The Best Charity Christmas Cards for a Good Cause Where to buy charity cards that give back, supporting various causes during the festive season

As the festive season approaches, many of us look for ways to spread joy and give back to those in need. One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to do this is by purchasing charity Christmas cards. 

Not only do these cards help you send thoughtful greetings to your loved ones, but they also support important causes during the holiday season. 

Here’s a guide to the best charity Christmas cards in the UK and where to buy them to ensure your festive cheer makes a difference.

Why Choose Charity Christmas Cards?

Charity Christmas cards are a wonderful way to combine tradition with philanthropy. With a portion of the proceeds going to charitable organisations, your purchase can contribute to causes such as healthcare, education, homelessness, animal welfare, and more. By choosing charity cards, you're supporting meaningful work, while still taking part in the joy of exchanging holiday greetings.

The Best Places to Buy Charity Christmas Cards

1. Oxfam

Oxfam is known for its commitment to tackling poverty and injustice, and buying Christmas cards from them helps fund their vital work around the world. They offer a wide range of designs, from classic festive scenes to fun and quirky illustrations. Cards can be purchased both online and in-store, and they offer multipack options for those sending out many cards this year. 

Causes Supported: Poverty alleviation, disaster relief, education

Where to Buy: Oxfam Online Shop https://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk

2. Card Aid

Card Aid is a well-established charity card provider in the UK, working with over 200 different charities. With their cards, you can choose from an array of designs, and each purchase supports one of their partnered charities, ranging from local organisations to national and international causes.

Causes Supported: Health, social care, children’s welfare, environmental protection

Where to Buy: Card Aid Online Shop https://www.goodgifts.org/all-gifts/christmas-cards

3. British Heart Foundation (BHF)

The British Heart Foundation is one of the UK's most recognisable charities. By purchasing their Christmas cards, you’ll be contributing to research that helps fight heart disease and support those living with heart conditions. BHF offers a variety of elegant and traditional Christmas card designs, making it easy to find one that suits your style.

Causes Supported: Heart disease research, healthcare

Where to Buy: BHF Christmas Cards https://www.bhf.org.uk

4. Cancer Research UK

Cancer Research UK’s beautiful range of Christmas cards features both religious and non-religious designs. Every pack of cards purchased helps fund vital cancer research, bringing us one step closer to finding cures and better treatments. Cards can be purchased online or at their charity shops across the country.

Causes Supported: Cancer research, healthcare

Where to Buy: Cancer Research UK Christmas Cards https://shop.cancerresearchuk.org

5. The Royal British Legion

If you want to support veterans and their families, The Royal British Legion's range of Christmas cards is an excellent choice. The funds raised go towards helping those who have served in the Armed Forces and their loved ones, providing them with support and care.

Causes Supported: Veterans' welfare, mental health, social care

Where to Buy: Royal British Legion Shop https://www.britishlegion.org.uk

6. National Trust

For nature lovers and those passionate about preserving the UK’s heritage, National Trust charity cards are a great option. Their designs often feature iconic British landmarks and nature scenes, and the proceeds go towards protecting historic sites and natural landscapes for future generations to enjoy.

Causes Supported: Conservation, heritage preservation

Where to Buy: National Trust Online Shop https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk

7. Save the Children

Save the Children’s Christmas cards not only offer heartwarming designs, but also support one of the world’s most important children’s charities. By purchasing their cards, you help fund programmes that protect and educate vulnerable children across the globe.

Causes Supported: Child welfare, education, healthcare

Where to Buy: Save the Children Shop https://www.savethechildren.org.uk

8. Macmillan Cancer Support

Macmillan Cancer Support offers a variety of festive cards, including some designed by those who have benefited from the charity’s services. The money raised goes towards providing physical, emotional, and financial support to those affected by cancer.

Causes Supported: Cancer care and support services

Where to Buy: Macmillan Shop https://www.macmillan.org.uk

Top Tips for Buying Charity Christmas Cards

Check the Charity Contribution: Not all charity Christmas cards donate the same percentage of profits to their respective causes. Check the packaging or product description to see how much of your purchase price goes to charity.

