, lights, and celebrations, attending a church service reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas: hope, joy, and togetherness. Whether you go along with family, friends, or by yourself, you’ll find a warm welcome, uplifting carols, and a festive spirit that lingers long after the final hymn.

So as you write your Christmas to-do list, add “find a church service”—and give yourself the gift of a little peace and reflection this festive season.

Flannels Beauty Cracker 2025: The Ultimate Festive Beauty Gift

Christmas 2025 has brought us a new must-have for beauty lovers: the Flannels Beauty Cracker. 

It’s not just a festive decoration but a luxury gift box styled like a Christmas cracker, packed with high-end skincare, makeup, fragrance and pampering extras. 

My wife has just received her Flannels Beauty Cracker and is in Ecstasy over it. In fact all photographs in this blogpost are attributed to her. 

What is it The Flannels Beauty Cracker?

The Flannels Beauty Cracker is designed to be a show-stopping seasonal beauty box. Unlike a traditional advent calendar, it’s a single festive cracker filled with beauty treasures. Alongside the main cracker, Flannels are also offering two fragrance boxes – one for women and one for men – aimed at fragrance lovers who want to explore luxury scents in miniature form.

Price and Value

The Beauty Cracker is priced at £165, but Flannels claim it contains products worth over £550. The fragrance boxes are more affordable at £49 each and still carry impressive value, with each containing deluxe minis worth over £140.

What’s Inside

Inside the Beauty Cracker, you’ll find a total of 23 beauty treats, ranging from deluxe sample sizes to full-size products. The skincare offering is strong, with products such as Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum, Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum, Mario Badescu’s popular Aloe, Adaptogens & Coconut facial spray, Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream, an ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine bath and shower gel, and Oskia’s Violet Water Hydra-Gel Moisturiser.

For makeup fans, there are cult classics and new finds, including NARS Blush in the iconic shade Orgasm, Prada Hyper Matte mini lipstick, YSL Loveshine Candy Glow mini lipstick, a Kylie Cosmetics lip liner and gloss, plus Pat McGrath Labs’ Blurring Under-Eye Powder.

Fragrance is also represented, with minis of Parfums De Marly’s Delina Exclusif and Carolina Herrera’s Good Girl Blush. There are pampering extras too, such as a Rose Quartz Eye Mask, Velvet Powder Puff and a Black Amber scented candle.

The women’s fragrance box includes around six luxury minis such as Creed’s A Queen of Silk and By Kilian’s Apple Brandy On The Rocks. The men’s fragrance box offers five deluxe scents including By Kilian’s Straight to Heaven.

Pros and Cons

The cracker has some obvious strengths. The value is excellent if you enjoy a variety of brands, and the mix of skincare, makeup and fragrance means there’s something for everyone. It also feels indulgent and festive, making it a standout gift.

On the other hand, the £165 price tag is an investment, and some of the products are minis rather than full size. If you already own some of the hero products, you may find a little duplication. And, as with all exclusive beauty sets, there’s limited availability – these tend to sell out quickly.

Who It’s Best For

This is ideal for anyone who loves experimenting with beauty and enjoys a mix of products rather than sticking to one brand. It’s also a great option if you’re buying for a beauty enthusiast who appreciates luxury packaging and the excitement of a well-curated selection. If you prefer full-size products only, it may not be the best fit.

Verdict

The Flannels Beauty Cracker 2025 is one of the most exciting beauty gifts of the season. It’s perhaps considered expensive by some, but the variety and overall value make it worthwhile for those who want a luxurious Christmas treat. 

Whether you’re gifting it or keeping it for yourself, it has all the sparkle and indulgence you’d expect from a festive showpiece.

Tip: Order early to avoid disappointment – these limited-edition boxes don’t hang around for long.

https://www.flannels.com

Flannels is a part of House of Fraser.

That's Food and Drink: Why You Should Seek Out Hungry Horse Pubs for a Sn...

That's Food and Drink: Why You Should Seek Out Hungry Horse Pubs for a Sn...: Whether you’re on a long drive, exploring the countryside, or just in need of a comforting meal, Hungry Horse pubs are a go-to choice for Br...

Stretch Your Christmas Budget: Why Home Bargains, B&M Bargains, and Poundland Should Be on Your List

Christmas is a time for giving, but it’s also famously expensive. 

Between gifts, decorations, food, and festive treats, costs can quickly spiral. 

That’s why savvy shoppers are turning to high-street favourites like Home Bargains, B&M Bargains, and Poundland to make their Christmas spending go further—without compromising on quality or festive cheer. 

Here’s why these stores should be on your Christmas shopping list this year.

