HAAR at Home Luxury 5-Course Valentine’s Day Menu, £129

Featuring the best produce from Scottish shores and fields, chef Dean Banks and his team at 4-AA Rosette restaurant, HAAR, have woven their signature flavours throughout this five-course tasting menu for your Valentine’s celebration. Start with fresh corn and sunflower seed loaf with miso butter. Next, it’s pork belly with kimchi purée, pear purée and puffed pork skin. After that there’s also trout pastrami. Then Scottish hand-dived scallops, beef bavette, and a miso caramel and chocolate pavé. You can then even upgrade with Platinum caviar, wine pairing and more.
READER OFFER! Get 20% off all luxury boxes with the code CHECKLIST20. New orders only; cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion; sides, drinks, gifting & shipping excluded; offer ends 15 March.

Simon Rogan Valentine’s At Home Menu, from £99

Simon Rogan’s Valentine’s Day offering uses local and seasonal ingredients – including produce from their own farm. This seven-course menu, available for delivery or collection on Thursday 12 or Friday 13 February, gives you the choice of standard or vegetarian options. There’s also plenty of upgrades thrown in to the mix. Can you make it to course number seven after dishes including Cornish smoked mackerel, West coast lobster, Stuffed Herdwick lamb shoulder, and more? Give it your best shot.

Indulge Dining Valentine’s Day Meal Kit, £75

With this six-course kit – created by Michelin-trained chef Andy Bowler – 90% of the meal is already prepared. That means it’s simply a matter of putting things in the oven, reheating, and then plating; removing the hassle of shopping and complex recipes. Again you’ve the choice of standard and vegetarian options. We’re torn between the beef rump cap, butternut squash, king oyster mushrooms and kale, or the salt-baked celeriac with truffle, potato and leek. That’s then finished off with Yorkshire rhubarb, vanilla and ginger and some salted caramel truffles.
READER OFFER! Use code CHECKLIST10 for 10% off your first order. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.

British Fine Foods Valentine’s Best of British Hamper, £100

This hamper is packed full of award-winning British produce from across the British Isles, and includes award-winning Severn & Wye Smoked Salmon, Posh Pickle, organic chicken liver pâté with cranberries and cognac, Lancashire Bomb cheese, savoury crackers, chocolate truffles and also a whole lot more. All of which can then be washed down with a bottle of Chateau Goulefaisan.
READER OFFER! Get 15% off this hamper with the code VDAY15. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion.

Cookaway Indian Street Food & Chai Experience, from £55

Indian street food is an explosion of flavours, aromas, and texture and a trademark of Indian culture. This menu includes just that: chicken malai tikka, paneer tikka, palak pakora, gobi machurian, coriander mint chutney, and masala chai. Vegan? They’ve a dining at home experience, too. Plus with no subscription and free delivery across mainland UK, you can enjoy Cookaway on your own terms, be it special occasions or simply when you want to experience the true joy of cooking.
READER OFFER! Get 15% off all menus with the code VDAY15. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion; offer valid until 28 February.

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Did you get a ring under the tree – or did you see in the New Year with one of you getting down on one knee? With a Global Wedding Report revealing that December is the most popular month for couples around the world to get engaged, wedding experts at Wedissimo — a platform that helps one in every 200 couples getting married in the UK — have shared the essential steps to protect your finances and plan ahead after getting engaged.

Insure the ring

Your engagement ring should be insured as soon as it’s purchased because it’s valuable, sentimental, and worth protecting. Check if it’s covered under your home contents policy or opt for standalone jewellery insurance. It’s also important to understand exactly what’s covered, from loss and theft to accidental damage or loose stones, so you are prepared for any scenario.

Research the wedding market

Begin researching the wedding industry to understand typical costs because knowing average prices, even geographically, such as per-guest catering, floral arrangements or hiring a DJ, helps you and your partner make informed choices before allocating your money, instead of blowing the budget on a single supplier.

Establish a realistic budget

The thrill of getting engaged can sometimes lead you to overspend. Establishing a sensible budget from the start helps guide every decision, from choosing a venue to hiring suppliers, which reduces the risk of financial stress later. Consider budgeting in at least 10 to 15% extra to cover unforeseen costs like service charges, too.

Have a serious conversation about finances

Before making major decisions, have an open discussion about income, savings, debts, and assets to ensure you’re on the same page. These conversations not only prevent misunderstandings but also make it easier to set a realistic timeline for bookings and payments.

