Don’t Waste Your Pumpkin: Sweet and Savoury Ideas for Autumn and Winter Cooking

Every year, in the pre-Christmas season, millions of pumpkins are carved into spooky faces and left to rot on compost heaps or bins once Halloween is over. 

In fact, according to environmental groups, over 18,000 tonnes of edible pumpkin are wasted across the UK each autumn. 

But here’s the good news: that leftover pumpkin can be transformed into an array of delicious sweet and savoury dishes, saving you money and reducing food waste.

First Things First: What You Can (and Can’t) Eat

If you’ve carved a pumpkin, don’t use one that’s been sitting outside for days or filled with candles. 

Instead, use uncarved pumpkins or the fresh flesh you’ve scooped out before decorating. The seeds, flesh and even the skin (on some varieties) are all edible and nutritious, rich in vitamin A, fibre and antioxidants.

Savoury Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Soup

A comforting classic. Roast your pumpkin chunks first with olive oil, salt, and a little paprika for extra depth. Then simmer with onion, garlic, vegetable stock and a dash of cream or coconut milk. Blitz until smooth and garnish with pumpkin seeds and fresh herbs.

My wife made an absolutely delicious pumpkin and apple soup a couple of days ago. 

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Add mashed roasted pumpkin to your cheese sauce for a warming autumn twist. It gives extra creaminess and a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with mature cheddar or Gruyère.

Pumpkin and Feta Tart

Layer roasted pumpkin slices with crumbled feta, red onion and thyme on puff pastry. Bake until golden and serve with a crisp salad, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Pumpkin Curry

Pumpkin’s natural sweetness balances spicy flavours beautifully. Try it in a Thai-style curry with coconut milk, red curry paste and lime, or a hearty Indian curry with lentils, cumin, and garam masala.

Sweet Pumpkin Treats

Pumpkin Pie

The quintessential dessert from across the pond, but loved here too. Use puréed pumpkin mixed with eggs, cream, brown sugar, and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger in a shortcrust pastry case.

Pumpkin Muffins or Loaf Cake

Add pumpkin purée to muffin or cake batter for moisture and flavour. Combine with mixed spice, raisins or chocolate chips for a tasty treat with your cuppa.

Pumpkin Spiced Cookies

Chewy, soft and aromatic pumpkin purée gives biscuits a beautiful golden hue. Perfect for lunchboxes or a post-Halloween bake-off.

Pumpkin and Maple Ice Cream

Blend roasted pumpkin, maple syrup, and double cream for a luxurious frozen dessert. It pairs beautifully with ginger biscuits or crushed amaretti.

Use Every Bit

Roast the seeds with olive oil, salt and smoked paprika for a crunchy snack.

Turn the skin into crisps, thinly slice and roast with a drizzle of oil.

Freeze the purée in portions to use later in soups, sauces or baking for the Christmas season.

Compost the rest if it’s no longer edible, better for the planet than landfill.

Your pumpkin doesn’t have to be just for decoration, it’s a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed well beyond Halloween. Whether you prefer hearty savoury meals or spiced sweet bakes, there’s no excuse to let that beautiful orange globe go to waste.

So this year, instead of binning your pumpkin, turn it into something delicious, and do your bit to cut food waste at the same time.

North Wales Dad Turns Son into Storybook Hero — 125 Copies Sold in His First Month

Every parent has told a bedtime story. Craig Darren Read went one step further, he turned his four-year-old son into the hero of one.

His debut picture book, Dwayne and the Ocean Plug Pirates (Noble Legacy Publishing), published 16 September 2025, launched this September and has already sold 125 print copies in its first month. 

The book is inspired directly by Craig’s son Dwayne, whose boundless imagination and bedtime adventures shaped the character who saves the ocean from pirates.

The story begins when young Dwayne dreams his way into a magical underwater crisis. The sea has been drained because pirates have stolen the plug from the ocean floor. To restore the waves, Dwayne must solve riddles, outsmart jellyfish, and face the grumpy Captain Salty Beard. Along the way, he reminds everyone that the real treasure isn't gold or jewels, but the world we all share.

“The real treasure isn’t gold or jewels, but the world we all share.”

"I wanted to give my son a story where he was the hero," Read explained to That's Christmas. "Seeing children beyond our home now enjoying the same adventure and hearing from parents who say it's become their kids' new bedtime favourite, is the best reward I could imagine.”

Since its launch, the book has earned 5-star reviews on Amazon, praised as “a joyful bedtime story” and “a fun way to teach kids about kindness and helping others.”

Dwayne and the Ocean Plug Pirates is available globally in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle eBook editions.

Available now via Amazon at this following link https://amzn.to/47C6nSa

The Ultimate Guide to Christmas Nibbles and Party Snacks – Easy Bites for Any Gathering

When it comes to Christmas entertaining, it’s often the nibbles and snacks that steal the show. 

Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, a festive drinks night, or an all-out Christmas party, having a spread of delicious finger food keeps everyone happy and sociable.

From traditional British favourites to modern twists, here’s your ultimate guide to Christmas nibbles and party snacks that are simple, stress-free, and utterly irresistible.

Classic Christmas Nibbles That Never Fail

1. Mini Sausage Rolls

You can’t go wrong with this British classic. Use good-quality sausage meat (or even festive flavoured ones like cranberry and turkey) wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Serve warm with a pot of mustard or chutney for dipping. Or even try using cocktail sausages, instead of sausage meat.

2. Cheese Straws

Crisp, buttery, and cheesy,  these are the perfect make-ahead snack. Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne for a subtle festive kick.

3. Pigs in Blankets

Small but mighty, these bacon-wrapped sausages vanish very quickly indeed. fast. Try a twist by glazing them with honey and mustard or serving them on skewers with roasted cherry tomatoes.

Festive Cheese & Charcuterie Boards

Cheese boards are always crowd-pleasers. Mix and match flavours, textures, and colours for a show-stopping centrepiece:

Hard cheeses: Mature Cheddar, Red Leicester, or Comté

Soft cheeses: Brie, Camembert, or goat’s cheese

Blue cheeses: Stilton or Gorgonzola

Accompaniments: Grapes, chutneys, figs, nuts, crackers, and sliced cured meats

For extra flair, warm up a baked Camembert and surround it with crusty bread for dipping. Add a drizzle of honey and rosemary sprigs to make it look (and taste) festive.

Sweet and Savoury Mini Bites

1. Mini Yorkshire Puddings with Roast Beef

Fill bite-sized Yorkshire puddings with slivers of roast beef and a dollop of horseradish cream for a very British canapé. Or use ready-made pastry shells, instead.

2. Cranberry and Brie Bites

Ready-made pastry shells or puff squares topped with melted Brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce – elegant, effortless, and festive.

3. Mini Mince Pies

No Christmas snack spread is complete without them. Dust with icing sugar and serve with brandy butter or clotted cream for a decadent treat.

Vegetarian & Vegan Christmas Snacks

Make sure everyone feels included with plant-based options that still pack plenty of festive flavour:

Stuffed mushrooms with garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs

Vegan sausage rolls using lentil or mushroom filling

Falafel bites with minty yoghurt dip

Roasted spiced nuts – a simple make-ahead snack with a sweet-salty coating

Don't forget vegan mince pies are now available

Quick and Creative Party Skewers

Skewers make life easy for hosts, no plates, no mess, and plenty of flavour combinations:

Caprese skewers (cherry tomato, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze)

Smoked salmon and cucumber ribbons

Fruit skewers with pineapple, grapes, and strawberries dipped in chocolate

Drinks Pairings for Your Nibbles

Prosecco, Champagne, English sparkling white wine: Perfect for light bites and cheese platters

Mulled wine: Lovely with sausage rolls or savoury pastries

Festive mocktails: Try cranberry spritzers or spiced apple punch for non-drinkers

Port or dessert wine: A natural match for mince pies and blue cheese

Make-Ahead Tips for Stress-Free Hosting

Freeze ahead: Sausage rolls, cheese straws, and pigs in blankets can all be frozen and reheated when needed. But do remember to remove them from the freezer in good time

Prep dips and boards: Assemble your cheese or charcuterie board an hour before guests arrive.

Batch cook: Keep the oven free by serving room-temperature platters like antipasti or cold canapés.

Final Festive Buffet Thoughts

Christmas is about joy, laughter, and good food shared with loved ones. With the right mix of festive nibbles – from savoury bites to sweet little treats, your party table will be the star of the season. Keep it simple, make it colourful, and most importantly, make it merry!

Legacy Youth Zone launches Digital Christmas Tree “Buy a Bauble” Campaign to Support Young People This Festive Season

Legacy Youth Zone has launched its festive Digital Christmas Tree “Buy a Bauble” fundraising campaign, inviting the community to come together this Christmas to support young people across Croydon in London.

The campaign gives individuals, families, and local businesses the opportunity to “buy a bauble” online and decorate Legacy’s virtual Christmas tree, each bauble representing a donation that will directly fund youth programmes, hot meals, and safe spaces for thousands of local young people.

Every bauble purchased will help Legacy continue to provide inspiring opportunities, support, and guidance to more than 3,000 members aged 8–19 (and up to 25 for those with additional needs). 

With many young people and families feeling the financial strain this winter, the campaign aims to ensure no young person misses out on a safe, warm, and positive place to go.

“This campaign is about bringing people together in the spirit of giving,” Sonya Russo, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Legacy Youth Zone, told That's Christmas. 

“Every bauble represents someone in our community choosing to invest in young people’s futures. Whether you’re an individual or a local business, your contribution will make a real difference this Christmas.”

