Gifting Made Easy with our fresh flower gift vouchers

Gifting Made Easy

When the madness of Christmas is firmly upon us, panic can start to sink in. Have we bought enough? Does each child have what visually appears to be equal? Have we gone overboard? Have we forgotten someone? Please for the love of God, don’t let me forget someone….

And sometimes, you find yourself with a list of people who may already have everything, or are just a bit ‘hard’ to buy for. There is someone like that in every family really isn’t there, and I bet that they end up with an assortment of the same presents each year…or perhaps a variety of gift cards.

Various gift cards make great presents

I think gift cards have an unfairly negative reputation. They can be seen as a lazy present, like you haven’t put any thought into the gift or some may think they are too restrictive, and prefer cash. Cash can so easily get swallowed up in day to day expenses, but this is far less likely with a gift voucher. And when you think about it, gift cards force you to buy something for yourself, from somewhere you perhaps wouldn’t purchase from usually.

And isn’t that exactly what a gift should be? Not something you need, but rather something you wouldn’t treat yourself to ordinarily.

Gift vouchers for fresh flowers with Florist with Flowers

Fresh flowers often fall into this category. They are the first expense to be cut from the office budget along with the cream biscuits…and the luxury scrapped from the household/grocery budget when things are get a bit tight.

Fresh flowers are still very much seen as a luxury for many people, and at busy times like Christmas where cash is slipping through your fingers, they can be something you go without yourself.

Long lasting native bouquets are so beautiful and long lasting. With a gift card, you could create something like this to fit a vase from home
Long lasting native bouquets are so beautiful and long lasting. With a gift card, you could create something like this to fit a vase from homeGifting Made Easy With

Gift cards are a wonderful idea for flower lovers at Christmas. And the greatest thing about them is they are flexible. Many people go away around the holidays so sometimes an arrangement can go to waste, but a gift card allows the recipient the gift of fresh cut flowers, when they are ready.

Imagine gifting someone a years worth of weekly flowers 🌺  🌺  🌺 …Gift cards with large dollar amounts can be used gradually to dress the home. The recipient can choose a variety of market fresh bunches or premium stems depending on what takes their fancy on the day.

Seasonal favourites- Sunflowers. Is there anything cheerier?
Seasonal favourites- Sunflowers. Is there anything cheerier?

They also make a great gift for corporate customers, business affiliates and amazing suppliers who go above and beyond the call of duty.

Florist with Flowers offer gift vouchers online at 3 different values that you can team with or without a fresh flower gift, or chocolates. Alternatively you can pop in-store to request a specific amount.

Like all vouchers, they are not redeemable for cash, but they are certainly redeemable for smiles 😁😄😃 I guarantee that after their first visit in-store to choose something, they will forever chase the feeling that fresh flowers brings to your home and your heart ✨🌈💖❤️💛💚💙💜

Flowers have a special kind of magic, that beckons us to live in the moment and enjoy the present… I think we all need a reminder to do that every once in a while.

Fwf x

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Pet Plants for Christmas

Christmas can be a time for giving handmade gifts, crafted with love. It can be a time for exchanging fun, gimmick gifts. Sometimes it can also be an occasion overrun with extravagance and consumerism. And sadly, it can also be a time that people give thoughtless gifts; gifts that require much, much more from the recipient than perhaps they had bargained for.

Do you remember the campaign “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas”? It was one of the most successful slogans in the world of animal welfare, because it is so true. Giving a pet as a present is a pretty big call. Sure, you may really think they want one but pets are extremely expensive, require adjusting your lifestyle, and taking on additional responsibilities. ALOT of additional responsibilities.

this puppy was awaiting a new home. Gloria, was one of 126,673 animals the RSPCA received in their 39 shelters across the country in 2012/13.
this puppy was awaiting a new home. Gloria, was one of 126,673 animals the RSPCA received in their 39 shelters across the country in 2012/13.

According to the RSPCA, last year alone, they accepted 130,000 animals from the community, which is incredibly sad.  And would it surprise you to know that the biggest reason given for relinquishing an animal is behavioural problems, which is often the result of a lack of triaining and a lack of exercise.

