Faded Spring’s Christmas Gift Guide For Her

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, a year glossed over in snow and festivities, where Santa comes a’knocking, resplendent in red velvet, trimmed with white faux fur. The reindeer nibble on carrots and mince pies left by eager young boys and girls, who dance around the Christmas tree waiting for their chance to discover special presents, brought especially for them. Little do they know it is mummy and daddy who have combed the archives to bring joy into their home this yuletide, but for now let’s picture Santa and his reindeer clambering into his sleigh, as he charges merrily across the navy blue skies, littered with milky white cerebral stars. The parents drink mulled wine by the fire, a soothing remedy for a day placating excited children, and as they fall into each others arms, papa remembers, ‘oh shoot’ mummy needs a present too! He climbs into his imaginary ‘Batmobile’ and rides into the night, blustering winds sweeping his hair into a frenzy, but still he presses on, until at last he finds a glimmer of hope, a single shop open in the dead of night. A candle flickers in the window, orange sepia tones in a vintage 50’s fantasy, and as he knocks on the door, his fingers cramped from the cold, Jasmine opens the shop, with a knowing smile on her face, as she brings Papa into Faded Spring’s Christmas Gift Guide For Her, a winter wonderland of presents for the special lady in your life.

Bath creams to slather her in a soapy massage, iced biscuits that melt in her mouth, a sequin cushion that reminded her of your first date many eons ago, where you dove into an underwater world, and kissed by the coral that swathed her in a mystical glow. There would be perfume, candles and tea too, while you treated her to a new book to add to her mini library in the room that you once shared as newlyweds. Food and drink would tickle her senses, but you would take her on out of this world experiences to show her how special she is, as you foray into afternoon tea adventures and jump into hot air balloons at sunset, watching the sun yawn into morning as it bathed you both in a golden light. But the most precious gift of all would be love, handwrapped in a red bow, fluttering gently against your chest.

From last minute gifts that are guaranteed to have Mama smiling from ear to ear, to once in a lifetime experiences that will take ‘Her’ breath away, have no fear for the Christmas version of Mrs Jasmine is here, bringing you Christmas Gift Guides For ‘Her’ since 1993. Question is what will you choose?

 

Skincare And Beauty 

For The Eco Warrior

Bodhi And Birch

You search for natural and organic eco-luxury skincare to enlighten her skin and her senses, as you comb through MR’s Jasmine’s Christmas Gift Guide For Her, climbing through a world that is all lather, soap and bubbles . Thoroughly soaped up, your attention brings you to Bodhi and Birch, award winning skincare that is not only cruelty free but eco-friendly too, free from both palm oil and animals ingredients, a perfect gift for your cruelty free kitty and eco-warrior wife. Made in England, Bodhi and Birch is a traditionalist’s dream without the traditionalists principles, ethically sourced from sustainable origins where animal testing is not condoned, and all products have been tested on and evaluated by a volunteer panel of human testers, not animals. You dive head first into Elijah Choo’s eco-friendly skincare world, as he weaves a narrative of how he founded Bodhi and Birch, drawing inspiration from the healing power of nature and traditional botanical remedies. He originally created the products on his kitchen table, bringing together Eastern and Western skincare and wellbeing philosophies that not only harnessed the benefits of natural and organic ingredients but also delivered a luxurious premium feel.

You chose a Lemon Water Hydrosol Tonic, a blend of uplifting Lemon, Neroli and Bergamot hydrosols, hyaluronic acid, pea peptide and fruit enzymes to boost skin health and maintain optimum moisture levels, a perfect gift for the lady who never treats herself.The Hydrosol was naturally antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal to help cleanse and fortify skin, infused with hyaluronic acid and pea peptide to lock in moisture, and increase skin tone and elasticity. She could use it on the go as a hydrating and energizing aura spray or she could use it as a cleanser as part of her daily skincare routine and you knew that she would be pleased as bunch. Gift wrapped in a simple yet elegant minimalist black box, you added it to Faded Spring’s Christmas Gift Guide For Her with pep in your step.

 

Reusable Cotton Pads- Lunaciel

And what better gift to accompany the eco-friendly and cruelty free lemon tonic, than reusable cotton pads, that were not only sustainable but also supported a ‘no-waste initiative’? You added them to your imaginary shopping cart, in the shade of pastel pink, a pop of colour on a dreary winter day, handmade in Germany, where you and your wife’s first mini break together took place, as you wandered the Christmas Markets, that were oh so magical! Made from organic cotton, it was soft to touch and even softer on the face, as she gently wiped her makeup off, with a smile on her face. It was creative, something different, a gift that was both sustainable and practical a gift that she would use time and time again. You knew you had hit the jackpot here and brought several organic cotton pads, in pastel pink and duck egg blue, the pink pads emblazoned with little mini stars, a whimsical touch, you thought. You felt proud to support a small business this Christmas, and knew that your wife being the social justice advocate that she was would appreciate the gesture too.