Supporters can visit https://visufund.com/create-legacies-this-christmas to choose a bauble, add a festive message, and watch as the digital tree lights up with the names and messages of donors across the borough. 

The bauble donations start at £50, which provides Legacy Youth Zone members with 16 hot meals or pays for 3 hours of youth work. 

Every donation makes a huge difference. Legacy Youth Zone relies solely on fundraising from the community, corporate partnerships, grants and trusts and membership.

Legacy Youth Zone is encouraging everyone, from local residents to corporate partners, to get involved, share the campaign online, and help fill the tree before Christmas Eve.

“The young people who walk through our doors every day inspire us. This Christmas, we want the community to show them just how valued they are.”

Choose your digital bauble and donation amount

Add your name, message or business logo.

Watch the tree grow and sparkle with community spirit.

Encourage the Men in Your Life to Look After Their Skin This Christmas

When it comes to skincare, many men are still a bit reluctant to dive in. (As a man I can confirm this is all too true!)

Whether it’s down to habit, a lack of knowledge, or the idea that moisturiser is “just for women,” too many gents still skip even the basics of skin health. 

But Christmas is the perfect time to change that, and the right gift can do wonders for both their skin and their confidence.

Here’s how to gently (and effectively) encourage your man to look after his skin this festive season.

1. Start with Subtle, Practical Gifts

Men often appreciate skincare that’s simple, effective, and fuss-free. Instead of overwhelming them with a 10-step routine, opt for practical, everyday essentials:

Cleansers that remove dirt and oil without drying the skin

Moisturisers with SPF protection

Beard oils or balms for those who sport facial hair

Aftershave balms that soothe rather than sting

Brands like Bulldog Skincare for Men, L’Oréal Men Expert, and Clinique for Men offer accessible, no-nonsense ranges that appeal to even the most reluctant users.

2. Make It Luxurious

If you’re gifting for someone who loves a touch of luxury, there are excellent premium options to explore. Consider sets from Elemis, Molton Brown, or Kiehl’s,beautifully packaged and perfect for Christmas gifting. A luxury shaving kit or a rich anti-ageing moisturiser might just spark an appreciation for skincare he never knew he had.

3. Introduce the Benefits (Without the Lecture)

Men often respond better to practical reasoning than beauty talk. When you introduce skincare, focus on benefits such as:

Reducing irritation from shaving

Preventing dryness and flakiness in winter

Looking fresh and confident for work or social occasions

Protecting against premature ageing and sun damage

Remind him that looking after his skin isn’t vanity,it’s maintenance, just like looking after a car or a good pair of shoes.

4. Make It a Shared Ritual

Skincare doesn’t have to be solitary. Gift matching face masks, exfoliators, or night creams and make it a fun couples’ activity. 

Not only does it encourage him to join in, but it’s also a great way to relax together over the festive season, perhaps with a hot chocolate (or something stronger) in hand!

5. Create a Stocking Surprise

Skincare gifts don’t have to be grand to make an impression. Small but thoughtful items can slip perfectly into a stocking:

Lip balms

Eye creams

Travel-size grooming products

Exfoliating face scrubs

These smaller gifts can introduce him to skincare gradually, and once he sees the results, he’ll likely want to continue.

Encouraging the men in your life to care for their skin doesn’t require a hard sell, just thoughtful gifting and a little encouragement. This Christmas, give him the tools (and the excuse) to take better care of himself. 

After all, healthy skin never goes out of style.

Still not certain? Here's a list of ten men's skincare products. Some of which I use, after the encouragement of my wife!

“Top Men’s Skincare Gift Sets Available in the UK for Christmas 2025”.

1. Dior Sauvage Skincare Ritual Kit

Why it stands out: This is a luxury, three-step men’s skincare set (cleanser, toner, serum) built around premium ingredients like black charcoal and cactus extract. The brand links into the iconic “Sauvage” line, so it bridges fragrance and skincare. 

Ideal for: The man who already has some grooming routine, appreciates brand prestige, or you want to gift something truly special.

Approximate UK price: ~£103.00. 

Insight: Emphasise that it’s a complete “routine” (not just one product) meaning you’re giving him the why and how, not just the what. Plus the cactus-based serum offers up to 100 hours hydration. 

2. Kiehl’s Men’s Morning Reboot Gift Set

Why it stands out: A practical yet elevated gift-set comprising a face wash, body scrub bar and a moisturiser designed for men’s skin, all from a trusted skincare brand. 

Ideal for: The guy who isn’t quite into “luxury”, but is open to a grooming upgrade, someone who may already shower everyday but hasn’t thought much about specialist skincare.

Approximate UK price: ~£46.00. 

Insight his set gently introduces the idea of skincare with minimal fuss,“wash”, “scrub”, “moisturise” rather than overwhelming. It's genuinely a “morning reboot” to tie into his start-of-day habit.

