Why You Should Support Local, Independent Bookshops This Christmas

As the Christmas season draws near, thoughts of presents and festive cheer fill our minds. 

While it might be tempting to jump online for the convenience of next-day delivery, this Christmas offers a perfect opportunity to rethink your shopping habits and support local, independent bookshops. 

Here’s why doing so can bring both personal satisfaction and community benefits.

1. Personalised Service with a Personal Touch

Independent bookshops are the antithesis of anonymous, so-called big-box retailers. When you step into a local bookshop, you are greeted by staff who are often passionate about books and knowledgeable about their collections. 

These booksellers can offer personalised recommendations that algorithms simply can't match. They take the time to get to know you, your preferences, and the perfect book that would suit your needs – whether it’s for a loved one or a treat for yourself.

Additionally, independent shops often take pride in curating unique and diverse selections. You’re likely to find hidden gems, rare editions, or locally published works that you wouldn’t come across in a typical online search. It’s this personal connection that turns gift-buying into a more meaningful experience.

2. Supporting the Local Economy

Every time you spend money at a local, independent bookshop, a larger proportion of that money stays in your community. By choosing to support a local business, you contribute to the livelihoods of your neighbours and help keep your high street vibrant. This is especially important as many small businesses, including bookshops, face increasing pressure from online giants.

The ripple effect of your purchase goes beyond the bookshop itself. Independent bookshops often collaborate with local authors, publishers, and other businesses. By buying locally, you help sustain this network and contribute to a thriving literary culture in your community.

3. A More Ethical and Sustainable Choice

Supporting independent bookshops is often a more ethical and sustainable option compared to shopping with large online retailers. Independent shops tend to prioritise quality over quantity, stocking books that align with the values of their community, including works by underrepresented authors and publishers.

Moreover, by choosing to shop locally, you reduce the environmental impact of long-distance shipping, excess packaging, and emissions. Many independent bookshops offer sustainable packaging options or even gift wrapping, making your Christmas presents both thoughtful and eco-friendly.

4. Fostering Community Spirit

Independent bookshops are more than just retail spaces; they are hubs of cultural and intellectual life. Many bookshops host readings, book clubs, signings, and literary events. 

They provide a space for people to gather, share ideas, and build connections. When you choose to shop at your local bookshop, you help sustain these vibrant cultural spaces.

During the festive season, many independent bookshops go the extra mile to create a welcoming, magical atmosphere. Whether it’s twinkling lights, cosy nooks, or festive events, these shops make Christmas shopping a memorable experience rather than a hurried task.

5. The Gift of a Thoughtful Present

Books have a timeless quality that makes them excellent gifts. They’re personal, thoughtful, and can provide enjoyment long after the festive season ends. By choosing to buy from an independent bookshop, you add another layer of meaning to your gift. The recipient can take pride in knowing that their present supports local businesses, and that you’ve put time and care into finding something special for them.

This Christmas, consider slowing down, avoiding the rush of online shopping, and taking a trip to your local independent bookshop. You’ll not only find unique gifts with a personal touch, but you’ll also support your local economy, foster community spirit, and make more ethical choices.

Supporting local bookshops during the festive season helps ensure that they remain a vibrant part of our communities for years to come. So, whether it’s the latest bestseller or a treasured classic, make your gift a special one by shopping local this Christmas.

To find the details of your nearest bookshops you can use https://uk.bookshop.org

Just in time for Christmas! Luscombe Drinks Now Available in Your Waitrose branch

Royal Warrant holder Luscombe Drinks is thrilled to announce its delicious organic soft drinks will now be available nationally in Waitrose stores. 

Thirsty shoppers can find 74cl bottles of its Elderflower Bubbly, Sicilian Lemonade and Rhubarb Crush in-store and online at £3.95 each.

Offering a refreshing taste of Devonshire goodness, Luscombe's handcrafted drinks are made using only the finest organic ingredients and are perfect for any occasion. But especially Christmas we at That's Christmas believe. 

Said Gabriel David, who is the founder of Luscombe Drinks: "Securing our 74cl range on the shelves at Waitrose is a great achievement for our team. 