Buy Early: Charity cards can sometimes sell out early due to high demand, so be sure to purchase yours well before December.

Choose Designs You Love: With so many beautiful designs available, you don’t have to compromise on style when buying charity Christmas cards.

Go Online for Convenience: Most major charity organisations offer the convenience of online shopping, making it easier to browse different designs and support causes from the comfort of your home.

Conclusion

This Christmas, spread festive cheer while supporting meaningful causes by opting for charity Christmas cards. Whether you're passionate about healthcare, poverty relief, or environmental conservation, there's a charity card out there that allows you to give back in a small but impactful way. So, why not add some extra goodwill to your Christmas this year by making your holiday greetings count for a good cause?

Happy shopping and happy giving!

A Festive Curry Feast: A Bold Alternative for Your Christmas Celebration

Sometimes something wonderful comes out of adversity. My wife and another couple had arranged to have a joint Christmas feast.

 Unfortunately when it came to prepare the turkey (bought from an 'exclusive' local butcher) we realised the turkey was not fit for consumption.

 So, what to do? Prepare a very tasty curry in a hurry! My wife is justifiably renowned for her curries. (We got our money refunded after Christmas.) 

So, why not look at a curry for your Christmas feasting this year?   

Please read on!

Christmas is often associated with the traditional roast dinner, complete with turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings. But what if this year, instead of opting for the same old fare, you introduced a little spice into your festive celebrations? 

Picture this: the warm, aromatic blend of herbs and spices, a colourful spread of curries, and the unmistakable comfort of naan bread and rice. A curry feast can be a wonderful and bold alternative Christmas meal, bringing together rich flavours, vibrant colours, and a sense of adventure to the dinner table.

Why Choose a Curry Feast?

A Break from Tradition

While the classic Christmas meal is beloved by many, opting for a curry feast can add an element of surprise and excitement. It’s a break from the norm that allows for creativity and experimentation, giving guests the chance to try something new.

Curry Brings People Together

Curries, with their variety of flavours, are perfect for communal dining. A curry feast encourages sharing, whether it’s dipping naan into a rich, creamy sauce or passing around bowls of fragrant rice. It turns the Christmas meal into a social experience, bringing a real sense of togetherness.

Vibrant, Warming Flavours

The spices in a curry spread – from cumin and coriander to ginger and turmeric – offer a warming, comforting quality, perfect for a winter feast. These bold flavours not only excite the palate but also provide a satisfying contrast to the cold weather outside.

Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly

One of the best things about curries is how versatile they are. Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians, vegans, or meat-eaters, there’s a curry for everyone. From a hearty vegetable biryani to a rich chickpea masala or a spicy lamb curry, the possibilities are endless.

Creating Your Festive Curry Feast

1. Begin with a Selection of Starters

Begin your feast with a selection of small bites to tantalise the taste buds. Mini samosas filled with spiced vegetables or chicken, crispy onion bhajis, and chutney-laden poppadoms make for a delicious and fun appetiser. Pair them with a variety of chutneys – mint, mango, and tamarind – for added freshness and zing.

2. The Main Event: Curries Galore

For the main course, serve an array of curries to suit all tastes. Here are some festive favourites to consider:

Butter Chicken: A classic dish loved by all, this creamy curry is rich with butter, tomatoes, and a subtle blend of spices. Perfect for those who prefer milder heat.

Rogan Josh: This aromatic lamb curry from Kashmir is ideal for meat lovers. Slow-cooked lamb in a sauce of yoghurt, garlic, ginger, and ground spices, with a hit of chilli, will warm everyone up.

Paneer Tikka Masala: A fantastic vegetarian option, with cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled and simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, flavoured with garam masala and coriander.