For The Luxury Skincare Lover

Virginia Coram

You would always do your upmost to buy your wife skincare that was cruelty free, and MR’s Jasmine’s suggestion of buying her the glorious vegan plant based luxury skincare brand Virginia Coram was no exception. Featuring beautifully designed whimsical luxury liquid soaps, hand and body lotions, bar soaps and bath oils, each sensuous liquid soap was made from scratch in the traditional lye method using high quality oils including Olive, Coconut and Sunflower. Evoking the glamour of femininity, the sturdiness of masculinity and the healing properties of the herbal and mysteriousness of the deeply spiced, their roots as artisan soap makers, radiated throughout the handmade ethos at the core of their every product offering. Simple, plant based and vegan, you chose a bathtub lotion laced with rose geranium and sage accentuated by ‘The Governesses’s Lotion’ that hearkened back to another era, sprinkled with orange, lavender and vanilla.

You chose the bathtub lotion because it contained her favourite flower-the rose- a delicious floral and herbal scent combination of Rose Geranium and Sage that was as organic as it was luxurious. Your wife was someone who radiated positive energy, so the uplifting scent of the Rosewood, accentuated by the refreshing, invigorating scent of Litsea Cubeba, anchored the comforting feeling that you got when you were around her, her skin smooth and velvety to the touch . The Governess Lotion was another story, a product you chose because it reminded you of her wicked sense of humor, the name’s ironic quality surely not becoming lost on her. And yet despite it’s humorous name, the lotion was a feast for the senses as the sweet orange, lavender and vanilla was wonderfully accentuated by the Shea and Cocoa Butter notes of the rich organic hand and body lotion base. With scent notes of Dessert, Almond, Warm spice, Fresh, Camphour, you knew this would be a winter warmer that your wife could not resist.

For The Subscription Gal

Natural Wellness Box

Your wife loved subscription boxes, oh how she loved them, as she scoured through sites which offered ‘fun food’, beautiful skincare and fashion accessories. Which is why the Natural Wellness Box would be the perfect subscription box to tickle her fancy, as you procured the November Recovery Collection which included brands like BAO Skincare, Villiers London, The Beauty Chef, Green People, Nemi Teas and Superfoodio, all brands you knew she would love. There was a beautiful floral facial steam from Villiers London that was not only vegan but soothing too, containing a unique blend of 14 key botanicals, herbs and fruit peels chosen for their skin soothing properties, combined with the delicate natural scents of rose, chamomile and lavender. From The Beauty Chef  a delightful Antioxidant Inner Beauty Boost probiotic transpired, with scientifically-proven immune enhancing properties, while Green People’s Quinoa and Avocado hair serum, was lathered lovingly through your wife’s hair, as you treated her to a night of pampering that a Queen like herself truly deserved.

You would feed her cacao orange and turmeric from Superfoodio, plant based snacks that were the perfect combination of indulgence and health, washed down with Nemi Teas, rain forest alliance certified specialist teas that would provide employment to refugees to help them better integrate in the UK. To finish, you would apply Bao Skincare’s 100% Vegan Face Recovery Cream to your wife’s face, layered with Chamomile water & Calendula oil , to soothe and calm her skin after a long weeks work.

For The Cruelty Free Kitty

Freshly Cosmetics

Your wife was passionate about championing social causes and advocating against animal testing, so your cruelty free kitty deserved nothing less than Freshly Cosmetics 100% toxic free and cruelty free range of products that included the fabulous golden radiance oil, nourishing hair mask and many other cruelty free treats that would have your wife jumping for joy. With the demands of modern living that can lead to physical and psychological stress and environmental pollution, when using ‘conventional cosmetics’ to combat these modern issues, the skin can age prematurely and lose its natural brightness, something which you and your wife were working hard to not succumb to. But this cruelty free delight was determined to revolutionize the scope of cosmetics by not only using natural ingredients but also creating a healthy, innovative, sustainable, fun, transparent skincare line that focused on ‘non-toxic’ ingredients to give us the skin we have always dreamed of having this Christmas.

As far as the Christmas Gift Guide for her, it was an easy decision to make, and you chose a beautiful golden radiance body oil infused with virgin marula, organic babassu, organic jojoba, rosehip, organic hazelnut and macadamia while a nourish and restore hair mask  with organic Argan, macadamia, extra virgin chia, rosehip, Karite, almond and avocado oils, smoothed her hair into its former crowning glory. The radiance body oil was carefully created to nourish and hydrate her skin, sculpt, reduce cellulite and improve the appearance of scars and stretch marks, from a concentrate of 12 blended vegetable oils and natural technologies in perfect balance. Suitable for sensitive skin the Golden Radiance Body Oil is both kind to the skin and deliciously scented to get pulses racing! The fragrance has been formulated with the perfect balance of natural ingredients such as grapefruit, bergamot, orange, mandarin, pineapple, apple, pomegranate, cardamom and sandalwood, which creates a tropical symphony of scents that will have you begging for more. On the other hand the nourish restore hair mask, would be perfect for his ‘n’ hers pamper days  combining 7  non-greasy, high quality vegetable oils and the best natural ingredients to nourish, repair and protect hair and hair fibre.

