How to Construct the Ultimate Moist Maker Christmas Sandwich a La Ross Geller
Whilst the word ‘moist’ often causes a visceral reaction amongst all of us, the one place it can exist without the risk of being sick in your mouth is within the context of a Christmas leftovers sandwich.
Disclaimer: Sandwich thieves are operating in this area. You have been warned.
For the uninitiated (and point-blank deprived) the Moist Maker is a superior sandwich consisting of holier than thou Thanksgiving / Christmas leftovers. The only thing that’s disgusting about it is the name. And the number of burps you’ll be doing after you’ve eaten it.
Nothing else competes. Not your Pret’s, certainly not your Tesco meal deals and not your Costas. It is a sandwich in a league of its own and earning your Moist Maker stripes takes a steady pair of hands and an even steadier appetite. After all, you’re not simply building a sandwich here, you’re building edible dreams.
So, who died and made this Yuletide double-decker king, anyway? Well, Hovis died. You can’t be constructing a Christmas sandwich with any ol’ flaccid loaf occupying your bread bin. It needs to be big enough and crusty enough that wrapping your chops around it is something of an Olympic sport – like a slobbery game of Speak Out at Christmas. Maybe not the best parlour game in covid times but you get the gist. Basically, if your mouth looks relaxed when eating it, you’re doing it wrong. Throw another storey on there and come back to us when you’re going to take this seriously.
Which segues nicely into the next point. Something else that sets this sarnie apart from the cheese and onion nonsense of the world: layers. Sublime appropriately hydrated, merrily drunk layers. Not so much that they’re dripping with gravy but just juicy enough that you can still identify its bread-based foundations.
To hell with that underwhelming Boxing Day turkey sandwich everyone pretends to enjoy, cobbled together with the scraps of meat no one wanted the first time around and a knob of butter that’s probably not even Lurpak. This is 2021 and we deserve more than another serving of disappointment.
Whilst the word ‘moist’ often causes a visceral reaction amongst all of us, the one place it can exist without the risk of being sick in your mouth is within the context of a Christmas leftovers sandwich. Only then does it become socially acceptable to utter such an adjective in the presence of your parents without losing a significant part of your soul in the process.
Preface done – let’s get into the fillings and the assembly…
The Moist Maker origins
Truth be told, it’s the only origin story that matters this Christmas. The Moist Maker was made popular by the cult 90s sitcom Friends. It was the show that introduced us to The Rachel haircut, brought a whole new meaning to the word *seven* and introduced us to the concept of Unagi, but the best gift it ever bestowed upon us by a long stretch was the titular Moist Maker, Monica Geller’s (Courteney Cox) signature post-thanksgiving sandwich.
In season five, episode nine titled “The One with Ross’s sandwich” we go on quite the ride with Ross, Monica’s brother, as he discovers that not only has one of his co-workers eaten his Moist Maker *audible gasp* but they didn’t even finish it, on account of it being ‘too big’ apparently. What a sad little life, Jane.
Ingredients you will need:
Artisanal bread
Seasonal veg (carrots, onions, celery and the like)
Roast potatoes (if leftovers exist)
Pork sausage meat / mince for the stuffing
Baking soda
Salt
Fresh sage
Fresh parsley
Fresh thyme
Orange juice
Mascovado sugar
Wine (optional but recommended)
Cranberry
Turkey (sliced / shredded)
Garlic
Eggs
Turkey stock
Plain flour
Brie
The Turkey
We’re going to assume you’ve already cooked your turkey on Christmas Day because we just can’t fathom the energy it would require to make a whole Christmas feast for the sake of leftover sandwiches… but in the event that you haven’t and you’re wanting to make every component of the Moist Maker right this second (we take our Christmas hat off to you), butterflying your turkey is the way to go. Removing the spine, the neck and the wishbone and essentially splaying your bird out to flatten it and make it cook more evenly.
Line a baking tray with foil, roughly chop some onions, carrots and celery to add onto the bottom of the tray. Position your turkey on a wire rack over the vegetables – the veg will catch any fat and prevent the turkey juices from burning.
Season generously with roughly half a cup of salt and a tsp of baking powder for crispy skin perfection, then whack it in the oven for approximately 2 hours at 220 degrees. Rest for half an hour before carving. Always temperature check before consumption.
Image Credit: Jamie Oliver
The Stuffing
After watching / drooling over many a YouTube video (thank you Babish), the consensus is a Moist Maker simply must contain stuffing and true to top-of-the-class Monica form, it’s gotta be homemade for it to meet M.M levels of stardom.
As with all these subsequent steps, we pray you’ve completed them on Christmas Day and have all your ingredients conveniently chilling in your fridge because cooking all this lot on Boxing Day is not the one. Your PJs did not sign up for this toxic productivity.
Slice your artisanal bread, or crusty bread as it’s known in all circles, and then cut into cubes – you’re going to toast these hunks on a low and slow heat to make croutons. Spread them out across a couple of baking trays and put them in the oven for around two hours at 200 degrees. Bye moisture, bye.
Take your sausage meat, add it into a bowl with 1 tbsp chopped sage, 1 clove of crushed garlic, salt and pepper. Mix it all together and sauté the pork on the stovetop. Remove the pork, drain and cool, leaving some of the fat behind to sauté the onion and celery.
Add your aforementioned hunks of bread into a big bowl, now nicely toasted and transformed into croutons. Combine with the pork, sautéed vegetables, chopped fresh sage, parsley and thyme.
Temper two eggs with a bit of warm stock to prevent scrambling and add to the bowl with the pork, veggies, herbs and croutons. Mix in with some more stock until it’s nicely saturated and you’re able to work it into a mass with your hands.
Grease an ovenproof/casserole dish with chicken fat, transfer your stuffing and roast for 40-50 minutes at 190 degrees.
Image Credit: Jamie Oliver
The Stock
For the gravy flavour to really slap, you’re going to need to use that turkey spine you chiselled out earlier to elevate your store-bought stock. Sounds grim, tastes sensational.
Brown off the turkey pieces in oil before adding your veg. Throw in some roughly chopped celery and carrots and onion. Add in a handful of fresh thyme and 12 ish cups of stock and simmer for a couple of hours for a one-way ticket to “mmm is this homemade?”.
When it’s reduced by about 4 cups, strain into a large measuring jug ready to make your gravy.
The Gravy
Add 4 tbsp chicken fat and 4 tbsp flour to a frying pan to form a light blonde roux to thicken your gravy. Slowly add in the stock and continually whisk until it forms a darker, smooth lump-free paste.
Image Credit: Jamie Oliver
The Bread
Size matters when it comes to the Moist Maker which means you will need to accommodate three pieces of bread, not two, not two with a thick crust, three whole slices of bread. We told you this was no ordinary sarnie.
The Cranberry Sauce
Technically speaking, you can use a jar straight from the shops, but in Monica’s world that’s Moist Maker sacrilege.
Making your own calls for just three ingredients – 350g fresh or frozen cranberries, 250ml fresh orange juice (or water) and 200g light muscovado sugar. Cook down your cranberries and simmer all your ingredients together until it starts to look jammy but the cranberries are still holding their shape (you can also chuck in a cinnamon stick and a glug of red wine because f*ck it, it’s Christmas). Add a little water whilst simmering if needed. After about 10 minutes, add in 2 tsp orange zest and a pinch of salt if desired and you’re done.
Image Credit: Jamie Oliver
The Gravy-Soaked Layer (aka the money shot)
The gravy-soaked layer is le making of this sandwich and the glue that holds the whole family together, ingeniously tucked in the thick of it all, flanked between the festive trimmings of your choice.
Take a slice of untoasted bread, let it bathe in the gravy for a few seconds on either side, ensuring that it’s thoroughly soaked in the good stuff and dripping with thick Yuletide glee. Don’t come up for air before the 10 seconds is up.
Assembly Time
Toast your top and tail bread in the oven on *one* side, leaving the other sides untoasted for the safety and protection of the roof of your mouth.
