HomeTagsPosts tagged with "Christmas"

Christmas

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As adults we're delighted to receive gifts at all, let alone a whole stocking full of them. But rewind a decade or two and you'll remember the absolute PANIC of writing your Santa list. What if you left something out? What if you sent it too soon and changed your mind? What if Santa just didn't bother bringing you the toy of the moment?

Those were the days. Here are a few of the toys you most definitely prayed Santa would bring you on Christmas morning. After all, he got a good deal too – you left him out the fancy foil-wrapped biccie from the Afternoon Tea tin PLUS a glass of milk…

1. Mr. Frosty Ice Maker
How cool did this look on the ads? Though they somehow neglected to mention that it took hours of sweating and a LOT of upper body strength to produce one cup of measly ice…

2. Baby Born
She ate AND pooed. Oh, Zapf Creations, you evil geniuses.

3. A Furby
This freaky little fella gave you endless entertainment on Christmas morning, but by Stephen's Day you had him hidden in a cupboard just to get five minutes' peace. This parenting-a-robot stuff is hard, lads.

4. A Nintendo Gameboy
Plus the Pokemon Red and Blue games, obvs.

5. A candle-making set
Relatives would be presented with lopsided yellow candles for years to come.

6. A Tamagotchi
No matter how diligently you played with them, cleaned their poo and kept their happiness levels up, the little guys never made it past their teenage years. RIP, Nikatchi.

7. A Talkgirl Dear Diary
Macaulay Culkin had his Talkboy, and we had our electronic Talkgirl diaries. Just don't forget the password…

8. Sky Dancers
A total health and safety hazard… but so pretty!

9. Bop It
Forget Bop It Extreme, this was the original and best. Twist It! Pull It! Bop It! So MANY commands to remember.

10. Cupcake Dolls
We saw nothing wrong with grabbing our doll's skirt and placing it over her head to transform her. All in the name of aesthetics.

 

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While Christmas seems to begin earlier and earlier these days, the 1st of December is the day you can let yourself embrace it. Now that we’ve experienced one day of real Christmas so far, here is what else will happen this month…

1. You wake up and realise….CHRISTMAS FM IS LIVE!!

2. As you dig out your most subtle Christmas jumper (it is only the 2nd after all, let’s not lose the run of ourselves) you listen to Mariah Carey sing about what she want for Christmas and it’s amazing.

3. You leave your house and fully embrace that sharp cold, feeling smug because you remembered your gloves and hat – because it’s December now.

4. It’s time to pop into your favourite coffee shop and order the most outlandish Christmas themed coffee they have for the most extortionate price. “Can I have a ginger-bread hot chocolate with a shot of the candy-cane peppermint syrup and some marshmallow with whipped cream? Skimmed milk, thanks.” And then we look exactly like the gif below. 

5. You suffer a mild heart attack as you sit down and plan a list of all your Christmas presents. The budget is €10.50 per family member, totally doable. Boyfriend budget is €150. You know your priorities.

6. You forget said list and dig it out on the 17th December, have another mild heart attack and leg it into town. You would get the bus but you don’t have time to wait for it not to arrive.

7. Needless to say, you chose the wrong day to shop. In fact, any day after the 8th is just wrong. Is there a teacher strike again? Is it Black Friday? What is this?

8. You promise your mum you are going to cook the starter and the dessert for Christmas dinner, only to realise you don’t finish work until Christmas Eve. It’s the 23rd now, when is the right time to let her know? Hmm…

9. You promise you're going to get a tree up in the apartment this year – you WILL do it! And you do, only to leave it there till Easter. Why can't we be the whole package of a real adult? They make it seem so easy. 

10. Every single ad on TV makes you cry. Even the one about the teenager who gets a phone and then lays his head on his mum's shoulder! *sob*

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Shifting a co-worker at the office Christmas party might seem like one of the biggest clichés going, new research has shown that it could signal the beginning of a long and meaningful relationship.

Drinks are flowing, the office is closed and for one night a year, all inhibitions go out the window.

Maybe it's that guy from finance you've been eyeing up since he told you your hair looked nice one day, or perhaps all that wine will make you see you work husband/wife in a whole new light – either way, it's pretty likely you'll fall into someone's arms at the end of the night.

In fact, according to a recent study conducted by Instantprint, almost half of all office workers will have some kind of work related romance this festive season.

