On any given day, Tara might be scaling a ladder with a champagne bucket under one arm and linen napkins in the other, or tweaking festive windows late at night to spark tomorrow’s ideas. “My magic is making home feel like home – the best it can be,” she says. “Retail is just an extension of what I did on TV. I’m still helping people create beautiful spaces.”

Her genius approach to styling takes the stress out of decorating. Simple, heartfelt tips that work with what you already own, and won’t blow the budget.

Listen to Tara’s brilliant Christmas decorating ideas on The Edit – a new podcast by Home Beautiful

In her own home, Christmas begins in the most magical way – on Christmas Eve. After weeks of styling countless trees for her store, Tara finally turns her creative energy homeward. When the last happy customer leaves and the shop doors close, the family heads to their river house, ready to embrace the season.

A glass of champagne marks the end of the busiest stretch and the start of a well-earned celebration. With her husband and son – both as passionate about the season as she is – Tara transforms their river house into a festive sanctuary.

This year, Tara’s Christmas table celebrates the ultimate icon of summer – the pineapple. Inspired by its fresh, sun-kissed palette of soft yellows and vibrant greens, her setting begins with an elegant block-printed linen tablecloth. Down the centre runs a lush evergreen garland, accented with colour-matched baubles and ribbons for a look that feels effortless yet elevated.

More beautiful ideas from Tara

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How to achieve the laid-back luxury look like Tara Dennis this Christmas

A soft-launch into sanity: Tara Dennis on finding calm in Christmas chaos

Inside Tara Dennis’ beautiful riverside home

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Tara’s skill in reinventing what you already own to create a festive look is her secret weapon and something she’s honed over years of visual merchandising. It’s not difficult to achieve. “If customers don’t have a lot of money to spend, I’ll say OK, great, let’s get some ribbon. Let’s dolly up what you had last year and make it better,” says Tara. “Do you have some decorations from your tree left over from last year? Maybe you can add those to a new wreath and make it more personal and yours. It’s the little touches…”

Each year, Tara’s Christmas style draws on trends she spots during her travels. This season, it’s all about layering personality into the table. Dust off Grandma’s candlesticks (tapered candles are having a major moment) and line them down the centre for instant elegance. If pineapples aren’t your thing, swap in seasonal touches: split a market bunch of Christmas bush into petite posies or create a fresh herb row with supermarket pots for a simple, chic twist.

The star of Tara’s Christmas menu this year is a pavlova crowned with delicate dried pineapple flowers. “I bought a Sunbeam dehydrator last year, and I got it out again last night to make a whole bunch of pineapple blooms for my pavlova,” she says. Her decorations echo this sunny palette—soft yellows paired with warm brass candlesticks and cream-tinted tapers. By stripping back other colours, Tara lets these tones shine, carrying the theme through with tiny ribbons on glassware and a hint of sparkle in the baubles.

The post From TV to tree: Tara Dennis’ genius hacks for a beautiful Christmas on any budget appeared first on Home Beautiful.

In our roundup of the best Christmas dessert recipes, we’ve done away with old-fashioned fruit cakes and plum puddings, in favour of fresh, summery creations. So whether you’re feeling a classic pavlova topped with summer berries, or a modern twist on an old favourite, this list is sure to inspire. 

Best Christmas dessert recipes

Pavlova with strawberry and stone fruit

The classic Christmas dessert

Crisp meringue, luscious cream, and vibrant summer fruits come together in this iconic Australian dessert – light yet indulgent for a sunny Christmas day.

get the recipe

Raspberry limoncello bomb

A showstopping dessert

Bursting with flavour, this frozen bomb blends tangy raspberries and zesty limoncello for a refreshing finale to your Christmas feast.

get the recipe

Lychee mango trifle

Individual trifle serves

Exotic and refreshing, these mini tropical trifles blend juicy mangoes and delicate lychees with creamy layers for a dessert that feels like a holiday in a bowl.

get the recipe

Frozen black forest tart

Perfect for summer

A modern spin on a beloved classic, this frozen tart combines chocolate and cherries for a dessert that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent – perfect for Christmas and summer celebrations.

get the recipe

Chocolate hazelnut ice‑cream pandoro

An Italian dessert with a hidden surprise

Bring a taste of Italy to your Christmas table with this decadent twist on the classic pandoro with layers of velvety chocolate-hazelnut spread, raspberry jam and salted caramel ice-cream tucked inside the golden, star‑shaped sweet bread.

get the recipe

Eggnog brandy snap ice‑cream cookies

A festive sensation

Crisp brandy snaps paired with creamy eggnog ice‑cream deliver a festive twist on a classic treat – ideal for festive parties.