Grab your top and bottom bread layer toasted side up and spread over a layer of cranberry sauce. Follow with sliced white turkey meat on the bottom and a thin layer of stuffing. Grab your gravy-soaked layer and stack him atop the stuffing patty. Go in with more white meat, another layer of stuffing and then add your final piece of bread, toasted side facing the filling.
In our experience, leftover roast potatoes don’t exist because they generally get eaten on Christmas Day, namely during the washing up witching hour but if you’re lucky enough to have some spuds left, you know what to do. Get them in there!
If you must have greenery, garnish your final layer with a few baby gem lettuce leaves and a healthy dollop of garlic mayo.
All these layers and not one mention of cheese – the audacity. Well, of all the recipes we scrutinised, not one listed cheese as a Moist Maker dealbreaker… make it make sense! We’d sooner choke on a wishbone than support that. Chuck in some brie wherever you see fit. What else are we to do with that footlong cheeseboard running the full gamut of the kitchen?
Now for the finale – slice your Moist Maker on the diagonal, never straight down the middle. Any sandwich worthy of a post this dramatic should be sliced diagonally for creative integrity.
And there you have it, your Moist Maker 101. Equal parts art, equal parts science.
See what Team Zoella plan to be rocking as the clock strikes 12, and let's hold a moment of silence to manifest a Zac Efron style NYE smooch for us all. Amen.
Love it or hate it, New Year’s Eve is on the horizon, and whether you plan on a lowkey event accessorised with takeaway pizza and supermarket Prosecco aplenty, or a night on the town instead, it’s certain that entering the new year feeling your best is something we all hope for from this controversial calendar event.
In the words of Taylor Swift, we’re feeling (20)22, and it’s okay if you’re happy, free, confused and lonely at the same time! It’s been a wild ride and regardless of your plans, celebrating the milestone of getting through another year of upheaval is something worth toasting to. Get those flutes at the ready!
See what Team Zoella plan to be rocking as the clock strikes 12, and let’s hold a moment of silence to manifest a Zac Efron style NYE smooch for us all. Amen.
Charlotte
My NYE plans this year are still a bit up in the air but if there’s one thing I can guarantee it’s that my outfit will need to be 11/10 to start the new year off right! I love love love this dress from Motel Rocks and although I am bound to be absolutely freezing, I think it’s worth it. I’ve paired it with some knee-high boots for a tiny bit more warmth and a classic black bag for a look that never gets old (imo).
NYE – it’s extra or nothing in my book, there is no in-between for me. I’m going to go for a black tux blazer and trousers because I know I’ll get the wear out of them as separates, then dress it up with all the glitzy accessories, from sparkly earrings, heels and a velvet hair bow to boot. More is more at this time of year!
If everything goes to plan I’ll be in New York for NYE which is SUPER exciting. I don’t have crazy party plans, just planning to bar hop and then go for my first meal of 2022 at Lil Frankie’s! It’s going to be absolutely freezing in NY so I’ll be heading out in jeans a jumper (with tons of layers) some heeled boots and this gorgeous faux shearling coat. I don’t know if I’ll be able to get hold of this Taylor merch for the big night but I REALLY want it!
Is anyone else in agreement that NYE is a strange night? It’s hyped up all through December but usually the actual night is… slightly anticlimactic. I do however like to get dressed up still and feel hopeful of having the best NYE ever ha. So I’ve gone for a pair of wide-leg jeans and a cute cami top with diamanté straps, paired with some clear perspex heels and a diamanté bag to match, I’ll wear an oversized black blazer over the top in the hopes it keeps me slightly warm!
I am fairly certain that it’s a night in with a takeaway for me and my husband this year, trying to convince family members to babysit has so far fallen very flat. To be honest, I don’t really mind, New Year’s out has never really gone that well for me and who’s to say getting dressed up at home and opening up your finest bubbles you’ve been saving can’t be just as fabulous! I’ll be honest the heels are a stretch but a special sparkly dress and tailored blazer combo is always going to make you feel great.
Who knows where we’ll be for NY at this rate but one thing’s for certain, SPARKLES (and crying)! Whether I’m on the sofa with mum or doing tequila in the club, I will certainly be dressing to the nines and when I’ve had one too many wines will cry about the past year, it’s tradition! Gold is ultimate party time and black because I am sophisticated.
Just Married! These couples make a serious case for saying I do over Christmas and New Year
If you’re soon-to-be tying the knot and on the fence about having a winter wedding, allow these happy couples to help you make up your mind.
Sure, summer weddings are irrefutably stunning but there’s a serious case for getting married at Christmastime and New Year. Case in point: snowy photo ops and hair & makeup that actually stays put. No heatwave, no hot mess.
Hardy winter flowers make transporting your bouquet that little bit easier (because nobody wants to be dealing with droopy blooms on their wedding day) and since most of the celebrations take place inside, you haven’t got to panic about one of your wedding guests wearing the gazebo-like a hat or swimming your way up the aisle.
If you get married close enough to Christmas, you’ll already have a perfectly dressed wedding venue and copious festive backdrop possibilities and we all know what that means – less money spent on foliage = more money to stick behind the bar for mulled wine and warm mince pies. Consider that reason enough to take your nuptials into the winter.
Then there’s the appeal of your dream wedding venue being: a) available and b) cheaper, such are the perks of going off-peak! Hello, bougie honeymoon fund.
If you’re soon-to-be tying the knot and on the fence about having a winter wedding, allow these happy couples to help you make up your mind.
Noelle Downing
What made you want to get married at this time of year? One of the nicest aspects of winter is the cosy ambience, flickering candlelight and roaring log fires.
Danny and I both love and look forward to the fall/winter every year, so naturally, it is when we wanted to get married!
What was your venue like and how important was it for setting the tone for your wedding?
Where we got married was actually a custom venue. So everything there had to be brought in down to the toilets. Ha! So we really had to create an entire mood and atmosphere, which was a challenge I looked forward to!
What’s different about planning a winter wedding vs a summer wedding?
First and foremost, I had to worry about people being cold. So we had to pay for heaters to be running through the tent, and Pendleton provided blankets outside for the ceremony for the guests. We also had a hot mulled wine station to keep everyone warm and cosy! Perhaps the biggest concern was it snowing since we rented a clear top tent and it would have made the material cave in / unsafe. So we kept checking the weather to be sure since anything can happen in upstate NY, especially in November!
Talk to us about the aesthetic. Did you stick to the seasonal theme?
I 100% committed to the seasonal theme. We got married on a Christmas tree farm so we really wanted to tie in the natural elements of the land. We brought Christmas trees from the farm into the tent and had them decorated with lights. For the ceremony, we had the seating arranged around some of the growing trees which made it feel really organic and nature-y. I also wanted to bring in elements that felt like you were having dinner in the Great Hall (Harry Potter) with the long tables and books scattered! It really did feel like the great hall under the stars!
Peak season prices are one very good reason to say I do in the wintertime! Did you save money by deciding to get married out of season?
I wish I could say we did. However, since we did a full custom venue, we didn’t really save on much.
That said, the holiday season can be a busy time of year, were most of your guests able to attend?
Since we actually got married a little bit before the holidays, most guests were able to attend, but since it was a destination in some ways, meaning a lot of our guests didn’t actually live in New York even though we do, there definitely was more of a drop in guests than you would probably see with a normal local wedding.
Flowers can also be tricky to get hold of over Christmas and into January, how did you find that process?
I really wanted our flowers and bouquets to mainly be from the Christmas tree farm so we were able to source everything from them pretty much. Think very simple with pine and a few white flowers!
Another great thing about a winter wedding is the opportunity to layer up and create a dramatic look! What was your dress/suit like? Was there an outfit change?!
