Homemade Christmas gifts and crafts with the help of Bonne Maman

Bonne Maman jars are an ideal choice to fill with all manner of seasonal goodies. 

If you do have time to bake at home, these sweet treats are wonderful stored and served to family and friends or when prettily tied with festive ribbons and tags make delicious homemade gifts and presents.

 No time to bake? Discover the limited-edition Hazelnut Chocolate Christmas jar and gift with twinkling fairy lights so your loved one can enjoy and then upcycle the jar to create their own special decoration.

These Hazelnut Chocolate Truffles are a luxurious homemade gift using Bonne Maman award-winning Hazelnut Chocolate Spread. Easy to make yet very indulgent, simply package in a gift box for your loved ones. The Bonne Maman Hazelnut Chocolate Spread also makes a delicious Christmas gift when presented with a box of homemade Thumbprint Shortcakes, just neatly stack them up and tie with a ribbon. 

The Mini Shortbread Mince Pies recipe is a new take on the traditional favourite, featuring Bonne Maman Apricot Conserve. Updating a French staple, Cranberry & Pistachio Tuiles work well with Strawberry, Raspberry, Wild Blueberry or Blackcurrant Conserves, and are great as an after dinner morsel; whilst the utterly delicious, no bake Choc Cherry Truffles are full of Black Cherry Conserve with a great vegan option available also. Create a mini Rudolph Reindeer Cake as an adorable gift or to leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve.

Available while stocks last, the limited edition 360g Xmas jar is available in all major retailers at a rrp of  £3.60. 

https://www.bonnemaman.co.uk

Monty Bojangles unveils it largest ever experiential so far with its immersive Temple of Monty Pop-Up

Monty Bojangles, the multi-award-winning UK confectionery brand, took over London’s King’s Cross Station at the end of October, unveiling its biggest and most spectacular event so far to date.

Many months in the making, the three-day-long experiential saw visitors transported into the Temple of Monty, an enchanting pop-up which delivered a shareable brand story, immersing visitors in Monty Bojangles’ magical world. 

Guided by a glowing path to the heart of the experience, guests were surrounded by a lush botanical garden, filled with Monty’s tropical creatures and wonderous cocoa beans, culminating in being greeted by a 9ft tall recreation of the brand’s iconic Persian Pink Cat Tin, marking Monty’s largest creation in history. 

The impact on visitors was clear, with many positive comments including, “I have travelled over two hours away just to come down and check it out. I am a massive fan!”, “I love the brand already, and after this event, I’ve fallen in love with it even more.” and “Inside the tent felt like a mini theme park with all the lights and a magical atmosphere.” 

The bold experiential also saw the return of the brand’s engaging spin the wheel game, giving guests the chance to win an array of prizes, including Monty’s award-winning truffles, limited-edition Persian Pink Cat-paraphernalia, and iconic Kit-Tins. 

With over 42,000 of Monty Bojangles chocolatey truffles sampled across the full campaign, one visitor commented, “I have seen these chocolate truffles in loads of shops but didn’t want to buy them in case I didn’t like them. After trying it today, I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to buy some more of the flavours.” 

What’s more, a hot air balloon photo opportunity was also stationed on site, meaning guests were able to walk away with a fun memento of their experience, ensuring the brand remained front of mind for consumers once the event had wrapped.

Sally Fenton, who has the utterly enviable position of Marketing Manager at Monty Bojangles, said, “Our Cat Tins have truly become Monty Bojangles icons, adored by many and now proudly stocked in Waitrose and Sainsbury’s. 

"This weekend’s experiential event was the ultimate celebration of that. Watching faces light up as guests entered the tent and saw the reveal of our largest Persian Pink Cat Tin yet was unforgettable. The energy was electric, with high footfall and queues throughout the day, as guests spun the prize wheel for exclusive treats, with plenty of free truffles adding to the excitement.

"Many sampled Monty Bojangles Chocolatey Truffles for the first time, while others discovered exciting new flavours from our range! The keepsake Polaroids taken on Monty’s hot air balloon were also a hit, giving everyone a unique memento of this magical day. 