For The Lover Of Plants 

Korres

You realized that you might have gone overboard on the skincare front but you did not care, as you knew your wife loved waking up to beautiful cruelty free skincare that she could use all year round. And who better to add into the fold than Korres, a cruelty free brand who used the ‘power of plants’ to tap into a homeopathic  philosophy that would curate shower gels, fragrances, shampoos and so much more that exemplified Korres love of all things natural. In fact, based on the Greek philosophy of ‘plants’ having medicinal qualities, many of Korres products use natural plant based ingredients such as Greek Flora and Wild Rose, renowned for  significant healing, moisturizing and softening properties. You settled on two shower gels that you knew she would love and adore: the Japanese Rose shower gel and the Jasmine shower gel, both lovingly cradled in beautiful artistic packaging. The Japanese Rose shower gel was a delightful concoction of velvety rose buds and aloe vera, a creamy-foam showergel with wheat proteins and Althea extract, that would help to maintain skin’s natural moisture levels. The velvet sweet essence of the rosebuds was rich in linoleic and linolenic acid, enriching the skin in supple softness, while the wheat proteins were fortified with an abundance of B2 vitamin, which not only improves the metabolism and aids the absorption of nutrients; but in the case of B3 plays an important role in promoting healthy skin while B5 possessed regenerative properties.

For your flower you chose a second shower gel with Jasmine as the titular character, a captivating aroma of newly opened jasmine buds under the nose. Suitable for vegetarian and vegans, the Jasmine was interlinked with wheat proteins and aloe era, the latter of which  has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant thanks to its beneficial properties. References of it appear in many cultures: from the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans, to the Indian and Chinese literature. Applied externally, it heals burns and wounds, stimulates cell regeneration and has significant antioxidant, skin softening and soothing properties. In contrast, the wheat proteins had mythological presence integrated into a world of magical and historical intrigue. Cultivated in prehistoric times in fertile Mesopotamia, wheat has always been a symbol of good health and fertility, with ancient civilizations worshiping wheat as a ‘godly form’ that would bring them luck and prosperity.

Make Up

For The Organic Makeup Lover

Jane Iredale

Lipglosses, lipsticks and highlighters three, these are a few of your wive’s favourite things. Wrapped up in a sequin bow, you enter the magical world of Jane Irdale’s all organic fantasy , where ‘clean beauty’ is the aim of the game. Certified cruelty-free by CCIC (Leaping Bunny), you are happy to learn that they do not sell their products in markets where animal testing is required, nor do they use parabens, talc, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, fillers and GMO ingredients. Clean beauty to a T, you feel proud knowing that you are supporting a cruelty free, green beauty brand that will be as gentle on your wife’s skin as it’s impact on the environment. With a holistic approach to ‘healthy’ beauty, Iredale talks you through her ‘clean living ethos’ as she maintains that makeup should feel as good’ as it looks on your skin, using only the best of natural ingredients that she can find, free from the harmful chemicals that would irritate your wife’s sensitive skin. As you delve through the natural archives, you settle upon the ‘Kiss And Tell’ Lip Gloss Stain Kit and ‘Snap Happy’ Makeup Kit, both wrapped in beautifully festive metallic silver packaging, that reminds you of your first Christmas together, snatching kisses under the mistletoe.

She would create irresistible lip looks using the ‘Kiss and Tell’ kit that you would present to her, neatly wrapped in crinkly Christmas paper, with two long-lasting, saturated stains and a crystal gloss. There would be light salmon, rosy pink and clear shimmer, worn together for maximum impact, accentuated by the Snap Happy,  mini eye and powder trio, a cascading variety of shades that your wife would experiment with all Christmas long. Her eyes would open wide as saucers, unbeknownst to her that you had help from the Christmas Goddess herself AKA Miss Jasmine but that was a secret that you would take to your grave  shhh…

For The Girl Who Likes Her Highlight To Be On Point

CID Cosmetics

You remember the first day that you met your future wife, a woman who was dazzling beyond compare. You was entranced by the highlight that made her look like she was dripping in gold, and her eyes drew you in with it’s alluring magnetism. She became known over the years for her distinctive highlight, that had her shimmering all winter long, a bedazzled jewel glittering under silver disco lights. And what better to capture that alluring magnetism than a highlighter that was fashioned by the gods themselves, CID Cosmetics? You would choose the I-Glow Aurora, a golden shimmer nestled in festive spice, with beautifully blended tones of silver and gold that would sparkle in the dark. There would be subtle colour correcting mint pigments swirling through the highlighter to work as a subtle colour corrector, while a free chrome blusher brush, would be an additional surprise for your gorgeous wife, who would take great delight in gently swashing the brush through sweepings of glorious highlighter. And pleased as punch she was, smiling ear to ear, a bedazzled cheek catching the silvery moon light so eloquently.