Well, really Danny stole the show with his maroon velvet suit, so as far as taking in the seasons he wins. But my dress was embellished with a ton of writing and beads (the lyrics to So This is Love with our names embroidered into it as well), so it was really heavy, and looking back I am so thankful that it was a little chilly so that I wasn’t too hot. I did have an outfit change with small velvet details on the dress. Everything felt super holiday magic, being finished off with my Jennifer Behr celestial pieces.
One thing you do have to consider is that precious thing called daylight. How much did you have to factor this (and the weather) into your day and was the timing hard to coordinate?
Luckily my wedding planner lives in the area, so she knew exactly when the sun would set and had been keeping an eye on it. We did the ceremony about an hour before that and took photos before guests arrived and thankfully we love night photos and implemented a ton of twinkle lights it into the tent, so honestly those night photos I still think of my favourite from the entire day.
Let’s talk feasting! What food and drink did you have at the reception?
For the first course, we had a delicious kale salad served family-style. Then for the second course, we had Neapolitan pizza for the tables, and we actually had our chef bring in a pizza oven special for this. Then for the following courses, we had our guests pre-select from 3 entrées – ricotta gnocchi, short rib, or scallops. For dessert, we had our wedding cake obviously, but we had 2 different flavours plus 3 different kinds of pie. When it comes to food, we really sacrificed nothing because we looove food!
What was your first dance song?
Longer Than by Dan Fogelberg
How did everything go on the day? Did you ever have any reservations about getting married in the winter?
Best day ever honestly. I don’t have a single regret.
Hard question but do you have a stand-out memorable moment from your big day?
So I think for Danny and I both, one of the most memorable moments was after we did the first look and we got about an hour to ourselves taking photos, but also really soaking in the last minutes left of being not married and kind of talking about our journey as a couple and how crazy it was at this day was finally here, and we were so giddy and excited and it’s honestly a memory I’ll never forget.
If you were planning your wedding all over again, would you do anything differently?
To be honest I’m not a big regrets person but there’s truly not a single thing I would do differently.
Your best advice for anyone planning a winter wedding…
If you’re paying for it, you do you, and don’t feel bad about any decisions you make that other people might push back on. We didn’t invite kids/anyone under the age of 18 and I know some people may have been saddened by that but we really wanted people that had kids to maybe have their first night out that they had since having a kid. It was our day to celebrate our love and I am glad that I made the decisions that are best for us at the end of the day!
Camille
One of the nicest aspects of winter is the cosy ambience, flickering candlelight and roaring log fires. What was your venue like and how important was it for setting the tone for your wedding?
Where I’m from the winter is not usually that cold so I knew I wanted a venue that had an outdoor ceremony space and an indoor space for the reception. We ended up choosing a wood-panelled interior that felt cosy while still not being too rustic. It was super important to me to have a nice venue to provide the backdrop for all of our pictures. With relatively minimal decorations we were ankle to create a cosy yet Christmassy atmosphere.
Talk to us about the aesthetic. Did you stick to the seasonal theme?
I wanted our wedding to feel inspired by Christmas without being too overwhelming. So for the colours, we went with green, white, silver, and small pops of red here and there. We also put up Christmas trees behind our sweetheart table with lots of greenery and lights everywhere. One of our major nods towards the season was our guest book. We bought wooden ornaments and silver sharpies and had guests decorate and sign them with little notes. Now every Christmas we have a dedicated tree for the ornaments that our friends and families made at our wedding. I also set the dress code as “festive cocktail” encouraging guests to embrace royal toned winter colours in their outfits.
Peak season prices are one very good reason to say I do in the wintertime! Did you save money by deciding to get married out of season?
SO MUCH MONEY! My husband and I got married on December 23, which was not only an off-peak time but it was also a Monday. I highly recommend this if you are planning a wedding on a budget because most of your guests can attend a wedding right before a holiday because they have those next days off, but wedding vendors often charge less not just because of the season and for weekdays. This can also mean you have full access to any vendor you’d like because they’re less likely to be booked by other couples.
That said, the holiday season can be a busy time of year, were most of your guests able to attend?
It sounds terrible to say, but we chose that date knowing that it meant people may not be able to come. I didn’t want a huge wedding but due to family obligations, I had to invite a lot of people. Out of the 250 people we invited about 100 were able to attend. This was better though because it was just our close family and friends.
Flowers can also be tricky to get hold of over Christmas and into January, how did you find that process?
We did all of our own flower arrangements and bulk ordered them from Costco. I also chose a lot of greenery with just a few flowers sprinkled in, so that made it easier.
Another great thing about a winter wedding is the opportunity to layer up and create a dramatic look! What was your dress/suit like? Was there an outfit change?!
My dress was originally sleeveless but I knew that I really wanted long lace sleeves so we were able to add a company under the dress to achieve that look. It had an all lace bodice and a ball-gown type skirt. I also had my hair styled to include flowers and greenery.
One thing you do have to consider is that precious thing called daylight. How much did you have to factor this (and the weather) into your day and was the timing hard to coordinate?
I think anyone who has an outdoor wedding stresses about the weather, but we made contingencies. If it was raining we were planning to move inside and if it was cold we had purchased blankers and rented space heaters to pass out to guests at the ceremony. We also stated on our wedding website that the ceremony would be outdoors so they should dress accordingly! The ceremony started at 5pm which meant that we had the last bit of sunlight for the wedding and a beautiful sunset for all the group pictures.
Let’s talk feasting! What food and drink did you have at the reception?
Our goal was a Christmas dinner type menu. We had butler passed around Hors d’oeuvres with mac n cheese balls and cucumber bites. Then for dinner, we went with roast beef, mashed potatoes, bread, and green beans. We had a semi-open bar along with hot chocolate.
What was your first dance song?
LOVE by Nat King Cole
How did everything go on the day? Did you ever have any reservations about getting married in the winter?
I had really tried to prepare myself mentally for something to go wrong, but I was so fortunate that nothing did! It was one of the most beautiful and peaceful days of my life. And more than one person told me it was one of the most fun weddings they’d ever been too, which made me feel very happy.
Hard question but do you have a stand-out memorable moment from your big day?
We got married outside on a property next to a big field. After we said our vows a bunch of cows in the pasture next to us started lowing so loudly the minister had to pause until they were done. Everybody laughed and it’s still one of my favourite moments.
If you were planning your wedding all over again, would you do anything differently?
Two things: First- enjoy everything about being a bride-to-be. Have an engagement party, have a bachelorette party, make a big deal out of dress shopping. It’s easy to get stressed over everything, but this is all a once in a lifetime experience to get ready to celebrate your love for your partner. Second- if you have family coming into town from far away try to plan something simple so you can all spend time together if not before the wedding then maybe after. If I could do it again I would have planned a brunch for the next day to fully enjoy being surrounded by my friends and family without all the stress of the wedding coming up.
Tara
What made you want to get married at this time of year?
We wanted to get married on New Year’s Eve as we loved the idea of ending one year and starting a new one as husband and wife. We also liked the idea of the glamour of an NYE party wedding.
One of the nicest aspects of winter is the cosy ambience, flickering candlelight and roaring log fires. What was your venue like and how important was it for setting the tone for your wedding?
We got married in a small and intimate venue. We had lots of candles and low lighting to add to this mood. We spent a lot of time in the bar area with dimmed lights and candles on tables. We had sparklers at midnight as well which was lovely.
What’s different about planning a winter wedding vs a summer wedding?
The days are obviously a lot shorter and it’s cold so the majority of our day was spent inside rather than outside. Our photographer worked with us to get the most out of the light and we had to keep as warm as possible during outdoor photographs. One way we did this was that my bridesmaids and I had faux fur wraps to keep us warm. Talk to us about the aesthetic.
Did you stick to the seasonal theme?
We didn’t have a lot of Christmas decorations, only at the hotel that my bridal party and I got ready at. We went for a glamorous theme with glitzy dresses and lots of champagne. We asked all guests to wear their favourite party outfit as opposed to traditional wedding guest outfits.