1. Incredible Value on Gifts

When it comes to presents, everyone loves a bargain. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland offer a wide range of gifts at wallet-friendly prices, from toys and games for children to beauty products, homeware, and stocking fillers for adults. You can find items that look and feel premium without the premium price tag—perfect for filling stockings or giving multiple gifts without overspending.

2. Festive Décor That Doesn’t Break the Bank

Decking the halls can be one of the priciest parts of Christmas. Stores like Home Bargains and B&M stock everything from Christmas lights and baubles to trees and tinsel at prices that leave room in your budget for other festive essentials. Poundland also excels in affordable, quirky decorations, perfect for adding a fun, playful touch to your home.

3. Snacks, Treats, and Party Essentials

Christmas is all about food, and these stores are treasure troves for festive snacks and treats. From chocolate selection boxes and biscuits to drinks, party nibbles, and wrapping essentials, you can stock up for Christmas gatherings without feeling guilty about overspending. 

Many of these items are priced so competitively that you can even grab a few extra for last-minute hosting emergencies.

4. One-Stop Convenience

Shopping at multiple high-street shops can be a chore, especially during the busy festive period. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland offer a mix of gifts, décor, and food under one roof, saving you time and effort. Their wide product range means you can tick off multiple items on your Christmas list in one visit.

5. Big Brands, Small Prices

Many people assume discount stores only stock generic brands—but that’s not the case. You’ll often find branded products at a fraction of the usual cost. From popular toy brands to cosmetics and gourmet treats, you can secure high-quality gifts without stretching your budget.

6. Stocking Fillers Galore

Stockings are a beloved Christmas tradition, but filling them can be tricky. Luckily, Poundland, B&M, and Home Bargains are stocking filler powerhouses. From fun gadgets and sweets to beauty minis and quirky trinkets, there’s something for everyone—and nothing will cost more than a few pounds.

Final Bargain Hunting Thoughts

This Christmas, don’t underestimate the power of a bargain. Home Bargains, B&M, and Poundland aren’t just for everyday shopping—they’re essential stops for anyone looking to make the most of their festive budget. With quality gifts, decorations, and treats at prices that make your money go further, these stores ensure that Christmas is both joyful and affordable.

So, when making your Christmas shopping list, make sure these high-street favourites are at the top—it’s a savvy move for happy wallets and happy families alike.

Incidentally the genesis of this blogpost was a visit my wife and I made to a branch of Home Bargains and found one branded item £18.00 cheaper than a high street retailer.

How to Curate the Perfect Vegan Christmas Cheeseboard

If you loved our guide to curating the perfect Christmas cheeseboard, you’ll be pleased to know that you don’t need to miss out on the festive fun if you or your guests are dairy-free.

A vegan cheeseboard can be every bit as indulgent, colourful, and satisfying as its traditional counterpart, and it’s a wonderful way to showcase the incredible variety of plant-based cheeses now available.

Here’s how to put together a vegan cheeseboard that’s guaranteed to delight everyone at the table.

1. Choose a Variety of Vegan Cheeses

A great cheeseboard is all about balance — soft, hard, crumbly, and creamy. Vegan cheese makers have come a long way, and there’s now plenty of choice:

Soft and creamy: Cashew-based brie or almond cream cheese spread.

Firm and sliceable: Mature cheddar-style vegan blocks made with coconut oil or oats.

Blue-inspired: Tangy, mould-ripened cashew cheeses with that signature sharpness.

Something smoky: Smoked vegan gouda or smoked cashew cheese adds depth.

Tip: Mix supermarket staples (like Applewood Vegan or Violife) with artisanal, small-batch options from brands such as Tyne Chease, Honestly Tasty, or Kinda Co for real wow factor.

2. Add Complementary Crackers and Bread

Texture is key, so include a mix:

Seeded oatcakes for crunch

Thin, crisp crackers for spreading

Sourdough slices or warm baguette pieces for heartiness

Make sure everything is vegan-friendly by double-checking ingredients (some crackers contain milk powder or honey).

3. Sweet and Savoury Accents

A cheeseboard isn’t just about the cheese — the accompaniments tie it all together:

Fruit: Grapes, figs, clementine segments, or dried apricots bring festive sweetness.

Chutneys and relishes: Spiced apple chutney, cranberry sauce, or caramelised onion jam are perfect Christmas additions.

Nuts: Toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds add crunch and richness.

Olives and pickles: Briny bites keep things balanced.

4. A Festive Finish

Presentation matters. Arrange your cheeses in a circular or star pattern, scatter pomegranate seeds for colour, and garnish with fresh rosemary or holly (just for decoration — don’t eat the holly!).

To keep it special, you might also include a little surprise like chocolate-covered pretzels or vegan fudge tucked between the cheeses and crackers.