Beauty: Hair Removal

For The Lady With The Smooth Legs

She undresses slowly, ready for a long night of self care and pampering, delighting in the creams that she slathers gently all over her skin. Face mask set, hair slung in a low ballerina bun, she pulls out her new gift, a Smoothskin Muse IPL device that will make her skin as smooth as talcum powder. With full body treatment in 20 minutes and suitable for her legs, underarm, bikini and face, she settles into a night dedicated to  pampering her body, sighing in ecstasy as she runs her hands over her legs that are soft like silk. Delighted that the muse gives bespoke treatment for her skin tone, she triggers the ‘gentle mode’ for the sensitive areas like her bikini line, watching as the hairs are removed one by one until she becomes a golden goddess oiled up in bronze and silver, a glimmering jewel in a grey world. You open the door, entranced by the glittering beauty of your wife’s legs, encased in sheer tights, a red pump slightly askew on the tip of her toes, she kicks them off.

You feel the smoothness of her legs underneath your calloused hands, roughened by the winter gales that tap dramatically at your window. You feel some of the wounds soften under her hairless touch, a healers prerogative.  She turns to you and you smile in return, a fleeting gust of desire as you lick your lips. Suddenly the night is laced with sensuous intrigue,  a tango across the bathroom as the Smoothskin Muse glows in the dark, pulsating to the rhythm of your lover’s trance . You fall into each others arms.

 

Stationary

For The Writer

U Studio Design

Your wife always did have a quirky sense of humor and when she wasn’t professing how hungry she was all day long, you would steal glances at her writing with frantic energy, pencils tucked away in a bun, as she typed away on the computer tippity tip tap. She would write into the early hours of the morning while you lay snoring, a humming a little ditty under her breath, as she conjured a magical web of surrealism, weaved into a narrative of fantastical intrigue. She would read it out to you like a bedtime story and you would lay in a relaxed slumber, until the soothing words lulled you into dreamland’s world, where the Goddess of sleep would take you into her arms and erase all the stress, as she poured happy sprinkles into your heart. You would purchase an eccentric pair of pencils that would put a smile on your wife’s kissable lips, as she smirked at the whimsical ‘Zencils’ that were full of humorous sayings. Your personal favourite was the inscription that simply read ‘I’m not asleep I’m meditating’ although you knew that your wife would chuckle at the saying that said ‘open your mind – hope nothing falls out’.

Whimsical sayings aside, you thought it would also be a good idea to  purchase a notebook from U Studio Design, depicting scenes from a rowing contest. Not that your wife was much into sports, it was an inside joke, but you knew she would appreciate the colourful notebook and its whimsicality. After all your wife wasn’t just beautiful and intelligent but she was eccentric too, so why not buy her a thoughtful gift that you knew she would love?

Perfumes

For The Gal Who Wants To Make Her Own Perfume

The Perfume Studio

Your wifey was a creative soul, and there was nothing that she loved more than creating something magical that would bring her memories for years to come. While she would normally be seen critiquing food loudly, sipping mojitos or head first in her laptop, you thought about something different that she could create, that she might not have had the idea to have done beforehand. And so it was settled, she would make her own perfume with The Perfume Studio, whose packages ranged from Gold to Diamond, with the option of adding an afternoon tea, and even the chance to meet the perfumer, to create a bespoke perfume that she would wear and love. You chose the diamond experience for your wife, with an afternoon tea and bubbly, where she could create her own signature fragrance and take it home in a 30 ml glass atomiser, quite literally smelling of roses. She would choose to make a heady, spicy blend which surprised you given her love of sweet. tropical scents but it was nevertheless a fragrance that suited her well, mysterious, alluring, intense,  facets of your wife’s magnetism.

For The Fun And Boujie Perfumer 

Missguided Perfume Set

You would let the perfume journey continue, as Missguided came to slay, with a gift set named ‘Boss Babe’ that reminded you of your dear wife. She would command the attention of any room that she walked into with authority and grace, well dressed, sharp and articulate she had the personality to match. It was a scent that was made with your wife in mind, a fruity floral delight with notes of bergamot and pear and accents of pistachio that smelled good enough to eat. The heart of the Boss Babe fragrance married rose accords with almond milk, orange blossom and magnolia, while base notes were cushioned with patchouli, amber, sweet tonka, vanilla, musk and creamy sandalwood, that took being ‘your own boss’ to a heavenly cent level. The perfume alone was a standalone gift, but the adorable addition of a faux fur plush pom pom keyring, that reminded you of an owl, was a bonus gift that you knew your wife would cherish and adore.