Choosing a pet is an incredibly involved decision, that takes a lot of time and consideration. It is a very personal decision that is best left to the person who will be left cleaning up the mess and wearing the costs. And the problem with getting an adorable baby animal is that they don’t stay that way forever. The reality is that when someone gifts you an animal, it is pretty unlikely that they’re turning up with a geriatric cross from the pound. So while the pounds continue to fill up with unwanted animals, the puppy farms continue to supply a steady stream of designer breeds.

Pet plants are our newest addition

Now, it probably comes as no surprise that Florist with Flowers do not specialise in cute and cuddly animals, BUT what we do specialise in is gorgeous, quirky giftware. Our newest additions are the only kind of animal you should buy and thoughtfully give away! These gorgeous ceramic pots come in a variety of animal shapes; elephants, llamas and even flamingoes, and they include a hardy, low maintenance plant. Too easy! You won’t find these babies online though, so pop in-store to browse our selection and pick the right pet for you.

The baby elephants are super cute and available in various colours

If however, you are looking for a gift to send to someone special this Christmas, our festive season range is available online now. Check it out here.

Merry Yuletide is a bright and festive bouquet of fresh flowers

Given Christmas time is such a frantic time of year, Florist with Flowers is able to organise fresh flower gifts, gift hampers that include fruit, chocolate and something to wash it all down with, and more. Talk to one of our friendly staff about any special requirements you may have.

Only 19 days to go!

Fwf x

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Christmas Tree alternatives

Christmas Tree Concepts that will Floor You!

Well, there is no denying it, The Christmas countdown is certainly on, with less than 4 weeks to go.

Our home probably looks like many others at this stage. I have located most of my Christmas gear in boxes from the garage, but there is something inside me that prevents me decorating until December 1st. And let’s face it, there is a list a mile long of things to organise at this time of year: cards to post, letters to Santa to write, shopping lists to write, menus to plan, gifts to buy, and wrap!

To make things a little easier for you Florist with Flowers has a gorgeous range of fresh flower gifts, plants and hampers on offer this year. If you are yet to check gifts off your list perhaps for someone who is a little hard-to-buy for, check out our Christmas range here.

Last week’s blog featured some creative Christmas trees ideal for smaller spaces, and little hands, but this week we are sharing with you some inspirational floor standing trees.  Again, these are not your traditional Christmas tree, so they may suit some homes and family personalities more than others. What I like most is how creative people are. I love how people reuse, recycle, and upcycle. I love how the focus is on repurposing, and rethinking materials that you already have. And lastly, I love how these options rarely use plastic components, so they make our planet happy too.

Cardboard Box Tree

I’ve turned cardboard boxes into cubby house and trains in my time, but so far, I haven’t made them into a Christmas tree. For young families, this floor standing Christmas tree can be bright and festive, AND manages to avoid the irresistible tendrils of tinsel and the inevitably bouncing baubles too! It is a great Christmas activity to enjoy together; firstly designing the trees decorations and then carefully painting it all. You can find step by step instructions here.

Cardboard Christmas Tree
Source: Makedo Cardboard Christmas Tree

Brown Paper Christmas Tree

I personally like the tone of brown paper and/or cardboard, so I would probably opt just to paint simple decorations on the cardboard tree and leave the base natural. This brown Paper Christmas Tree is another alternative, and again, the decoration can be as simple or as tizzy as you like. Interested in recreating this look by Craft a la Mode, click here for a full tutorial.

Brown Paper Christmas Tree. Christmas Tree alternatives
Source: Crafts a la Mode

Teepee Tree

I love the idea of creating a simple teepee with bamboo poles, or another appropriate stick. For an Australiana theme to Christmas, decorate the tree with garlands made from pretty eucalyptus leaves, which have a gorgeous scent and will dry nicely in the heat of our summer. This option can be decorated with traditional tinsel and lights too of course, but I think that half the appeal is in its simplicity. Less is more!