Create a blueprint before booking

Once the budget and financial discussions are clear, have a wedding blueprint session to prioritise what matters most before booking anything. With so many decisions, from rings and venues to catering, décor, and entertainment, planning helps identify where to invest, where to save, and what to exclude.

Use credit cards and get wedding insurance

Paying deposits with a credit card offers extra protection, as Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act may cover the full amount if a supplier fails. However, this doesn’t always cover everything, which is where insurance comes in, from supplier failure, venue problems, illness, accidents, and other disruptions. Just remember to always read the terms carefully before booking.

Ask suppliers what isn’t included

In the excitement of booking suppliers, you may often assume the price covers everything, but that’s rarely the case. Hidden extras, such as delivery fees, overtime, setup costs, photographer travel or accommodation, venue charges like corkage, and items like glassware or furniture hire, can quickly push your budget far beyond what you expected — so do your research.

Consider booking through a supplier platform

It’s also worth discussing the benefits of using trusted wedding platforms when making bookings, which offer extra protection if a supplier cancels, stepping in to find a replacement or refund the money. They also keep all bookings, contracts and payments in one place, making it far easier to sort if anything goes wrong.

The post Just got engaged? Here’s what you should both do next appeared first on Checklists.

CHRISTMAS CAROL SINGALONG 

The Barbican Hall, London

Saturday 20 December 

This festive celebration for the whole family is led by the inimitable Jonathan Cohen and features West End star Louise Dearman. Packed with festive favourites and all the carols you love to sing, bring the family and bask in the magic of live music at Christmas. Enjoy toe-tapping renditions of Winter Wonderland, Merry Christmas Everybody and Frosty the Snowman, as well as O Come, All Ye Faithful, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, O Little Town of Bethlehem, and The Twelve Days of Christmas.

CHRISTMAS WITH KING’S COLLEGE CHOIR

The Barbican Hall, London

Sunday 21 December

The world-renowned King’s College Choir, Cambridge, returns to Barbican Hall, bringing their signature purity and power to a programme of beloved carols and festive classics. Joined by the City of London Choir, under the direction of Daniel Hyde, whether you’re continuing a cherished tradition or discovering this experience for the first time, this is Christmas at its most majestic. Celebrate the season with one of the greatest choirs in the world. Book early: this concert sells out quickly. 

CANDLELIT CAROLS

The Barbican Hall, London

Monday 22 December

Step into the gentle glow of candlelight and experience Candlelit Carols, a heartwarming evening of music blending uplifting carols and cherished seasonal classics in a beautifully staged setting. Let the soaring soprano of Harriet Eyley, the elegance of the Mozart Festival Orchestra and Coro Spezzato, and the refined direction of Steven Devine transport you through a festive programme featuring Cullen’s Joy to the World, Handel’s Christmas Sequence from Messiah including the iconic Hallelujah Chorus, and more.

THE BEST OF JOHN WILLIAMS
The Barbican Hall, London
Sunday 28 December

Experience the magic of the movies with The Best of John Williams, joining the London Concert Orchestra as they bring to life the unforgettable scores of one of cinema’s greatest composers. From soaring adventure themes to sweeping emotional moments, this evening of orchestral brilliance takes you on a journey through the legendary soundtracks of John Williams, including Harry Potter, E.T., Star Wars, The Fabelmans, Jurassic Park, The Witches of Eastwick and Indiana Jones.

BEETHOVEN’S NINTH
The Barbican Hall, London
Monday 29 December

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Christopher Warren-Green, brings to life an all-Beethoven programme featuring two of the composer’s towering masterpieces. The evening begins with the bold and majestic Piano Concerto No. 5 ‘Emperor’, a work of heroic spirit and lyrical elegance. It culminates in the monumental Symphony No. 9 ‘Choral’, building to the electrifying Ode to Joy – a triumphant anthem of unity, hope, and humanity.

NEW YEAR’S DAY PROMS
The Barbican Hall, London
Thursday 1 January

Ring in 2026 in style with the New Year’s Day Proms with a vibrant celebration of classical favourites, uplifting anthems, and cherished operatic gems. Experience an afternoon of music with the London Concert Orchestra, conducted by Anthony Inglis, as they bring to life stirring pieces that capture the spirit of the season. Let the melodies set the perfect tone for the year ahead, featuring all your New Year’s Day favourites.