"Our Elderflower Bubbly, Rhubarb Crush and Sicilian Lemonade have been firm favourites with our customers for a good many years and this new listing will allow more customers across the country to enjoy our handcrafted drinks in convenient sharing sized bottles.”

FACTFILE:

Delivering a genuine taste of the English countryside, Luscombe Organic Elderflower Bubbly is crafted with hand-picked elderflowers harvested during the June sunshine. Boasting a zingy, lemony taste that perfectly complements the creamy white blooms of the organic elderflower, this delicious serve has a gentle sparkle which lifts its floral notes creating an elegant taste. And is ideal during Christmas feasting.

Intensely flavoured, Luscombe Sicilian Lemonde is a traditional still lemonade packed with the finest organic Sicilian lemons and rounded off with an indulgent splash of Madagascan vanilla, creating an authentic taste of Italy.

Luscombe Rhubarb Crush boasts a fresh and bright flavour profile, the tartness of rhubarb tempered by the soft sweetness of vanilla. A subtle soft pink, gently sparkling Rhubarb Crush combines organic rhubarb juice with organic blueberry juice, organic Madagascan vanilla extract and organic lemon oil.  

Luscombe Drinks has consistently been recognised for its dedication to producing exceptional organic beverages, garnering over 110 Great Taste Awards. The availability of these three refreshing flavours in Waitrose supermarkets marks another milestone in the company's growth within the retail sector.

For further information on Luscombe Drinks, please visit www.luscombe.co.uk, follow Luscombe Drinks on TikTok @luscombedrinks, Instagram: @luscombedrinks or 'Like' on Facebook.  

Ayurvedic Cooking to Boost Your Christmas Cookery: Savoury and Sweet Delights

As the festive season becomes every nearer our kitchens will come alive with the vibrant aromas of traditional Christmas dishes. 

But what if, this year, you infuse your festive cooking with the nourishing, flavourful principles of Ayurvedic cuisine? 

Rooted in ancient Indian wisdom, Ayurveda is a holistic approach to health that emphasises balance and harmony in body, mind, and spirit. 

Ayurvedic cooking focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients and balancing flavours to promote wellness.

Incorporating Ayurvedic techniques and ingredients can add a new, wholesome dimension to both your savoury and sweet Christmas dishes.

Here’s how Ayurvedic cooking can give your Christmas recipes a delicious, health-boosting twist.

1. The Art of Balancing Flavours: The Five Tastes

In Ayurveda, food isn’t just about taste; it's about balance. According to this ancient system, a well-balanced meal incorporates all five primary tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent. When these tastes are combined, they work together to nourish the body and mind.

For your Christmas savoury dishes, consider how the five tastes can elevate traditional favourites:

Sweet: Use root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes to add a subtle sweetness to your roasted veg platter. You can also use jaggery or honey in glazes for Christmas hams or roasted nuts.

Sour: Lemon or tamarind chutneys make wonderful additions to balance the richness of heavy Christmas foods, such as turkey or gravy-based dishes.

Salty: Swap out regular table salt for pink Himalayan salt, which is believed to be purer and more mineral-rich.

Bitter: Dark leafy greens like kale or spinach can bring a bitter note to your sides. Lightly sautéed with spices such as cumin and mustard seeds, they become an enticingly healthy addition to your Christmas spread.

Pungent: The warmth of ginger, garlic, and mustard can enhance stews, soups, and stuffing. These pungent ingredients also aid in digestion, making them ideal for heavier festive fare.

2. Warming Spices for the Winter Season

Ayurvedic cooking relies heavily on the use of spices to balance the body’s doshas (energies) and to promote digestion. During the colder months, we naturally gravitate towards warming, comforting foods. Ayurvedic spices not only add flavour but also help to generate internal warmth, perfect for wintertime meals.

For savoury dishes, consider these warming Ayurvedic spices:

Cinnamon: A star player in Christmas cooking, cinnamon is not only delicious but also aids in balancing blood sugar levels. Use it in your Christmas gravies or to season roasted vegetables.

Cumin: This earthy spice can add depth to soups, curries, or even stuffing. Cumin aids digestion and is especially useful after indulgent meals.

