CHRISTMAS EDITION
Ultimately, the best gifts are found by understanding the recipient’s personality and showing that you care
the guest bedroom is comfortable with fresh bedding and towels laid out. Stock up on essential toiletries and snacks to make your guests feel at home. In the kitchen, consider preparing some meals or treats in advance. Having a few frozen dishes or baked goods ready to go can avoid the stress of last-minute cooking. If you’re hosting a large Christmas dinner, make a detailed plan of the menu and buy non-perishables early on to avoid the rush. On the day, having a meal prep schedule will keep everything on track. Look after yourself is taking care of your own health and wellbeing. Amid the hustle and bustle of festive preparations, it’s essential to carve out time for yourself to relax and recharge. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet cup of tea, reading a book or practising mindfulness, these small self-care rituals can make a big difference to your own stress management. Try to maintain a healthy and balanced An oft-overlooked but crucial element of Christmas planning routine by eating sensibly and making the time to exercise. Delegate where possible, whether that means asking family members to assist with cooking or hiring a cleaner – don’t feel pressured to do everything perfectly yourself. Sleep often gets sacrificed during this hectic period, but it’s vital for maintaining mental and physical health. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, prioritise rest over doing late-night tasks and learn to say no.
Plan your outfit Picking out your Christmas attire ahead of time can be a fun way to
embrace the festive season, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable. Whether it’s for a family gathering, office party or casual meet-up with friends, there are always a few key things to consider. For more formal settings like dinner with colleagues or an office party, opt for classic, elegant pieces. Think about wearing a cocktail dress or tailored trousers. Dark, rich colours are perfect for this time of year, while metallics or velvets add a touch of glamour. For more relaxed settings such as a family lunch, choose something stylish but comfortable. A cosy festive jumper with jeans or a casual dress with ankle boots are both great options. Accessories are an easy way to elevate your outfit to Christmas status and make it feel more celebratory. Sparkly earrings, a statement necklace or a chic clutch bag can transform even the simplest outfit into something special. If you’re attending a fun, festive gathering, embrace bold colours, sequins and seasonal patterns. Red and gold are classic Christmas colours and you can experiment with playful accessories such as a Santa hat or reindeer antlers. for Christmas, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to be organised and start early. Think about the recipients’ interests, needs and preferences. The key is to focus on what makes them happy – rather than picking generic items – and giving them a surprise. Begin by reflecting on their hobbies, favourite activities or something they’ve mentioned wanting. Personalisation is a great way to show you’ve put thought into a gift, such as customised jewellery, engraved items or the latest book by their favourite author. Experiences such as concert tickets, cooking classes or a weekend getaway often make memorable gifts. These show thoughtfulness and can be enjoyed long after Christmas week. If you’re really uncertain, gift vouchers for the recipient’s favourite shop give your loved one the freedom to choose what they actually want. Ultimately, the best gifts are Shop for thoughtful gifts Gift shopping is often the most time-consuming part of preparing found by understanding the recipient’s personality and showing that you care. For some fun ideas, see our Christmas Gift Guide overleaf.
HEALTHY AND HAPPY Whatever the activity, keeping yourself well should be the top priority
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK NOVEMBER 2024 45
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