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Luckily, you can spice up your leftovers and re-jig your traditional meals into a fresh new offering for the family with minimal work. Perfect so you can focus on spending time with loved ones.

Ingredients

• Properoni – of course you need the best pepperoni in the business to spice up your Boxing Day meal. Go for their Original range if you want an explosion on your taste buds, or opt for their Hot Paprika if you want something a bit spicier
• Leftover meat – recommended to use turkey, either shredded or whole legs
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 onion
• Leftover potatoes – brilliant for using up the leftover roasties from yesterday, and maybe chuck in the rest of your Christmas veg, like carrots, parsnips and cabbage
• Cherry tomatoes
• 500ml vegetable stock

Method

1. Pre-heat your oven to 180c and slice your onions. Consider chopping up your potatoes and veg smaller so they get more crispy.
2. Lightly pan fry your Properoni and onions for a few minutes then remove from the pan.
3. Place your meat and veg in a deep dish, and pour the fat from the pan that was rendered from the Properoni on top. This will help get more of that beautiful spicy flavour into the dish.
4. Crush your garlic cloves and place in the dish, then pour in the vegetable stock.
5. Scatter your cherry tomatoes on top of the dish, then strategically place your Properoni to cover as much of the dish as possible. More is more in this case.
6. Bake for 20 minutes, taking into account that all the meat and veg has already been cooked. Make sure you check that the temperature of the meat exceeds 75c.
7. Serve to the family as a complete, minimal-effort meal for your Boxing Day Lunch.

More ways to use Properoni

If you’re left with some spare meaty goodness, why not make a Properoni Pizza? Or if you want to take your Brussels or cauliflower cheese to the next level, consider topping with some Properoni to give your veggies a kick.

Don’t forget to check out their competition to win one of nine Properoni packs for your snacking and dining pleasure. After you’ve had a taste and come back for more, don’t forget to input CHECKLIST12T at the checkout for 15% off your order.

Discover more wonderful recipes and products at properoni.co.uk

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post A quick and delicious lunch recipe with Properoni appeared first on Checklists.

Tech can help make life a little bit easier, from charging your laptop on the go to making sure your pets are safe; so have a look at these 10 of the best gadgets for the whole family.

1. Planet Buddies Headphones

Looking for a sustainable company that will help educate and entertain your children? Look no further than Planet Buddies.

Their range of wireless headphones, speakers and gadgets are perfectly suited for the younger members of the family to keep up with their technological needs and keep them learning about the environment. Each of their products comes with a character designed to inform your kids about endangered species.

Find out more at planetbuddies.com

2. Juice Wireless Chargers

Say hello to the Juice Grip-It Wireless Universal Charging Cable. The Grip-It is a super simple way to Wireless Charge your devices – plug the USB port into a charger or computer, then just attach the suction pad to the central area on the back of your phone, and away you go.

Remember when everyone needed a different phone charger? The 3-in-1 cables were handy, but this is the new 3-in-1 – leave the Grip-It on the kitchen worktop, desk or any table really, and allow all phone users to wirelessly charge.

Find out more at juice.co.uk

3. The Apple Watch Action Sleeve

Know someone that loves their exercise but can’t get their fitness tracker to keep up with their workout?

ActionSleeve is a fabric armband that allows an Apple Watch to be worn on the upper arm or bicep. It’s ideal for sports like kickboxing, weightlifting and crossfit training where protective sports gear and full wrist mobility is often needed, ruling out the use of the Apple Watch on the wrist. 

Whether cycling, playing golf, doing yoga or weights, users will be able to move more naturally without the Apple Watch getting in the way of their workout.

Find out more at twelvesouth.com

4. Stealth Gaming Station for Xbox and Playstation

Declutter the little gamer’s room and give them a gift they’ll use all the time with Stealth’s Gaming Stations.

They are perfect gifts for gamers of all ages, providing a one-box solution to keep their gaming space neat and tidy. This includes a premium headset, headset stand and charging base; everything you need to complement your setup.

Find out more at smythstoys.com

5. PitPat pet activity monitor

It wouldn’t be fair to be handing out gifts to the whole family without getting something for our four-legged family too. PitPat is an activity monitor designed to keep an eye on your dog’s exercise, heart rate, calorie intake and weight.

