December is right around the corner and if you’re like me you’ll now be busy with your Christmas shopping. You’re probably also thinking about your own Christmas wishlists (it’s hard to go shopping for other people without at least noticing some things you’d love yourself), and that’s where the inspiration for this post came from … Continue reading Irresistible Gifts for Your Christmas List
December is almost here, and the official Christmas countdown can officially begin. So if you’re not feeling festive yet, here are a few things you can be doing to get in the mood for the most wonderful time of the year. 1. Christmas Carols at John Rylands Library. I went to this one-hour carol concert … Continue reading 10 Festive Things to Do in Manchester
“Christmas in the Snow” is one of a few Karen Swan books which have promising festive titles. Unfortunately “Christmas at Claridges” did not live up to my expectations as it was mainly a summertime book and not remotely Christmassy! This one, on the other hand, was everything I dreamed and more - the whole of … Continue reading Festive reads: Christmas in the Snow
More and more I am finding that food items make the perfect Christmas gifts. Whether it's individual items, like this gorgeously packaged classic Italian Panettone from Italiaregina.it, or bespoke food hampers that you've filled with various treats perfectly selected with your recipient in mind, at least you know that food gifts will always get used - I … Continue reading Foodie Christmas Gifts: Panettone
We always go for a team Christmas lunch with work, and this year we chose Artisan in Spinningfields, Manchester as our venue. I’ve been to Artisan before, and love the New York loft feel of the place. It’s very urban and modern, but full of warm, cosy touches. And the Christmas décor just adds to … Continue reading The Christmas Menu at Artisan
Christmas films are a great way to get into the festive spirit, but this year I thought I’d try reading some Christmas-themed books as well. In my head there is nothing better than curling up under a cosy blanket with a hot drink, a mince pie and a book that feels really Christmassy, so I … Continue reading Festive Reads: Calling Mrs Christmas
The Christmas Markets are probably the most Christmassy thing you can do in Manchester during December, but in recent years word has spread and spread and now every year even bigger crowds pile in for their annual visit. There is nothing that feels less like festive fun than being bustled about in hordes of people, … Continue reading How to Survive a Trip to Manchester Christmas Markets
Christmas is the perfect time to get your craft on. Homemade decorations and gift wrap always have that lovely traditional homey look, and I love Christmas crafts more than any other crafts! Last weekend we went along to Kirsty Allsopp’s Handmade Christmas Fair in Manchester, and as part of our ticket package we did 3 … Continue reading Christmas Crafting Ideas
If you’re a bit stuck on what to buy your colleague for Secret Santa this year, or if you just want some Christmas gift inspiration, take a look at this collection of lovely things that I’ve pulled together - most for under £10. You may notice that several of my gift picks are from Next, … Continue reading Perfect Little Stocking Fillers and Secret Santa Gifts
I’m well and truly in Christmas countdown mode, and as always at this time of year I'm on the lookout for everything festive to see and do in Manchester. If you're in need of some Christmas inspiration, take a look at my list of festive things to do in Manchester (and some of them are happening … Continue reading Festive Things To Do in Manchester
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