Christmas Tree alternatives. Teepee tree

Ladder Christmas Tree

Everyone has an old wooden ladder hanging around right? So what about using it as a centrepiece for Christmas one year? This particular look would fit right into a converted warehouse space, or a home with a rustic or industrial feel. While researching for this piece I found many unique versions of the ladder tree: some with a bazillion balls suspended underneath, some with planks of wood placed across each rung, to create shelving, but this one, with the large hanging paper decorations is by far, my favourite.

Ladder Christmas tree. Christmas Tree alternatives

Whilst the Christmas countdown has begun, there is still plenty of time to organise gifts and decorations. Browse our gift ideas online, or give us a call in store if we can help design something special this year.

Fwf x

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Christmas ideas for something a bit different

Flat Christmas Tree Displays When Ordinary Won’t Do

I don’t know about you, but at my particular stage of life, a traditional Christmas tree just doesn’t work. Last year I optimistically took a picture of my two eldest, proudly sitting in front of our hanging wooden slat tree, which they had just finished decorating. The caption below excitedly announced “Our last Christmas with a non-traditional Christmas tree”. What a laugh. 🎄🎄🎄

Firstly, I think I had forgotten what a two year old was like….add to that the fact that I grossly underestimated the difference between girls and boys. So it seems I have just a little over a week to decide what my alternative to a Christmas tree is going to look like this year. Can you believe that December is almost here? It’s crazy to think that the festive season is really upon us, and if you are looking at getting organised already, you can check out our Christmas range now 🎄 🎄🎄

There are a bazillion ideas out there for people looking for something a little different. The result will largely depend on whether you want to use things you already have lying around at home, or whether you are happy to buy some supplies.

Wall hanging trees are fabulously out of the reach for little hands, and are also a great alternative for you if you haven’t a lot of space. Ready to buy flat felt Christmas trees are available at several retailers,  however I like how unique and creative these alternatives are.

🎄Honeycomb Christmas Tree🎄

This version of the honeycomb tree is very bright and festive in a non traditional way, however you can imagine how fabulous it would look in traditional red, white and green, or any colour theme really! The honeycombs can be picked up from Kmart, and most dollar shops inexpensively, and can be adhered with blu-tac.

Honeycomb Christmas Tree
Source: Studio DIY

🎄String Light/Tinsel Christmas Tree🎄

Whether you choose to use just string lights, string lights and decorations or add tinsel as well, this concept is incredibly simple and easy to erect. You will need removeable hooks ( preferably the 3M ones) which you can easily take off the walls without damage. And my biggest tip? Adhere the hooks facing outwards so it is easier to wind the string through them firmly.

String light and tinsel wall tree
Source: Home Decoration Articles

🎄String Christmas Tree🎄

I looooove this one. How effective does it look!!?? And, by using a couple of different coloured strings you could make it even more festive. You could also tie in the colour theme you are using for your decorations or you could peg your cards to the string instead. If you like the idea, a full tutorial is available at My Poppet.

Source: My Poppet

🎄Memory/Milestone Christmas Collage🎄

Choosing one of these Christmas Tree alternatives is often due to having small children, and this tree is a wonderful way to appreciate the passage of time, and all the big moments that have passed during the year. These days we so often rely on the digital copies, but seeing it all before your eyes is a beautiful way to share these moments with friends and family who may have missed many of them.

This would also be a fabulous way to showcase some of your favourite moments after returning from an overseas adventure and also a lovely way to display moments captured in time with loved ones who may have passed.

Photo wall Christmas tree
Source: Printiki

Photo Frame Upcycle Tree

I love this one because I’m sure I’m not the only person In the world who retires photo frames to a dusty old drawer. Give them a coat of paint, and a new lease on life. Voila! Putting pictures in them is absolutely not necessary, but if you chose to, it could be done of course. Alternatively fill them with festive sayings.