Novelty Gifts

For The Pusheen Memester

Pusheen Travel Mug (Find Me A Gift)

Your next stop took you to ‘Find Me A Gift’ which ol’ Miss Jasmine said was ‘novelty gift central’ full of slankets, mermaid blankets and all things Pusheen. Being that your wife was somewhat of an avid consumer of all things Pusheen, there was no other choice but than to purchase a Pusheen Travel Mug, whose sparkly glitzy exterior would bring the festivity into your home. While your wife might want to drink Pusheen on the go, you would catch her making creamy, frothy hot chocolate at two in the morning unable to sleep, as the liquid poured into the china travel mug oh so seamlessly. But this Pusheen was no ordinary Pusheeen, oh no, for this Pusheen was a unicorn , riding on a wave of glittery rainbow dreams. This once domestic cat followed her dreams to become the unicorn cat of her dreams, a poignant nod to your wife’s quirkiness, often describing herself as a part time mermaid and a unicorn at weekends, who like Pusheen was all about following her dreams.

You were told that having a Pusheen travel mug was’ basically a public service’, as anyone who would see this little tabby cat standing tall and bold as a unicorn would also be inspired to follow their dreams, no matter how magical they were told their fantasies were. Your wife would be inspired to start her own business, selling flower crowns on the fly, while a lottery ticket would pave the way to a second honeymoon in the Maldives, feeling the silky sand between your toes, while the teal waves would slip and slide over your sand encrusted feet, a soothing contrast to the golden lion of a sun that yawned and stretched over you both, in a glorious heated embrace. You would play at being ice skaters at the Natural History Museum and try new things that you thought were outside of your comfort zone previously. Most of all you would follow Pusheen’s advice and remember to ‘Live Your Dreams. Be A Unicorn’.

 

For The Unicorn Enthusiast

Unicorn Tea Infuser

Speaking of unicorns, what better unicorn themed gift to surprise your wife with than a unicorn tea infuser, making dreams come true since 1993? With a rainbow mane and a rainbow tail, the unicorn tea infuser is all about making part time unicorns’s dreams come true, with its fun and sunny optimistic outlook on life. Joining Pusheen on a unicorn adventure, this Unicorn is just as fun with some herbal tea, as it is with some iced tea realness in summer. Simply pop off its tail and let the magic begin, as you watch Mrs Unicorn sprinkle rainbow goodness into your wife’s tea. Take great delight in watching your rainbow unicorn adventure down the rainbow brick road, as your wife magically transforms into the unicorn of her dreams, doing the unicorn 1,2 step. And laugh as you tumble into a unicorn world where all of a sudden you are a unicorn yourself, sprinkling glitter as you walk, while unicorn babies trail behind you. At last your brew is ready and as you waft in and out of reality, you both smile, two rainbow unicorns living their best lives.

 

For The Christmas Lover

Tenstickers Laptop Stickers

You want to add another novelty gift to your wife’s growing roster of presents and what better to add to the pile than wonderfully festive laptop stickers that will turn her laptop into a magical winter wonderland? You choose the beautiful North Pole Laptop sticker depicting the beautiful landscape of the North Pole, that will make all your wife’s dreams come true. The reindeer dashes through the snow, galloping towards Santa’s house in a frenzy, as they deliver Christmas presents to all the little boys and girls that still believe in the magic of Christmas cheer. But what about the adults I hear you cry, well they get presents too, especially the mummies and daddies who want to be Santa’s best friend! So lo and behold it was Tenstickers who had come to the rescue for your wife’s special Christmas Day, making sure that even her laptop would match the magical decor that was resplendent in your very own home. You imagined jumping into the North Pole through the stickers fabulous design, marching into the workshop where the elves were busy making toys and Mrs Claus was brewing hot chocolate on the stove, with rich double cream. Oh, what a magical dream it was!

For The Social Media Know How

Colourful Phonecases From Ayokadeco

Colourful phone cases are next for your beloved wife, whose love of technology was a well know fact . There were flower child phone cases that reminded you of your wife in the summer, resplendent with a flower crown on her dainty head, while bright colours of pastel pink and duck egg blue , entranced you into their colour driven world, where even the most monochromatic of personalities couldn’t help but blossom under the light of  a thousand colours, drifting into uncharted terrain. The teal and cobalt tones of the blue phone case exuded the cool factor that your wife had, whose tinted round lens sunglasses reminded you of the cat eye sunnies that your love would always wear, who despite her proclamations of being uncool was one cool cat. She would wear blue lipstick and not care what people would think, purchasing fun brightly coloured wigs to live out her mermaid fantasy. The pink flower crown phone case would be a separate extension of her personality, the feminine daydreamer who would always be surrounded by floral blooms. She would wear ballgowns on a trip to her local Tesco’s accentuated by a flower crown adorned with roses, and despite the stares she would pay them no mind. living in her flower fantasy, that she held, oh so dearly.