What's more, 53 percent of those who end up sharing a sneaky shift will end up being in long-term relationships, with one-third of those couples staying together for over a year.

The study also shows that those who work in HR are the most nervous about going to work the day after the Christmas party – though they were also shown to be the ones most likely to get “embarrassingly drunk,” so we're guessing that those go hand-in-hand, really.

Oh, and if you are looking for love this festive season, set your sight on that ride in IT – apparently they're the most likely to kiss someone.

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What are Ireland’s favourite biscuits and chocolates at Christmas time, you ask? What do Irish people absolutely HAVE to have with a cup of tea after Christmas dinner?

All is being revealed today, as Aldi releases figures from a survey carried out to highlight that the supermarket is stocking a wide range of all of the favourite food, drink and confectionery brands you love this festive season.

Tins and tubs of chocolates are a firm favourite in Irish households each Christmas, and it comes as no surprise that Cadbury Roses raced home to victory as the favourite amongst Irish householders, with 43 percent of the overall vote.

We are a nation of biscuit lovers, and the people have responded – Jacob’s Chocolate Kimberley was the winner with 38 percent of the vote.

There are the flavours that you hate, the ones that you avoid and then there are the ones that you love more than the rest, but can never seem to get your hands on! Fudge, caramel and orange flavours were the most argued over sweets amongst families when it comes to the ones that everyone wants, with coffee, dark chocolate, Turkish delight and strawberry cremes being named as the chocolates that are always left behind.

The brands most associated with Christmas in homes across Ireland are – Cadbury Roses, Jacob’s Chocolate Kimberley, Quality Street, Coca Cola and Guinness.

The most popular biscuit brands are:

  • Jacob’s Chocolate Kimberley – 38 percent
  • Fox’s Biscuits – 15 percent
  • Cadbury Chocolate Assortment – 10 percent
  • McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives – 9 percent
  • Jacob’s USA Biscuits – 8 percent and Shortbread – 8 percent
  • Afternoon Tea – 5 percent
  • Chocolate Hobnobs – 2 percent
  • Snowballs (1 percent), Custard Cremes (1 percent), Pink Wafer (1 percent), Viscounts (1 percent) and Victoria Biscuits (1 percent)
 

The most popular chocolate brands are:

  • Cadbury Roses – 43 percent
  • Quality Street – 18 percent
  • Celebrations – 12 percent
  • Cadbury Heroes – 8 percent
  • After Eights – 5 percent
  • Lindt – 3 percent and Ferrero Rocher – 3 percent
  • Butlers (2 percent), Black Magic (2 percent), Terry’s Chocolate Orange (2 percent)
  • Milk Tray and Dairy Box – 1 percent
 

Aldi will be stocking a wide range of branded items this festive season, meaning you can find everything you need this Christmas, and all at amazing Aldi prices.

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Christmas is an expensive time of year. The list seems never-ending, going on forever. We need to buy a gift for our sister, best friend, work wife, parents and even the dog.

Oh and don’t forget about bae.

Or maybe you could if you plan on being guilty of the cheapest dating trend.

Scrooging is a dating trend that’s growing in popularity and it is not pleasant.

Ever get dumped just before Christmas and wonder what went wrong? Things seemed all fine and dandy and then bam! You’re single again and hoping to God you can get a refund on the surprise weekend away you booked as a gift to beau.

Well, according to Metro, scrooging is essentially dumping your other half so you don’t have to buy them a Christmas present.

Yes, you read that right.

Apparently, one in ten are guilty of this dating trend and men are more likely to do it. Not surprised, to be honest.

Relationship expert for EHarmony, Rachael Lloyd, told Metro, “We know that relationships can often become less of a priority in the run up to Christmas. It’s also a time when dating significantly slows down. 

“However, it seems particularly miserly to end a relationship simply to avoid buying your partner a present and indicates that you weren’t ready for a romantic commitment in the first place.”

Staying single just seems like a much easier option.

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Christmas is approaching and yes, we are very excited about it and no, we’re not one bit ashamed.

We are more than ready to embrace the days of listening to Last Christmas on repeat, the tacky Christmas jumpers and cosy nights by the fire with Home Alone playing on the telly.

Image result for elf movie gif

It is called the most wonderful time of year for a reason.

We stand proudly with the people who are ready to celebrate the festive period in July. Are we a little crazy? Maybe… but science says people who start decorating for Christmas (can we put the tree up now?) are actually a lot happier than the Scrooges of the world.