It’s more important than ever to maintain awareness of your pet’s health in order to predict and detect any health problems as early as possible for their safety and your vet bills.

The app also recommends tailored exercise goals and feeding recommendations based on your dog’s breed, age, weight, and activity levels. The tiny, waterproof, and robust device is made to withstand all your dog’s adventures.

Find out more at pitpat.com

6. Nintendo Switch Travel kit

Perfect for the Nintendo gamer in the family and to keep them from a shocking outburst when they drop their precious device, comes the protective and convenient Switch travel kit.

This travel kit includes everything gamers need for playing Nintendo Switch on the go. This bundle includes a protective Switch case with game cartridge slots in Switch’s classic red, blue and black colour scheme, matching headset with comfortable ear cups and integrated mic and a charging cable. 

Find out more at argos.co.uk

7. PictoScanner

PictoScanner is a simple, smart and user-friendly way to scan and share your old film negatives and 35mmslides using your smartphone and the PictoScanner app. All it takes is knowing how to take a photo on your smartphone.

To scan a photo, place your film negative in the slider, open the app, shoot the negative. The scanned photo opens on your smartphone screen as a positive. You can edit it as you wish.

Manufactured in a high grade cardboard box, easy to set up, PictoScanner uses an LED back light and the eye of your camera to get the scanning job done.

Find out more at pictoscanner.com

8. Airpod Pro Stand Case

Personalise your family’s sound systems with Atom Studios eco-friendly Airpods cases. The flat base also means this case can stand upright on your desk or night stand. 

This silicone back allows you to wirelessly charge your AirPods Pro without removing them from the case. Just place your AirPods Pro, inside their case, on top of a wireless charger.  The charge indicator light is clearly visible when in use so you can easily check that it’s charging.

Find out more at atomstudios.com

9. Crosley Bluetooth Turntable

Vinyl is making a massive comeback in recent years. There’s bound to be an audiophile in the house, whether it’s the younger generation discovering the joy of vinyl or adults looking for a blast from the past.

The Crosley is perfect for those looking to get into vinyl, as an affordable and compact record player. It also has Bluetooth capability so you can stream albums in case you haven’t built up your record collection as quickly as you would like. Perfect for throwing on some tunes as a group with the family or with friends over.

Find out more at hmv.com

10. PowerPic Wireless Charger

The convenience of wireless chargers and tablet stands is hard to argue with. But, often they stand out against the rest of your home decor. Twelve South have found a way to sneakily slip in a functional decoration that will wow your guests.

Meet PowerPic, the picture frame that wirelessly charges your phone. Just set any compatible phone inside the frame to begin charging. It can even serve as a stand for sneaky selfies or video calls from home.

Find out more at twelvesouth.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Ten gadgets the whole family will love – including your pets appeared first on Checklists.

If there’s a year-round foodie in your life, Christmas is also a great time for gifting delicious treats that will keep their taste buds tingling until Christmas 2022. We’ve rounded up some of the best foodie gifts for those who like to cook and be cooked for.

1. Hotel Chocolat subscription

Just when you thought individual Hotel Chocolat gifts were magical enough, the brand create a subscription option. That’s right, you can have indulgent chocolates delivered to your loved one’s door (or your door – treat yourself, we won’t judge) every month.

You can tailor the choices to the chocoholic’s preferences, choosing to receive  a ‘curated collection’ of surprise treats or a slender box of ‘sleekster’ favourites. The latter comes in six different genres:  Everything, Milk to Caramel, Serious Dark Fix, Exuberantly Fruity, Tipsy Truffles and Patisserie. Our mouths are watering just thinking about it.

Find out more at hotelchocolat.com

2. The Female Chef

A great gift for the foodie feminist in your life – The Female Chef by Clare Finney and Liz Seabrook details the wonderful work of 31 amazing lady chefs, including Julie Lin, Andi Oliver and Chantelle Nicholson.

This beautiful hardback book contains deeply personal recipes and insights from some of the best chefs in the business, with gorgeous photographs of the food and its creators. Find out what it’s like to be a female chef in an industry often dominated by male hotheads, while also learning some stunning new dishes for your repertoire.

Find out more at hoxtonminipress.com

3. Fortnum & Mason Hamper

Nothing says festive luxury like a Christmas hamper from Fortnum & Mason. The Christmas Pantry hamper is ‘created in the spirit of Boxing Day’ and is perfect for the last day of stuffing your face guilt-free.