Fashion

For The Fashionista

Mocaro Bow Tie

Given your wife’s love of all things quirky an intricately emblazoned bow tie fashioned from cotton, seemed like an alternative gift that your love could cherish and wear all year long. Hallmarked 925 sterling silver with 18 ct yellow gold Vermeil, the gold supreme wax print bow was the gift that kept giving, as you envisioned all the different ways that your wife would fashion the necktie bow. She would wear it with a power suit, that exuded authoritative energy, plumped under her chin with bold adoration. She would style it as a bracelet, with a metallic dress, complimented by strangers on her quirky new accessory. At times she would forgo the flower crowns, and attach the bow tie into a simple silver band, so that it looked like she was wearing a headband, with the gold and blue bow atop her head, like a vintage pin up’s fantasy. She would delve into the masculine and feminine world, at times gender fluid, a real fashion chameleon who broke all the rules. A rebel, a princess, a shapeshifter at heart, the bow tie was representative of all the things that you loved about your wife, oh what a miracle she was.

Homeware

For The Maven Of Colour

Pantone Mugs

Sometimes you would steal glances at your wife wafting around coloured fabrics in an interpretative dance, as she would fling all her clothes onto the floor, searching for the right look for that day. It was that same colourful, eccentric energy that helped you come across your next gift, a colour maven’s fantasy wrapped up in a simple mug from Pantone. It would be colourful, minimalist, exciting, yet functional and practical, all things that you knew that your wife would love. You knew how much she loved sipping milky hot chocolates frosted over with cream on cold winter mornings, and a colourful mug would help put the pep back in her step, even when she was exhausted beyond compare. There would be blue mugs, green ones, burgundies too, even a travel mug to keep her warm and toasty on the go, oh how she was grateful, she smiled from ear to ear. As an extra treat, there would be a stationary gift or two, in orange and blue, an array of card holders, 1,2,3.

For The Secret Mermaid

Sequin Seahorse Cushion (Re-Room)

Your wife was no secret mermaid, a lover of all things mermaid related, even her tagline was professed ever so proudly, a part time mermaid and a unicorn at weekends, whose love of all things sparkly and sequin was unparalleled. And lo and behold, as if by magic the mermaid connoisseurs  at re-room flung a sequin seahorse cushion your way, a bedazzled coral seahorse swimming in a sea of white iridescent sequins. The pillow would start its life as a mere silver sequinned cushion, reminiscent of a disco ball and as your wife gently combed her fingers up and down the cushion she would gasp in surprise as the silver sequins parted to reveal a singular seahorse swimming through white sequins, resplendent in coral orange. She would transform into a mermaid and leap into the cushion, as she swished her tail back and forth, diving into a world where child-like fantasies became an adult’s playground. She would don her mermaid costume, and indulge her part time mermaid alter ego, as she flitted between an underwater world that verged on magical surrealist reality. And when the time had come to leave the mermaid world behind, you would watch her dreaming with a smile on her face, remembering the adventures of Jasmine the Mermaid and her seahorse Thumbelina.

The Lady Who Deserves A Good Night’s Sleep

Soundasleep Pillow

Your wife had chronic insomnia, and it pained you to see her toss and turn in the night, unable to sleep. Her mind would run like clockwork when the world outside was sleeping and she would mentally draft up to do lists and ideas for new stories in her head, unable to shake off her creativity even in the dead of night. You knew what you had to do next, stumbling upon a pillow that would turn her sleepless nights into restful slumber. Sent from above it was called ‘The Soundasleep bluetooth speaker pillow’ that would take full control of a smarter sleep, by using the Soundasleep app to relax listening to music, audiobooks and podcasts. Not only this but you were delighted to also find out that the pillow would monitor and manage your wife’s snoring, analyse her sleep and be equipped with a smart alarm to wake her up.With a built in Bluetooth speaker, merging the worlds of sound and sleep has never been easier,with an exciting blend of incredible comfort and digital technology, that would appeal to your wife massively. She would listen to all her favourite tracks on Spotify, while catching up with her favourite Soap on the ITV Player. Sometimes she would listen to Headspace, to get some meditation in before bed, while she would dream the night away feeling tranquil and blessed.

 

For The Quirky

Speech Bubble Lightbox

Your wife loves nothing more than writing little whimsical messages on the fridge for you to giggle over as you read your morning newspaper in the kitchen , so harnessing that love of all things whimsical, you purchase a speech bubble lightbox, where she can write messages that are readable even in the dark. She puts her finger on her chin as she thinks about what she wants to write next and then it comes to her, as if in a flash, a message that she knows you wont forget. You come home from work and all the lights are out, save for one, glistening the centre of the room,  a simple message en-scripted on its screen; 14/06/2006 the day that you both got married, the day that marked the rest of your happy life together, living together, united as one. You smiled, a tear falling from your eyes, and then she came out from the shadows, beautifully dressed in a red gown, holding a bunch of roses, that complimented her tanned skin so flawlessly. Suddenly you realized that this gift was for the both of you, and it was a precious gift at that.