Peak season prices are one very good reason to say I do in the wintertime! Did you save money by deciding to get married out of season?
The opposite! Getting married on New Year’s Eve meant that we paid a premium for the venue and the staff. That said, the holiday season can be a busy time of year.
Were most of your guests able to attend?
Being New Year’s Eve we found that most guests were happy to attend a party! We had a small wedding with only 40 guests and it felt very special to spend the day with just our favourite people.
Flowers can also be tricky to get hold of over Christmas and into January, how did you find that process?
We had an amazing florist who worked with us to source flowers in our colour theme of pink and navy blue. We had a lot of greenery which added to the winter look.
Another great thing about a winter wedding is the opportunity to layer up and create a dramatic look! What was your dress/suit like? Was there an outfit change?!
I had a sparkly Sophia Tolli Gown and my bridesmaids wore pink sequin, floor-length gowns. We wore faux fur wraps and I had a dramatic crystal headband that caught the light in the venue beautifully. One thing you do have to consider is that precious thing called daylight.
How much did you have to factor this (and the weather) into your day and was the timing hard to coordinate?
We got married at 2pm and then went straight outside for photos. At this time the lighting was still good and the photographer was able to get some lovely shots. As the sun went down my husband and I went back outside or into darker rooms in the venue to get low lighting photos.
Let’s talk feasting! What food and drink did you have at the reception?
We had canapés and Krispy Kreme doughnuts with champagne straight after the ceremony. We then had soup and roast chicken for dinner and a trio of desserts. As the wedding went on until after midnight we had a late-night buffet with cocktails in the evening. What was your first dance song? “I knew I loved you” by Savage Garden.
How did everything go on the day? Did you ever have any reservations about getting married in the winter?
We were worried about it raining but our photographer talked us through how he uses puddles to take stunning reflection photos. By the day of the wedding, we were almost looking forward to rain- but we didn’t get any! Hard question but do you have a stand-out memorable moment from your big day? When the clock struck midnight and we were outside, toasting the new year and our new marriage with champagne and sparklers and all of our favourite people. That is a memory that will stay with us forever.
If you were planning your wedding all over again, would you do anything differently?
Nothing! It was absolutely perfect for us.
Your best advice for anyone planning a winter wedding…
Do it!! You may have less time outside in the sunshine, but you won’t get sweaty! And the time you would have spent outside, you can spend inside dancing!!
Laura
What made you want to get married at this time of year?
It is my favourite time of the year. My husband proposed to me in December and we started “officially” dating in December. There was something about a winter wedding that I couldn’t pass up.
One of the nicest aspects of winter is the cosy ambience, flickering candlelight and roaring log fires. What was your venue like and how important was it for setting the tone for your wedding?
We got married inside a post and beam venue in Canada called Temples Sugar Bush. It’s a maple sugar bush in the springtime and a wedding venue the rest of the year.
There was a blizzard the day before our wedding so everything was covered in a fresh blanket of snow. That really upped the cosy vibe. We got married in front of the roaring stone fireplace amongst our friends and family. It was every cosy and love-filled feeling I could have hoped for.
What’s different about planning a winter wedding vs a summer wedding?
Planning a winter wedding with reliable transportation for our guests was really important to us. Knowing that no matter the weather they would be safe. Other than that I feel like it’s the same.
Talk to us about the aesthetic. Did you stick to the seasonal theme?
We did! My mom made garlands from our families farm as the table runners, we had black lanterns and paper table runners with gold dots all over. During dinner, we played Michael Buble’s Christmas album. My flowers were deep reds, plums and pinks.
Peak season prices are one very good reason to say I do in the wintertime! Did you save money by deciding to get married out of season?
We did! We were married on an “off-season Saturday” but I wanted to get married in the winter anyway so it just felt like a bonus perk.
That said, the holiday season can be a busy time of year, were most of your guests able to attend?
Because of the snowstorm the day before the wedding a few guests were unable to attend. But all the most important people were there and that’s all I could ask for.
Flowers can also be tricky to get hold of over Christmas and into January, how did you find that process?
I really wanted peonies they’re my favourite flower. We splurged and had them shipped in from Europe. Other than those I think the flowers were all locally grown in greenhouses.
Another great thing about a winter wedding is the opportunity to layer up and create a dramatic look! What was your dress/suit like? Was there an outfit change?!
My mom made me a shawl to wear around my arms. I was freaking freezing. I also wore my hunter boots because they were easy to slip on and off and kept my feet out of the snow. I wore my dress all night long, I loved it too much to change out of it!
One thing you do have to consider is that precious thing called daylight. How much did you have to factor this (and the weather) into your day and was the timing hard to coordinate?
It wasn’t too difficult for us. We did our “first look” and bridal party photos before our ceremony.
Let’s talk feasting! What food and drink did you have at the reception?
Our venue had incredible food! We had maple bourbon chicken, salad, mash potatoes, carrots, butternut squash soup.. it was delicious.
What was your first dance song?
Die a happy man by Thomas Rhett. But another memorable song for us was one of my girlfriends sang me down the aisle to Mean to Me by Brett Eldridge.
How did everything go on the day? Did you ever have any reservations about getting married in the winter?
None, it was incredible, I recommend it to anyone who thinks it’s right for them!
Hard question but do you have a stand-out memorable moment from your big day?
The ceremony was my favourite part, all cosy by the fire surrounded by our loved ones.
If you were planning your wedding all over again, would you do anything differently?
The only thing I would do differently is to not have reception only guests. I would have loved for everyone to come for the whole evening!
Your best advice for anyone planning a winter wedding…
My advice to anyone planning any type of wedding is to do what speaks to you, it’s one day you get to celebrate your love surrounded by the people who support and love you. Splurge on things that are important to you and don’t on the things that don’t matter to you. It’s your wedding, you make the rules. 🙂
Francesca
What made you want to get married at this time of year?
We’re both quite ‘active’ people, we like games and things but the problem with Summer is the uncertainty over the weather so the next best thing was to go big on the party side of things and NYE is the best time for a party. Plus we liked the idea of just planning the whole thing and it being done within the year.
What was your venue like and how important was it for setting the tone for your wedding?
We wanted a fairly rustic, casual setting so chose a venue with a big barn for the ceremony and the party. We wanted a cosy atmosphere – everyone looks better in candlelight right?! So we went big on festoon and fairy light. The venue also had a big house attached which meant that a lot of our friends coming up could stay. The wedding was in my home town of Yorkshire but we live in London so all of our London friends were able to stay meaning we didn’t have to worry too much about transport on NYE which was another big win.
What’s different about planning a winter wedding vs a summer wedding?
Not having to worry about the weather. We knew it would be cold so planned for mostly indoor time. We didn’t need to have a plan A and a plan B depending on the weather which made things a lot less stressful!
Talk to us about the aesthetic. Did you stick to the seasonal theme?
Yep, the groomsmen wore black tuxedos and the bridesmaids were in a deep red colour. My dress was had constellations that looked a bit like fireworks. The bouquets were very seasonal with more foliage than bright flowers. The table plan was a giant clock, there were confetti cannons, espresso martinis, sparklers, fire pits…
Peak season prices are one very good reason to say I do in the wintertime! Did you save money by deciding to get married out of season?
I think NYE meant we still paid the premium prices unfortunately.
That said, the holiday season can be a busy time of year, were most your guests able to attend?
I think pretty much everyone invited could attend; no one likes coming up with NYE plans right?!
Flowers can also be tricky to get hold of over Christmas and into January, how did you find that process?
We had a lovely florist so no problems.
Another great thing about a winter wedding is the opportunity to layer up and create a dramatic look! What was your dress/suit like? Was there an outfit change?!
My dress was from Pronovias and it was amaaaazing. It’s called Hidden Galaxy I think and was plain but with an open back with jewelled constellations. Nick wore a tuxedo and the jacket was a dark red velvet. We felt very fancy. After the first dance, I changed into a shorter, lighter, less white, sparkly number with trainers so I could dance. It also meant I could put an all-important bra on!