5. Pair with Drinks

No cheeseboard is complete without drinks:

Wine: Look for vegan-certified wines — a crisp sauvignon blanc or a bold red like shiraz pairs beautifully.

Mulled cider: Warm, spiced, and festive.

Non-alcoholic: Sparkling elderflower or kombucha can feel just as celebratory.

Final Vegan Thoughts

A vegan Christmas cheeseboard isn’t just a substitute — it’s a star in its own right. By combining different flavours, textures, and festive touches, you’ll create something that looks stunning, tastes delicious, and ensures everyone at your Christmas gathering feels included.

So this year, why not make space for a vegan cheeseboard alongside (or instead of) the traditional one? It might just become the highlight of your festive table.

Please check out our related post here:- https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/09/how-to-curate-perfect-christmastime.html

To order your vegan cheeses please visit https://amzn.to/4myo761

How to Curate the Perfect Christmastime Cheese Board

Nothing says festive indulgence quite like a beautifully curated cheese board at Christmas. 

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, throwing a party, or simply enjoying a cosy evening with loved ones, a well-balanced cheese board can be both a show-stopping centrepiece and a crowd-pleaser. 

Here’s how to put together the perfect selection this festive season.

1. Choose a Wide Variety of Cheeses

A successful cheese board is all about balance — flavour, texture, and style. Aim for a mix of the following:

Soft and creamy: Brie, Camembert, or a British Tunworth.

Hard and aged: Cheddar (go for a farmhouse Somerset or Cornish variety), Comté, or Manchego.

Blue: Stilton is the classic Christmas choice, but Roquefort or Gorgonzola are also rich options.

Goat’s or sheep’s milk: A log of chèvre or a Spanish Idiazabal adds tang and variety.

Something a little different: Try a smoked cheese, truffle-infused brie, or even a festive cranberry Wensleydale for a seasonal touch.

2. Think About Pairings

A cheese board is as much about the accompaniments as the cheese itself. Provide a range of flavours to complement your selection:

Crackers and bread: Offer a mix of textures — oatcakes, crispbreads, seeded crackers, and slices of baguette.

Fruit: Fresh figs, grapes, pears, and apples work beautifully. For festive flair, add dried cranberries, apricots, or dates.

Chutneys and jams: A spiced apple chutney, red onion marmalade, or fig jam can bring out the richness of strong cheeses.

Nuts: Walnuts, pecans, and candied almonds add crunch and warmth.

Charcuterie: For a heartier board, include slices of prosciutto, salami, or chorizo.

3. Add a Festive Touch

Make your cheese board feel special for the season:

Use rosemary sprigs or holly (non-toxic, decorative only) as garnish.

Serve with a glass of port, mulled wine, or Champagne.

Cut cheeses into wedges or festive shapes using cookie cutters for fun presentation.

4. Presentation Matters

Arrange your board with style:

Place cheeses evenly around the board and fill in with accompaniments.

Create height by stacking crackers or using small bowls for chutneys and nuts.

Don’t overcrowd — leave space so each element can shine.

Always serve cheeses at room temperature for the best flavour.

5. Serving Sizes

Plan for around 70–100g of cheese per person if it’s part of a larger meal, or 150–200g per person if the cheese board is the main event.

Final Cheese Thoughts

Curating a Christmas cheese board is about more than just food — it’s about creating a warm, indulgent moment for your guests. With the right balance of cheeses, thoughtful pairings, and a touch of festive presentation, you’ll have a centrepiece that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Next, how to arrange a vegan cheeseboard.

To order your Christmas cheeses visit https://amzn.to/3Ic9is5

How to Organise a Christmas Jumper Party: The More Garish, the Better!

Nothing says Christmas quite like a gloriously garish jumper. 

From flashing reindeers to knitted snowmen and tinsel-trimmed sleeves, Christmas jumpers are the ultimate way to celebrate the season in style (or lack of it!). 

Whether you’re planning a gathering at home, spicing up your work Christmas do, or raising money for a good cause, here’s how to organise the ultimate Christmas jumper party.

Step 1: Set the Dress Code Loud and Clear

This isn’t the time for subtlety. Make it clear on your invites or email that the jumper must be as over-the-top as possible. Think sequins, pom-poms, baubles, and battery-powered fairy lights. You can even set up categories like Most Outrageous Jumper, Best DIY Creation, or Funniest Festive Design.

Step 2: Pick a Venue That Suits Your Crowd

At Home: Perfect for a cosy gathering with friends and family. Deck out your living room with fairy lights, a mini tree, and a buffet table of festive nibbles.

At Work: A brilliant way to liven up the office Christmas party. Encourage colleagues to join in and even get management involved for extra laughs.