3. Elemis Men’s Daily Reset Gift Set

Why it stands out: A premium brand set at a slightly more accessible luxury price point (than Dior, for example) that still gives “feel-good” grooming.

Ideal for: The man who might already like skincare or grooming but doesn’t yet have a dedicated routine — someone you want to treat.

Approximate UK price: ~£52.00.

Insight: This is a treat-yourself gift rather than “here’s the beginner kit” help him “elevate his grooming.” 

4. Clinique Men’s Skincare Starter Kit

Why it stands out: A solid mid-tier starter kit, reliable brand, simple routine, manageable price.

Ideal for: The man who genuinely doesn’t do skincare yet, maybe he uses soap, maybe nothing, and you want to ease him in.

Approximate UK price: ~£20.00 (UK retailers).

Insight: This as the “first step” gift: reinforce that you’re not trying to overhaul his entire routine overnight, but giving him something he’ll use.

5. Clarins Men Essentials Stocking Filler

Why it stands out: It's a lower-budget luxury option, small size or value set, great as a stocking filler or “bonus” gift.

Ideal for: Anyone you’re already buying for, partner, brother, colleague, and you want to add a thoughtful skincare piece without going full-set.

Approximate UK price: ~£15.00.

Insight: Use this in the  “stocking surprise” for your man. Just slip this into the stocking, add a note and you’ve given him something unexpected. And very welcome.

6. L’Oréal Men Expert Morning Basics Gift Set

Why it stands out: Familiar high-street brand, approachable price, simple routine.

Ideal for: The man who is sceptical of skincare, or you’re buying for someone where you want “no risk” or “just try this” vibe.

Approximate UK price: ~£7.00 or around that entry-level range.

Insight: Use this if your man is a “skincare sceptic.” It's basically a no fuss, basic beginning.

7. NIVEA Men Get The Power Skincare Gift Set

Why it stands out: Budget friendly, trusted everyday brand, good “entry” gift.

Ideal for: Perhaps a younger man (student, teenager), or as a “just in case” second gift.

Approximate UK price: ~£13.00.

Insight: Emphasise “skincare is maintenance” rather than luxury, you’re giving him the tools to protect his skin rather than “treat the face”.

8. NIVEA Men’s Anti‑Age Regime Gift Set

Why it stands out: Still budget-friendly, but more specialised (anti-age) so good for the man who is a little older or more aware of skin signs.

Ideal for: Dad, older brother, someone you know might appreciate “looking fresh” a bit more consciously.

Approximate UK price: ~£11.40.

Insight: Tell him that “looking after the skin now means fewer regrets later.”

9. Clarins Men Start‑Up Essentials

Why it stands out: Another moderate price, slightly elevated brand, “start up” language built in.

Ideal for: The man who is new to skincare but you want to give him something that feels premium.

Approximate UK price: ~£25.00.

Insight: “Here’s where it begins, a proper starter set that still looks grown-up”.

10. No7 Men’s Energising Collection Gift Set

Why it stands out: Trusted UK brand, good value, recognisable.

Ideal for: The man who doesn’t want “girly” packaging, the one who accepts grooming but maybe not “beauty”.

Approximate UK price: ~£20.00.

Insight: Useful for the “entry level, but still proper” tier. Emphasise to him that this is “energising” or “wake-up” steps for morning routines.

You can check out men's skincare gifts for purchasing here https://amzn.to/4nJSzLr

The History of the British Christmas Card. From Victorian Origins to Modern Designs

Few Christmas traditions feel as quintessentially British as sending and receiving Christmas cards. 

From the satisfying shuffle of envelopes on the doormat to the warm sight of cards lining mantelpieces and door frames, this simple act of festive connection has been part of British culture for nearly two centuries.

But where did it all begin? And how have Christmas cards evolved from Victorian curiosities to modern-day masterpieces?

A Very Victorian Invention

The very first Christmas card was commissioned in 1843, coincidentally, the very same year Charles Dickens first published A Christmas Carol. 

Sir Henry Cole, a civil servant and one of the founders of the Victoria and Albert Museum, found himself too busy to handwrite dozens of holiday letters. His solution? A printed card.

Cole commissioned artist John Callcott Horsley to design a small, festive illustration showing a family celebrating Christmas together, flanked by scenes of charitable giving. Underneath ran the now-familiar greeting: “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.”

The cards were printed lithographically and hand-coloured, then sold for one shilling each. Quite a sum at the time. Although initially a luxury, the idea caught on, especially after postal reforms made sending mail cheaper and more accessible.

The Golden Age of the Christmas Card

By the 1860s and 1870s, Christmas cards had become a national craze. Advances in printing and chromolithography allowed for mass production in vivid colour, and publishers such as Raphael Tuck & Sons turned Christmas cards into collectible works of art.

Designs ranged from the traditional, robins, holly, and snow scenes, to the delightfully odd. Early cards sometimes featured frogs in top hats, dancing vegetables, or even mischievous clowns. Victorians loved a bit of whimsy, and Christmas gave them the perfect excuse.