Saag Aloo: For the vegans or veggie lovers, this spinach and potato curry is a light yet flavourful addition to your spread. The earthy potatoes and vibrant spinach bring colour and heartiness to the table.

3. Don’t Forget the Sides

A curry feast isn’t complete without a variety of sides. Fluffy basmati rice, garlic naan, and chapatis are must-haves for scooping up those delicious sauces. Add some cooling raita (yoghurt with cucumber and mint) and tangy pickles to balance out the richness of the curries.

4. A Sweet Ending

No feast is complete without dessert. To keep with the Indian-inspired theme, serve gulab jamun, small doughnut-like balls soaked in rose-flavoured syrup, or mango kulfi, a creamy, frozen dessert that’s sweet and refreshing after a spicy meal.

How to Set the Festive Scene

The atmosphere is key to turning your curry feast into a true festive celebration. Brighten up your dining table with colourful tableware, vibrant fabrics, and tealight candles to create a warm, inviting space. You can even add some festive touches, such as crackers or a centrepiece of fairy lights and baubles to keep the Christmas spirit alive.

Play some soft Indian music in the background to set the mood, and encourage guests to dress comfortably, perhaps even in festive colours. The beauty of a curry feast is its relaxed, fun nature, allowing you to focus on enjoying the food and the company rather than worrying about rigid formalities.

A Festive Feast to Remember

A Christmas curry feast is not only a delightful departure from the usual, but it’s also a true celebration of flavour, culture, and togetherness. With its ability to cater to diverse palates and dietary needs, it’s a flexible and joyous way to celebrate the festive season. So, if you're looking for something bold, fun, and full of heart this Christmas, why not turn up the heat and host a curry feast?

Who knows – it might just become your new favourite tradition!

Creating a Christmas Care Package for Loved Ones Abroad

The Christmas season is a time for warmth, togetherness, and celebration. But for many, distance can make the holidays feel a little less bright. 

Whether your loved ones are studying, working, or simply living abroad, sending a Christmas care package is a wonderful way to remind them that no matter the miles, they are always in your thoughts.

Crafting a personalised Christmas parcel can bring a touch of home and cheer to those who might be feeling a bit homesick during the festive season.

Here’s a guide to creating the perfect Christmas care package for family members and friends living away from home.

1. Start with the Essentials: Festive Foods

Nothing says Christmas quite like seasonal treats. For someone living abroad, food is often what they miss most, especially the traditional goodies that are unique to British Christmas celebrations. Consider including:

Christmas Pudding or Mince Pies: A slice of British tradition! Opt for mini versions or well-sealed ones that can survive international travel.

Shortbread Biscuits: Perfectly festive and easy to pack.

Chocolate: Think Christmas favourites like Cadbury’s, Quality Street, or a Terry’s Chocolate Orange.

Tea: A comforting cup of English Breakfast or spiced holiday blends is always a treat, especially if tea isn’t readily available where they are.

Just be sure to check the postal regulations in the country you’re sending to, as some food items may not be permitted.

2. Add a Touch of Home with Decorations

Being away from home during Christmas can make it harder to recreate that familiar festive atmosphere. Including small decorations in your care package can help your loved ones feel the Christmas spirit:

Miniature Christmas Tree: Small, foldable trees are easy to send and can bring instant holiday cheer to any room.

Christmas Baubles: Personalised or traditional ones will help them decorate, even if their space is limited.

Fairy Lights: Battery-powered fairy lights are lightweight and can make any place feel cosy and festive.

3. Personalised Gifts for a Special Touch

It’s the personal touches that will truly warm the heart. You don’t need to go overboard with large or expensive gifts. Thoughtful, personalised items can make all the difference:

A Handwritten Letter or Christmas Card: In the digital age, a physical note can be very meaningful. Share a favourite memory, inside jokes, or just some heartfelt wishes.

Photo Prints or Albums: Fill their space with familiar faces by including a few printed photos or a mini album of cherished moments from the past year. Or the family Christmas calendar we mentioned previously. 