Frame Christmas tree, an alternative to the traditional
Source: Organised Clutter

Half the fun of the festive season is the decorating so next week I’ll share with you some fabulous floor standing alternatives to your traditional Christmas tree. They will also give you the opportunity to personalise and customise your displays to suit your home and decor. 🎄🎄🎄

Fwf x

 

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image of Flowers for Christmas - Joyful Hotbox

How to Shop for Christmas Flowers Online

Sending Christmas flower arrangements is one of the best ways to wish friends and family a Merry Christmas. Beautiful Christmas flowers are hard to say no to, especially when they are arranged skillfully by expert florists. Giving out native bouquet Christmas flowers symbolises the spirit of giving that we all strive to show our loved ones. In addition, having Christmas flowers and plants delivered to people who are dear and near to your heart is an inexpensive but thoughtful way of showing their value in your life.

 

In this article, we will discuss some of the most common Christmas flowers and plants ideas that you can use when making your list of Christmas gifts:

 

  • The Poinsettia plant Christmas flowers are some of the most iconic symbols of the Yuletide Season. If you’re planning on sending poinsettia to Sydney-based friends and family, make sure to provide them with thoughtful tips and reminders on how to keep them for a longer time, and even have them blossom next year!
  • Christmas cactus is fast becoming a favorite giveaway for Christmas. Ideally, these flowers should be placed on a clay pot for that extra classic and rusty appeal.
  • Rosemary is yet another favorite among the Christmas flowers and plants. Due to their pyramid shape, small Rosemary plants resemble traditional Christmas trees. They are ideally placed on countertops, the kitchen and in spaces that need a boost of freshness.
  • Hydrangeas are colourful and vibrant flowers that amplify the energetic and lively mood of the holidays. As Hydrangeas come in various colour patterns, you may either order one-colour hydrangeas bouquet or go wildly beautiful with hydrangeas in various hues.
  • Sending out red roses should not be limited to Valentine’s Day only. To make them more festive and wholesome, you should cut the stem shorter and combine it with Yuletide elements such as pine cones. By adding these items, your roses will look even more festive.

If you want to know more about Christmas plants and flowers that you should be ordering during the Holidays season, click here to check our menu of services or call us on 02 8871 1666.

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Image of a Christmas Flower Bouquet by Florist with Flowers

Christmas Flowers – Best flowers for Christmas

Receiving a fresh bouquet or pot of flowers induces genuine feelings of happiness and joy. If you want to brighten the day of a loved one during the holidays, give them flowers for Christmas. Flowers are not the first thing that pops into our mind when we think about Christmas presents. But if you want your idea to be unique and just as thoughtful as traditional Christmas treats, sending our Christmas flower arrangements is definitely the best way to go.

 

  • Christmas Flowers are the best gift idea for people who have everything

 

What do you give a friend or a family member who literally has everything in life? Or for loved ones who simply don’t need more material possessions in their homes? Try giving them flowers for Christmas. According to studies, sending out Christmas flowers enhances the mood of recipients. It’s the most thoughtful gift that money can buy during the holidays.

 

  • Save Mother Earth while making other people feel good at the same time

 

If you’ve recently jumped on the “zero waste” bandwagon, sending out Christmas flower arrangements is best. Gift giving around the holiday season can be extremely wasteful. To reduce your carbon footprint and that of your Christmas gift recipients, you can’t beat giving flowers for the Christmas season.

 

Although flowers for Christmas will start wilting a few days to a few weeks after delivery, since they are biodegradable, they will not contribute to more trash in landfills and even waterways.

 

  • Flowers are an affordable Christmas present option

 

A misconception about flower gift giving is that they are too expensive and may not fit right into the budgetary constraints. But did you know that flowers are cheap, especially when you know where to look. Source local and ethically-grown produce. During the holidays, make sure to get blooms in season such as:

 

  • Poinsettia
  • Roses
  • Carnations
  • Germinis
  • Chrysanthemums

 

To check out captivating Christmas flower arrangement ideas, visit us here. To place an order, call us on 02 9871 1666.

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Filling Your Home with Memories

Christmas, like many other key times in our life is firmly etched in our memories. What those memories are will differ for each family of course, but what remains the same is that those early memories have the potential to become our own Christmas traditions in the future.

