As I am writing this, we are nearing the end of Black Friday week and Christmas sure is creeping up fast! With that in mind I thought I’d share a few products which I’m enjoying at the moment or have my eye on for the festive period. The theme is around spending time at home (of course) and I have also chosen many things which have longevity long past Christmas so the joy will keep on giving.

If you are followers of my Instagram, you’ll have witnessed how much my slippers bring me joy. These fabulous furry velvet delights were a big seller for The White Company last year and sold out pretty darn quickly. They brought them back again for 2020 so as soon as I saw them, I had to snap them up. They tick all the boxes - deep navy velvet, fur lined and the icing on the cake - a big bow. What’s not to love? Well, perhaps that they are out of stock again – I’m so sorry!

To pair with your slippers you just cannot go wrong with silk pyjamas from the one and only Olivia von Halle – love, love, LOVE. You also cannot go wrong with these chic cotton ones from Toast. I have also seen that Olivia von Halle has got tracksuits. Well I never! I think that might be a step too far though…. Anyway, that’s sleep and loungewear sorted, now we need the ambiance, and Jo Malone and Diptyque will help you create this.

If you don’t want the hassle of a real Christmas tree but miss that smell, then Diptyque Frosted Forest Christmas Candle is the one! It literally is Christmas in a candle. Jo Malone have also bought out a Town House collection and I am in love with their fragrance combinations and these super chic ceramic pots.

On the theme of smells there is a lot of talk about fragrances by The Replica. Two that seem to be the top favourites for winter time are The Jazz Club Eau de Toilette Spray which is a warm unisex scent with chestnuts and spices and The Fireplace Eau de Toilette Spray which releases a refreshing top note of orange blossoms when applied, which gets a slight pungency and warmth from pink pepper and cloves. Like all fragrances in the Replica Series, they are designed to evoke hidden memories.

Now, moving on to taste, and who doesn’t love a rich toffee flavoured Old Fashioned or an aromatic Gin or berry flavoured Vodka? For those that know me well know I’m a bit of a light weight to say the least when it comes drink. However, many of you will have seen my Whisky, Gin and Vodka rockets on Instagram and seen my husband making an infused smoked Old Fashion. To make this you need a cloche and a smoking gun which you add wood dust too. Heston eat your heart out ;) If you want more info on this, I’ll just have to put you in contact with my husband!

Another nice touch for a drink is Douglas Fir Sherbet. A tangy garnish for G&Ts and cocktails. Run a lemon wedge around the rim of your glass, upturn the glass into the sherbet and add a light dusting of the wild woods of Hepple to your drink.

When you’re sitting back and enjoying your cocktail you need a couple of large plush cushions to sink into and for cushions you are spoilt for choice at Andrew Martin. He has a huge selection in various sizes and designs. He is always my first port of call when selecting cushions. AM isn’t just about cushions though - he has everything you may wish for interiors wise, so definitely worth a look.

Moving onto food - well tablescaping. There is so much to say on this, so I’ll keep it brief and start with scallop edges. Scallops have been the design to have for 2019 - 2020 and has been seen on anything and everything thing from light shades to napkins. Here are a few delights.

Perhaps not for your Christmas table but these placemats from Zara have such a nostalgic vibe to them that I had to share. I admit these won’t be everyone’s taste, but if you’re craving that vintage country relaxed vibe these are a winner.

Again, Zara has come up trumps with the scallop with this festive red tablecloth. I can so picture this in a paired back Scandi designed home with lots of pale woods. Add this splash of red to the room and wow it will be a knockout.

The festive period is also about trying to get some rest! So why not bring the scolloped edge trend into your bedroom. They look fab on bed linen and these pillowcases from Sarah K and will add some serious style to your boudoir.

Moving on to Christmas wreaths. I have accumulated quite a few of these over the years – one’s for my front door, but also, I have them hung from my mirrors. I’ve only ever had a real wreath once in my life, but after seeing these beautiful wreaths from Clare at After Achillea you really cannot beat a real one. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Clare for a number of years back in my event days. She is an amazing florist and such a lovely person. Definitely check her out if you’re looking for real wreaths.

*You’ll have the best house of the street with your door adorning one of these beauties*

Lastly, I love Instagram for scrolling endlessly at beautiful interiors and fashion however, I still do love flicking through a magazine. Subscriptions are such good presents and the price point now is so, so reasonable. I’ve already bought myself a couple and the joy of receiving them through the door each month brings me a smile every time.

So, that’s a Christmas wrap! Happy shopping and happy gifting.

Christmas is a coming...