For Charity: Tie your event in with initiatives like Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day. Ask guests to donate a set amount (say £2–£5) to wear their jumper, and make giving fun.

Step 3: Plan Festive Games and Contests

Make the jumpers the centrepiece of the night with competitions and prizes:

Jumper Catwalk: Line up your guests and let them strut their stuff.

Jumper Quiz: Add a trivia round based on Christmas films, songs, or traditions.

Guess the Bauble: Guests guess how many baubles are on the office tree, with a festive prize for the winner.

Step 4: Serve Up Seasonal Food and Drink

Pair the festive jumpers with an equally festive spread. Mulled wine, spiced cider, or hot chocolate with whipped cream are guaranteed winners. For food, go for mince pies, sausage rolls, cheese platters, and a showstopping Christmas cake or Yule log.

Step 5: Spread the Festive Spirit

If you’re fundraising, make it easy for people to donate on the night (or online). You could set up a collection box, share a QR code for digital donations, or run a mini raffle. Even at a home or office party, consider supporting a local foodbank or charity by encouraging guests to bring along a small donation.

Step 6: Capture the Memories

No Christmas jumper party is complete without plenty of photos. Set up a festive photo corner with props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, and oversized candy canes. You’ll have hilarious snaps to share long after the baubles have been packed away.

Final Tip

The secret to a successful Christmas jumper party is to embrace the silliness. The more outrageous the knitwear, the better the laughs – and whether you’re partying at home, in the office, or raising money for a worthy cause, you’ll create festive memories everyone will cherish.

How to Give the Perfect Perfume This Christmas – Without Getting It Wrong

Perfume is one of the most luxurious and personal Christmas gifts you can give. A beautifully wrapped bottle under the tree feels thoughtful, indulgent, and special. 

But choosing the right fragrance can be a minefield. Scents are intensely personal, tied to taste, mood, and even memories. What smells heavenly to you might feel overwhelming or dull to someone else.

Some types of fragrances don't work on all skin types. And my wife prefers oil-based perfumes to alcohol-based perfumes. 

So how do you make sure your loved one gets the perfect perfume without the risk of a gifting faux pas? The answer is simple: a pre-paid perfume gift card.

Why Perfume Gift Cards Make the Ideal Christmas Present

1. No Guesswork, Just Choice

When you give a perfume gift card, you remove the pressure of trying to guess someone’s signature scent. They can browse, test, and decide for themselves, ensuring they’ll walk away with a fragrance they’ll truly love.

2. A Luxurious Shopping Experience

Buying perfume is more than a transaction – it’s an experience. From sampling spritzes at the counter to discovering new fragrance families, your recipient gets to enjoy the full indulgence of perfume shopping, all thanks to your gift.

3. Works for Every Budget

Whether you’d like to give a little treat or a full designer fragrance, most perfume retailers offer gift cards starting from modest amounts, making them flexible for all price ranges.

4. Perfect for In-Store or Online

Many retailers now allow gift cards to be used both online and in-store, so whether your loved one enjoys the bustle of a high street beauty hall or the ease of online shopping, they’re covered.

5. No Waste, No Returns

Perfume is one of those gifts that often can’t be exchanged once opened. A gift card avoids the risk of ending up with an unused bottle gathering dust at the back of a dressing table.

Where to Find Perfume Gift Cards

In the UK, you can find pre-paid perfume gift cards at:

The Perfume Shop – available online or in-store.

Boots – covering their wide fragrance range, from celebrity scents to designer names.

House of Fraser & Selfridges – ideal for luxury fragrance counters.

John Lewis – perfect for high-end perfume lovers.

Rituals - absolutely idea for people who have very high standards and like being pampered.

A Thoughtful Twist: Make It Personal

If you’re worried a gift card feels impersonal, make it part of a curated gift. For example:

Pair the card with a beautifully wrapped scented candle or body lotion.

Tuck it inside a festive card with a handwritten note about how much you want them to find a scent that’s truly them.

Present it in a Christmas cracker or inside a small jewellery box for a fun surprise.

The Gift of Scent, Without the Stress

This Christmas, take the stress out of buying perfume and let your loved ones choose the fragrance that makes them feel their very best. A perfume gift card is practical, personal, and still carries all the sparkle and indulgence of a luxury present.

To buy Christmas perfumes visit https://amzn.to/3Kz6Fky

That's Business: That's Food and Drink: How Scottish Distilleries C...

That's Business: That's Food and Drink: How Scottish Distilleries C...: That's Food and Drink: How Scottish Distilleries Can Adapt to a Proposed ... : Single malt Scotch with peat smoke is iconic: its peat in...