Ginger: Fresh or ground, ginger is a digestive powerhouse. Add it to gravies, sauces, or even mince pies for an extra burst of warmth.

For sweet treats, warming spices can bring complexity and richness to your desserts:

Cardamom: This fragrant spice is a must in Ayurvedic desserts. Its sweet, floral flavour makes it perfect for biscuits, cakes, or rice pudding. Try adding cardamom to your Christmas puddings or shortbread for a festive twist.

Nutmeg and Clove: These classic Christmas spices are also Ayurvedic staples. Nutmeg is known for its calming effects, while clove supports digestion. Use them in your festive gingerbread, spiced cakes, or mulled wine.

3. Ayurvedic Cooking Methods: Gentle and Mindful

One of the guiding principles of Ayurvedic cooking is that food should be prepared with care and intention. Rather than rushing through your Christmas meal prep, slow down and appreciate the process. Ayurvedic cooking encourages:

Gentle cooking methods: Steaming, slow-roasting, and simmering help retain the nutrients in food. Avoid charring or over-frying ingredients, as this can deplete their prana (life force).

Using ghee: Instead of butter or oil, consider using ghee, a clarified butter that is highly valued in Ayurveda. Ghee enhances the flavour of both savoury and sweet dishes while also supporting digestion and promoting gut health. Try using ghee to roast your vegetables, baste your Christmas turkey, or even in baking.

4. Incorporating Ayurvedic Superfoods

For a nutrient boost, Ayurveda recommends adding certain “superfoods” to your diet. These are foods that are believed to have healing properties and can support overall wellness. Incorporating them into your Christmas dishes will not only boost their nutritional value but will also add intriguing new flavours.

For savoury dishes, consider:

Mung beans: These protein-packed legumes are easily digestible and make for a light, nutritious alternative to heavier pulses. You can use them in soups, stews, or even in a mung bean risotto as a side dish.

Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can be used in almost any dish. Add a pinch to your soups, marinades, or even mashed potatoes for a golden, healthful glow.

For sweet treats:

Dates: Naturally sweet and packed with fibre, dates are a great alternative to refined sugar. Use them in energy balls, cakes, or mince pies for a natural sweetness with added nutrients.

Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, almonds are a fantastic addition to your Christmas bakes. Ground almonds can be used in place of flour for cakes, biscuits, or even pie crusts.

5. Ayurveda for Post-Feast Comfort

Let’s be honest: Christmas meals can be indulgent, leaving us feeling heavy or sluggish. Fortunately, Ayurveda offers simple solutions to aid digestion and bring the body back into balance.

Digestive teas: After a rich Christmas meal, Ayurvedic teas made with ginger, fennel, and cumin seeds can soothe the stomach and promote digestion. Simply steep these spices in hot water, strain, and sip after your Christmas feast.

Triphala: A well-known Ayurvedic herbal blend, triphala helps cleanse the digestive system. Taking a small amount before bed on Christmas night can help ease the effects of overindulgence.

Infusing your Christmas cookery with Ayurvedic principles doesn’t mean giving up your favourite festive traditions. Instead, it’s about enhancing those traditions with the wisdom of Ayurveda, using spices, superfoods, and mindful preparation to bring balance to your holiday meals. Whether it’s a warming cinnamon-spiced dessert or a savoury dish packed with fresh herbs and spices, Ayurvedic cooking can make your Christmas both delicious and nourishing.

This year, let your Christmas kitchen celebrate health, harmony, and a bit of Ayurveda!

Crisis at Christmas: Offering Hope and Support for Homeless People at Christmas and Beyond

The festive season is a time of warmth, joy, and togetherness for many, but for those experiencing homelessness, it can be a stark reminder of the isolation and hardships they face. 

In the UK, Crisis, a national charity dedicated to ending homelessness, plays a crucial role in offering practical and emotional support to those in need, particularly during the Christmas period. 

Their Crisis at Christmas initiative not only provides immediate relief but also lays the groundwork for long-term recovery and stability.