It’s packed with delicious smoked salmon, cave-aged cheddar, Malbec, Christmas ham and many more festive delights ideal for indulgence. There’s enough in this wicker basket to last you until February, but where would the fun be in that?

Find out more at fortnumandmason.com

4. The Cheese Collective

If your loved ones have a more savoury than sweet tooth, look no further than a delicious cheese subscription.

With The Cheese Collective’s Fiend box, multi-award winning British cheeses will be doorstep-delivered once a month with an array of eight to 10 cheeses for the recipient’s perusal. Soft and hard cheeses and a selection of blue cheeses are available. Delicious!

Find out more at thecheesecollective.co.uk

5. Savage Wines subscription

The self-proclaimed ‘best wine subscription on earth’ offers year-round fantastic wines from independent makers and organic vineyards. They are environmentally friendly and focus on family-run businesses, choosing the very best wines to get your loved ones enjoying the finer wines in life rather than supermarket plonk.

Customise the frequency of deliveries and the quantity of bottles to create the perfect gift for your wino friend, or maybe yourself.

Find out more at savagevines.co.uk

6.  Butchery Classes at Ginger Pig, London

Not for the faint of stomach or heart (or for vegetarians!) this get-your-hands-dirty gift experience gives the carnivorous recipient a real insight into where their meat comes from.

At Ginger Pig they can learn from the experts in how animal carcasses are transformed into delicious meats, choosing from pork, beef, lamb, poultry, game or sausages. If you choose beef, the recipient will learn about dry-ageing, extracting various cuts from cattle and will also prepare a delicious côte de boeuf to take home.

Find out more at thegingerpig.co.uk

7. Blue Coffee Box

What does your friend love more than gourmet coffee? How about gourmet coffee that’s ethical, sustainable, and has plastic-free packaging?

Blue Coffee Box offer a variety of roasts in different grinds, depending how your loved one likes their brew. Perfect for the caffeine addict who cares about the planet.

Find out more at bluecoffeebox.com

8. Ooni Pizza Oven

The pizza-lover in your life will adore this amazing oven from Ooni. It’s the perfect gift for those who love to make restaurant-quality pizza from the comfort of their own home.

It’s also a great gift if said friend likes to have you over for dinner, as you’ll get to reap the rewards of your generous present year-round.

Find out more at ooni.com

9. BANG! Curry

A gift for that special, spicy someone in your life – the BANG! Curry Christmas Gift Box packs three generations of Bangladeshi home cooking deliciousness into a fantastic spice set.

Five curry flavours and biryani, dahl and bhaji sides all await the recipient, who can use these authentic ingredients in their own dishes. Perfect for those that want to explore a different cuisine or are already familiar with Bangladeshi recipes and want to try something different,

Find out more at bangcurry.com

10.  Stanley Tucci’s Taste: My Life Through Food

A blend of memoir and recipe book, this gorgeous publication by famous actor and food lover Stanley Tucci is a great stocking filler for your fellow, fashionable-foodie friends.

Tucci’s love of excellent food and drink is brought to life in this book, which gives you an insight into the personal, heartfelt significance of his favourite meals. Chef’s kiss, buonissimo!

Find out more at waterstones.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Top 10 Christmas gifts for foodie friends appeared first on Checklists.

1. GO PRO

If your dad loves scuba diving, downhill mountain biking, running or cycling, the GO PRO camera is a great gift that allows him to document his adventures.

With 5.3K60 and 4K120 video resolution and the ability to take 23 megapixel photos, this is a high-quality camera that’s also waterproof to 33ft and built to take hard knocks, just in case of falls or drops.

Find out more at gopro.com

2. Four Supercar Experience

Is your dad a petrolhead? Why not buy him the experience of a lifetime – driving four elite supercars on a choice of top circuits around the UK.

Put him in the driving seat for a six mile spin in each car and let him handle the horsepower of the biggest, flashiest, fastest car brands. He also gets a chance to be a passenger with a professional driver, showing how corners are handled by the pros!

Find out more at virginexperiencedays.co.uk

3. NorthFace Futurelight jacket

This one’s for the adventurous and active dads. The ones that are always out and about on their next expedition and need to be suitably attired for the outdoors.

This jacket is perfect for camping, hiking, or going on long, wet walks. It’s waterproof, comfortable and insulated against the British weather. Plus it is lightweight with attractive design, so perfect for throwing on for an outdoorsy adventure, or just to nip to the shops.