Psychoanalyst Steve McKeown told Unilad, "In a world full of stress and anxiety, people like to associate to things that make them happy, and Christmas decorations evoke those strong feelings of the childhood.

"Decorations are simply an anchor or pathway to those old childhood magical emotions of excitement. So putting up those Christmas decorations early extends the excitement!" 

Image result for decorating christmas tree gif

Is it a little bit early to be taking the decorations out of the attic? Maybe, but the Christmas spirit is infectious.

And now that we have the science to back us up we won’t feel guilty about it.

So for the Grinches out there, who complain whenever they see selection boxes in their local Tesco store or roll their eyes when they see the fairy lights appear on Grafton Street, don’t be such a Bah humbug.

Related image

 

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Dads are gas, and Dads on Christmas Day are especially gas.

While the rest of the family tend to evolve and mature as each year passes, there's something particularly steadfast about our fathers' behaviour on December 25.

Whether you're five or 25, you'll proffer the same presents, hear the same jokes, and endure the same digs.

And in honour of the dads in our lives, here are just 10 things every one of them does on Christmas Day.

1. Puts on the new jumper your mam bought him, and admires himself in the hall mirror when he thinks no one is looking.

"I'll cut some dash at mass, I'd say."

2. Pretends to know what he has supposedly bought for his loved ones.

"Ah, you know your mother looks after that."

3. Acts as if his one and only contribution to Christmas dinner has kept the whole meal afloat.

"Where would we be without these carrots, lads?"

4. Creates a very neat pile of the presents he's received and then disappears upstairs with them.

"Sure, I don't know myself with all my new loot."

5. Tries to make you laugh at mass before getting a bollockin' off your mam.

"Don't mind your mother, you know I'm hilarious."

6. Examines everyone else's gifts and acts as if he's discovered fire.

"And you're telling me every step you take is measured on this watch yoke?"

7. Examines every chocolate he removes from the tin, and insists they're getting smaller each year.

"In my day you could barely fit your gob around a caramel barrel,"

8. Insists there's feck-all on the box this Christmas, but manages to cram in a solid 14 hours of viewing.

"I'll watch it, but I won't be happy about it."

9. Reminds everyone about the best Christmas present he ever received as a young lad… for the 30th year in a row,

"A Raleigh racer, and Jesus, she was a beauty."

10. Invites the neighbours in, and then disappears after he's thinks they've outstayed their welcome.

"Jaysus, would she be as quick getting through a bottle of Baileys in her own house?"

 

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Gift wrapping is serious business, and cannot be taken for granted.

Whether you can't wrap a present to save your life or are the Wrap Queen of 2020, these cute 'n' chic ways to package your parcels this Christmas are the bomb.

Y'all are welcome, if you wrap gifts like these then you'll earn some MAJOR brownie points…

jimmy fallon television GIF

1.  The Car

All you need is brown paper, some string and a mini-tree (cut part of a bush and spray paint the tips white). Honestly this is just too adorable, the present outside of the gift is just as good as inside.

Image: Pinterest

2. Animal style

Why give a regularly wrapped gift when you can create a zoo of animal presents with some coloured paper, googly eyes and markers.

Image: Pinterest

3. The Colour-Me-In

Why give them store-bought wrapping paper when you could let their inner Picassos shine through?

So much paper is wasted when it comes to wrapping gifts, it would be lovely to create something artistic with the material.

Image: Pinterest

4. The Music Sheet 

As Madonna once sang; "Music…makes the people…come together…yeah."

This applies for wrapping presents too, FYI. Try using music sheets to package your gifts, and you'll be the new musical diva of Christmas.

Image: Pinterest

5. Santa Paws

This one is a slightly unusual tactic to take this festive season, but maybe it's worth a shot? Unless PETA hear about it…*winces*

Surprise a loved one with a wrapped up kitty kat this year, unless Santa Claws rips her way out first.

6. Marvel at the Marble

Some gold and black paint on white paper mixed with watery dark tones can create a marble effect like MAGIC.

It's honestly looks so sophisticated, we can't even cope. 

Image: Pinterest

7. The Chalkboard

Get yourself some black wrapping paper and white makers to create the chalkboard effect, and you could even write a cute lil' message especially for your loved one to read.

If its a sibling who you constantly squabble with, you could also just write: 'Santa prefers me.' 

Image: Pinterest

8. Flower Power

If you've got a penchant for origami, this is the gift wrapping idea for you.