Crisis at Christmas: A Lifeline During the Holidays

For over 50 years, Crisis at Christmas has been a beacon of hope for thousands of homeless people. While most of us are celebrating with family and friends, Crisis volunteers and staff open temporary centres across the UK, offering vital services to people who would otherwise spend Christmas on the streets or in unsuitable accommodation. 

These centres are safe spaces where homeless individuals can receive food, warmth, and companionship.

But the support doesn’t end with a hot meal and shelter. Crisis at Christmas centres provide essential health services, including GP consultations, dental care, and mental health support. For many homeless people, this is their first access to professional care in months or even years. There are also opportunities to connect with housing advisors, job coaches, and other specialists who can help participants begin their journey out of homelessness.

Moving Beyond Christmas: The Year-Round Impact

One of the unique aspects of Crisis is its holistic approach to tackling homelessness. The charity understands that homelessness is not just a temporary state of being; it’s often the result of a complex web of issues such as unemployment, mental health struggles, and lack of affordable housing. While the Christmas campaign garners the most attention, Crisis works year-round to provide long-term solutions.

Their individualised support includes:

Housing Assistance: Crisis helps people find safe and stable accommodation by working with landlords, councils, and housing associations. Their housing experts offer guidance on tenants’ rights, housing benefits, and how to maintain a tenancy.

Employment Services: Crisis offers tailored support to help people into work, whether through CV workshops, interview preparation, or offering connections to employers. This not only boosts confidence but also provides the financial stability needed to sustain a home.

Health and Wellbeing: The charity continues to support people with physical and mental health needs. Crisis understands that unresolved health issues can be a major barrier to sustaining a stable life, so they ensure access to medical services and emotional support.

Education and Skills: Crisis also offers opportunities for people to build new skills. From literacy and numeracy courses to vocational training, these services empower homeless individuals to improve their prospects and rebuild their lives.

Crisis' Impact in Numbers

In the past year alone, Crisis has helped over 11,000 people leave homelessness behind for good. The charity’s success is driven by its commitment to tackling the root causes of homelessness and its emphasis on personal, tailored support. Every pound donated, and every hour volunteered, makes a tangible difference in someone's life, offering not just a bed for the night but a real chance at a brighter future.

How You Can Help

Homelessness is a year-round issue, but there are many ways you can contribute, especially during the festive season:

Donate: Crisis relies heavily on donations to run its Christmas centres and year-round services. Even a small contribution can provide food, clothing, or housing support to someone in need.

Volunteer: Whether it's during Christmas or throughout the year, Crisis is always in need of volunteers to support their services. Volunteering can be a deeply rewarding way to make a real impact in your community.

Advocate: You can also help by raising awareness of the issue of homelessness and advocating for policies that provide more affordable housing and better support for vulnerable people.

Crisis at Christmas is more than just a short-term fix for homelessness during the festive season. It’s part of a much larger, ongoing effort to ensure that everyone has a place to call home. By providing immediate care and fostering long-term solutions, Crisis is changing lives and offering hope to those who need it most.

This Christmas, as we gather with loved ones, let’s remember that everyone deserves the comfort and security of a home. Through charities like Crisis, we can all play a part in making that a reality, not just for Christmas, but all year round.

https://www.crisis.org.uk

Brewing Your Own Wine, Beer, or Cider for Christmas: A Festive Guide Using Ready-Made Brewing Kits

Christmas is the season of festive indulgence, and what better way to add a personal touch to your festive celebrations than by brewing your own wine, beer, or cider? 

Not only is it a fun and rewarding activity, but homemade drinks can also be the perfect gift for friends and family or the centrepiece of your Christmas table. 

The best part is that you don’t need to be a seasoned brewer to create delicious drinks—ready-made brewing kits make the process simple, accessible, and enjoyable.

If you’re keen to give it a go, here’s a guide to brewing your own wine, beer, or cider for Christmas using ready-made kits.

1. Why Brew Your Own for Christmas?

Brewing your own drinks for Christmas offers several benefits:

Personal Touch: There’s something special about serving homemade beverages at your Christmas gathering. Whether it’s a mulled wine you’ve brewed yourself or a crisp apple cider, it adds a touch of personal pride to the festivities.