One thing you do have to consider is that precious thing called daylight. How much did you have to factor this (and the weather) into your day and was the timing hard to co-ordinate?
I think we were okay, we had great photographers who took advantage of the moody lighting!
Let’s talk feasting! What food and drink did you have at the reception?
Our food was incredible. As I’m from Yorkshire and Nick is a cockney, our caterers put together a Yorkshire/Cockney tasting board for the starter; Yorkshire cheese, pies, Yorkshire puddings and even some smoked eel pate. For the main, we served a big pork shoulder to one person on each table and it was their job to shred it using big claws, we gave them chef hats and aprons. We had that with a big potato rosti, some veg and lots of gravy! Dessert was a sticky toffee pudding followed by an espresso martini. We served pies, peas and liquor later in the evening but I think people were full!
What was your first dance song?
Can’t take my eyes off you by Frankie Valli played by our band.
How did everything go on the day?
Did you ever have any reservations about getting married in the winter?
No and looking back, I am so glad we did! It being cold outside meant everyone stayed inside and danced. Plus everyone was up for a party!
Hard question but do you have a stand-out memorable moment from your big day?
Hmm, that is difficult. I think maybe waiting to walk down the aisle, listening to the version of Bowie’s We Can Be Heroes is one. I’d listened to it so many times in the build-up that it felt surreal listening to it on the day itself. Then just generally dancing all night!
If you were planning your wedding all over again, would you do anything differently?
I would stress a lot less in the build-up!
Your best advice for anyone planning a winter wedding…
I would probably tell people not to sweat the small stuff, people don’t need activities to entertain them, focus on the music as people will want to dance. I’d also tell people to plan for everything to be indoors and if the weather is nice enough to be outside then that’s a bonus.
100 Festive Jingles to Activate Your Christmas Spirit
From the dulcet tones of Frank Sinatra to the modern Christmas hits from Ariana Grande and songs from the movies, here’s 100 Christmas jingles to fill your heart and your eardrums with festive spirit.
The Christmas spruce is twinkling, the lords are a-leaping and the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon has penetrated your nostrils with more gusto than a lateral flow. Here. For. It. There’s only one left thing to do: hit play on these catchy Crimbo earworms and be grateful your Spotify Wrapped has been and gone.
From the dulcet tones of Frank Sinatra to the modern Christmas hits from Ariana Grande and songs from the movies, here’s 100 Christmas jingles to fill your heart and your eardrums with festive spirit. Unless you work in retail of course, in which case you’d probably rather chew barbed wire than sit through another one of Mariah Carey whistle notes.
PS out of respect to Emma Thompson, this playlistcontains no Joni Mitchell.
Songs from the Movies:
1 Christmas Is All Around – Billy Mack (Love Actually)
2 Walking In The Air – Aled Jones (The Snowman)
3 Where Are You Christmas – Faith Hill (The Grinch)
4 Carol of The Bells – Mykola Dmytrovych Leontovych, John Williams (Home Alone)
5 Believe – Josh Groban (The Polar Express)
6 Somewhere in My Memory – John Williams (Home Alone)
7 One More Sleep ‘til Christmas – Steve Whitmire, Kermit (The Muppet’s Christmas Carol)
8 Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas – Judy Garland (Meet Me In St Louis)
9 Maestro – Hans Zimmer (The Holiday)
10 Joy to The World – Aretha Franklin (Miracle on 34th Street)
11 Auld Lang Syne – Mairi Campbell and Dave Francis (Sex and The City)
12 Let It Go – Idina Menzel (Frozen)
13 What’s This – Danny Elfman (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
14 Baby, It’s Cold Outside (Zooey Deschanel, Leon Redbone)
15 Sparkle & Shine – Nativity, The Cast
Song from the Christmas Ads:
16 Somewhere Only We Know – Lily Allen
17 Can’t Fight This Feeling Anymore – Bastille
18 Half the World Away – Aurora
19 A Little Love – Celeste
20 Adele – Hold On
21 Real Love – Tom Odell
22 Power of Love – Gabrielle Aplin
23 Together In Electric Dreams – Lola Young
24 Sweet Child O’Mine – Take by Trees
25 Your Song – Elle Goulding
26 All You Need Is Love – Katy Perry
27 Forever Young – Becky Hill
28 Love Is A Compass – Griff
The Party Bops:
29 All I Want For Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey
30 Christmas Tree Farm – Taylor Swift
31 Merry Christmas – Elton John & Ed Sheeran
32 Last Christmas – Wham
33 Fairytale of New York – The Pogues
34 Christmas Wrapping – The Waitresses
35 Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee
36 Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin’ Stevens
37 I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day – Wizzard
38 Merry Xmas Everybody – Slade
39 Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms
40 What Christmas Means To Me – Stevie Wonder
The Easy Listening Classics:
41 It’s The Most Wonderful Time of The Year – Andy Williams
42 White Christmas – Frank Sinatra
43 It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas – Michael Buble
44 Do They Know It’s Christmas – Band Aid
45 Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rae
46 Silver Bells – Dean Martin
47 Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney
48 Little Saint Nick – The Beach Boys
49 Mistletoe and Wine – Cliff Richard
50 The Christmas Song – Nat King Cole
51 Sleigh Ride – The Ronettes
52 Step into Christmas – Elton John
53 Baby It’s Cold Outside – Tom Jones & Cerys Matthews
54 Silent Night – Bing Crosby
55 Frosty the Snowman – The Ronettes
56 Happy Xmas (War Is Over) – John Lennon
57 I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus – The Jackson 5
58 Feliz Navidad – Jose Feliciano
59 Blue Christmas – Elvis Presley
60 Mary’s Boy Child – Boney M
61 Thank God It’s Christmas – Queen
62 Cool Yule – Louis Armstrong
63 Winter Wonderland – Darlene Love
64 Rudolf The Red Nose Reindeer – Gene Autry
65 Little Drummer Boy – Bing Crosby
66 Santa Claus Is Coming To Town – The Jackson 5
67 Run Rudolph Run – Chuck Berry
68 2000 Miles – Pretenders
The Modern Ditties:
70 Christmas Lights – Coldplay
71 Snowman – Sia
72 Santa Tell Me – Ariana Grande
73 Underneath the Tree – Kelly Clarkson
74 Santa, Can’t You Hear Me – Kelly Clarkson, Ariana Grande
75 Christmas Calling – Norah Jones
76 Oh Santa! – Ariana Grande & Jennifer Hudson
77 8 Days of Christmas – Destiny’s Child
78 Mistletoe – Justin Bieber
79 Christmas Time (Don’t Let The Bells) – The Darkness
80 Abba – Little Things
81 Leona Lewis – One More Sleep
82 Kiss Me It’s Christmas – Leona Lewis, Neyo
83 Holly Jolly Christmas – Michael Buble
84 Like It’s Christmas – Jonas Brothers
85 Merry Christmas Darling – Christina Perri
86 Is This Christmas – The Wombats
87 Naughty List – Liam Payne, Dixie
88 It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries – Carly Rae Jepsen
Christmas at the Strawbridges’ gaff is surely as festive as it gets so, before they hit the road for their UK-wide Dare to Do It tour, we caught up with the iconic duo to see how they deck the halls of their famous 19th-century chateau for the festive period.
Ever wish you could up sticks, move to France and find a residence in a fairytale castle with 12 acres, a walled garden, an orangery and a moat? Same hun.
That’s exactly what engineer Dick Strawbridge and his wife Angel Adoree did on their Channel 4 hit series Escape to the Chateau.
“In the heart of the French countryside, a magnificent chateau sat uncared for and abandoned, until this intrepid British couple unlocked its front door, fell in love with its grandeur and embarked on an adventure to restore its former magic, uncovering its hidden history along the way.” It’s truly renovation tv gold.