Find out more at thenorthface.co.uk

4. Facial Fuel

Even the name of this skincare sounds macho. For the those who have had a rich, full life but still have time to care about their skin, the Kiehl’s Facial Fuel set is an excellent choice of gift.

Offering full complexion control, this set contains an energising face wash, a scrub and a moisturiser which are infused with caffeine, vitamins and all the good stuff to give his skin a much needed boost.

Find out more at kehls.co.uk

5. ROXi Karaoke

If you want to experience some full-blown dad-aoke, consider gifting them something from ROXi.

The company provides unlimited on-demand access to every original music video, album and song with 70 million music recordings which are constantly updated with the latest releases. 

The ROXi Karaoke Microphone features a built-in amplifier and speaker, and works with any TV, perfect for singing along to ROXi’s 140,000 karaoke tracks with friends and family.

Find out more at roxi.tv

6. Hiking boots

You can’t beat a pair of sturdy outdoor shoes for a hike-hungry explorer dad, plus these boots are highly-rated and affordable.

Lightweight and durable, these boots are made for walking long, muddy distances and are built to last for years.

Find out more at columbia.com

7. Fitbit Charge 5

If your dad likes to challenge himself and is constantly aiming to improve his fitness, you can snap him up a wearable fitness monitor that will keep his calorie counting, sleep cycle, stress and heart health in check.

The Fitbit is a great all-round fitness tracker which will monitor all aspects of his health and life, keeping him healthy for months and years to come. Perfect for the man that’s always on the move.

Find out more at fitbit.com

8. Bungee jump

Double-dare your dad to jump off a crane and give him an experience he will never forget with this Virgin Experience bungee jump. 

This 160ft leap has spectacular views of the London skyline (though he’ll probably be screaming too hard to notice!) and will give him bragging rights for bravery until at least next year.

Find out more at virginexperiencedays.co.uk

9. Waterproof binoculars

Birdwatchers and racing fans alike will benefit from a pair of high quality binoculars. These Canon 15×50 Image Stabiliser binoculars are lightweight and waterproof, ideal for getting the best view at a race or spotting a particular species of bird in a faraway bush.

They have 15x magnification and keep a steady, comfortable view in difficult conditions. Featuring image stabilisation to make sure you always have the best view at sporting events.

Find out more at canon.co.uk

10. Rab Ascent Sleeping Bag

Help your dad become a happy camper with this gorgeous down-filled sleeping bag from Rab. It’s great for overnight stays in the woods, mountain use and backpacking. It’s secure, warm and has a hidden stash pocket for supplies. The perfect gift for an outdoorsman who likes to sleep cosy on the hillside

Find out more at rab.equipment

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Top 10 gifts for dads that are young-at-heart appeared first on Checklists.

There are so many ways to transform your home into a winter wonderland this Christmas, so we look at some of the loveliest decorations to light up your rooms.

1. Pom Pom Christmas Lights by Oliver Bonas

These unusual Pom Pom lights are great for Christmas, but don’t look out of place all year round. Drape them around a chair or wind them up the stairs. They could bring a sense of wonder to any part of the home.

The warm white LED lights give your rooms a gorgeous glow, and their unique pom pom shape sets them apart from regular Christmas tree decorations. There are 200 lights per box and they’re mains powered so you don’t have to worry about batteries.

Find out more at oliverbonas.com

2. Knitted Stegosaurus by Ian Snow

While practicing Christians may argue that the existence of the stegosaurus is in direct contradiction to religious history, families with dinosaur-mad kiddies will love the inclusion of this bright green, plastic-free decoration to hang on their tree.

This sustainable stegosaurus will last for many Christmas’, perfect for waste-conscious families, and looks adorable on the tree or to take your present wrapping to the next level.

Find out more at iansnow.com

3. Dew Drop Baubles by Nkuku 

These unique, stunning baubles are in beautiful jewel tones to set your Christmas decor off.

Made from recycled glass, they are made by washing and crushing waste glass and then are hand blown  or set in moulds to create brand new decorations. This means they are not just beautiful, but better for the environment.

Find out more at nkuku.com

4. Deer ornaments by The Range

Christmas trees are all very well and good, but what about a festive statue? This sitting deer with a cute wreath from The Range would make a great addition to your home, and will make the kids’ eyes light up with joy whenever they see it.