Cost-Effective: Buying bottles of wine, beer, or cider for Christmas parties and family meals can be expensive. Brewing your own allows you to create large quantities at a fraction of the cost, perfect for those hosting big gatherings or wanting to give homemade drinks as gifts.

Creative Control: With a ready-made brewing kit, you have control over the flavours and style of your drink. You can experiment with different types of fruit, spices, and other ingredients to create a unique brew that suits your tastes or adds a festive twist.

2. Choosing Your Brewing Kit

There are several types of brewing kits available depending on what you want to make. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options:

Wine Kits: Ready-made wine kits provide everything you need to produce your own wine, usually in around four to six weeks. These kits typically come with grape juice concentrate, yeast, and instructions. You can find kits that make reds, whites, or rosés, and even speciality wines like sparkling or mulled varieties. Some Christmas-themed kits might include ingredients for spiced wine, perfect for the season.

Beer Kits: Beer brewing kits are ideal for anyone who loves craft beer. These kits usually come with malt extract, yeast, and hops, and they guide you through the process of fermenting and bottling your brew. Many kits allow you to choose between different styles such as pale ales, stouts, or lagers. For Christmas, you might consider a kit that offers festive flavours, like a spiced ale or winter warmer.

Cider Kits: If you prefer something a little lighter, cider brewing kits are a great choice. They often come with apple concentrate, yeast, and all the equipment you’ll need to produce a delicious cider. Cider kits are relatively easy to use and can be flavoured with spices like cinnamon and cloves to create a festive drink.

When choosing a kit, make sure to select one that matches your experience level. Most kits are designed for beginners, but some might offer more advanced options for those with brewing experience.

3. The Brewing Process: Step by Step

While each type of brewing kit will have its own specific instructions, the basic process for making wine, beer, or cider at home is generally the same. Here’s an overview of what to expect:

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start brewing, make sure you’ve read through all the instructions included with your kit. Clean and sterilise all of your equipment thoroughly—this is one of the most important steps to avoid contamination and ensure your brew turns out just right.

Step 2: Mixing Ingredients

Once your equipment is prepared, it’s time to mix the ingredients. For wine, this typically involves mixing the grape concentrate with water, adding yeast, and perhaps some additional sugars or flavourings. Beer kits will have you mix the malt extract with water and add hops for flavour, while cider kits involve mixing apple concentrate with water and yeast.

Step 3: Fermentation

After mixing your ingredients, the fermentation process begins. This is where the magic happens, as the yeast converts sugars into alcohol. For wine, fermentation can take anywhere from two to six weeks depending on the type of wine you’re making. Beer typically ferments for one to two weeks, while cider might take about one to three weeks.

During this time, you’ll want to keep the brew in a cool, dark place, away from any disturbances. Many kits come with airlocks to let gases escape while keeping air out, so it’s important to monitor this part of the process closely.

Step 4: Bottling

Once fermentation is complete, it’s time to bottle your brew. You’ll need to transfer the liquid into bottles, being careful to avoid any sediment at the bottom of your fermenter. Some kits include bottling equipment, while others may require you to purchase it separately.

For beer and cider, you’ll usually add a small amount of sugar to the bottles before sealing them. This creates a secondary fermentation in the bottle, adding fizz to your drink. Wine, on the other hand, is usually bottled and stored to mature, though you can drink it soon after bottling if you’re eager to sample your creation.

Step 5: Ageing and Enjoying

The final step is ageing your brew. Wine typically benefits from being aged for a few weeks to several months to develop its full flavour. Beer and cider can also be aged for a few weeks to improve taste and carbonation. However, if you’re on a tight timeline, you can enjoy your drinks as soon as they’re ready.

Once aged, your homemade wine, beer, or cider will be ready to serve at Christmas parties, family dinners, or to give as thoughtful, handcrafted gifts.

4. Festive Twists on Your Brews

To make your homemade drinks even more festive, consider adding some Christmas-themed flavours to your brew:

Spiced Wine: Add cloves, cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, and a touch of orange peel to your wine during fermentation to create a warming mulled wine that’s perfect for Christmas.