We're going to assume that most of you don't, in fact, have an obsession for origami.

Nevertheless, you can craft flowers by watching some decent Youtube tutorials, or just using cut up coloured sugar paper layered on top of one another, and using black fringed paper for the centre. 

It's probably harder than it looks, but it could be worth a try…

Image: Pinterest

9. Calendar girls

Why not mark the special occasion by…literally marking the special occasion. On your present. Genius or what?

It also helps the environment from unnecessary waste if you decide to use this year's calendar for wrapping your gifts. EUREKA.

Image: Pinterest

10. Fairy lights 

Light up your loved one's lives (yes, we actually said that) with this adorable gift wrapping idea.

All you need for this one is some brown paper and markers, and add glitter to spice it up. Simples.

Image: Pinterest

We're definitely going to try and tackle some of these gift wrapping ideas, they'll add a creative and personal touch to anyone's Christmas.

monster lol GIF by Nickelodeon

Enjoy gals, let these be the guidelines for your future career as a Wrap Goddess.

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It’s a crazy time of year and it’s so easy to get caught up in the hubbub of the season. The Christmas lists, the endless hours of shopping, the frantic scheduling to catch up with friends and family – it can all et out of hand so quickly that before we know it, Christmas has become about the things we accumulate, rather than what we give back.

The season is one of love and light and it’s not just about experiencing these things, but about sending them out into the world. And one way we can do that is to donate to worthy causes this year to make a difference in people’s lives. We’ve compiled some of Ireland’s most worthy causes to donate to this Christmas season to give back in the form of a present to another or just to give back yourself.

Ronald McDonald House Christmas Santa Hat campaign

Irish singer/songwriter and mother of two Una Healy is encouraging as many people as possible to support Ronald MacDonald House’s vital service this Christmas. Customers can purchase a Ronald McDonald House Charities Ireland (RMHC Ireland) Santa Hat across McDonald’s 95 restaurants nationwide for €2 each

All money donated will go directly to RMHC Ireland, who have supported over 4,000 families with ill or injured children nationwide since it first opened in Ireland 17 years ago. RMHC Ireland provides accommodation and a caring and supportive environment for families whose children are seriously ill and are hospitalised or undergoing medical treatment at Children’s Health Ireland, Crumlin.

In 2020 alone, over 200 families from across the country stayed at RMHC Ireland. The average length of stay for a family in Ronald McDonald House last year was 26 nights and the fundraising campaign has been running for over 10 years, raising over €1.2 million for the charity to date.

To learn more about Ronald McDonald House Charities Ireland and the families they support, or to donate, visit https://rmhc.ie/.

Children’s Health Foundation’s Bertie and Charlie Bear

This Christmas at The Europe Hotel & Resort, Bertie Bear’s cousin Charlie Bear has come all the way from Bearhaven to help raise money for the children’s charity – Children’s Health Foundation at Temple Street, Dublin to bring comfort, care and company to over 130,000 babies, boys and girls undergoing treatment across the country.

For a €20 donation, you will receive a Charlie Bear who is super soft and cuddly, dressed in The Europe Hotel & Resort’s red jumper, while helping to spread the care. Charlie Bear can stay with you or you can give him to any child you think would like his company. The best news is that 100% of the proceeds made from the sale of Charlie Bear will go straight to Children’s Health Foundation at Temple Street, Dublin.

Everyone who donates to receive a Charlie Bear will also be entered to win an Overnight Stay at The Europe Hotel & Resort with Dinner, Bed & full Irish Breakfast in a Deluxe Lakeview Room for 2 people sharing.

To donate and receive your Charlie Bear now, visit theeurope.com. To find out more about the great work done by Children’s Health Foundation visit, childrenshealth.ie/.

CHI Light up at Temple Street and Crumlin

Children’s Health Foundation is urging the public to make a special Christmas donation this year to support CHI’s vital and life-saving work and help get kids back to being kids. Christmas has arrived for sick children in our children’s hospitals and urgent care centre, with the help of a few familiar faces, including Santa himself. Celebrations kicked off just in time for the Toy Show last Friday 26th November, with CHI at Connolly hitting the switch and lighting the way for the rest of CHI.  CHI at Temple Street welcomed Santa himself yesterday, who joined young patient’s Emily and Amy to switch on thousands of sparkling lights that adorn the façade of the building.