"With King’s Cross and all of London illuminated by our out-of-home campaign and our radio ads echoing across the city on Heart London, this has been our most impactful brand experience yet. A big thank you to everyone who joined us and made it an unforgettable experience.”

Building excitement for the three-day installation at King’s Cross, the brand also took its magic on the road, preceding the main event with a five-day London trike tour, visiting Cardinal Place, Angel Central, Southside Wandsworth, Ealing Broadway and Liverpool Street Station. Supported by the brand’s OOH and radio advertisements, the multifaceted campaign ensured the Temple of Monty was the brand’s most successful experience to date.  

My wife and I have found that our favourite delicatessen stocks Monty Bojangles, which has pleased us immensely, as you can imagine! Christmas presents have already been sorted out for deserving family and friends! 

https://montybojangles.com

Tea India and Roasting Plant will make stunning but cost-effective gifts for Christmas

Tea India offers a delicious range of rich and indulgent chai’s and would be the perfect Christmas gift for our nation of tea lovers! With notes of cinnamon and cloves, Tea India’s chai is the perfect drink to enjoy during the entire festive season.

Roasting Plant is home to London’s freshest just-roasted coffee and offers the beans they use in-store for purchase online, delivered nationwide.

They have x8 single origins available and x1 house blend, each with a unique combination of tasting notes from toasted peanut brittle and chocolate to apple blossom and mango lassi. Once you complete your order,  beans are roasted in-store and shipped to you no later than 48 hours after the beans have been roasted - ensuring maximum just-roasted flavour and freshness.

Roasting Plant has also launched luxury chocolate bars in collaboration with The Chocolatier  - now available to buy in Roasting Plant’s six stores, across London. The Chocolatier ethically source their cacao, and each bar is crafted to perfection with their award-winning great quality chocolate, perfect as an afternoon or evening treat.

Tea India

Masala Chai

A rich, warming blend of black tea, cinnamon, cloves and anise for a distinctive 'real' Chai experience. 

RRP £2.80, available from: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Ocado, Waitrose & ASDA.

Decaf Masala Chai

Meet the newest member of their chai range! It's full of all the delicious spices and tea that made you fall in love with our Masala Chai, but we've removed the caffeine so you can enjoy it day or night. No caffeine cut-off time necessary, just a delicious cup of comfort after dinner or before bed to round out a great day.

RRP £3.30, available from: Waitrose.

Ginger Chai

A warming blend of black tea with spicy ginger for a truly distinctive Chai experience. 

RRP £2.80, available from: Tesco & ASDA.

FACTFILE:

With its vibrant blend of spices, Tea India’s Chai offers more than just a tea break - it’s a full glass of glass half-full experience. Whether it’s morning, afternoon, or evening, our distinctly flavorful Chai’s range from sweet Masala Chai to spicy Ginger Chai that bring a boost of positivity, warmth, and a touch of escapism. Take a sip of optimism today. 

Tea India’s Masala Chai and Decaf Masala Chai received three Gold Stars in the 2024 Nourish Awards®, and is stocked across Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Waitrose stores nationwide, as well as Ocado.

Roasting Plant

Roasting Plant’s Brazilian Single Origin: 

RRP: £9.25 

Tasting Notes: Toasted Peanut Brittle, Chocolate, Dry Fruits

Roasting Plant’s House Blend:

RRP: £9.25

Tasting Notes: Spicy Caramel, Chocolate, & Raisins

Prices are for 250g bags, 500g and 1kg bags are also available to purchase

Beans are all available in the following grinds: whole bean, french press, metal filter, chemex-paper, espresso

The Chocolatier x Roasting Plant Origin Dark Chocolate Bar (50g)

RRP £5.50

Rare 70% Virunga National Park, Congo dark chocolate - notes of cherry and black tea.

The Chocolatier x Roasting Plant 40% Coffee Milk Chocolate Bar (50g)

RRP £5.50

Peruvian origin coffee and milk chocolate.

FACTFILE:

About Roasting Plant® Coffee:

Roasting Plant® Coffee is redefining ‘fresh coffee’ as the only multi-unit coffee operator in the world to micro-batch roast in every café using its patented Javabot™ Coffee System. 