Christmas Ale: Brew a beer with winter spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg for a festive twist. You could also add some dried fruit or a splash of honey for a sweet, warming ale.

Mulled Cider: Spice up your cider by adding mulling spices like allspice, cinnamon, and cloves. For an extra festive touch, you could also add a dash of vanilla or caramel essence.

5. Brewing Kits: A Perfect Gift Idea

Ready-made brewing kits also make fantastic gifts for the beer, wine, or cider enthusiast in your life. They offer a fun, hands-on experience, and the recipient gets to enjoy the fruits of their labour—literally! Whether it’s a beer brewing kit for a budding homebrewer or a cider kit for someone who loves trying new flavours, it’s a unique and thoughtful gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

Brewing your own wine, beer, or cider for Christmas is a wonderful way to personalise your festive celebrations and create something truly special. With ready-made brewing kits, the process is simple and enjoyable, allowing even beginners to produce delicious drinks to share with family and friends.

 Whether you’re brewing to serve at your Christmas feast or to give as homemade gifts, the experience of crafting your own festive drinks will add an extra layer of joy to the season.

So, why not try your hand at brewing this Christmas? Raise a glass of your homemade creation and toast to a festive season full of creativity and cheer!

Brew Genie offers a wide range of brew kits and equipment by mail or from their retail premises: https://www.brewgenie.co.uk

How to Set Up a Crafty Christmas with Fun Competitions for Handmade Cards, Ornaments, and Small Gifts

Christmas is a time for creativity, fun, and a little bit of friendly competition. 

One way to bring out the festive spirit while adding a personal touch to your celebrations is by organising a Crafty Christmas event. 

Whether with family or in a workplace setting, holding a competition to see who can make the best handmade Christmas cards, ornaments, or small gifts is a fantastic way to bond, spread cheer, and showcase everyone’s artistic talents.

Here’s how to set up your very own Crafty Christmas with exciting competitions that are perfect for families and colleagues alike.

1. Choose Your Crafty Categories

To get started, you’ll want to decide on the categories for your crafty competitions. Three classic options that work well in both family and workplace settings are:

Handmade Christmas Cards: Get participants to design and create their own festive cards. Whether it’s through drawing, painting, collage, or mixed media, the possibilities are endless. This is a fun activity that can involve both children and adults, making it perfect for a family or an office gathering.

Christmas Ornaments: Challenge your participants to craft their own Christmas tree ornaments. You can provide materials such as felt, glitter, clay, or recycled items, encouraging everyone to make something unique to hang on the tree.

Small Handmade Gifts: This category invites participants to make small, thoughtful gifts. These could be anything from homemade candles and soaps to festive decorations or personalised trinkets.

You could also tailor the competition categories to suit the group’s interests. For example, include a gingerbread house decorating contest or a wreath-making challenge. The more creative, the better!

2. Gather Your Craft Supplies

Once you’ve settled on your categories, it’s time to gather all the necessary materials. If you’re hosting the competition at home with family, you can raid the craft cupboard or take a trip to your local craft shop. For workplace settings, consider setting up a craft station with a variety of supplies.

Some essential craft materials you might need include:

Cardstock, paper, and envelopes for Christmas cards

Felt, foam sheets, and ribbons for ornaments

Beads, buttons, glitter, and sequins for decoration

Glue, scissors, and double-sided tape

Paints, markers, and coloured pencils

Clay or polymer clay for creating small gifts or ornaments

Recycled materials like bottle caps, fabric scraps, and old Christmas cards

Stamps, stencils, and stickers for additional embellishments

Make sure to provide enough supplies for everyone, and if your group is large, consider dividing the materials into kits for each participant.

3. Set the Rules

Every good competition needs some ground rules! Depending on the type of event, you may want to establish a few guidelines to keep things fair and ensure everyone has a good time.

Time Limits: Set a reasonable time limit for each competition, whether it’s one hour or the duration of the event. This keeps the pace exciting and ensures everyone has to work quickly but creatively.

Use of Materials: If you want to make it more challenging, limit the types of materials participants can use. For instance, you could give everyone the same basic supplies and see who can get the most creative with them.