The deer has a dusting of glitter and wears a wreath of berries and pinecones, allowing her to blend in with the rest of the Christmas decor.

Find out more at therange.co.uk

5. Copper River Sequin Bauble by John Lewis

John Lewis & Partners really know how to do Christmas, beginning with their tear-jerking telly adverts and ending in their astonishingly beautiful home decorations.

Check out this copper river sequin band bauble – the captivating sequins, the mermaid style shimmer and the beautiful aquatic theme are the perfect complement to a colourful tree that breaks the usual tradition of reds and greens.

Find out more at johnlewis.com

6. White Felt Bear Lights By Paperchase

Another, extra-cute take on Christmas tree lighting is the white felt bear and tree lights from Paperchase . They emit a warm light to add a gorgeous glow to your tree, as well as looking absolutely adorable.

There’s two metres of cuteness to unravel in this Christmas set, and your little ones will have a great time helping you put polar bears on the tree.

Find out more at paperchase.com

7. Adorable Penguin by Arighi Bianchi

This cheeky chap is larger than you think, and sporting his little Nordic style scarf, makes a lovely Christmas decoration for any home. Made of the softest faux fur, he brightens up any space and brings with him a festive and frosty feel.

Place him at a door, in a hallway or on a fireplace hearth (away from the heat of course) to fully appreciate his adorable appearance throughout the 12 Days of Christmas.

Find out more at anthropologie.com

8.  Festive Wreaths by Bloom & Wild

They’re famed for their fabulous bouquets, but Bloom & Wild are also experts when it comes to stunning festive wreaths.

Red Canella berries, ivy and poppy heads make up this gorgeous, fresh-foliage door decoration which will make you the envy of all your neighbours. Make sure to check out the rest of their festive range to make your house the envy of the neighbourhood.

Find out more at bloomandwild.com

9. Dried Orange And Cinnamon Garland, Chickidee

Chickidee have just the decoration to fragrance and decorate your home with this season.

This gorgeous garland has interwoven lights, pinecones, orange slices and green foliage to make your mantlepiece stand out over the festive season. Drape this beautiful decoration over door frames, or arrange on coffee tables to give your rooms a lovely festive touch.

Find out more at chickidee.co.uk

10. Lemax Tannenbaum Christmas Shoppe

This gorgeous model Christmas shop is a fantastic porcelain collectable to brighten up any home. Whether you’re a model collector or just like the look of these cosy ornament buildings, the Lemax collection have quaint, unusual items that will make a beautiful addition to your festive display.

Why not explore the rest of their wonderful range for all your Christmas decorative needs? They’re great to slowly build up your collection and diorama over the years.

Find out more at lemaxcollection.co.uk

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The festive season is synonymous with plenty of food, presents, and all-round over consumption. But this takes its toll on the environment. So, how do we ensure that we do our best for climate change this holiday season without giving up the things we love?

Every aspect of the party season can become more ethical, with just a slight change. Instead of the traditional turkey, why not have a nut roast? Or, if the family insists on turkey, get it directly from a local farm. If you do go for the supermarket shop, you can do your bit by choosing items marked Fairtrade wherever possible. Since it is the season of giving, the least we can do is contribute to a fair and ethical supply chain.

Christmas trees come in many forms. Plastic reusable trees, that can conveniently be stored may seem like a sustainable choice, but the production process and end-life of these PVC-based trees release harmful gases into the environment.

Many people opt for a cut tree, often embarking on a family outing to the tree farm, and handpicking this year’s centrepiece. These trees can be farmed sustainably, so if they’re bought locally, and recycled at the end of the season, their footprint can be minimal.

The most ethical choice, however, is to choose a living tree – growing in a pot. Bring it inside for the Christmas season, and then come January, just bring it out into the garden to thrive until next year.

One overlooked aspect of the giving season that hugely contributes to waste, is present wrapping. Wrapping paper in itself is often recyclable, so this is an easy switch. Simply avoid glittery or plastic-based wrapping papers and opt for a recyclable tape – perhaps a decorative, paper-based tape which will also add a special touch to your gifts.

When it comes to gift shopping, the perpetuated idea may be that department stores are havens of convenience, with everything you need under one roof. But where’s the festive spirit in that? This should be a time of buying local, knowing where your products come from, and giving back to the community. Often, the ethical gift choice is the more unique and luxurious one.