Sending and displaying cards became a festive ritual. Families kept albums to preserve particularly beautiful ones, and exchanging cards became a way to maintain friendships and connections across Britain’s growing postal network.

20th Century Style and Sentiment

As printing technology improved, cards became more affordable and more personal. The early 1900s brought simpler, more sentimental themes, snowy villages, children carolling, and nativity scenes. During both World Wars, Christmas cards carried patriotic motifs or heartfelt wishes to loved ones serving abroad.

The mid-20th century saw the rise of charity Christmas cards, beginning with the British Red Cross and Save the Children Fund in 1949. 

Buying cards that supported a cause soon became a cherished part of the season.

By the 1970s and 1980s, Christmas cards had become an art form in their own right, with everything from minimalist modern prints to glitter-covered Santas. Schoolchildren, charities, and even royal designers contributed to the nation’s Christmas card collections.

Into the Digital Age

In the 21st century, the humble Christmas card has faced stiff competition from digital greetings and instant messaging. Yet millions in the UK still send them each year. For many, it’s not just a tradition, it’s a personal gesture of warmth, effort, and nostalgia that no email can replicate.

Today’s cards span every style imaginable: eco-friendly recycled designs, minimalist Scandi chic, nostalgic retro prints, and even augmented reality animations that come to life when viewed on a smartphone.

Some families still treasure the ritual of writing and posting cards together, often with a pot of tea and a tin of biscuits at hand, proving that, even in the digital era, the spirit of Sir Henry Cole’s original idea lives on.

A Tradition Worth Keeping

The Christmas card remains one of Britain’s most enduring festive traditions, a tangible connection between friends and family, near and far. 

Whether hand-drawn by a child, glittered within an inch of its life, or sleek and sustainable, each card carries the same timeless message: you were thought of this Christmas.

The Hottest Christmas Tree Trends for 2025

The festive season is creeping closer, and that means one very important decision for many of us: how to dress the Christmas tree. 

Whether you’re working with a towering fir or a modest corner-tree, the decorating trends for 2025 are already shaping up, and there’s plenty to get excited about. 

Below, you’ll find the top colour palettes, ornaments and themes for trees this year, plus styling tips to bring them to life in UK homes.

1. Colour Palettes to Watch

• Deep rose & brassy gold

One of the strongest palettes projected for 2025 is deep rose red paired with brassy gold accents. According to a UK interiors feature, this combination “fits in with all our favourite decorative elements of the festive season.” 

Styling tip: Use richly-toned rose baubles and mix in gold ribbon or garland. A few antique-style gold ornaments will elevate the look.

Why it works: It gives a sense of warmth and luxury, while still feeling festive and traditional.

• Warm neutrals & quiet luxury

For those who prefer a more subdued, elegant tree, the “quiet luxury” or warm-neutral trend is very much in play. Think browns, caramels, taupes, soft greys and muted metallics. 

Styling tip: Choose ornaments in velvet or matte finishes in soft brown or taupe tones, layered with gold or brass highlights.

Why it works: The softer palette creates a calm, relaxing backdrop in busy times, and can feel more grown-up and refined.

• Classic with a twist: red & green, with added elements

Traditional red and green never really go out of style, but in 2025 they’re being given a gentle update: think red & green combined with sage, emerald, or sapphire, often with touches of gold. 

Styling tip: Use your classic red and green baubles but mix in a few emerald or sapphire ones, and highlight with gold ribbon or stars.

Why it works: It retains the festive nostalgia of past years while feeling fresh and relevant.

• Monochrome & black-and-white

For a bold, contemporary aesthetic, the black-and-white (monochrome) tree is emerging as a standout trend in the UK market this year. 

Styling tip: Use white or off-white baubles, black ribbons or bows, and plenty of texture (e.g., matte and gloss finishes).

Why it works: It feels stylish, modern and can act as a striking contrast in homes with bold interiors or minimal décor.

2. Ornament & Decoration Trends

• Layered baubles + mixed textures

2025 sees a move toward multiple layers of decoration: larger ribbons, oversized baubles, and a mix of textures (velvet, glass, matte, metallic) on trees. 

Styling tip: After placing your lights, wind a wide ribbon around the tree as a spiral or cascading down, then fill in with varied baubles.

Why it works: The layering adds depth and interest, making your tree feel more curated and impactful.

• Nature-inspired ornaments and foliage

Another strong motif: natural and woodland elements. Pinecones, wooden ornaments, faux foliage, acorns, and rustic textures are all in. 

Styling tip: Mix in ornaments shaped like pinecones, acorns or woodland animals. Add some faux eucalyptus or fir sprigs as though they belong on the tree.

Why it works: It brings the outdoors in, tapping into the sense of calm and seasonal connection many of us seek.