From tearing down walls to designing their own heating system, Dick and Angel have transformed all 45 rooms since the start of the show in 2016. Now in its eighth series, the couple is currently building an iconic drinking den-meets-observatory in the attic with views of the sky and the stars. How’s that for a room with a view!
Christmas at the Strawbridges’ gaff is surely as festive as it gets so, before they hit the road for their UK-wide Dare to Do It tour, we caught up with the iconic duo to see how they deck the halls of their famous 19th-century chateau for the festive period.
Favourite Family Tradition…
Putting the Christmas tree up as a family with Christmas songs, mince pies and Port for the grown-ups!
The most delicious thing to cook…
Mince pies is a family fave and tradition…but we also love a cooked ham over Christmas, and on Christmas morning, we love it on buttery toast with English mustard!
Christmas tipple of choice…
Eggnog! But we do love a ‘vin chaud’. The kids enjoy a warm grenadine…which is like a hot Ribena!
Something you’re hoping to receive…
Hard one. We don’t wish for anything tangible. Having family time to just be together over the festive period is all we ever want…Arthur & Dorothy are different of course and they have just written their list to Père Noël!
Decoration you’ve had the longest…
Our oldest decoration is 10 years old from when Dick & I got together and came to France for our first real holiday. It was the moment we fell in love with France and decided to change our path together! We bought this decoration as a memory…and we cannot believe the journey it’s been on! Our tree is full of memories…we keep every decoration the kids make and it’s a delight putting it up!
Where you’ll be spending Christmas this year…
At the Chateau!
Favourite part of Christmas…
Stopping and seeing the children’s faces when they see Father Christmas has been!
The time you eat your Christmas Lunch…
Late afternoon, when it’s ready.
Christmas Eve plans…
It will just be the four of us, getting ready for Père Noël to come and snuggling in front of the fire with a movie!
Christmas day attire…
Christmas jumpers and a little sparkle.
Christmas TV special you’re most excited about…
We don’t get to stop and watch TV until the week before Xmas so no idea yet, but we do love to watch anything that has the kids in fits of laughter.
24 Presents Samantha Jones Would Only Be Too Happy To Receive
Featuring Team Zoella favourites from Smile Makers, Love Honey, Knude Society and Womanizer, this edit of fun, fun, fun is one that can please a pal or serve both you and a lover, making it the perfect treat you can both make the most of.
“I will not be judged by you or society. I will wear whatever I want and blow whomever I want as long as I can breathe and kneel.” – Samantha Jones
The words of an icon if we ever did see one, Sex and the City’s Samantha Jones is the definition of living her best life and we’re so here for it. If you know that sexy, sushi scene is the stuff your bestie, sister or partner’s, wildest dreams are made of, look no further for the perfect gift selection for the hot and horny people in your life. Is there anything more joyous to find under the Christmas tree than a vibrating box of pleasure? We think not …
Featuring Team Zoella favourites from Smile Makers, Love Honey, Knude Society and Womanizer, this edit of fun, fun, fun is one that can please a pal or serve both you and a lover, making it the perfect treat you can both make the most of. After all, there’s a long, hard, winter ahead. Do with that what you will.
10 Books That Are Pure Balm For The Soul This Winter
From fiercely feminist debuts inspired by The Nutcracker to talking cats and Hocus Pocus horn, here’s a buffet of books that’ll help you feel like you’re anywhere but stuck in your living room, surrounded by clothes that never seem to dry and the faint aroma of last night’s Deliveroo.
Prepare to disappear down a rabbit hole of dreamlike realms, sublime storytelling and beautifully-spun narratives, perfect for distracting you from those cold winter nights.
From fiercely feminist debuts inspired by The Nutcracker to talking cats and Hocus Pocus horn, here’s a buffet of books that’ll help you feel like you’re anywhere but stuck in your living room, surrounded by clothes that never seem to dry and the faint aroma of last night’s Deliveroo.
You can always rely on magic to drag you away from the real world and Erin Morgenstern’s Night Circus is no exception. Two star-crossed magicians set their best pupils against one another in a contest but unbeknownst to them, there is a price to pay for their magic. A feat of the imagination, truly one of the best reading experiences you’ll ever have.
Read this one if: you want to fill the Potterverse void
TW: Eating disorders, self-harm, mental health. Four sleeps till Christmas, three siblings, one juicy secret – if you read one book this season, make it this one. Cosy and festive but with Dawson’s trademark grit and quick-witted social commentary, get you a Christmas book that does both. Probably the wildest Christmas book you’ll ever read.
Read this one if: you’re here for the drama over the décor
They say don’t judge a book by its cover but in this case, go right ahead. Like chocolate for the eyes, Gifts tells the bittersweet story of 12 interconnected characters on the hunt for the perfect gift for the people who matter most to them. An immensely readable book made for a cosy day at home, preferably with a snoozing dog on your lap.
Read this one if: you want a quintessential feel-good festive read
4. The Seven Imperfect Rules of Elvira Carr – Frances Maynard
Fans of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine will love this coming-of-age story about a 27-year-old neuro-atypical girl, living with her overbearing mother. When her mother is taken ill with a stroke and moves to a nursing home, Elvira comes up with several rules to help her make sense of the world around her.
Read this one if: you’re a simp for a heart-warming tale
The book equivalent of a Richard Curtis film – James Bailey’s debut novel is a rom-com gem, destined to get you through cuffing season. When Josh’s proposal to his long-term girlfriend goes disastrously wrong, he decides all future decisions about his love life shall be left up to a fifty pence piece. As in a coin toss. Bold move, Josh. Bold move. Cue the road trip with Jesus, pigeons and a plethora of heart-warming scenes.
Read this one if: you want a laugh a minute and a romp across Europe
6. The Cat Who Saved Books – Sosuke Natsukawa (author) Louise Heal Kawai (translator)
Immerse yourself in this heart-warming Japanese tale of a sassy talking tabby cat named Tiger on a mission to rescue imprisoned and unloved books from a series of labyrinths. Grief-stricken high school student Rintaro Natsuki is about to close the secondhand bookshop he inherited from his late grandfather when Tiger saunters into the store and asks to help him on his bookish quesst…
Read this one if: books / cats are your love language
This dark and sumptuous adult retelling of The Nutcracker is a feast for the imagination. It tells the story of Marietta Stelle, a young woman with big dreams of being a ballerina. Alas, her high society family wants her to settle down and find a husband. When the creepy toymaker Dr Drosselmeier moves into a neighbouring townhouse, he constructs an elaborate theatrical set for her final ballet performance. As the clock strikes midnight, Marietta finds herself transported from the ballroom to a frozen sugar palace where she must learn to fight for her freedom.
Read this one if: you have a mountain of confectionery within arm’s reach
When 29-year-old Nina is laid off from her job at the library, she starts her life over, buying a camper van and transforming it into a bookshop on wheels. She moves to a sleepy village in the Scottish Highlands, driving from neighbourhood to neighbourhood bringing people together through the power of storytelling. From helping her grumpy landlord deliver a lamb, to sharing picnics with a charming train conductor who serenades her with poetry, Nina discovers there’s plenty of adventure, magic, and soul in a place that’s beginning to feel like home… a place where she just might be able to write her own happy ending.
Light-hearted and witty, it’s the perfect companion for those quietly brilliant pj-clad weekends with a packet of Viennese biscuits for a pillow.
Read this one if: you’re hard manifesting moving to Scotland and living on a farm
Serving Greatest Showman energy, The Candlelit Menagerie will transport you to the dim halls of the exotic animal world of London, three hundred years ago. Lillian, the main character, is a freakishly tall woman with closely shorn hair who struggles to fit into society due to her size. She finds solace in Grady’s Menagerie where she befriends the wild animals and discovers what it means to belong.
A sensory exploration of old London and the impacts of colonialism on the British Empire. A unique story that will no doubt find its way to the big screen, if there’s any justice in the world.