The event in CHI at Temple Street was once again kindly supported by Tesco Ireland, who have raised over €6.5million for the hospital over the past six years of their partnership with Children’s Health Foundation Temple Street.

The winter wonderland was generously supported by Dalata Hotel Group who are now in their fifth year of supporting Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin, raising over €1.1m in that time.

To donate today and support sick children in CHI at Crumlin, Temple Street, Connolly and Tallaght this Christmas, visit childrenshealth.ie/donate.

Ebay.ie’s SVP Virtual Christmas Bauble Campaign

For those looking to shop Irish this Christmas, ebay.ie has it covered with over 2,400 small Irish businesses operating on the marketplace, offering a huge variety of goods at a range of price points, with speedy delivery to boot!

This year why not make an extra meaningful addition to your Christmas shopping list to help support families around Ireland who may need a helping hand.

This year eBay is hosting a special festive charity virtual bauble appeal for St Vincent De Paul. Shoppers can simply donate to SVP’s Virtual Christmas Bauble Campaign on ebay.ie’s homepage, which will go towards food and home essentials to help make Christmas a little better for those in need. You can choose to purchase a virtual bauble for the value of €5, €10, €20, €50 or €100 – and this donation will go straight to SVP.

Switching on the lights with Mr Tilley in Sandymount For Hospice

On Saturday 4th December in Sandymount, marked the 26th year that Mr Tilly has decorated his home and garden with an array of Christmas lights as a fundraiser for Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services. He has raised over €155,000 from this and other fundraising activities for the Hospice.

Established in 1879 Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services is a 215-bed facility that provides specialist care for those with a wide range of needs from rehabilitation to end-of-life care.  Just over 600 staff work with residents, patients and their families at a most difficult time in their lives. Focusing on the person, and not the condition, care is provided on-site in its facilities in Harold’s Cross, Blackrock and Wicklow, as well as in people’s own homes across south Dublin and Wicklow.

Speaking about his annual display, Mr Tilly said: “I set up the lights every year as a way to celebrate the work of the Hospice and my local community, who are a real support to me and to each other. I’m a long-time supporter of Our Lady’s Hospice & Care Services since they cared for my Uncle Dan and Aunt Julia years ago.

“Last year we raised almost €17,000k, which was really fantastic, especially because of Covid-19. I’d hope to raise the same again this year. It’s all down to the great support of the community”, he added.

Mr Tilly gets great support from the local community and from the sports supporters going to the Aviva Stadium. Mr Tilly’s lights are turned on every evening and stay lit until the 6th January and you can find out more about what the hospice does here.

AVOCA charity partnership with the No. 12 Sandalwood Scented Candle

Throughout history Sandalwood has been a symbol of relaxation, balance and purification. Its rich woody scent is deep and warming with soft and sweet accents. Complete with gorgeous gift box, this candle makes a lovely gift or self-gift.

Avoca is proud to partner with Walk in my Shoes, the flagship mental health awareness campaign from St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services. St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services work to promote positive mental health for young people across Ireland. By running events and providing free resources which spark conversation, tackle stigma and foster wellbeing

Designed by our Avoca creative team here in Co. Wicklow, we hope this candle will help to shine a light on this very worthy cause. All proceeds from these candles will be donated to Walk in Shoes. Buy here.

AIB and GOAL Mile

AIB encourages communities across the island of Ireland to step up together to take part in the GOAL Mile this Christmas, where vulnerable communities in 14 countries will benefit from the proceeds!

AIB has teamed up with former Irish rugby international, Luke Fitzgerald, Irish hockey international, Róisín Upton, Olympian, Ciara Mageean and former Inter-County manager and player, Stephen Rochford to encourage communities across the island to step up together and take part in the GOAL Mile this Christmas season. Run or walk a mile to raise funds for GOAL at Christmas – for us a mile is simply 2,000 steps but for many in the developing world it takes thousands of steps to simply access water, get to school or even reach a hospital.

AIB is committed to building sustainable communities and hope that people will help by taking part in the GOAL Mile by visiting http://www.goalmile.org. They can register to take part in one of the hundreds of AIB GOAL Mile events taking place across the island of Ireland, sign-up to organise a new event, or pledge to take their 2,000 steps at any time throughout the month of December. Donations to GOAL can be made at http://www.goalglobal.org/donate

Deliveroo and Dublin Simon Community’s ‘Full Life’

Deliveroo aim donate 1,000 hot meals and launch in-app fundraiser to help Dublin Simon in collaboration with Vogue Williams this festive season. Through its Full Life initiative Deliveroo works with customers, restaurants, grocers and riders to play an active role in local neighbourhoods and help get good food to communities in need

With 70% of people who are homeless in Ireland located in Dublin, Deliveroo and its partner restaurants will prepare a selection of hot meals, free of charge, that Deliveroo will distribute to 19 of Dublin Simon Community’s Services located across the city. 