Why is this important? Once roasted, coffee is highly volatile, stales rapidly and loses up to 70% of its flavour and aroma in the first 7 to 10 days, after which it develops off-tastes from oxidation and rancidity of the natural oils. In a recent blind taste-test in store, 100% of customers chose Roasting Plant coffee on taste alone versus other high-street brands. 

Every cup ordered in every Roasting Plant® Coffee café is brewed to order within 60 seconds. Whole, freshly roasted beans are ground and brewed to order and ready to enjoy, one cup at a time. Roasting Plant® Coffee offers a choice of up to 8 single origins, sourced directly from farms across the world, from Jamaica to Ethiopia to Sumatra. You choose a cup of coffee, or an espresso made from any one of those beans, a suggested blend or a personal blend. Coffee has never been this personal before.

Roasting Plant Coffee was born in the US and now has 13 locations, including six London stores – Selfridges, South Molton St, Borough High St, The Strand, Gracechurch St & High Holborn.

https://shop.teaindia.co.uk

https://roastingplant.co.uk

'Tis the season to Christmas decorate safely! Henchman's top 5 tips for safe decorating

As the festive season approaches, many of us are doubtless looking forward to transforming our homes into festive wonderlands. 

From the twinkling lights to colourful ornaments, decorating for Christmas is a cherished tradition that brings joy to families, friends, neighbours and even passersby.

However, while the festive spirit fills the air, it's really very important to remember that safety should be at the top of your decorating checklist. 

According to a survey by the UKs National Accident Helpline, 2.6 million people have fallen whilst they were hanging Christmas decorations. 

To help individuals decorate safely this season, leading safety ladder specialist, Henchman, has partnered with The Christmas Decorators to share essential guidance on staying safe whilst people are working at heights during this festive season. 

Plan your display

Before you begin any Christmas decorating, planning your display can save you time and help prevent accidents. 

Take a moment to map out where each decoration will go and gather all your supplies, including a ladder, lights, ornaments and tools. 

Jamie from The Christmas Decorators shares: "Planning is everything. Part of our process is conducting site visits and planning access points for installations. We make sure all job details are clear before we leave the warehouse, so we're prepared, safe, and ready to delight all our customers."

Consider the layout of your available space and identify the best spots for lights and decorations. Ensure there’s a clear path to your decorating areas, avoiding all clutter and obstacles that might cause trips. 

Select a well-lit space for indoor decorating to help you see clearly as you work, and make sure you have enough space to manoeuvre in safety.  

Wait for the right weather

Always assess your environment before decorating. Make sure to check the weather before using your ladder outdoors. Obviously, wind, rain or icy conditions can increase the risk of accidents, so it’s best to delay outdoor decorating until conditions improve. 

Keep an eye out for potential environmental hazards, like uneven ground, debris, or obstacles that could cause you to trip or lose your balance. 

As Jamie notes: Our teams are trained to conduct safety assessments, and if conditions aren’t safe, we rearrange with the client to return another day. No decoration is worth risking safety for!”

Choose the right ladder

Selecting the right ladder is obviously key for safe decorating, especially when tackling heights or tricky spots. 

For this task, the Henchman Fully Adjustable Tripod Ladder is an excellent option, with three independently adjustable legs that provide extra stability on uneven ground, making it suitable for any terrain. 

The tripod ladder is certified to EN131, making it the only tripod ladder available in the UK that meets this standard, ensuring you can confidently tackle your decorating tasks this holiday season, knowing that you have a reliable and safe tool at your side.

Available in a range of sizes from 5ft to 12ft, the tripod ladder offers flexibility for various tasks. The smallest model is perfect for indoor decorating, such as placing the star on top of your tree, while the taller models make it easy to hang lights along guttering or reach upstairs windows. Its claw-like feet ensure a good, firm grip on soft ground, keeping you secure on muddy or uneven surfaces. 

Before you dive into decorating, inspect your ladder for any signs of wear or damage.  Jamie advises: “It's essential to conduct several health and safety checks before stepping foot on the ladder to ensure the safety of the user and others around.” 