Read this one if: you love complex literary heroines and historical fiction
Wait, you expect us to buy into another booktok romance… with witchy horn? You son of a bitch, we’re in. Vivienne Jones handles heartbreak just the way any self-respecting girl would – with baths, vodka and revenge, or in this case a curse. Nine years later when the irritatingly gorgeous Rhys Penhallow (the ex with the hex) is back in Graves Glen, Vivienne realises the curse has worked and she must face the consequences of her drunken antics in order to save the town and her ex.
It gets hot real fast. Case in point: “Vivienne if you’ll allow me to make you come tonight, I’d consider myself the most fortunate of men”. Sorry, I can’t make it. I’m doing hot witch shit.
Grazing and charcuterie boards have peaked in popularity over the past few years and for good reason too- the creme de la creme of snacking all in one place, these platters of pleasure are perfect for fuss-free hosting.
For those with vegan sceptical friends and family, a vegan board can be a great, interactive way to introduce the delights of a plant-based diet to the ones you love, and experience its deliciousness firsthand.
‘Tis the season to be in a food coma on a daily basis, and what better way to start the festive period than with an extravagant grazing board fit for Mariah, aka Queen of Christmas, herself! Grazing and charcuterie boards have peaked in popularity over the past few years and for good reason too- the creme de la creme of snacking all in one place, these platters of pleasure are perfect for fuss-free hosting whether it be a festive shindig or summertime picnic too. Although typically including cold meats and traditional cheeses, as with so many recipes, there are endless options to vegan-ify this Christmas classic and celebrate the power and goodness of plants with a version that is kinder to the planet and the animal world too. And for those with vegan sceptical friends and family, a vegan board can be a great, interactive way to introduce the delights of a plant-based diet to the ones you love, and experience its deliciousness firsthand. The proof is in the veggie pigs in blankets!
Whether you’re well versed in the world of grazing boards or want to create your own for the first time this Christmas, keep reading for our top tips and tricks to create the perfect board that offers something delicious for everyone. The New York Times named grazing boards “2021’s most gorgeous food trend”, and after feasting on this one ourselves, we can’t help but be inclined to agree…
To graze or not to graze: deciding which items make the cut!
In our extensive experience of (devouring) grazing boards, having a broad selection of snacking items that offer the perfect balance of savoury, sweet, tangy and fresh is the key to a board that satisfies everyone, and is guaranteed to be polished off before you can say “anyone for more homemade baba ganoush?”. A specific cuisine is optional when it comes to deciding on the contents of your board as oftentimes general mezze style snacking is the goal, but if you fancy matching your board to your wines or general feel of the night, consider Italian (vegan arancini), Moroccan (falafels galore), Greek (flatbread x10) or French (who doesn’t love a mini quiche) to put a different spin on the classic grazing board format.
The decadence of a grazing board- especially one that’s cheese heavy- needs to be balanced out with fresh flavours, so ‘go ham’ on a combination of light dishes too.
Although the flavour is the name of the game here, ensuring your board looks Insta Story ready at any moment is also important during the planning stages- get your shopping list at the ready! Use fruits and vegetables to add some crunch and freshness to your board, as well as much needed vibrancy and colour to help break up the design too. The decadence of a grazing board- especially one that’s cheese heavy- needs to be balanced out with fresh flavours, so ‘go ham’ on a combination of light dishes too.
Selecting items that can be easily picked up and munched on by guests rocking around the Christmas tree is also preferable, as with this type of serving option your nearest and dearest will likely be chatting, drinking and bopping into the night without sitting down for a formal meal or using cutlery at all. Think finger food, but make it boujie!
Ready, set, prep
The menu is decided, the Ocado order has been completed, and now it’s time to get prepped! Depending on the size of your soiree, you can use a large wooden chopping board to complete your grazing extravaganza, or head to destinations such as Etsy, Dunelm, M&S, Anthropologie, H&M Home or Lakeland for wooden, marble or slate effect platters that create the perfect base for a delicious spread. If you’re looking to create a serving sensation on a budget, simply roll out some brown parchment paper and assemble your foodie selection this way.
For the most impressive looking board, adding height, dimension and texture is a must for a platter guests can’t help but dive into, meaning pretty glassware for breadsticks, and pinch bowls and dishes for dips and olives are a must.
One of the beauties of a grazing board is how low maintenance it can be once prepared, giving you all the more time to catch up with family and friends without needing to be tied to the hob or constantly checking the oven – perfect for hosts who plan to be right in the middle of the Dirty Santa action. Make a foolproof timeline in advance of the items that need to be pre-cooked or prepared in advance, allowing ample time to arrange your board, as although the abundance of options can make this style of serving look effortless, behind every grazing board is a considerable amount of faffing and fixating over ya carrot baton placement.
Pro tip! Odd numbers often work best for the most striking finish, helping to create a more organic and less perfect effect to your grazing goodness. Start with your pinch bowls and mini dishes and arrange sporadically across your platter, and then begin adding your chosen foods!
The shopping list of dreams
The exact contents of your grazing board is totally up to you and the preferences of your guests, but here are some ideas that Team Zoella enjoyed on theirs which may help you feel inspired…
Fresh fruit and veg:
An important, although sometimes overlooked, part of a grazing board is the freshness that comes from simpler ingredients such as fruit and vegetables to help cut through the richness of vegan cheeses and carbs galore.
Sun-Dried tomatoes
Artichokes
Olives
Tomatoes
Carrot batons
Apricots
Pomegranate seeds
Grapes
Figs
Green beans
Walnuts
Butternut Squash
Peppers
Cheeses:
An essential for festive grazing boards, vegan or not, is a selection of cheeses to accompany crackers and polish off with a glass of red. Some of our favourite vegan cheese brands include Violife, Sheese, Applewood, Follow Your Heart, Vegan Island and Kinda Co.
Vegan cream cheese spread
Vegan cheddar
Vegan feta
Vegan cheese slices
Vegan Gouda
Vegan goat’s cheese
Carbs:
Everyone’s favourite party guest, carbohydrates are top of the guest list! From crackers to accompany cheese and hunks of crusty bread to spread chutneys, they might not be the most aesthetically pleasing part of your board, but they sure are essential.
Classic Jacobs Crackers
Rosemary and Sea Salt Sourdough Crackers
Three Seed Cracker Thins
Twiglets
Pretzels
A selection of crisps
A Crusty loaf
Dips and sauces:
There will be no dry crackers on our watch with this dream team of dips to match every crisp flavour in the book.
Hummus (to really please your guests opt for a selection such as sweet chilli, caramelised onion and red pepper)
Guacamole
Baba ganoush
Sun dried tomato pate
Chutneys and marmalades
Vegan pesto
The fun extras:
Because it’s Christmas, why not go a little bit extra? The non-essential items you throw in the M&S trolley at the last minute sometimes end up being the most delicious, and if you’re hosting for a big group then having a range of party foods to chuck in the oven and bulk up your board is never a bad idea.
Veggie pigs in blankets
Mushroom and spinach quiche
Curried cauliflower
Breaded cauliflower
Roasted nuts, such as pecans and walnuts, for crunch and salt
Remember, remember (final tips):
Make sure to have extra crackers and breads on hand as these will likely be the first items that need topping up to accompany cheeses and dips.
Separate pungent flavours so that they don’t commandeer the items placed next to them.
Fruits that oxidise (e.g. apples and avocados) are best to plate up last, as well as soft herbs which may lose their aroma after staying out for too long.
Don’t forget the utensils! Cheese knives, spoons for hummus and cocktail sticks for easy access to all the many nibbly bits on offer will be appreciated endlessly by guests who keep coming back for more.
Whether your day includes a Home Alone sized extended family dinner, or an afternoon of flitting between Love Actually, The Snowman and Ol' Queenie on the telly, keep scrolling for a dose of outfit inspiration courtesy of Team Zoella.
