Is there a moment each year when you feel that Christmas has arrived? Perhaps it’s the first sound of carols, hanging decorations on the tree, baking ginger-spiced cookies, or wrapping that first present…? Often, it’s in the quieter moments—the stillness between the hustle and bustle—that the real magic of the season is felt. It’s here we glimpse, not what a perfect Christmas looks like, but what Christmas truly means to us. And that is where the joie lies.
Finding the Joie
If you’ve ever felt that Christmas was just one never-ending to-do list, you’re not alone! The planning, the preparation, the pressure—it can all be a lot at this time of year, especially for women. We receive so many messages on how Christmas should be done. But how often do we stop and ask how could it be done?
Traditions are a beautiful, essential part of the season. But you are allowed to evolve them. What worked for one generation may not work for you now. Perhaps your mother made a pudding months out from Christmas—and perhaps that brought her joy. But if it doesn’t hold the same magic for you, you’re allowed to set a new intention, and create your own Christmas rituals.
So, what if you gave yourself permission to let go of expectations? What if, this year, you did Christmas your way?
Seasonal Swaps
1. Replace written cards with spoken words
A ‘verbal card’ is like a mini heartfelt speech—one for each person around the table. Declare your love, highlight their achievements this year, pick out a special trait you cherish. It’s a ritual bound to bring tears of joy every time.
2. Gift time, not things
If you’re willing and able, make yourself the gift. Create a voucher for ‘time with me’— a day making family-favourite recipes (and revealing your kitchen secrets), a weekend of babysitting, a shared art class, or an experience for the whole family—like a movie or theatre date. A thoughtful alternative to traditional Christmas gifts, and one that creates lasting memories.
3. Trade the traditional roast for a shared ritual
Instead of one person carrying the load in the kitchen, bring everyone together for something hands-on. Try home-made pasta—you’ll end up covered in flour but content and connected. Pair the pasta with basil pesto and burst cherry tomatoes for a Christmas-coloured feast everyone will enjoy.
4. Ditch store-bought crackers for home-made favours
A thoughtful place setting feels deeply personal. Think jars of jam or chutney, a spice rub or dukkha, rum balls or candied ginger, a crafted Christmas ornament or a simple hand-picked posy of flowers.
Rituals are personal—and that’s what makes them powerful. Creating your own may even deepen your sense of joy this Christmas (just be sure they don’t become chores themselves).
Self-expression Through Seasonal Style
We all have our own sense of style, and Christmas is a wonderful time to express it—through festive fashion and Christmas decorating ideas. Trim your tree with coordinated bows and baubles if matching makes you happy. Or cover it with quirky ornaments collected over the years. Or say c’est la vie nd let the kids hang their hand-made paper chains and clay creations… Whatever makes it feel like yours.
Over the Christmas period, how you dress, decorate your home, or style your table are all opportunities to inject your personality. Bring bold colour or evoke gentle calm. Layer textures to create different looks. Experiment to see what feels right. And don’t forget the festive outfit!
If Christmas red looks great on you, then go for that flattering poppy-coloured dress (but don’t feel obliged). Perhaps a paisley print is more your look, or an elegant silhouette suits your style. Or ditch the dress entirely and go for relaxed chic with silk pants and a classic white tank. Choose the colours, fabrics and cuts that make you feel your best. Because when you’re comfortable and confident, you’ll be present to experience the joy of the Christmas season more fully.
Making Time For You At Christmas
Amidst the festivities, make some time for self-care at Christmas. Creating a new ritual that helps you stay grounded could be the best gift you give this year! Why not light a candle and treat yourself to a luxurious bath with some special soap, or put your feet up with a beautiful book and a pot of tea—or a cocktail (see recipe below!)—and savour some moments to yourself. The simple act of giving yourself permission could be the catalyst for your most meaningful Christmas yet; one that isn’t perfectly polished, but deeply personal.
From all of us at Blue Illusion, we wish you bonnes fêtes et joyeux Noël!
Our Gift To You: The Best Christmas Cordial Recipe
This spiced cherry cordial is as versatile as your mood. Serve it fresh with soda over ice, add gin for a festive aperitif, turn it into a spritz with prosecco, or channel your inner mixologist and use it to create your own spiced cherry cocktail. It can even be served warm as a tisane or hot toddy. Makes for a perfect hand-made Christmas gift or party favour, too. Tchin tchin!
Spiced Cherry Cordial
500 g frozen pitted cherries
500 ml hot water
2 cups caster sugar
4 cinnamon sticks
6-8 whole cloves
Peel from 2 oranges
1-2 tbs lemon juice (more to taste)
Optional: star anise, whole nutmeg, vanilla pod
Makes approximately 750 ml to 1 litre
1. Combine: Place cherries, water, sugar, orange rind, cinnamon, cloves (and any other spices, if using) in a large saucepan.
2. Simmer: Gradually increase the heat to almost boiling (being careful not to boil), then reduce and simmer for 15-25 minutes, mashing the cherries as they soften to release their juices.
3. Steep: Turn off heat, cover, and let steep for several hours or overnight.
4. Strain: Strain the mixture through a fine sieve or muslin cloth. Allow to drip naturally before gently pressing the fruit to extract remaining liquid. Strain again for clarity.
5. Finish: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice and taste, then add by the teaspoon until desired tartness is achieved (cordials should have a perfect balance of sweet and tart).
6. Bottle: Pour the syrup into a sterilised bottle (or several small bottles if you wish to gift them) and seal. Refrigerate for up to three weeks or freeze in cubes of individual portions.
7. Enjoy: Mix into a delicious cocktail or mocktail, or serve over ice-cream for a summer treat with hints of winter-warming spices. Garnish with orange slices or cinnamon sticks.
Santé!