He goes on to say: “We always check the ladder's condition to ensure it’s free from dirt and debris, that the mechanisms and locks are working, and that all relevant safety labelling is clear and is followed.” Ensure that the rungs are secure, the legs are stable, and that all surfaces are clean and free of dirt to prevent slipping.

Climb with care

Safety is paramount when you are climbing. The Fully Adjustable Tripod Ladder includes a generous 18cm platform for increased comfort and control, with an elevated guardrail to support you as you work. 

Always use both hands when climbing and descending the ladder and maintain three points of contact – two feet and one hand or with Henchman’s Tripod Ladder, you can lean your waist into the guardrail to work handsfree whilst maintaining three points of contact.

Place the ladder on a stable, level surface, and avoid using unstable objects to prop it up. The tripod ladder’s hedge-proof locking pin design prevents the legs from dislodging if they come into contact with branches or shrubbery, ensuring a safe experience even when working in landscaped areas. 

Jamie advises: “Some of our key safety practices include using tool lanyards, ensuring there are two team members per ladder, and always maintaining three points of contact.”

As you ascend, be cautious to not overreach or lean too far, as this can lead to a loss of balance. Thanks to the hip-height guard rail, users can work comfortably and securely when placing garlands or adjusting light displays, reducing the need to reposition the ladder constantly.

Always Have a helper

Having a helper can make your decorating tasks safer and more efficient. Your helper can pass the items to you once you’re securely on the ladder and assist in keeping the workspace clear of obstacles.

Jamie highlights the importance of having a helper: “Working in pairs when using ladders is common sense. As we decorate trees, we are up and down by the minute with various tools and decorations, so the extra pair of hands is invaluable.” 

Having someone there allows you to focus on the task at hand and can help stabilise the ladder if needed which is especially important when working at heights. 

For more expert advice on using ladders safely and to explore the full range of Henchman ladders, visit: https://www.henchman.co.uk

FACTFILE:

Henchman has been a pioneer of specialist garden ladders and safe hedge-cutting platforms since 1994, when it launched its first model at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. 

Founded by father and son duo Mike and Tom Kitching, over the past three decades the company has evolved from a small family business to the leading garden ladder brand in the UK.

From their base in Wiltshire, the dedicated design team at Henchman offers a wide range of unique products created to keep customers safe on uneven terrain while working at height.

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Thoughtful Christmas Gifts for the Religiously Inclined: How to Source Something Special

The festive season is nearly upon us, and as we start thinking about presents, it’s a good time to consider something meaningful for the religiously inclined people in our lives. 

Christmas, at its heart, is a celebration of faith, love, and giving. For those who cherish the spiritual essence of the holiday, finding a gift that resonates with their beliefs can be a beautiful way to show you care. 

But where do you begin? Here’s a guide to sourcing thoughtful and faith-centred gifts that will make this Christmas extra special.

1. Personalised Faith Gifts

Personalisation is a surefire way to make a gift feel special, and it’s even more meaningful when combined with faith-based items. Consider a leather-bound Bible with the recipient’s name embossed on the cover or a prayer journal customised with their initials. These gifts not only demonstrate thoughtfulness but also become keepsakes they’ll cherish for years to come.

Where to Source: Look to online stores like Etsy or independent Christian retailers, which often offer personalised options. Many UK-based small businesses provide bespoke services, ensuring your gift is one-of-a-kind.

2. Handcrafted Nativity Sets

A beautifully crafted nativity set can serve as both décor and a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. From intricate olive wood carvings to modern, minimalist ceramic figures, these sets can suit various home styles while honouring a cherished tradition.

Where to Source: Explore fair-trade shops and marketplaces that work with artisans in regions like Bethlehem, ensuring your gift is ethically sourced. Websites like Traidcraft or Not on the High Street can be excellent starting points.

3. Faith-Based Subscription Boxes

Subscription boxes are all the rage, and there are several that cater to those looking to deepen their faith. 

These boxes often include a mix of devotionals, books, Christian art, and lifestyle items. 

It’s a gift that keeps on giving, with monthly surprises that bring joy and spiritual nourishment throughout the year.