My childhood Christmas had a smell- I’m sure it was the same for many of you too- the smell of pine is unmistakable, and like fragrances tend to do, getting a whiff of the scent of pine again transports me back to another time and place.

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Replicating the perfect Christmas is almost like a step by step recipe that we are unable to deviate from- it is like a sportsman wearing his lucky socks or jocks…. Sometimes it is impossible to put your finger on exactly what element made something perfect so you just repeat everything in the hope that you will be able to create the same magic again.

Everyone’s idea of perfect is different too of course but there is something special about fresh produce, whether we are talking about food, cut flowers, or plants.

NSW is quite unique in that both Christmas Bush and Christmas Bells are endemic to the region. Both these flowers are naturally available at Christmas time as their names suggest, although, weather conditions can influence this. Fresh cut flowers throughout the house is important always of course BUT essential for Christmas.

Christmas Bells are nostalgic for many customers but  tend to be fairly pricey per stem as they are a restricted crop. They naturally grow in many low lying areas within National Park areas, however it is an offence to pick them. For that reason, they should be purchased from only reputable suppliers; the bunches are generally tagged to certify that they have been grown independently.

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They are the kind of fresh cut flower that many hold close to their heart, and as a general rule, we can never get our hands on enough Christmas Bush. At its best, the Christmas Bush is red and vibrant. Did you know that they begin as a white bract and that the actual flower is quite insignificant? The bract then changes from white to a more peachy, orange tone, before becoming red.  It is a pretty temperamental crop, and given too much rain, strong winds or too little rain for that matter, can wipe it out. Some suppliers will be forced to pick crops early, resulting in peachy toned Christmas Bush, or even White.

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A gorgeous alternative to traditional choices like Christmas Bush, is the vibrant red flowering Eucalyptus. These little explosions of colour are like mini fireworks. This native flower is endemic to Western Australia however grows well throughout New South Wales. They can be a little messy, but let’s face it- the best things in life tend to be a tad messy 😜

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Poinsettia are a favourite at Christmas time as they make a gorgeous gift, but they are also an amazingly simple, and cost effective table centrepiece. If you are short on space, or tight on cash, a single Poinsettia set in the centre of your table is a fantastic alternative to more costly arrangements. Plus, for all you green thumbs out there, plant them in the garden and enjoy the beauty again and again. There are several varieties of Poinsettias available these days- in white, cream, soft pink, verigated pinks, strong pinks, corals and everything in between.

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Often the ritual of getting ready for Christmas is influenced by the happy memories of your own childhood, or the wishes you had as a child. It encompasses all the things you love, you enjoy, and the things you are passionate about.

What are the ingredients for your perfect Christmas? I hope the lists are written and you are starting to cross things off because…..there is ONLY 11 sleeps to go!

Fwf x

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Christmas Tree Decorating that Breaks the Internet

If you, like me, like a good ‘theme’ to things, then Christmas is probably no different. I must confess though, in my current stage of life (3 kids under 5) over the last few years I have stuck with the same theme out of a combination of laziness and practicality. Despite the burning desire to change the colours, I have resisted, telling myself that this year is probably the last year that I will have to decorate a non traditional tree.

Over the last five years I have done what most families do; that is, either choose to have a non traditional Christmas tree decoration, OR, for the traditionalists, erect a fence-like structure around the parameter of your Christmas tree.

I have created a hanging wooden tree, made from various lengths of wooden slats, hung together to create a triangular Christmas tree silhouette and this has appeased me both practically as well as aesthetically. This  hangs in an alcove at the entrance of our home, away from little hands that seem absolutely determined to pull everything out and down, only to throw it all on the floor….for me to stand on.

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Like many other cash savvy mums out there I keep my eye on decorator ideas from many of the big retailers. And I have to say, non rival what Kmart have on offer.

Mums from all over the country post pictures of their trees sourcing wisdom from the crowd for their decorating dilemmas. Others post pictures for others to take inspiration from, and of course to garner the envy and appreciation that only social media ‘likes’ and comments can give you.