Judging Criteria: Let participants know how their creations will be judged. Criteria could include originality, craftsmanship, holiday spirit, or overall presentation. For workplace settings, you might ask a panel of judges to evaluate the entries, while family gatherings could take a more informal approach with everyone voting for their favourite.

Bonus Points: Add an element of surprise by offering bonus points for specific themes or styles. For example, you could award extra points for the most eco-friendly ornament or the funniest Christmas card.

4. Create a Festive Atmosphere

The right atmosphere will get everyone in the Christmas spirit and set the tone for your event. Whether you’re hosting at home or in the office, decorate the space with Christmas lights, garlands, and baubles to make it feel festive.

Playing some classic Christmas tunes in the background will help inspire creativity. Set up a table with festive snacks and drinks, like mince pies, mulled wine, or hot chocolate, to keep everyone energised and feeling merry as they work on their creations.

5. Encourage Teamwork and Friendly Competition

While some participants may prefer to work solo, offering a team-based competition can be a fun way to encourage collaboration, especially in a workplace setting. Divide participants into teams and see who can come up with the best group creation, whether it’s a set of matching Christmas ornaments or a collection of handmade cards.

Friendly competition can spur creativity, but remember to keep the mood light-hearted. The goal is to have fun, so make sure everyone feels included, regardless of their crafting abilities. For younger family members or colleagues who aren’t as crafty, you could offer simpler tasks like decorating pre-made cards or assembling ornament kits.

6. Award Prizes

No competition is complete without a few prizes! You don’t need to go overboard—simple, thoughtful prizes can make the winners feel special. Some ideas include:

Best Overall: Awarded to the top creation across all categories.

Most Festive: Given to the most Christmassy and joyful creation.

Most Creative: For the most unique or unexpected design.

Best Team Effort: If you have group categories, reward the team that worked best together.

Prizes could be anything from small gift cards, festive chocolates, or even homemade treats. In a family setting, the winners could get to open their presents first on Christmas Day!

7. Share the Creations

Once the competition is over, display the finished creations so that everyone can admire the results. In a workplace setting, you could showcase the handmade cards and ornaments in the office, decorating a tree or a display board. If you’re hosting at home, hang the ornaments on your family tree or use the cards as part of your holiday décor.

If your event includes a small gift-making competition, consider exchanging the handmade gifts as part of a Secret Santa or gift swap.

8. Capture the Memories

Make sure to take plenty of photos of the event and the crafty creations! These moments will serve as wonderful memories of the time spent together. In a workplace setting, you could even create a digital gallery of the entries or post photos on the company’s social media page to spread festive cheer.

A Crafty Christmas competition is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with a mix of creativity, fun, and friendly rivalry. Whether you’re hosting with family or colleagues, these activities offer a fantastic opportunity to bond, express your artistic side, and add a personal touch to the festive season. 

By making cards, ornaments, or small gifts by hand, you’re not only creating something unique but also spreading the true spirit of Christmas—thoughtfulness, connection, and joy.

This Christmas, why not swap store-bought for handmade and let the crafting competitions begin?

How to Select the Perfect Venue for Your Family or Company Christmas Meal or Party

Christmas is a time for celebration, and whether you’re planning a family gathering or a company party, the venue plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the event. 

The right venue can turn an ordinary meal into a festive occasion filled with joy, laughter, and great memories. 

But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect place to host your Christmas celebration? 

Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a venue for your family or company Christmas meal or party.

1. Size and Capacity

The first thing to think about when choosing a venue is the number of guests you’re expecting. For a family Christmas meal, this might be a more intimate gathering, while a company party may need a space that can accommodate a larger group.

Ensure that the venue you select is not too big or too small. A venue that’s too large can feel impersonal, while one that’s too small may feel cramped. Most venues will provide a capacity range, so it’s important to choose one that fits comfortably within the size of your guest list.

2. Location

Location is key when planning any event. For a family meal, you’ll want to choose somewhere that’s convenient for everyone, particularly if you have older relatives or guests who may have difficulty travelling long distances. Look for venues that are centrally located or easily accessible by public transport.