Where to Source: Check out The Good News Christian Box or Christian Book Box, which ship within the UK and include curated items designed to inspire and uplift.

4. Religious Artwork & Wall Décor

For those who love to display their faith at home, consider a piece of religious artwork. This could be a framed print of a favourite Bible verse, a stunning cross, or a painting of an iconic scene like the Last Supper. There are also plenty of modern and minimalist designs for those with a more contemporary taste.

Where to Source: Online platforms like Redbubble or Artfinder offer a wide range of independent artists' work, so you can find something unique. Additionally, many churches hold Christmas fairs where local artisans sell handmade items.

5. Advent Candles & Devotionals

For many, the lead-up to Christmas is just as important as the day itself. A set of Advent candles, complete with a devotional guide, can be a lovely way to encourage a more reflective season. This gift invites the recipient to slow down, focus on their faith, and prepare their hearts for Christmas.

Where to Source: Faith-based bookshops like Eden or Church House Bookshop offer a variety of Advent resources, including candles and devotionals.

6. Books, Music, and Audiobooks

If your loved one enjoys reading, consider gifting a Christian fiction novel, a daily devotional, or an inspiring biography. Alternatively, a subscription to an audiobook service like Audible can be a wonderful gift for those who prefer listening to their favourite faith-based books or podcasts.

Where to Source: Christian bookshops, both online and local, often carry curated selections. Don't overlook charity shops, which can have a surprising range of pre-loved Christian books.

7. Prayer Beads or Rosaries

For those who practice meditation or prayer using beads, a handcrafted rosary or prayer beads made from gemstones or olive wood can be both functional and beautiful. These gifts can be used during quiet moments of reflection or as a portable reminder of their faith.

Where to Source: Many cathedrals have gift shops that support their upkeep, and online platforms like A Little Something Catholic often carry unique, handcrafted options.

8. Gifts that Give Back

For the person who values giving over receiving, consider making a charity donation in their name. Many Christian organisations, like Tearfund, Christian Aid, or Samaritan’s Purse, allow you to sponsor a child, provide clean water, or fund a mission project on behalf of someone else.

Where to Source: Visit the charity’s official website to see their gift catalogues. Many will provide a certificate or a card you can give to your loved one as a token of the donation.

9. Faith-Themed Games and Puzzles

Christmas is a time for families to come together, so why not gift a biblically-themed board game or puzzle? It’s a fun way to engage with loved ones while reflecting on faith-based themes.

Where to Source: Try Christian bookshops or independent game shops that specialise in educational and faith-oriented products.

10. Personalised Home Décor

For something that’s both personal and decorative, consider a wooden cross, plaque, or framed quote customised with the recipient’s name or a meaningful Bible verse. These pieces can be lovely additions to a home’s interior, serving as daily reminders of their faith.

Where to Source: Websites like Not on the High Street or small craft businesses on Etsy are perfect for finding customisable home décor.

Final Thoughts

When shopping for a religiously inclined loved one, remember that the best gifts are those that come from the heart and reflect their values. Whether it’s a beautifully crafted keepsake, a book to inspire, or a charitable gift that spreads the spirit of giving, the thought behind your gift will surely be appreciated. By sourcing gifts from ethical, small businesses or charitable organisations, you not only support good causes but also make Christmas even more meaningful.

You can Google Christian bookshops near to your area to find out what is available, locally. Amazon and Etsy are also useful options.

May your gift-giving this season be filled with joy, thoughtfulness, and the spirit of faith!

The Christmas Gift of Relief: Complementary Therapies for Women Experiencing Menopause

The festive season is upon us. Generally a time filled with the joy of giving, sharing, and thoughtful gifts.

But as we eagerly pick out presents for our loved ones, why not consider gifting something truly meaningful this year? 

For women going through the menopause, the journey can be challenging, affecting both their physical well-being and mental health.

The menopause is often accompanied by symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, anxiety, and fatigue.

While these are all normal parts of the process, they can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially during the colder, darker winter months.

This Christmas, gifting complementary and alternative therapies could be a thoughtful way to support the women in your life who are navigating this transitional stage. Here’s how these therapies can offer relief, comfort, and a renewed sense of well-being.