• Luxe metallics & subtle shimmer

Metallics remain popular, but with a more refined touch. Brass, antique gold, champagne gold, and muted silvers are trending rather than gaudy glitz. 

Styling tip: Use metallic baubles as highlights against a base palette of neutrals, or as a bridge between two colour palettes.

Why it works: Metallics introduce a festive sparkle without going into full-on glitter overload.

3. Tree Themes You’ll See Everywhere

3.1 Woodland Luxe

This theme embraces rich natural tones (deep greens, warm browns) combined with luxe textures and metallic highlights. 

Key features: Rustic sleighs under the tree, ceramic pinecone ornaments, mixed materials (wood, brass, velvet).

Suitable for: Homes with wood-panelled or country interiors, or anyone wanting a warm, cosy festive tree.

3.2 Nordic Minimalist

For lovers of less-is-more, this theme strips back the colour and fuss, favouring clean lines, muted tones and restraint. 

Key features: White or pale fir tree, soft grey/silver baubles, minimal ornament count, light touches of greenery.

Suitable for: Smaller homes, flats, or those whose overall décor is already busy and needs a calm festive moment.

3.3 Maximalist & Nostalgic

On the opposite end of the spectrum: those who want drama, colour, layers and nostalgic touches. Recent trend commentary notes nostalgia is a major driver for 2025 décor

Key features: Mix of bright colours, oversized ornaments, references to 50s/60s décor, perhaps even playful mismatched elements.

Suitable for: Big living rooms, homes where the tree can be a statement piece, or those wanting a vibrant festive focal point.

3.4 Modern Monochrome

This trend is rising quickly: a sophisticated black-and-white (or very muted grey/white) tree for stylish, modern homes. 

Key features: White or black tree (or a traditional green tree dressed in monochrome baubles/ribbon), black & white striped bows, minimal colour.

Suitable for: Contemporary interiors, minimal décor lovers, or those wanting a unique twist on the traditional Christmas tree.

4. Tips for Styling Your Tree (UK Edition)

Pick your palette early: Before buying new decorations, choose your main colours (e.g., warm neutrals or deep rose/gold) so everything you add complements the theme.

Lights first: Always wind your fairy lights (warm white preferred for most palettes) evenly, from the trunk outwards and back in so the tree appears full when lights are off.

Ribbon or garland layer: If your theme allows, add a wide ribbon or garland as a second layer before placing baubles. It adds texture and depth.

Mix finishes: Combine matte, gloss and velvet baubles within the same colour family to create interest.

Use height smartly: Consider an alternative tree shape (e.g., slim “pencil” tree) if space is limited, trends toward space-efficient trees are growing. 

Ornaments last: Place your largest baubles first (spread them evenly), then fill gaps with medium ones, then smaller ornaments/fillers.

Topper matters: While stars and angels endure, you could update with a large fabric bow (which continues to be popular as a modern alternative to traditional toppers). 

Base and surroundings: Don’t neglect the base of your tree. Use a coordinated tree skirt, a decorative basket, or a rustic sleigh filled with festive items to tie in the tree with room décor.

5. Why These Trends Matter for 2025

Desire for nostalgia: Many UK consumers are drawn to the comfort of Christmases past, hence the resurgence of retro colours and themes. 

Balancing maximal and minimalist needs: Some homes favour abundance and layered decoration; others prefer calm and restraint. 2025’s trends cater to both ends. 

Space & lifestyle considerations: With UK homes often being smaller or multi-use, designers and retailers are promoting slimmer tree shapes and flexible décor. 

Sustainability & longevity: Warm neutrals, quality textures, and decorations that “live” beyond a single season are becoming more important.

Personalisation: Rather than “one-size-fits-all”, there’s more emphasis on personal expression in the decorations chosen (colour choices, theme tweaks, heirloom inclusion).

6. Conclusion

If you’re planning your tree for the 2025 festive season, now is a great time to decide your direction. Will your tree be calm and sophisticated in warm neutrals? Bold and modern in monochrome? Or nostalgic and festive in deep rose and gold? 

Whichever path you take, layering textures, mixing finishes and paying attention to the base and surroundings will elevate your look from simple to wow.

Why Do Perfumers Want Us to Smell Like Biscuits or Cakes This Christmas?

At That’s Christmas 365, we adore everything festive, from twinkling lights and mince pies to the year’s most intriguing Christmas trends. 

But every so often, one pops up that makes us pause mid–hot chocolate and ask: wait… what? This year, it’s the perfume industry’s curious obsession with making us smell like the dessert course.

My wife was trying a new perfume and she said: "I smell like a cake!"

Because there’s something in the air this Christmas, and it’s not just cinnamon and mulled wine. No, it’s you. Or rather, it’s your perfume.

Because according to the perfume industry, 2025’s festive scent trend is… dessert?