Whether you sit firmly in the elasticated waistband and pyjama camp or use the opportunity of the magical 25th December to go all out with glitter everything, there’s no denying that feeling your best is a priority on one of the most joyous days of the year. Regardless of your dressy vs casj standpoint, it’s likely your ‘fit needs to accommodate a few essential criteria: socially acceptable to be seen outside for the much needed post-dinner walk, baggy enough to allow extra servings of roasties (thanks very much) and somewhat cute for the inevitable Facebook photos you’ll be tagged in without even knowing they’ve been taken. Cheers mum.
So whether your day includes a Home Alone sized extended family dinner, or instead an afternoon of flitting between Love Actually, The Snowman and Ol’ Queenie on the telly, keep scrolling for a dose of glittery outfit inspiration courtesy of a very Christmassy feeling Team Zoella.
Maddie
I like to look nice on Christmas day but definitely don’t go OTT. I usually wear something smart(ish) but most importantly comfortable (Christmas dinner essential) and then I make a little extra effort with things like accessories and makeup. I love the look of this oversized jumper dress for ultimate cosy comfort. Slick on Charlotte Tilbury lip in Love Liberty and I’m good to go.
I’m also in the smart/casj attire camp, a post-walk shower using all my new smellies is always on the cards and I love putting on an outfit I feel comfortable but cool in! This year I’m going with a fun Fairisle jumper from River Island with patent trousers (always a bit more fun than jeans!) I’ll throw on some gold jewellery and a headband – perfect for all the festive game playing that’ll be taking place. And of course, I’ll finish the whole thing off with slippers!
I’m usually a simp for comfort at Christmas but I want to make the most of it this year, get dressed up and be as merry as can be which means cosplaying as an actual disco ball. If it’s sequinned or feathered and requires sunglasses to look at it, I will be wearing it. I love Sister Jane for party wear so I’ll mostly be swanning around in this sequin mini dress until I change into something soft and roomy shortly after the Queen’s speech.
I love nothing more than going on a dog walk on Christmas morning, dressed to the nines and waving at strangers while struggling with my heels in the mud, quite the novelty. So I will be donning my sparkles at 9am and will be in them at least until the Eastenders special. Probably sensible to wear a jacket and some tights too considering it will likely be freezing.
I know some people prefer to enjoy Christmas Day in their pjs but for me xmas is my favourite day of the year for wearing an extra outfit and as much glitter as humanly possible! I adore this dress from Kitri and although it’s not typically festive it does feel quite wintery and I know I’d get tonnes of wear from it. I’ve paired it with some typically glitzy accessories and some heels that I would never be able to walk in- thank god I’ll only have to make it from the dinner table to the sofa and back!
My Christmas Day look is usually a smart / casual affair, I want to look a bit more dressed up than any usual day, but comfort is key when you are eating so much yummy food all day! I’ve gone for a pair of leather trousers, these H&M ones are the best I’ve found and I’ve tried a lot! For reference I’m a size 18 with larger hips, so I find either leather trousers don’t go past my hips or are huge around the waist, these fit perfect so worth trying for anyone struggling to get the right fit! I’ve paired them with a lovely green knitted jumper from Mango and some heeled boots (coming off as soon as I step through the door lol). Gold jewellery to complete the look of course too!
From Styles To Swifties: A Gift Guide For The Stans Of The World
Always think of a HS mad friend when Watermelon Sugar comes on? Or maybe the 10 minute version of All Too Well has been ingrained in your mind by a diehard Swiftie sister, whatever their passion, there's a gift to match...
This post is part of a paid collaboration with UGG
Whether your bus journey daydreams are occupied by Timothée Chalamet’s French accent or you watch Bake Off purely to simp over Noel Fielding (an actual debate of ‘who’s hotter’ that ensued in the Zoella office recently), we all have a celebrity crush or platonic love for certain A-listers that influence our lives and purchases. And when it comes to shopping for friends and family, those with a distinct aesthetic or passion for said personalities can make securing the perfect Christmas gift all the more easy. Always think of an HS mad friend when Watermelon Sugar comes on? Or maybe the 10-minute version of All Too Well has been ingrained in your mind by a diehard Swiftie sister, whatever their passion, there’s a gift to match…
Harry Styles
Mr Gucci himself, the apple of our eye, the man who can do no wrong (apart from not bringing Love on Tour to the U.K, cough cough), Mr Styles occupies a special place in the hearts of so many, and rightly so- did you see that leather Grammy’s ‘fit?! From his new beauty and lifestyle line, Pleasing, to his classic Tobacco Vanille scent (iykyk) there are endless gifts to surprise your Harry lovin’ pals with this festive season. Head to Etsy for the unofficial merch of dreams in the form of tote bags, artwork and hoodies, or help your fangirl friend replicate Mr Styles’ signature look itself with a boujie pressie from Gucci itself- ’tis the season of giving after all. Think maximalist, eclectic and colourful and you can’t go far wrong in pleasing a Styles simp…
Taylor Swift
For the pals that turn your world from black and white into screaming colour, nailing the perfect Swiftie approved gift this Christmas might just spark a reaction as dramatic as watching the ATW film for the first time … Taylor’s world is vast, and the gift options are truly endless when it comes to making a Swiftie’s heart sing, from subtle nods to her discography like a classic oatmeal cardigan, to items like Red (Taylor’s Version) on vinyl that will surely see some happy tears shed and an IRL ‘you need to calm down’ moment. Taylor is queen of a productive time at home, even when she claims there’s ‘nothing much going on right now’, making the gift of some UGG Tasman Slippers the perfect pressie for a pal who plans to bop around the house to Christmas Tree Farm all month long.
Lizzo
For the party people in your life, give a gift as good as hell this Christmas with these Lizzo inspired presents sure to get the good times rolling. The infectiously positive Bop Star™ has many loves in life, from vegan fast food to Chris Evans (rogue), learning to do the splits and bopping along to Harry Styles at every opportunity (same girl), gifts inspired by the queen of hip hop are perfect for your high energy pals that always bring the party. From shot glasses to sex toys, gel nails to an iconic Chris Evans candle (because would this even be a Lizzo inspired gift guide without one), it turns out you’re 100% THAT friend when it comes to gifting these failsafe presents.
Idris Elba
Got a dad or uncle who’s imposs to buy for? Look no further than gifts worthy of the king of cool himself, Mr Elba. Actor, producer and DJ no less, this slick gentleman has a notoriously suave look that means gifts that tick the functional, stylish and effortlessly cool boxes are sure to be a winner. Think posh pjs, whisky glasses a certain Mr Bond would look right at home with and a leather AirPods case to whip out on the daily commute and you’ll gain the title of smoothest gift giver in the land.
Kim Kardashian
For the Kardashian Stan amongst your friendship group, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, wrapping up a gift Kimberly K would be only too happy to receive this Christmas is sure to send you straight to the top of Santa’s ‘nice’ list. For those as house proud as Kris Jenner on a public holiday, enjoy lounging in some classic UGG Fluff Yeah Logo Slides and put your feet up with an LED light therapy mask ahead of a poppin’ party season.
Emma Thompson
Since we enjoyed an hour of her bopping along to Adele’s One Night Only in London last month, Emma Thomspon has gone up even higher in our estimations and cemented herself as one of the most wholesome women around. For the mums, stepmums, aunties, work colleagues you ‘kinda know but not really’ and Secret Santa gifts that will never fail you, look no further than this selection of grown up gifts certain to earn you an extra-large serving of cauliflower cheese at the dinner table.
Olivia Rodrigo
Got a Gen Z family member that only speaks in TikTok audios? We got you. For the hip and happening gift recipient in your life, the queen of styling out a break up, Olivia Rodrigo, is the ultimate inspo for the cool cat that’s more sweet than sour. Treat the pal that’s had a brutal year with an & Other Stories fur trim jacket and spice up their room with a star sign print too manifest a magical 2022 alongside. It’s a good (4 u) time to be celebrating this festive season!
This post is part of a paid collaboration with UGG