Understanding Menopause and Its Challenges

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycles, typically occurring in her late 40s or early 50s. However, the symptoms often start much earlier in the perimenopause phase, which can last for several years. Hormonal changes during this time can impact various aspects of a woman’s life, leaving her feeling less like herself. While there are conventional treatments, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), not everyone finds relief from these options, and some may seek alternative ways to manage their symptoms.

Why Complementary Therapies Make Thoughtful Gifts

Complementary and alternative therapies are not about replacing conventional medicine but rather enhancing well-being holistically. They focus on the mind, body, and spirit connection, which can be especially helpful during menopause, a time when many women feel out of sync with themselves.

Here are some wonderful therapy-based gift ideas that could make all the difference for a woman experiencing menopause:

1. Aromatherapy Gift Sets

Aromatherapy harnesses the power of essential oils to support emotional and physical well-being. Certain oils, like clary sage, lavender, and geranium, are known to alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, and hot flushes. Consider gifting a beautifully packaged aromatherapy set complete with essential oils, a diffuser, and perhaps a guidebook on blending oils for various symptoms. This can create a relaxing environment at home, providing comfort throughout the holiday season and beyond.

2. Massage Therapy Vouchers

The stresses of menopause can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension, joint pain, and general discomfort. A massage therapy session with an experienced therapist could be the perfect remedy. Massage helps improve circulation, reduce anxiety, and promote deep relaxation, which can alleviate symptoms like insomnia and mood swings. For an extra-special gift, look for massage therapists who specialise in techniques like Swedish massage, reflexology, or lymphatic drainage, which can specifically benefit menopausal women.

3. Acupuncture Sessions

Acupuncture, a centuries-old practice from traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to balance the flow of energy (Qi). Many women find acupuncture to be particularly effective in reducing hot flushes, night sweats, and mood swings. Gifting a set of acupuncture sessions with a reputable practitioner can provide a pathway to relief, promoting physical balance and emotional calm.

4. Yoga and Meditation Classes

Menopause can be a stressful time, and practices like yoga and meditation offer a sanctuary of peace. Yoga helps strengthen the body, improve flexibility, and ease joint pain, while meditation is renowned for reducing stress and enhancing mental clarity. Consider gifting a subscription to online yoga classes tailored to women experiencing menopause, or book a few in-person sessions for a more personal touch. You could also include items like yoga mats, blocks, and comfortable attire to encourage regular practice.

5. Herbal Tea Hampers

Herbal teas can be a delightful, comforting gift that also supports well-being. Teas made from ingredients like red clover, sage, and black cohosh are known to help balance hormones and reduce menopausal symptoms. A curated hamper of organic, high-quality herbal teas, along with a stylish teapot and infuser, can provide warmth and relaxation during chilly winter evenings.

6. Sound Therapy or Sound Bath Experiences

Sound therapy uses soothing sounds like gongs, Tibetan singing bowls, or chimes to promote relaxation and a sense of peace. For women going through menopause, this can be a unique and deeply calming experience. You could gift a sound bath session at a wellness centre or purchase a singing bowl for home use. Sound therapy is said to help alleviate stress, improve sleep quality, and support emotional well-being, making it a truly thoughtful present.

Adding a Personal Touch

When giving these gifts, consider adding a personal touch. For example, include a heartfelt note explaining why you chose that particular therapy or how you believe it could bring comfort. You could even create a “well-being basket” filled with various items like herbal teas, a silk eye mask, and a guided meditation book. Thoughtful gestures like these can show the women in your life that you care about their health and happiness.

A Season of Healing and Comfort

While menopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, it doesn’t have to be endured in discomfort. This Christmas, by gifting complementary and alternative therapies, you can offer the women in your life the chance to relax, rejuvenate, and feel more at ease.

The best gifts are those that make a meaningful difference, and what could be more meaningful than offering comfort and support during a challenging time? This festive season, let’s move beyond traditional gift-giving and offer the gift of wellness, relief, and a touch of serenity.

Happy gifting, and may this Christmas be a season of healing and joy for all.