The one that really seemed to impress  this year was Tammy Sims’ black Christmas tree dressed head to toe in a slowly changing rainbow. Using a combination of store bought decorations as well as D.I.Y baubles that she glued and glittered herself, she was able to create a truly eye catching, creative tree.

Tammy Sims' Rainbow Christmas Tree

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Images via Kmart Mums of Australia Facebook Page

The South Australia mum of three has scored over 6.1K ‘likes’ on the Kmart Mums of Australia’s Facebook page with her creation inspired by the ‘Yes’ vote.

“It seemed appropriate in celebration of the yes vote,” she explained.

Not everyone puts as much thought and consideration into the theme they will use to decorate their Christmas tree. Depending on your family, perhaps you have a box of precious baubles that have special memories attached to them, and they are lovingly hung each and every year.

Or perhaps you prefer less of the clutter that tends to comes with Christmas? If that sounds like you, then Kmart has another option that might fit the bill.

It’s not a fresh Christmas tree. It’s not even green. But Kmart’s stacking Christmas tree is both space saving and chic.

Part of the appeal of the Stacking tree is it’s neutral colour palette and simple Scandi style, however many creative people out there have used the shelf style tree pieces to create colourful compositions to suit their themes for the year.

Jacqueline Bertucci's metallic tree hack
Jacqueline Bertucci’s metallic tree hack
Sam Dawson decided to steer clear of glitzy baubles and instead created a neutral colour palette with light and texture
Sam Dawson decided to steer clear of glitzy baubles and instead created a neutral colour palette with light and texture
Louise Martin's take- with and without the lights illuminated.
Louise Martin’s take- with and without the lights illuminated.

So whether you choose to decorate a fresh or artificial tree, fill a vase with dried branches, or can decorate your home with festive fresh flowers you have endless opportunities to extend yourself creatively….and, if all else fails, know that we do it for you! Check out our Christmas range for inspiration!

Fwf x

Featured image; by Sofia Katariina 

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Christmas Fun to Start at Once!

With the start of December upon us, it is a great time to begin enjoying some more social activities, and the City of Sydney really turns it on, with some great (and often FREE) activities that you can enjoy throughout the month leading up to Christmas.

This time of the year is notoriously busy of course, but many of these activities are great group activities that will help you get into the spirit of Christmas whilst socialising as well.

DID YOU KNOW that according to the ABS (Australian Bureau of Statistics) nearly 25% of Aussie homes, and occupied by a single person? I find that pretty astounding. Nearly one quarter of our population lives alone, so the beginning of the festive season could also spell the beginning of feelings of loneliness and disconnectedness for those flying solo.

It is easy at this time of year to be consumed by our own lives and all the business that comes with the silly season. Often those who are lonely withdraw further, not wanting to burden others with their problems. Dropping in small thoughtful gifts to neighbours, can help combat feelings of isolation in those who have no family or friends around them- Check out our Christmas gift range if you need some inspiration. Now is also a great time to extend the invitation to people you suspect may be lonely. Keep plans open and informal- after all, the more the merrier!

Some of the sights throughout the city provide a base for creating a fantastic treasure hunt activity, or could provide entertainment between a festive pub crawl. How fun would that be? With so many amazing venues throughout the city, what a fun way to spend an afternoon or weekend with a group of friends.

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Image; Swarovski Christmas Tree at the QVB via What’s On

There is plenty to do and see in the city, so starting somewhere central makes sense. The QVB building is always dressed to impress at Christmas time, and with the Swarovski crystal Christmas tree taking centre stage, it is certainly worth a look. With Town Hall station basically underneath as well as many bus routes passing by, it is easily accessible. Then head toward Hyde Park.

PUB CRAWL SUGGESTION; RAMBLIN RASCAL TAVERN

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Image; David Jones flagship store on Elizabeth Street, Sydney

At the flagship David Jones Stores on Elizabeth Street you will find the big retailer’s take on Christmas modeled in each window display. This is always a nice thing to do with the kids- and this year features very cute gingerbread characters. The David Jones windows are beautiful to look at during the day, but are also gorgeous at night, with the displays illuminated once the sun goes down.