Making Christmas that little bit more ethical is easily done, and could have a hugely positive effect on climate goals. So, why we all may be dreaming of a white one, perhaps it’s time to make a change, and enjoy a greener little Christmas this year.

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Luckily for pet parents everywhere, Checklist has collaborated with tails.com to put together a list of ways to protect your decorations from dog-related damages, and help your baubles survive until Boxing Day at least.

1. Christmas tree

Your dog will almost certainly be tempted to chew on the trunk, branches and needles of the tree, and they may even attempt to mark it with their scent; a very unwanted Christmas present.

Make sure that your dog is never alone in the same room with your Christmas tree, at least not for a prolonged period of time. Pups are far more likely to get up to mischief without their owners around to tell them off.

Consider installing a baby gate around your Christmas tree to stop your dog from getting too close to it.

2. Fairy lights

Fairy lights on a Christmas tree are an absolute staple, and fun for the whole family. Your dog is no exception, as they will more than likely be entertained by the display of twinkling colours and lights, and may even attempt to play with them. 

One way to conceal your cords would be to hide them under a rug, with the wiring taped to the floor to keep firmly in place. Another method of limiting exposed wiring would be to tape them along the skirting board.

3. Baubles

What dog doesn’t love spending a good few hours chasing a tennis ball, and what is a bauble to a dog, if not a big, sparkly tennis ball?

To avoid bite-marks on your baubles, tightly fasten your baubles to a deep branch on your tree and try to avoid the bottom branches to protect your baubles from curious paws and excited tails.

4. Tinsel

Tinsel must be a tempting looking toy for dogs to play with, due to the fact that they can hold it in their mouths like a stick. 

To protect your tinsel and your terrier from each other, keep any tinsel firmly out of your dogs’ reach, whether that’s on your tree or elsewhere, as this should prevent your dog from chewing or playing with it.

5. Garlands

Like tinsel, garlands could be a tempting plaything for your pup, especially if you opt for the natural garlands over the paper or plastic alternative.

Try hanging your garlands from as high a place as possible. As well as high shelves and mantlepiece, you may also want to try hanging your garlands in a pattern across your ceiling.

6. Edible decorations

We all know how greedy our pups can be, and while tasty treats like candy canes and chocolate Santas may have your dog drooling in delight, they will also make them very sick if they do get hold of them.

If your dog is particularly fond of food, then the best idea might be to not put anything edible on your tree at all. Although, if you really want to treat any children in the family to something off the tree, place them out of reach from your dog.  

7. Presents

While a huge pile of gifts underneath the tree is one of the most special sights at Christmas, our excitable pups may be tricked into thinking that the presents are all for them, especially if some of them contain food.

Pup-owners should avoid storing presents under the tree until Christmas Eve at the very earliest. This will reduce the likelihood of your pup ruining your presents before the big day arrives.

8. Stockings

We all want everything to look perfect on Christmas morning, so the last thing you want is one of Santa’s stockings to be covered in doggy drool, bite-marks and fur.

If you can, keep your dog out of whichever room you keep your stockings in on Christmas Eve night. You might even consider fitting a lock to the door, if your pup likes to explore the house at night.

A locked door may also help to keep out any over-eager children, keen on finally catching Santa in the act this year.

9. Mistletoe

Sharing a kiss under the mistletoe is a cute and traditional activity for couples to enjoy, but for our naturally curious pups, mistletoe may look like a piece of food or a plaything that is simply impossible to resist; especially if it falls to where they could reach it.

Consider only keeping your mistletoe up as a temporary feature, perhaps for a Christmas party or just on Christmas Day itself. This might make that quick kiss under the mistletoe feel all the more special too.

10. Wreaths

Christmas wreaths are a festive favourite, with many people choosing to celebrate the holiday with one hanging proudly on their front door.

While wreaths do commonly contain things like ribbons, fairy lights and even candles, they are mostly made of all-natural components such as leaves, twigs, flowers, fruits and those famous Christmas staples, holly and ivy. Since wreaths will smell so much like the outside, this decoration may very well pique your dog’s interest. 

Since most people keep their Christmas wreaths on the front door of their homes, and usually on the outside, following this trend should be enough to prevent your dog from getting too close to your wreath. 

This article was made in collaboration with tails.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Ten festive decorations pet owners should keep an eye on appeared first on Checklists.