Stories & Inspiration
From the Blog
Gift guides, decorating ideas and festive inspiration to help you make this Christmas the most magical yet.
Why Is It Called Boxing Day? The History Behind 26 December
Discover the competing histories behind Boxing Day, from Christmas boxes and charitable gifts to servants’ holidays, sport and modern sales.
Christmas Markets 2026: Confirmed Dates for the World’s Biggest Festive Markets
Discover the world’s biggest Christmas markets officially confirmed for 2026, including major destinations in the UK, Germany, Austria, Czechia, Estonia and the United States, with verified dates and official links.
When Should You Put Up Your Christmas Tree in 2026? Traditions, Dates and the Best Time to Decorate
Wondering when to put up your Christmas tree in 2026? Explore the dates behind Advent, the twelve days before Christmas, modern decorating habits and the traditions that can help you choose the right moment for your home.
The First Christmas Card: How a Victorian Idea Changed Christmas Forever
Discover how Henry Cole and John Callcott Horsley created the first commercial Christmas card in 1843 and inspired a worldwide festive custom.
Why Do We Eat Mince Pies at Christmas? The Rich History of a British Favourite
Explore how medieval meat pies, imported spices and changing tastes created the sweet mince pies that became a beloved British Christmas tradition.
Why Do We Hang Christmas Wreaths? The History Behind the Festive Front Door
Explore how winter greenery, Christian symbolism and Victorian creativity helped turn the Christmas wreath into a welcoming festive tradition.
The History of Advent Calendars: How Counting the Days Became Christmas Magic
Discover how simple German Advent customs evolved into printed calendars, opening doors and the chocolate-filled Christmas countdowns enjoyed today.
The Story Behind the Friendship Turtle Doves from "Home Alone 2"
Christmas Decorating Trends 2026: The Colours, Styles and Ideas Shaping the Season
Discover the Christmas decorating trends set to shape 2026, from burgundy and gold colour palettes to velvet bows, dark romantic trees, handcrafted details and sustainable festive textures.
Why Do We Put a Star on Top of the Christmas Tree?
Discover why stars and angels crown Christmas trees, from the Star of Bethlehem to Victorian decorating traditions and modern family rituals.
Who Invented Christmas Crackers?
Discover how Victorian confectioner Tom Smith transformed a wrapped sweet, a crackling fire and a clever idea into the Christmas cracker.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire Someone to Decorate Your Christmas Tree?
Explore typical UK Christmas tree decorating costs, what professional services include and the factors that can make an installation more expensive.
The History of Christmas Candles: How a Simple Flame Became a Festive Tradition
Discover how candles travelled from ancient winter celebrations and Christian symbolism to German Christmas trees, Victorian parlours and the electric lights we use today.
Christmas in July: Why It’s Smart to Start Your Christmas Shopping Early
Discover why shopping for Christmas early saves money, reduces stress and helps you find unique personalised gifts and decorations before the festive rush begins.
Christmas 2026: Why Planning Early Makes the Holidays More Magical
Discover how planning Christmas 2026 early can reduce stress, spread the cost and leave more time for thoughtful gifts, decorations and traditions.
Cosy Christmas Home Decor Ideas to Make Every Room Feel Festive
Warm and welcoming Christmas home decor ideas to make every room feel festive, from the living room to the kitchen, on any budget.
The Real Story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: How an Unlikely Hero Became a Christmas Legend
Discover how Robert L. May created Rudolph for a department store in 1939 and how the little red-nosed reindeer became a worldwide Christmas legend.
Fun Christmas Countdown Traditions to Start With Your Family This Year
Simple, heart warming Christmas countdown traditions to start with your family, from advent rituals to cosy evenings that make December feel magical.
Why Do We Kiss Under the Mistletoe? The Curious History of Christmas’s Most Romantic Tradition
Trace mistletoe from ancient ritual and European folklore to the Victorian Christmas custom of sharing a kiss beneath its evergreen branches.
Secret Santa Gift Ideas That Get a Laugh Every Time
Funny, affordable and universally loved Secret Santa gift ideas that guarantee a laugh, break the ice, and stay safely under budget.