Customised Gifts: Something small yet meaningful, like a personalised mug, keychain, or even a hand-knitted scarf, can offer a tangible connection to home.

4. Seasonal Self-Care

Being away from home, especially during the holiday season, can sometimes be overwhelming or lonely. Including a few items to help them relax and feel pampered is a lovely gesture:

Scented Candles: Opt for seasonal scents like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla, which evoke the warmth and cosiness of Christmas.

Bath Bombs or Essential Oils: Encourage them to unwind with a soothing bath or an aromatherapy session.

Cosy Socks or a Blanket: Soft, comforting items that can help them feel snug, especially if they’re in a colder climate.

5. Practical and Thoughtful Extras

Consider their needs or where they are living. Adding a few practical items can show that you’ve put thought into their specific situation:

Local Essentials: If they’re in a country with extreme weather, consider packing hand warmers or reusable water bottles. In warmer climates, sunscreen or a cooling towel could be useful.

UK-Specific Items: There are certain everyday items we take for granted that might not be available where they are. Things like their favourite tea bags, specific toiletries, or snacks can go a long way.

6. Packaging and Presentation

The way you present your care package can also add to the excitement. Use festive wrapping paper, colourful tissue, or even a themed box to build up the anticipation. You can label each item with small notes or even number them to be opened in a specific order, turning your care package into an interactive experience.

When packaging, ensure everything is well-sealed and cushioned for long-distance travel. Breakable items, especially food, should be wrapped securely to avoid any damage during transit.

7. Shipping and Timing

When sending a Christmas care package abroad, timing is crucial. Postal services can be busy over the festive season, and international shipping may take longer than usual. Make sure to send your parcel early to avoid disappointment, aiming to post it at least a month before Christmas if possible. Double-check the country’s shipping regulations, as some countries have restrictions on what can be sent.

Conclusion

Creating a Christmas care package is not just about the items inside; it’s about sending a piece of home, love, and warmth across the miles. The personal touches, familiar tastes, and thoughtful gestures can make a world of difference to someone spending Christmas away from home. Whether you’re sending a box filled with treats, keepsakes, or heartfelt notes, your package will be a reminder that distance doesn’t diminish the love and connection you share.

After all, Christmas is not just about being together in person—it's about making others feel loved, wherever they may be.

Creating a Unique Family Christmas Gift: A Special Photographic Christmas Calendar

As Christmas approaches, many of us begin to search for that perfect gift: Something thoughtful, personal, and full of meaning. 

One of the most unique and memorable presents you can create is a customised photographic Christmas calendar. 

This thoughtful gift combines personal memories with practical use, making it the perfect choice for family and friends alike. Even those who live overseas.

And you can even put together a Christmas care package of tasty traditional treats to accompany your special calendar to family members who are living abroad and who might be missing the comforts of a Christmas at home. In fact, we'll be covering such care packages in a later post, so please keep your eyes open for that. 

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you design and publish your own special calendar in time for the festive season.

1. Gather Your Photos

The heart of a photographic calendar is, of course, the photos! Start by selecting twelve meaningful images, one for each month. These could include:

Family moments: birthdays, anniversaries, or family holidays.

Milestones: the birth of a new baby, graduations, or even a new home.

Candid snapshots: natural, in-the-moment photos that capture the essence of your family and friends.

Seasonal images: photos that reflect the season or holidays for each month (snowy winter walks, blooming spring flowers, summer beach trips, autumnal leaves).

If the calendar is for a close family, consider mixing both recent photos and some nostalgic older ones. This blend creates a wonderful balance between cherishing the past and celebrating the present.

2. Choose a Theme

A cohesive theme will make your calendar look polished and professional. The theme could be as simple as using a consistent filter or colour scheme across all your photos, or it could be more specific:

Seasonal Themes: Match your photos to the seasons, with festive winter photos, spring blossoms, summer fun, and autumnal tones.

Family Heritage: For a more nostalgic touch, delve into old family photo albums and select a mix of historical and modern photos. You could dedicate certain months to different generations.