Deliveroo customers in Dublin will be able to donate to Dublin Simon Community through an in-app fundraiser. When ordering food from the app, users will be able to add a donation to their bill, or simply round up their bill to donate directly to Dublin Simon Community to show their support and appreciation for the incredible work the charity does to support people who are homeless. To make a donation to Dublin Simon Community, search for ‘Full Life fundraising with Dublin Simon Community’ on the Deliveroo app. To find out more about Deliveroo’s Full Life campaign, head to deliveroo.ie/more/full-life-ireland.   

Galway Cathedral and children’s cancer charity Hand in Hand

'The Knights Before Christmas' Concert 2021 on Saturday 11th December, will raise vital funds for children’s cancer charity as Galway Cathedral plans to be aglow with music, song and dance, with performers taking to the stage in a pre-Christmas performance that will raise much-needed funds for children’s cancer charity, Hand in Hand.

Taking place on Saturday, 11 December at 7.45pm, guests attending the Knights Before Christmas Concert will enjoy a festive, feel-good evening featuring a wonderful line-up of some of Galway’s best performer in support of the more than 200 children who are diagnosed with cancer each year in Ireland.

Funds raised will also go towards supporting the incredible work of the team at the cancer support centre in Loughrea where children affected by childhood cancer have access to a fully equipped playroom with a play therapy tool kit and fully qualified play therapist. Tickets are priced from €15 and both live performance and virtual tickets are available from Eventbrite here.

Oxfam Ireland Unwrapped and festive fairtrade

Oxfam Ireland is urging shoppers to give a gift that means more this Christmas, as it unveiled their range of Oxfam Unwrapped gifts. Oxfam Unwrapped allows purchasers to choose a physical or online gift card worth a specific value, which will go towards supporting Oxfam’s work worldwide.  With more people on the hunt for ethical Christmas presents, an Oxfam Unwrapped gift is a gift shoppers can feel good about giving to someone they care about.

Each Unwrapped gift is representative of Oxfam’s work around the world and the money raised goes into one of four specific programme funds. Oxfam Ireland uses the funds generated by the sale of these gifts to provide life-saving support to communities who are caught up in humanitarian crises, work with poor communities to improve their livelihoods and provide access to safe water and sanitation facilities to keep communities safe from disease.

Oxfam’s ethically sourced gifts are available in selected Oxfam shops only, and further information on Oxfam’s gifts and Oxfam Unwrapped can be found on their website, here: https://www.oxfamireland.org/.

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Yolanda Hadid took to Instagram last night to share gorgeous behind the scenes photos of her and her family’s Christmas day and we spotted more than a couple of familiar faces.

The mother of three posted pictures of a warm and intimate Christmas, spent with her children, their partners, Yolanda’s partner and her ex-husband. Gigi, Bella and Anwar’s significant others were also present, making it a big crowd in the Hadid household this year!

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by YOLANDA (@yolanda.hadid)

Yolanda’s photos are a hilarious and heart-warming snapshot of a family Christmas, as she and her two girls and Dua Lipa pose in silly festive glasses, make gingerbread houses and open presents. She captioned it;

'One day, we will look back on this time and talk about what we learned, how we grew and how grateful we were to have each other…… #Christmas2020 #Family'

Dua Lipa and Anwar Hadid had been rumoured to be dating since the summer of 2019 and confirmed these rumours when they moved in together some months later. It seems she certainly has the Hadid family seal of approval anyway, as she is included in the cute, comfortable family photos Yolanda posted. The singer also posted her own snaps of the night with Anwar, captioning it ‘A Christmas Story’.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by DUA LIPA (@dualipa)

New parents, Gigi and Zayn make an appearance too, seen opening the sweetest little pink baby-size snowsuit, presumably for their daughter. No sign of their baby girl in these sets of photos, but the couple have shared a few more over the holiday season.

