It’s 2nd December and the first Monday in December. The days are growing shorter and getting dark before I am able to close my work computer and actually look up. Luckily enough, I am running in the mornings to Holland Park – so at least I am able to see some sun.
As a child, December was always a very special month. I looked forward every day to waking up for my chocolate calendar and to see the children Christmas program that where counting down the days to Christmas Eve every night with a new episode.
I love decorating for Christmas, even tough I have never had more than a small flat to decorate – have I gone above and beyond to get a Christmas tree into the home. In 2010 I pulled a 2 meter pine tree cross the entire Bergen to have it in our student flat for 2 days and in 2017, I was alone in my London flat and used my large suitcase to pull a Christmas tree from Chiswick to Hammersmith. I was definitely on a mission.
But this year, I have realised that I cannot have a tree since we are moving out of the flat in December. But that does not mean that the flat will be decorated, I just need to be creative. So here is my plan for a Christmas without a Christmas tree.
1. Tranditional Real Garland from John Lewis
Since I decided that there will not be a Christmas tree this year, do I want to invest in a proper garland. A garland can be used in so many ways, on a mantlepiece (which I have 2 of), hanging over a window, in a staircase or as a decoration on the table.
I really liked the premium ones from John Lewis since they looked very realistic and thick.
2. Jewelled Twig Light Up Garland from Cox and Cox
To light up corners, vases and garlands, a copper and paper wire with LED lights is a brilliant way to do it. The wire can be bent into any shape and look very organic, which I like. It’s also a way of replacing candle lights (and keep you safe from fire)
3. London Bus Christmas Decoration from Harrods
I always love the idea of a Christmas tree of life memories. I have a Christmas ornament from when I lived in Prague and I want an ornament to decorate with that reminds me of London. This double-decker from Harrods really fits perfectly that role. It can also be used as decoration on a table setting.
4. Fortnum’s Mini Hamper Decoration from Fortnum and Mason
There is something special with the Hampers from Fortnum and Mason. They bring a bit of history to how the English Christmas have been done for hundreds of years. One day, I hope I can get one of the big Hampers – but this year, I’ll be happy with a tiny one to bring the spirit into my tiny London flat.
You can also use the hamper to hide a little gift – an amazing way to make the Christmas magical.
5. Christmas Bells from HM Home
I really love Christmas bells, they remind me of sleigh rides from my childhood and make me think about the Norwegian Christmas programs on the television. These ones from HM Home look great and can hang from the mantlepiece or on a handle. It brings the sound of Christmas into a home.
6. Mistletoe Highland Tartan Christmas Stocking from Dibor
I’ve always loved a bit of tartan and this stocking has an embroidered mistletoe on a tartan pattern is perfect for me. This one will look amazing on a mantlepiece and bring more of the English/Scottish traditions into our home. Who knows, maybe someone will fill it with good memories?
What are your Christmas decoration plans?