For The Bookworm 

Traveller’s Tales

Your wife would often read books curled up in the corner, a warm fuzzy blanket wrapped round her legs, as she would adventure into the world of the unknown for hours on end. It would amuse you, seeing the way that she leaned into the books, the way she almost lost herself in a magical narrative, how it influenced the way that she would write. Sometimes you would fall asleep and awaken in the night to see your wife still in the same place that she was hours ago, unable to sleep, the magical realm of books her insomniac crutch. You would join her cross legged and hold her in your arms as she would read to you out loud from the big blue book of The Traveller’s Tales, cocking your head in wonder as you learned about the travel adventures of Madonna, Audrey Hepburn and Karl Lagerfield in one entrancing volume. But it was learning what Ernest Hemingway packed in his trunk that made you smile, as you delved into the travels of the rich and famous, young and old. And when the night sank into morning, you closed the book and sighed, holding each other in a passionate embrace, as you slowly slunk into a morning nap.

Candles

Gordon Castle Scotland Flower Garden Candle

You light a candle in the centre of the room, from Gordon Castle’s very own flower garden, as it wafts rose absolute and geranium bourbon essential oils from  to aid relaxation and refresh the mind.Together you meditate, holding hands as you transcend into downward dog, letting the scents from the floral garden transport you both into a more peaceful world, surrounded by blooms and castles, as you wander through a alternative universe. All is calm here, there is no worries, no strife, simply a mindful feeling of relaxation under the thoughtful gaze of the meditative Gods themselves. Yoga over, you sit down to breakfast inspired by nature itself, avocado on toast, with dashings of chili, with fresh flowers on the table, orange juice next to the candle that takes centre stage. An elegant gift from Scotland, the hand poured candles contain 100% natural wax and are free from paraffin, petrochemicals and palm waxes.

Food

For Those Who Have  A Sweet Tooth

Biscuiteers Iced Biscuits

Despite her love of savouries, your wife definitely had a sweet tooth, nibbling on chocolates and cakes throughout the night, a cheeky grin on her face. But it was biscuits that she had a penchant for this Christmas, iced biscuits from the biscuit God’s themselves, Biscuiteers. She remembered drinking decaf lattes, with a plate of iced biscuits to match, dressed in a monochromatic jumpsuit that accidentally matched the cafes interior. But little did she know that they would have a box that she could take home with her, a 24 iced biscuit box that was like an advent calendar for biscuits which you knew she would love. There would be a red stocking, trimmed with white popped into her mouth, with relish and crunch, while a sparkling star was iced with glitz and glamour, a treat that she couldn’t wait until Christmas to have. You sat together on the sofa, wrapped up in fluffy blankets, while the fire crackled in the corner, as you took turns delving into the Biscuiteers box of treats until by as if by magic the iced treats were gone and you stared at the tin with mournful greed.

For The Cheese Enthusiast

Fine Foods Cheese Trio

To add to the food fantasy, a cheese trio would be next on the cards, a scrumptious selection of cheeses that would have both of your taste buds tingling. A trio of fine, wax encased truckles, the cheeses would not stay too long in your household, as you ploughed through the cheeses, not getting enough of the flavours that would explode in your mouths. Your wife had a penchant for the ‘Black Bomber’ a signature extra mature cheddar from Snowdonia Cheese Company, a strong and creamy cheese that melted your cheese loving hearts. But you took a shining to the Red Devil, a red Leicester with chilies and crushed peppers that made this cheese a spicy and bold option. Equably the award winning Green Thunder, a favourite at the Global Cheese Awards packed a punch too, offering a delicate blend of mature cheddar with garlic and herbs. You entered a cheese induced coma, as you and your wife ate your way through the cheese, until satisfied at last you both fell into a slumber filed with dreams of all things cheese. And what a beautiful dream it was.

For The Popcorn Lover

Popcorn Shed: Gourmet Popcorn

There would be a movie night, as the pizza lay melting in the oven, a Christmas Classic Love Actually on the box, as you stared into each others eyes. Suddenly you hear a knock at the door and then you smile for your delivery is here, a lifetime supply of gourmet popcorn that will make movie nights as magical as your wife’s dreams. And lo and behold Popcorn Shed had come to the rescue with their supply of popcorn, ranging from say ‘cheese’ a deliciously rich, ripe and creamy mature cheddar cheese popcorn, to salted caramel which as the name suggested was as richly decadent as popcorn could humanly be. It was popcorn with a difference, a feast for the senses, that transformed your Christmas movie night into a gastronomic snacking session. But it was the Say Cheese that stole the day inspired by a quaint farmhouse chateau shed  nestled in an idyllic French ville. The sharp and cheesy flavour was ridiculously addictive and tangy, which was perhaps why it won a Great Taste Award in 2018, a fact you couldn’t help but agree with as you and your wife munched through the ‘popcorn shed’ in one sitting.