The pair gave birth to their daughter in September, announcing their news on Instagram;

‘A whole new kind of busy & tired,’ Gigi wrote ‘but she’s da bestie so she got Christmas decorations early’

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid)

Zayn shared the sweetest photo to announce the birth, that had all of us tearing up.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Zayn Malik (@zayn)

‘Our baby girl is here, healthy and beautiful

to try put into words how i am feeling right now would be an impossible task. The love I feel for this tiny human is beyond my understanding. Grateful to know her, proud to call her mine, and thankful for the life we will have together x’

Gigi recently shared a picture of their first time taking their daughter out for a stroll in the snowy streets of New York. The pair are notoriously private about their personal lives, not showing their daughter’s face in pictures and not even sharing her name with the public yet.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid)

We’re loving the family atmosphere and shenanigans, and only hope there's more behind the scenes pics to come!

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Christmas is officially one month away! We have yet to start our shopping and the stress of what to buy our other half is weighing us down. Finding the perfect gift for someone is a nightmare but some people have taken the stress out of Christmas by making a deal with their beau. According to new research commissioned by FUJIFILM, over half (53 percent) of women this year are planning not to gift to their partner this Christmas. 

Delving into the insights provided by over 1,000 women in recent weeks, the rationale for not giving to their other half at Christmas can be summarised under three main headings:

  • Money: After purchasing gifts for children and extended family, on top of forking out for the festive food, there is just no cash left to buy for their other half according to 48 percent of participants.

  • Inspiration: What do you buy the person who ‘has everything’ or simply ‘does not need anything’? This was the response of 27 percent of participants who are planning on ditching the Christmas gift for their partner this year.

  • Time: With women taking on the lion’s share of the Christmas preparations, it’s hardly surprising that 25 percent say that they simply won’t have time to purchase a gift for their other half on top of everything else.

The Christmas countdown is on and while some people (13 percent) will have started ticking off their gift list as early as January this year, not everyone is as organised. However, the common theme amongst this year’s savvy buyers is to shop local, with over 77 percent avoiding online UK purchases for fear of problems getting product guarantees honoured in the future or returning items in the new year due to Brexit. 

Parenting Expert Laura Erskine, has some advice for those of you who put yourself and your partner last on the Christmas list this year:

“Choosing not to buy your other half a gift this Christmas may seem like the easy option this year, especially when done on the basis of a joint pact. However, I would advise couples to think very carefully about what this says about the health of your relationship.”

“When a relationship is under strain, the lack of a gift or indeed a poorly thought out gift tend to take on symbolic proportions where the recipient believes their partner doesn’t care for them as much as they used to. This is particularly true when you witness the giver gift to family members at the same time. Likewise, when your other half nails your gift, irrespective of how much money was spent on it, you tend to feel loved and connected to your mate.”

Gift giving to your partner at Christmas time is an important part of the celebration and does not have to cost a lot of money, require a huge amount of thought, or take up too much of your time.  The FUJIFILM Imagine mobile app is everyone's secret weapon to blitz their Christmas list in record time, but with all of the sentiment and none of the hefty expense! 

The photos locked away on our smartphones hold the secret to some really amazing Christmas gifts. Simply choose photos depicting special moments shared between you and your partner, the kids or even the family pet and use them to create personalised presents they will treasure forever. You can order through the FUJIFILM Imagine mobile app, online, and on touch screen kiosks in store nationwide. Choose from personalised photo books, canvas art, phone or tablet covers and much, much more. Then, wrap it all up with personalised gift-wrapping paper to really bring a smile to their faces this festive season.

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Christmas shopping is hard! And especially this year. When we can’t gift weekends away or sometimes can’t even get to the shops themselves, it’s hard to find presents that are really meaningful. You want to get your loved ones something that they’ll use, something that’s thoughtful and special just for them.

And what’s more special than a gift bearing their name?

These personalised ornaments are some of our favourite pics from Irish shops selling gorgeous artisan Christmas decorations that adds you to allow that little personal touch – a name, a message – even an inside joke! There’s one for every relationship – check out our picks below!

Ornamentshop.ie ‘Snow Family 3 Personalised Christmas Ornament’ (RRP €14.95)

This Christmas ornament is the perfect Christmas decoration for those families looking to make Christmas that bit more memorable. This type of ornament is popular with all demographics, particularly those who value a sentimental touch! We guarantee you will have a more memorable Christmas experience! Whether you hang this personalised Christmas ornament on the Christmas tree, on the mantelpiece, or anywhere else around the house, this unique personalised Christmas decoration is sure to add to the Christmas spirit – reminding everybody what Christmas is all about – friends & family.