Apparently, perfumers have decided that what we all really want this Christmas is to smell like the snack table. Pistachio, chocolate, vanilla, caramel, marshmallow, “sugar cookie accord” (yes, that’s genuinely a thing)… the list goes on. Forget “notes of cedarwood and musk”... this year, it’s “top notes of Bakewell tart with a lingering hint of biscuit tin.”

Eau de Patisserie

One recent launch described itself as “a gourmand experience that envelops the wearer in warmth.” Translation: you’ll smell like you’ve been working the late shift at Greggs. 

Another claimed to be “as comforting as vanilla frosting.” Wonderful. Because nothing says “sophisticated evening scent” like being mistaken for a Victoria sponge.

You can imagine the confusion in crowded Christmas markets across Britain this year. “What’s that smell? Is someone baking?”

“No, that’s just Carol from accounts, she’s wearing Crème Brûlée No. 7.”

When Did Perfume Become a Buffet?

Once upon a time, perfume was all about elegance and mystery. A little jasmine, a touch of rose, a whisper of sandalwood. You smelled like a well-travelled socialite with secrets.

Now, you smell like the dessert trolley at a Harvester.

To be fair, it’s not all bad. Vanilla is universally flattering, it’s warm, cosy, and nostalgic. And a hint of cocoa can feel decadent. But somewhere along the line, the balance tipped. We’ve gone from “subtle sweetness” to “walking Bake Off.”

The Real Culprit: Christmas Nostalgia

Of course, perfumers know exactly what they’re doing. They’ve tapped into that deep, Christmassy craving for comfort. When it’s cold, dark, and the heating bill looks like a ransom note, smelling like pudding feels oddly reassuring.

You’re not just spritzing perfume, you’re spritzing serotonin.

Besides, nothing says “I’ve given up” like smelling of pine disinfectant. At least smelling like shortbread sounds vaguely festive.

What’s Next?

If the current trend continues, next year’s fragrances might get even bolder:

Eau de Mince Pie: a complex blend of dried fruit and regret.

Sprout Essence: crisp, green, and socially divisive.

Gravy No. 5: for the gourmand who truly commits.

Roast Turkey: for the Christmas traditionalist

Until then, enjoy smelling delicious,even if the family dog follows you around all day wondering where you’ve hidden the biscuits.

Merry Christmas, you glorious human Bakewell!

How Different Regions of the UK Celebrate Christmas. From Welsh Cakes to Scottish Shortbread

Christmas in the UK may be a shared celebration of joy, lights, and family gatherings, but the ways we mark the festive season vary beautifully from one region to another. 

Each part of the country brings its own traditions, flavours, and customs to the table, quite literally! 

From the Highlands of Scotland to the valleys of Wales and the coasts of Cornwall, here’s how different regions of the UK make Christmas their own.

England, A Classic Christmas with Local Twists

In England, Christmas traditions are steeped in history, from carolling and mince pies to Boxing Day walks in the crisp winter air. Yet, each region adds its own touch.

In Yorkshire, Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a hearty Yorkshire pudding served alongside roast beef or turkey. Villages often host torchlit processions and brass band carol performances, creating a nostalgic Dickensian feel.

Down in Cornwall, you’ll find a strong maritime influence. Coastal communities celebrate with harbour lights festivals, and some even take a brisk Christmas Day swim in the icy sea! The Cornish also enjoy their own festive treat — Stargazy pie, a traditional fish pie with the heads of pilchards poking through the crust, symbolising abundance and community spirit.

Scotland, Shortbread, Hogmanay, and Winter Warmth

While Christmas was banned in Scotland for nearly 400 years after the Reformation (it only became a public holiday in 1958!), Scots have certainly made up for lost time. Today, Scottish Christmas celebrations are filled with food, warmth, and good cheer.

Scottish shortbread is a festive staple, often made in family kitchens using recipes handed down through generations. Another classic is clootie dumpling, a spiced fruit pudding boiled in a cloth and served with whisky cream.

Many Scots reserve their biggest celebration for Hogmanay, the grand New Year festival that follows Christmas. Expect fireworks, ceilidhs, and the heartwarming custom of first-footing, where the first person to enter a home after midnight brings symbolic gifts of luck, such as coal, shortbread, or whisky.

Wales, From Plygain to Welsh Cakes

Wales celebrates Christmas with warmth, music, and a deep sense of tradition. One of the most distinctive customs is Plygain, an early morning carol service held on Christmas Day. Originating from rural Welsh chapels, Plygain blends hauntingly beautiful harmonies with a spiritual start to the festive morning.

When it comes to food, Welsh cakes are the stars of the show, delicious griddle-baked rounds dotted with currants and sprinkled with sugar. They’re often enjoyed warm, straight from the pan, alongside a pot of strong Welsh tea. Many families also enjoy bara brith, a fruit loaf made with tea-soaked raisins, as a festive teatime treat.