PUB CRAWL SUGGESTION; RABBIT HOLE BAR AND DINING

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Image; Martin Place Christmas Tree via The Salvos

The Christmas tree in Martin Place is already in place, and the lights are on, shining the way throughout the city. Each night leading up to Christmas, choirs will be at Martin Place caroling. With a train station near by at Martin Place this makes another great meeting point. Light projections are also on site here every night to see.

If you fancy a little sweet treat to keep your energy levels up, The GPO pop up dessert bar is set up at No 1 Martin Place offering a range of gelato, housemade sweets, cakes, coffee, cold beverages and savoury options.

PUB CRAWL SUGGESTION; GPO BAR

Image; Boulevarde of Lights

Head down through Pitt Street Mall though the Boulevarde of Light; a Christmas forest installation with nearly 80,000 white lights shining down on you. On Thursday, Saturday and Sunday evenings caroling choirs will also be performing here from 6-8pm. Check out what Choirs are coming to perform right here.

PUB CRAWL SUGGESTION; PALMER AND CO

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Image; Child Mags

Swing by St Mary’s Cathedral which will be putting on a Light Show again this year, with the sweet singing voices of a choir to accompany the show from 7.30pm every evening. There will be food options on site for those with grumbling bellies.

PUB CRAWL SUGGESTION; OPERA BAR

Circular Quay is a great destination to finish your city tour. For locals and tourists alike, it is a picturesque place to sit down and rest your weary bones, and grab something to eat or drink. After all isn’t that all part of getting into the Christmas spirit- eat, drink and be merry!

Fwf x

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NEWS IN: Christmas Decorating Believed to Make You Happier

Did you know there are LESS than 5 weeks til Christmas? If you are anything like me, hearing that fact gives you a little pang in your belly, aware of all the things you need to do and organise.  Despite knowing that I am so far completely unprepared, even coming up with a list seems to premature. How could it be almost the end of another year???!!

I’ve always grown up in a house that does not begin Christmas decorating until December 1st. My mother’s birthday is in the last week of November, so she feels incredibly put out if there are any reference to Christmas before we have celebrated her day. Much to her annoyance, the shopping centres begin Christmas decorating usually sometime in October. Is it just me, or does it seem to be happening earlier every year?

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Image; Decoist

WELL, according to new research by psychologist Steve McKeown, people who begin decorating for Christmas earlier are happier. McKeown says; “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,”

Ever heard that saying ‘like a kid on Christmas’? Well, according to McKeown, decorating for Christmas stirs up all those warm and fuzzy feelings we felt as children….all those wonderful feelings of anticipation and excitement. Christmas decorations work as visual cues, creating a nostalgic pathway back to those feelings.

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Image via Crave Online

It is not all happy news though- according to McKeown, hanging up the decorations early can be to relive happy memories from your past, BUT it can also be to over compensate for past neglect. Decorating the house early is also a tool that people use to appear more friendly or social. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, suggests there is a link between decorating your home for the festive season and seeming more open and social to your neighbours.

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Image via Little Lewes
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Image; Country Cupboard Cookies

So what kind of festive activities does your family undertake? Do you bake gingerbread houses or shortbread? Do you create your own wreaths for the door or table? Do you create interesting advent calendars for the family? There is tonnes of inspiration on Facebook craft pages, Instagram and Pinterest if you fancy trying something new. And family favourite Kmart brings the goods at affordable prices if you fancy getting creative.

As always, Florist with Flowers offer a gorgeous array of Christmas themed decorative items for your home-check them out here. Fresh floral wreath arrangements can be ordered for your door or table. Poinsettia plants and miniature Christmas trees are sure to make an appearance in store in the coming weeks.

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Christmas tends to be a very busy time socially and it is often difficult to choose gifts for people who you only know professionally, or perhaps for people who really seem to have everything they need. Fresh flowers or plants are always well received, and we can create an arrangement to suit any colour scheme or styling.

So on that note, I encourage you to start decorating now even if it goes against your whole being…after all, apparently it is good for you!

Fwf x

 

 

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