What better way to kick off the Christmas festivities than with a special personalised ornament, reminding everybody what Christmas is all about – loved ones and family.

Justathought.ie ‘Mr & Mrs Reindeer Hanging Decoration’ (RRP €25.00)

Made from pine and engraved with the any words you like, this gorgeous, chic decoration is classy and sentimental. Married or engaged couples will love this little reminder of the year that they tied the knot. Thoughtfulness and gorgeous home ware all wrapped into one!

Foryou.ie ‘Personalised Christmas Holly Ceramic Star Decoration’ (RRP €19.00)

This decoration would look adorable proudly hanging from your Christmas tree, whether its for nieces, nephews, cousins, brothers or sisters! It would even make a thoughtful secret Santa present!

You can personalise this cute ceramic star decoration with up to 3 lines of 15 characters per line, to let someone know your thinking of them this Christmas.

Ritadalyornaments.ie ‘Black Door ornament’ (RRP €14.95)

Based in Tullamore Co. Offaly, for twelve years Rita has been supplying happy customers with affordable exquisite Christmas tree ornaments which are personalised with care, love and attention. This black door ornament is a great ornament for a person or family who loves their home or a new home. You can add the door number or names or addresses or ‘1st. Christmas in my/our new home’.

Trim The Tree ‘Rocking Horse’ (RRP €12.95)

The epitome of Christmas spirit; Trim the Tree have been sharing their passion for Christmas through hand-personalised memories that will hang on the Christmas tree with pride forever, since 2005. The personalised gift is one to treasure. Each decoration is designed to hang on a Christmas tree and is personalised by hand with your requested family names or messages for that personal touch.

Justathought.ie ‘Personalised Set of Four Polar Bear Decorations’ Regular price (RRP €30.00)

We think these ones are our favourite! Perfect for family friends or close family, these gorgeous ornaments are the perfect addition to any Christmas tree. These polar bears are wooden and will arrive packaged in an organza bag.

Foryou.ie Personalised ‘Merry Christmas Rustic Wooden Star Decoration’ (RRP €19.00)

The Merry Christmas Rustic Wooden Star Decoration is ideal for creating a shabby chic feel around the home at Christmas. The wooden decoration can be personalised with a one line up to 15 characters and Merry Christmas is fixed text. So gorgeous!

Bumblebeecreations.ie ‘Bannister Couple Christmas Ornament’ (RRP €13.95)

Personalised ornaments make a truly wonderful gift and keepsake. Something that is meaningful is something that will be kept forever, taken out year after years and admired.

Namesforgifts.ie ‘Bone with hanging Heart’ (RRP €12.95)

Christmas is special time of the year. A time of family and friends. A time of giving and sharing. A time of love and laughter. And a time of colour and sparkle. So doesn't your pooch deserve a little treat too?

Each ornament is of high quality with a gloss finish. With so many designs, each one varies in size but fits perfectly to hang comfortably on the Christmas tree. Each piece is personalised, ranging from one name to twelve. They are so popular, each one has a story to tell, and they have become a collection item in many homes.

Gifts.ie ‘Navy Christmas Santa Personalised Stocking’ (RRP €12.95)

This is what every child in Ireland wants to see when going to bed on Christmas Eve; their own personalised Santa Stocking hanging from the mantelpiece – to avoid confusion with siblings or just to feel special!

Their first name is embroidered in rich red viscous thread onto the white fur of the Luxury Christmas Stocking, making a specialised Christmas present just for them!

Ornament shop.ie ‘Friends/Sisters 3 Personalised Christmas Ornament’ (RRP €14.95)

The perfect personalised gift for a special trio. A lovely piece for your Bridal Squad to remember your special day, or for your special bond as sisters, this ornament captures the closeness of your friendships.

All ornaments are hand personalised and dispatched within one working days and comes with a complimentary festive gift bag and red satin ribbon

Bumblebeecreations.ie ‘Elegant Red Door Ornament’ (RRP €13.95)

There is nothing more personal than a name – personalised ornaments make a truly wonderful gift and keepsake. This ornament is perfect for a family name or address, for neighbours, new homeowners or even flatmates.

The personalisation process is as easy as possible.  Using the unique crystal labels they are able to personalise with clarity and consistency.

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