Northern Ireland, A Festive Feast and Family Spirit

In Northern Ireland, Christmas is a time for gathering family and friends — often over a feast that mixes Irish hospitality with British tradition. The Christmas table might feature roast turkey or goose, potato farls, and brandy butter. Many families also attend midnight Mass, followed by late-night cocoa or a sneaky mince pie before bed.

Festive markets in Belfast and Derry bring Continental-style Christmas cheer, while New Year’s Eve celebrations spill into the streets with fireworks, music, and joy.

The Channel Islands and Isle of Man, Island Traditions

Even the smaller UK islands have their unique customs. In Guernsey and Jersey, local parishes hold carol singing in Norman French, reflecting their shared heritage.

On the Isle of Man, Christmas blends Celtic roots with modern fun, including the Hunt the Wren tradition on St Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day), where groups parade through villages with music and song.

Celebrating the UK’s Festive Diversity

From Scottish shortbread to Welsh cakes, Cornish lights to Yorkshire brass bands, every corner of the UK contributes something special to the Christmas season.

 Together, these regional customs create a wonderfully rich and varied festive tapestry, one that reminds us that Christmas isn’t just about presents or puddings, but about community, heritage, and joy shared across generations.

So wherever you are in the UK this December, take a moment to savour your local traditions, and maybe even borrow one or two from across the border. After all, that’s the true spirit of a British Christmas.

How to Create a Magical Christmas Atmosphere on a Budget: Décor Hacks and Thrifty Finds

Christmas is the most enchanting time of the year, but creating that magical festive feeling doesn’t have to cost a fortune. 

With a bit of creativity, some clever décor hacks, and a few thrifted treasures, you can transform your home into a winter wonderland without draining your bank account.

Here’s how to bring the sparkle, warmth and cheer of Christmas to life on a budget.

1. Start with the Glow: Budget-Friendly Lighting

Nothing sets the mood quite like twinkling lights. Fairy lights, candles, and LED tealights instantly create that cosy, Christmassy glow.

Reuse and repurpose: Check what you already own, lights from last year often just need a new set of batteries.

Layer the lighting: Mix warm white fairy lights with a few coloured strands for a cheerful effect.

DIY lanterns: Pop battery-operated candles inside old jam jars or thrifted glassware for a rustic, homemade touch.

Tip: Pound shops, charity shops and car boot sales often have gently used lights at a fraction of high-street prices. (But do make sure items are electrically safe)

2. Go Green with Natural Décor

Nature provides some of the best Christmas decorations, and they’re free!

Gather pine cones, holly, evergreen branches, and mistletoe from your garden or local woodland (responsibly, of course).

Place them in bowls, wreaths, or garlands for that authentic festive aroma.

Add a few drops of cinnamon or orange essential oil for a scent that screams Christmas.

Bonus: You can spray a little gold or silver paint on pine cones for a touch of glamour that still feels natural.

3. Thrift Store Treasure Hunting

Charity shops and second-hand stores are absolute goldmines at Christmas.

Look for:

Vintage ornaments and baubles with a bit of history.

Old glassware or crystal bowls to use as centrepieces.

Festive fabrics or scarves that can double as table runners.

Sometimes, the joy of a Christmas decoration lies in its story, and that’s something no department store can replicate.

4. DIY Christmas Magic

You don’t need to be crafty to make your own décor. Simple projects can have stunning results.

Paper snowflakes or origami stars hung from string look beautiful in windows.

Homemade wreaths: Wrap a coat hanger into a circle, add greenery and ribbons, easy and elegant.

Salt dough ornaments: Great fun for children and last for years if stored well.

Hack: Save wrapping paper scraps and ribbons for next year’s DIY decorations, sustainability and savings in one!

5. Create a Festive Scent on a Shoestring

Scents can instantly make a space feel Christmassy. Instead of pricey candles, try simmering a pot of:

Water

Orange peel

Cinnamon sticks

Cloves

It’ll fill your home with a gorgeous festive aroma that’s pure nostalgia, and costs pennies.

6. Upcycle and Reuse What You Have

That old jumper you never wear? Turn it into a cushion cover.

Broken baubles? Smash them (carefully) and use the fragments for a mosaic decoration.

Even plain jars or bottles can become beautiful with a bit of twine, glitter, or faux snow inside.

7. Set the Scene with Music and Small Touches

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of atmosphere:

Stream a free Christmas playlist or play some classic vinyls for instant cheer.

Hang a few handmade decorations rather than overloading your space.

Add a small tree or even a few branches in a vase, minimalist can still feel magical.

Final Christmas Decor Thoughts

Creating a magical Christmas atmosphere isn’t about how much you spend, it’s about how much heart you put into it. With a few thrifted finds, a dash of DIY spirit, and plenty of imagination, your home can feel just as warm and welcoming as Santa’s grotto.

So, light those candles, hang your upcycled wreath, and enjoy the festive season, proof that Christmas charm is truly priceless.