Holiday Travels: If your family has had a year full of adventure, create a travel-themed calendar with photos from your favourite trips.

Whatever theme you choose, ensure the images flow smoothly from one month to the next, offering a visual journey through the year.

3. Add Personal Touches

To make the calendar even more special, consider including personal dates and reminders. You can add:

Family Birthdays: Mark important birthdays with fun icons or little notes.

Anniversaries: Highlight special dates such as wedding anniversaries.

Special Events: Include upcoming family events, holidays, or gatherings already planned for the next year.

You might also want to add little quotes or captions alongside some photos, offering a heartfelt message or a funny memory that ties in with the image.

4. Choose a Design Platform

Once you have your photos and theme, the next step is to design the calendar. There are numerous user-friendly platforms that allow you to upload your photos and customise your design. Here are a few popular options:

Canva: A great choice for beginners, Canva offers a range of pre-made calendar templates that you can customise. You can upload your own photos, add text, and tweak the design to suit your preferences.

https://www.canva.com/en_gb

Vistaprint: Known for high-quality printing services, Vistaprint also offers an easy-to-use calendar design tool. You can choose from several templates and print your calendar in different sizes.

https://www.vistaprint.co.uk

Photobox: Specialising in photo gifts, Photobox allows you to create calendars quickly, with options for various layouts and sizes.

https://www.photobox.co.uk

Once you've designed your calendar, you can either print it yourself at home or have it professionally printed and bound.

CEWE: Offer wide range of photographically printed goods. Available either on line or via branches of Boots.

https://www.cewe.co.uk

Mixam: Offers various printing services including books, art prints, etc.

https://mixam.co.uk

Max Spielmann: Wide range of photographic printing services including mugs, jigsaws, calendars, etc. In store in supermarkets, etc.

https://www.maxphoto.co.uk

5. Printing and Binding

While digital design is key, the final look depends heavily on the print quality. You want your calendar to feel substantial and look professional. If you're printing at home, invest in high-quality photo paper. However, it’s often easier and more effective to use an online printing service like Vistaprint or Photobox, which will print and bind your calendar for you.

Options to consider include:

Size: Standard A4 or A3-sized calendars are ideal, but some companies offer more creative sizes, like square or long portrait.

Paper: Choose a high-quality, glossy or matte paper to enhance your photos.

Binding: Spiral binding works well for calendars, making it easy to flip through each month.

6. Add a Festive Finishing Touch

To make your calendar truly feel like a Christmas gift, think about how you'll package and present it. Wrap it in festive paper with a beautiful bow, or place it in a decorative gift box. You could even include a handwritten note or a personalised Christmas card to add that final touch of thoughtfulness.

7. Give the Gift of Memories

Once your calendar is ready, it’s time to share it with family and friends. Whether you’re giving it to your immediate family or as a wider gift to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, the calendar will be a daily reminder of your love and shared memories throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

A photographic Christmas calendar is more than just a gift – it’s a celebration of the people and moments that matter most. By carefully selecting your photos and personalising the design, you’re creating a keepsake that will be treasured long after the year ends. This Christmas, give the gift of memories – and make every day of the new year a reminder of love and togetherness.

Happy creating, and Merry Christmas!

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Alternative Financing Options for Retailers: Christmas Gift Cards and Christmas Savings Clubs

In today’s ever-evolving retail landscape, businesses are constantly looking for innovative ways to raise capital without relying on traditional bank loans. 

While banks can be a valuable resource, borrowing money from them often involves complex application processes, high interest rates, and rigid repayment schedules.

For retailers, particularly small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), alternative funding options can provide much-needed flexibility and control. Two such strategies include selling gift cards redeemable only for their services and establishing a savings club.

These creative methods enable retailers to generate immediate cash flow without taking on debt, giving them a powerful tool for managing finances while fostering customer loyalty. Here’s how these approaches work and the legal considerations involved.