Drink

For The Spritz Lover

Aperol

You remembered the first bar that you took your wife to, where you drank cocktails until the early morning, unable to let each other go, as night flushed into morning. And so the cycle would begin, cocktails by the bar, gazing into each others eyes with longing, a soulmate found in the midst of London. The right one was there for you all along and you didn’t even know it, a fact that your wife would state teasingly, as you rubbed noses playfully.  You remembered one particular cocktail that you both had a passion for sharing, an Aperol Spritz, a drink that you could enjoy all year round. It was a winter warmer, a light fragrant drink to taste, bubbling playfully in your mouths. It was a riot, a hoot, a symphony of taste, a drink that sent you both into tranquil delirium, in a meditative trance. Consisting of Aperol, soda and prosecco, the vivid orange drink is a welcome respite from dreary grey winter days, a burst of colour in a colourless world. Together you clink your glasses in mirrored unison, until each last drop makes its way down your thirsty throats. Replenished, refreshed, revived, you both jump into the night dancing away to Christmas songs at the local club, until exhausted you clamber into a taxi all the way home.

For The Vegan Cider Drinker

Cranes

Despite the mulled wine that you would both drink by the gallonfull, your wife had a craving for something else, something that was undeniably refreshing, yet exquisitely laced with flavour too. You chose Cranes, a Vegan cider brand that knew how to make your wife’s Christmas wishes come true. Brewed using the finest cranberries and apples, it’s a festive variety of flavours that you relish in your mouths, slipping down your throats with the ease of a cat who just got the cream. And what a treat it was, a vegan cider that was developed by co-founders and identical twin brothers Ben and Dan Risema in 2012, alongside a cranberry and blood orange liqueur that was perfect for upgrading a glass of prosecco and creating tantalizing cocktails in the process. You remembered seeing Cranes being featured in publications like Stylist and and the London Evening Standard, which you had seen your wife frequent often and knew that a Cranes cider giftset would be the perfect Christmas stocking filler, a drink to  start the festive season right. There would be cranberries and limes dancing an erratic salsa, while the blueberries and apples would jump for joy as the raspberries and pomegranates tangoed across the dance floor with such grace and panache.

Experiences

Hot Air Balloon Ride (Buyagift)

It was a cherry on top of the Christmas tree sundae, an experience that would take your wife’s breath away. You remembered a conversation that you had on your first date, about what your ideal ‘date consisted of if money was no object. You remembered how she spoke oh so longingly about drifting away on a hot air balloon with a lover, as they drank champagne and looked into each others eyes. They would ride way into the sunset watching the English towns grow small beneath them, marveling at the quaint cottages that were framed by dainty farms, and the lush expanse of forests that were crowned with leafy trees Most of all she would want to just live in the moment , letting her worries drift away in the wind, as she settled into the most magical date of her life, hand in hand with the one that she loved. Now it was your chance to make her dreams come true, you made her count to 3, 1,2,3 and when she opened her eyes , you put the gift experience into the palm of her hand, smiling as you saw her burst into tears with joy. And joyous she was, it was a date that she had been dreaming of for eons come to life, and she couldn’t be happier. She kissed you with such passion and gusto; a wonderful night of coming together as one ensued, as you packed your bags excitedly and set off for the adventure of a lifetime. In this narrative there was always a happy ending as the married couple would sit hand in hand, sharing their kisses under the faded orange glow of a warm sunset, that burst into vitality over the English countryside.

Red Letter Days Spa Day And Afternoon Tea

There was one final gift that you wanted your wife to have, to show her how much she meant to you , with one singular gift. You knew how much she craved a deep tissue massage, unimpressed by your attempts to massage her yourself, clamoring for a professionals touch, to ease away the pain and tension in her shoulders. Decidedly it would be your mission to take her pain away as Red Letter Days came to the rescue with their ‘spa’ and afternoon tea package. You would have afternoon tea at the Jumeirah Carlton Hotel in London, a luxury 5 star hotel whose afternoon tea who wasn’t afraid to dollop dashings of cream, slathered generously across warm buttery scones. They would ooze with jam and you would lick each others fingers, with childish frivolity, laughing at your lips that were covered in raspberry jam.

Later, sated from the tea and scones, you would enter the spa domain, as you settled in for a massage that would change your lives forever, a treatment so good it would have you begging for more. You didn’t want the treatment to end as they lathered oils through the entirety of your bodies and it was true, for the adventure was not over yet. You would have full use of the spa’s facilities, swimming like mermaids through the blue watered pool, while sinking gratefully into a Jacuzzi that welcomed you into its bubbly fold, relaxing into a tranquil state, where the world outside would wait to be switched back on. Time froze and you both sank into the moment, holding each other until you were both the last ones standing.The lights had gone out, it was time to leave. But as the months passed you still remembered that sensual massage accompanied by afternoon tea, a love kernel in a loveless world.