For a company party, it’s important to select a location that’s convenient for employees. If your office is based in a busy city, you might want to choose a venue close by to make it easier for staff to attend. Alternatively, if you want to create a more relaxed atmosphere, a countryside retreat or out-of-town venue could offer a change of pace and a more relaxed vibe.

3. Ambiance and Atmosphere

The atmosphere of the venue is crucial for creating the right festive mood. Whether you’re planning a cosy family dinner or a lively company party, the venue’s ambiance should match the type of event you’re hosting.

For a more intimate and traditional Christmas meal, look for venues with a warm, cosy atmosphere—think fireplaces, soft lighting, and festive décor. If you’re hosting a company event with a more modern or chic feel, you might opt for a sleek, contemporary venue that offers a trendy, upbeat environment. Some venues go all out with Christmas decorations, while others allow you to bring in your own, so consider whether you want a pre-decorated space or a blank canvas to personalise.

4. Menu Options

Christmas meals are all about indulgence and festive flavours, so the food served at your event is a major factor. When selecting a venue, check what menu options they offer for Christmas. Many venues provide special Christmas menus, complete with traditional favourites like roast turkey, mince pies, and Christmas pudding.

Make sure the venue can cater to dietary requirements, especially if you have guests with specific allergies or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. For a company party, you might also want to check if the venue offers a variety of drink packages or if they allow you to bring your own alcohol for a corkage fee.

5. Budget

Setting a budget is essential when planning any event. Venues can vary greatly in price, so it’s important to find one that fits within your budget while still offering the amenities and experience you want. Be sure to ask what is included in the cost—some venues may include food, drinks, and entertainment in a package, while others charge separately for each item.

It’s also worth considering whether the venue offers flexibility with dates. Many places increase prices during peak Christmas party season, so booking your event earlier or on a less popular night, such as a weekday, might save you money.

6. Accessibility

When selecting a venue, think about the needs of your guests in terms of accessibility. Is the venue accessible for elderly family members or those with disabilities? Does it have adequate parking or access to public transport? If you’re hosting a company party, consider whether your colleagues will be able to easily get home afterwards.

Make sure to check whether the venue has lifts, ramps, or other facilities that make it accessible for everyone. You should also think about the availability of parking or, if necessary, whether the venue offers discounted rates for nearby car parks.

7. Entertainment Options

Entertainment can make or break a Christmas party. Some venues provide built-in entertainment options, such as live bands, DJs, or even photo booths. For family gatherings, you may want to create a more relaxed setting with festive music playing in the background, while a company event might benefit from a lively band or a DJ to get people dancing.

Find out what entertainment options the venue offers and whether they can accommodate any special requests. If you’re planning to hire external entertainers, make sure the venue is open to that and has the necessary facilities, like sound systems or dance floors.

8. Private vs. Shared Spaces

Many venues offer both private dining rooms and shared spaces for Christmas events. For a family Christmas meal, a private space can create a more intimate and personal setting. For company parties, however, shared spaces with other groups might add to the lively, festive atmosphere and can sometimes be more cost-effective.

Consider the level of privacy and exclusivity you want for your event. If you prefer a more low-key, personal celebration, a private room might be best. However, if you want to immerse yourself in the full festive buzz, a shared space with multiple parties can add energy to the occasion.

9. Reviews and Recommendations

Finally, take the time to read reviews or ask for recommendations. Previous guests often leave valuable feedback about their experiences, including the quality of the food, the service, and the overall atmosphere of the venue. If you’re planning a company event, ask colleagues or other businesses for venue suggestions based on their own experiences.

Word of mouth is a powerful tool when it comes to selecting the perfect venue. Don’t hesitate to ask around or do your own research online to ensure that you choose a venue with a proven track record of delivering memorable Christmas celebrations.

Selecting the perfect venue for your family or company Christmas meal or party requires careful consideration, but with the right planning, you can create an unforgettable festive experience. By taking into account factors like size, location, atmosphere, menu options, and budget, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a Christmas celebration that everyone will enjoy.

Whether it’s a cosy family gathering or a large company bash, the venue you choose will set the stage for a festive season filled with laughter, joy, and great memories.