1. Selling Gift Cards: A Win-Win for Retailers and Customers

Gift cards are an incredibly popular tool for retailers, but their potential as a cash-flow management tool is often underappreciated. By selling gift cards that are redeemable exclusively for your services or products, you can effectively raise funds upfront, long before the customer actually uses the service or product.

How It Works

When a customer purchases a gift card, they are essentially giving the retailer an interest-free loan. The customer trusts that they will later redeem the value of the card through services or products at the retailer's establishment. In exchange for immediate funds, the retailer agrees to provide goods or services when the card is used in the future.

Advantages for Retailers

Immediate Cash Flow: The retailer receives money upfront, which can be used for stock purchases, operational costs, or marketing efforts.

Increased Customer Loyalty: Customers with gift cards are more likely to return to the store and even spend more than the card’s value.

No Interest or Repayment Schedule: Unlike a bank loan, the money received from the gift card sale is not subject to interest or repayment deadlines.

Legal Considerations

In the UK, selling gift cards is perfectly legal, but retailers must be aware of consumer protection laws:

Expiry Dates: UK law does not specify minimum expiry periods, but unreasonable expiry dates could be challenged as unfair. It is good practice to ensure the gift card is valid for at least 12 months or clearly state the expiry date at the time of purchase.

Refund Policies: If the retailer fails to deliver the promised goods or services, the customer may be entitled to a refund, meaning the retailer must manage its liabilities carefully.

2. Setting Up a Savings Club: Building Community and Raising Funds

Savings clubs are another effective way for retailers to raise capital while fostering a sense of community among customers. This method works particularly well for businesses that provide services or seasonal products, such as Christmas clubs for holiday spending.

How It Works

In a savings club, customers contribute regular payments to the retailer over a fixed period. In return, they receive goods or services of equivalent value (or more) at a later date, usually during a specific season or event. Retailers can use these ongoing contributions as a form of working capital, allowing them to make bulk purchases or manage cash flow.

Advantages for Retailers

Steady Cash Flow: Regular contributions from customers ensure consistent cash inflow, which can be invaluable for managing operational expenses.

Reduced Need for Loans: Since customers prepay for goods or services, the retailer can avoid borrowing money for restocking or seasonal demands.

Stronger Customer Relationships: Savings clubs encourage long-term commitment from customers, fostering loyalty and repeat business.

Legal Considerations

Operating a savings club in the UK is generally legal, but there are several regulatory factors to consider:

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Regulations: Some savings schemes may be considered ‘consumer credit’ under FCA rules, depending on how they are structured. Retailers must ensure they are not inadvertently falling under regulations that require FCA authorisation.

Consumer Protection Laws: Customers must be assured that their money is safe, especially if large sums are involved. This often means providing clear terms and conditions about refunds, cancellations, and delivery times.

Trust Accounts: In some cases, it may be prudent to hold customer funds in a separate account to ensure that the retailer can meet future obligations, safeguarding customers' contributions.

Best Practices for Implementing These Strategies

While both gift cards and savings clubs offer flexible funding solutions, retailers must follow best practices to ensure they remain legally compliant and maintain customer trust:

Transparency: Always be upfront with customers about the terms and conditions of gift cards or savings clubs, including expiry dates, refund policies, and redemption processes.

Careful Cash Management: Treat the money received from gift cards or savings club contributions as a future liability. Good cash flow management is key to ensuring that you can meet these obligations when the time comes.

Legal Advice: Before launching either of these programmes, it’s a good idea to seek legal advice to ensure compliance with consumer laws and financial regulations.

By selling gift cards or setting up a savings club, retailers can legally borrow money from their customers, turning immediate cash flow into a powerful business tool. These approaches not only help businesses avoid bank loans but also build stronger customer relationships, foster loyalty, and offer greater financial flexibility. And help customers to plan ahead for their Christmas spending.

However, to succeed, retailers must be diligent in managing the funds raised, ensuring transparency, and adhering to legal requirements.

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