Unwrapping Traditions: A Q&A on Cherished Christmas Customs
As the Christmas holidays draw near, we find ourselves eagerly anticipating the warmth and magic that Christmas brings. This year, we've had the privilege of sitting down with some lovely people from our community, as well as some of our own team to get an exclusive peek into their cherished Christmas traditions. From heart-warming family rituals to quirky personal customs, they’re opening up about what makes their holiday season truly special. Join us as we unwrap the secrets behind their festive celebrations, offering a glimpse into the traditions that bring joy, love, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer to their lives. Get ready to be inspired and perhaps discover a new tradition or two to add to your own Christmas repertoire!
Lauren McDermott - @bylaurenmcdermott
I’m Lauren, a mum of 3 wonderful boys enjoying life in the Herefordshire countryside. We are passionate about nature, food and all of the simple moments that make life beautiful.
If you have a Christmas tree, what do you put at the top of it?
We put a little handmade fairy on top of the tree, but not when we are decorating it. She just “arrives” while we’re asleep a few days later, so when we go downstairs one morning she’s there waiting for us.
Are there any traditions from your childhood that you have/will carry on with your own children?
Oh my goodness SO MANY traditions from both mine, and my husbands childhood that we’ve really tried to keep alive for our boys, as well as adding a few of our own new ones too. From Stir Up Sunday where we all stir the Christmas pudding and make a wish, to ringing an old brass bell for Santa’s Reindeer before heading to bed on Christmas Eve. Christmas is all about those important little traditions.
What do you leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve?
We heard that Father Christmas loves a homemade mince pie and a glass of milk, but we also leave a carrot for Rudolph and plenty of reindeer food on the roof for the rest of the herd.
Louenna Hood BEM - @nannylouenna
Louenna Hood BEM, qualified Norland Nanny and Maternity Nurse, has cared for over 100 children over the past two decades, travelled the world with families, including high profile and royal families. Having been a go-to support for many parents over the years, Louenna wanted to help thousands of parents, not just those who employ her, on their most important journey … parenting! By making her expertise accessible to all via a dedicated parenting support “The Louenna app”.
If you have a Christmas tree, what do you put at the top of it?
A star
Are there any traditions from your childhood that you have/will carry on with your own children?
Leaving bran mash for the reindeer & opening presents super early by the fire!
What do you leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve?
A mince pie & port (and carrots for the reindeer)
Mimi Labesa - @mimilabesa
I am a Manchester based a fashion and lifestyle content creator and mum to 2 lovely girls, Kadima & Zanang. I Love travelling around the world fashionably and trying new cuisine with my family.
If you have a Christmas tree, what do you put on the top of it?
I’d put a star on the top of my Christmas tree.
Are there any traditions from your childhood that you have/will carry on with your own children?
Watching classic movies a every night from the week before Christmas and finishing up with ‘The Sound of Music’ on Christmas Day.
What do you leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve?
Hand written letters
Johanna Jones - Co-Founder of The Den Kit Co.
I'm Jo, a mum of 2 (grown-up) boys. I had a rather feral and exciting childhood growing up in various African countries which instilled a love of the natural world that I have never lost. Attempting to provide that same sense of freedom and discovery for our own children we moved to rural Shropshire, where they could explore and have adventures of their own. Outside of The Den Kit Company, I love painting in my studio and pottering around our local countryside. I’m passionate about saving insects, much to the despair of my family as I make everyone gently usher out the hornets, wasps and spiders that come into the house.
If you have a Christmas tree, what do you put on the top of it?
An old wooden angel
Are there any traditions from your childhood that you have/will carry on with your own children?
Pillowcases for stockings, a long walk to the pub over the hills in the morning & reading a special book from my husband's childhood on Christmas Eve by the tree before bed.
What do you leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve?
Cheese & crackers and a glass of Port.
Chris Murnin - @chris_murnin
My passion is being outdoors, and supporting others to enjoy their experiences. Primarily I work with young people and now spend a portion of my time training other Instructors to educate and inspire through a range of adventurous outdoor activities. You can follow my adventures, often with my own kids tagging along on @chris_murnin, or through my Bushcraft Instructor page @Leicester_Bushcraft . I hope you all have a great festive season, and manage to get out and about in the wonderful winter weather. Remember "There is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing." Alfred Wainwright
If you have a Christmas tree, what do you put on the top of it?
The tree decorating is a serious undertaking in our house, and closely scrutinised by my wife. For the past few years it has been a silver spinneret like something from a Russian cityscape. We now have the Fairy from my wife's family tree that may make an appearance this year.
Are there any traditions from your childhood that you have/will carry on with your own children?
My childhood Christmas's were varied, as half were in Chilly Scotland, and the other half in Scorching Botswana. but one constant was ritually waiting for my Dad to check that the coast was clear and that "Santa had left the building" before we could descend on the presents.
What do you leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve?
We all know the big man needs to keep his energy up so a Mince pie is always put aside, as well as some carrots for Rudolph and the team.
Kay Miller - Co-Founder of The Den Kit Co.
I'm Kay, an ex-head teacher, mum of 5 and granny of 2. I love to spend time outdoors with my family, kayaking, paddle boarding or going on long walks. I discovered a love of ridiculous endurance events in my 50s and have completed the Devizes to Westminster canoe race and the London Marathon amongst others!
If you have a Christmas tree, what do you put on the top of it?
I've never got this right. I have always dreamt of a beautiful angel but have not managed this yet - it's resulted in a fabric doll borrowed from my daughter's dollhouse tied on (unceremoniously), or a wicker star that I made once in a fit of energy, or an angel made by one of my children at school - a paper doily fashioned into a cone with glitter...(I'm sure you know them well!). The angel is still a work in progress. When I have time, one day, I will immerse myself in making one - allowing my grandchildren to help (a bit!).
Are there any traditions from your childhood that you have/will carry on with your own children?
Handel's Messiah blasting out on Christmas Eve with a family buffet of ham and anything from the Delia Smith Christmas book - I always packed the children and their dad off to the cinema in the afternoon. Father Christmas leaves gifts on the end of the bed (why oh why?!) & family gifts are exchanged after brunch under the Christmas tree.
What do you leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve?
Port and a mince pie. A carrot and water at the back door for Rudolph.