Now that Halloween is over, the Christmas season is upon us and there is nothing better than decorating your home for festivities, lighting a candle and enjoying some merry moments. We caught up with the lovely Izzy from @nest_number_9 to talk about all things Merry & Bright and her favourites for the festive Christmas season.
What are your top tips for creating a festive atmosphere in your home this year?
I think candles make a space feel very festive and cosy at this time of year. I always try and light a couple as soon as it starts to get dark in the evenings. I also think some twinkly lights bring the festive atmosphere into the home, and plenty of cosy blankets of course!
What are your ideal scents for the Christmas season?
Even in the winter, I tend to gravitate towards fresh-smelling scents like pine, eucalyptus and mint. I also really love anything sweet, so berry scents are always a big hit in my home.
What do you look forward to most with the build up to Christmas?
I love absolutely everything about the build-up to Christmas! Seeing the lights go up on people's houses, having to wrap up in hats and scarves and buying lots of treats to eat during the holidays to name a few. Also, being a teacher, I really love watching my class take part in the Nativity play and carol concerts!
Do you have any Christmas traditions?
We have a strict rule about putting up the Christmas tree and decorating the house on December 1st! We also have a cosy film night on Christmas Eve, with cheese and crackers for dinner. I love it!
Favourite Christmas food?
Oh, that's so difficult! I love it all! It was only recently that I tried my first mince pie, and I am now obsessed with them. I need to make sure that I have one every day in December, to make up for all of the years that I missed out on them!
Favourite Christmas drink?
Christmas time for me signifies hot chocolate season! I always choose a mint hot chocolate, with plenty of cream and marshmallows!
Favourite Christmas movie?
That's even more difficult than the favourite food question! I love them all, but Home Alone 1 & 2 are probably top of the list. I spent Christmas in New York last year, and loved seeing some of the locations from the movie.
Will you still be dressing in your best this Christmas or is it all about the cosies?
After a lazy morning in Christmas pyjamas, we always get dressed up in something smart for the afternoon. That doesn't last too long though, and by 4pm, you can guarantee that I will be back in my cosiest clothes!
Your Sophie Allport wish list this year?
Oh, it has to be the Home for Christmas jumper with Santa's sleigh! I love the star elbow patches - such a pretty detail! I am also a big fan of handbags and I think that one of the green, mini shoulders bags would be the perfect addition to my collection!
You can follow Izzy on Instagram: @nest_number_9
We'd love to hear all about your Christmas traditions. Let us know in the comments below.