get the recipe

Cherry custard tart

Pops of sweetness in custard

Sweet, juicy cherries nestled in silky custard and a crisp golden crust make this tart a festive showstopper. Its vibrant colour and indulgent flavour bring a touch of elegance to your Christmas table. Perfect for impressing guests and celebrating the season in style.

get the recipe

Cassata ice‑cream Christmas tree cones

A whimsical dessert

Turn your table into a winter wonderland with these adorable cassata ice‑cream cones shaped like Christmas trees – playful, eye‑catching and delicious.

get the recipe

Strawberry cranberry frozen soufflés

An elegant dessert

Light, fruity, and festive, these frozen soufflés combine strawberries, cranberries and Cointreau for a vibrant holiday showstopper.

get the recipe

No‑bake chocolate and raspberry sherbet tart

A make-ahead marvel

Celebrate Christmas in style with this no‑bake beauty! Rich chocolate meets tangy raspberry sherbet for a refreshing, indulgent tart that’s perfect for festive gatherings without the oven fuss.

get the recipe

Matcha and coconut panna cotta tart

Smooth and delicious

Bring a sophisticated twist to your holiday table with this festive tart. Earthy matcha and creamy coconut panna cotta create a light, elegant dessert that feels as special as Christmas itself.

get the recipe

Rhubarb and strawberry almond tart

A classic treat

Bursting with seasonal cheer, this tart combines sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb in a nutty almond crust. A vibrant, festive treat that looks as good as it tastes!

get the recipe

Hummingbird cake with pineapple flowers

Perfect for a summer Christmas

Bring tropical cheer to your Christmas spread with this spiced banana and pineapple cake, crowned with snowy white chocolate icing and golden pineapple ‘flowers’. It’s like summer and Christmas wrapped in one delicious gift.

get the recipe

Mimosa cake

A grown-up treat

Celebrate the season with a cake that sparkles this Christmas! Infused with Champagne and orange zest, this elegant sponge topped with citrus slices feels like a toast to holiday joy.

get the recipe

Hazelnut praline cake

Perfect for celebrations

Rich, nutty layers and crunchy praline make this cake a true Christmas indulgence. Its caramelised hazelnut crunch and creamy filling are perfect for festive feasts.

get the recipe

Coffee fudge cake with toasted coffee meringue

End Christmas Day on a high

Warm up your Christmas spread with this decadent chocolate‑coffee cake, topped with snowy peaks of toasted meringue. It’s a comforting treat for holiday nights by the tree.

get the recipe

Chocolate cake with whiskey caramel sauce

An alternative to traditional desserts

This showstopper is pure Christmas luxury: velvety chocolate layers draped in whiskey‑spiked caramel, like a rich ribbon on a festive gift. Perfect for grown‑up celebrations.

get the recipe

Pink lady apple & cherry pie

Cherry and apple goodness

A golden lattice crust filled with tender apples and juicy cherries, kissed with cinnamon for a festive, fruity dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

get the recipe

Gluten‑free cherry meringue pie

A treat for everyone

Sweet, tangy cherries in a crisp gluten‑free crust, topped with clouds of golden meringue. A festive showstopper that’s as inclusive as it is indulgent!

get the recipe

Pavlova wreath

A stunning, wreath-shaped dessert

Pavlova is the quintessential Australian Christmas dessert. It’s light, it’s sweet and can be topped with any combination of delicious summer fruits. One way to make your pav stand out from the rest is to make it in the shape of a wreath. Now that’s a dessert worthy of Christmas table centrepiece status.

Get the recipe

White chocolate pavlova

Featuring strawberries steeped in Chambord

For Selling Houses Australia presenter Wendy Moore, Christmas is all about family traditions, and this elegant pavlova featuring white chocolate and strawberries steeped in sugar and Chambord is one of them.

Get the recipe

Gingerbread and whiskey bombe alaska

A dazzling dessert

With a delicate base, cold ice-cream inside and toasted meringue peaks on top, this bombe alaska is lip-smackingly yummy and a complete Christmas table showstopper.

Get the recipe

Black forest pavlova

A moody twist on a classic favourite

In Australia, cherries are only in season for about 100 days – and those days happen to coincide with Christmas. Take advantage of a bounty of cherries by teaming them up with a classic pavlova to create a decadent dessert everyone will love.

Get the recipe

Traditional spiced stollen

An edible Christmas wreath

Candied fruit and nuts plus the uplifting aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg and lemon zest make this traditional stollen the perfect Christmas treat. Shaping the dough into a wreath before baking it invites everyone gathered around the table to take a piece.

Get the recipe

Eton mess cheesecake

Topped with a fluffy meringue layer

Can’t decide whether to make a pavlova or a cheesecake this year? Why not have both? This decadent cheesecake is topped with a fluffy meringue layer, and combined with fresh summer berries equals the ultimate Christmas dessert.

Get the recipe

Panettone trifle

Served with grilled fruit and sugared almonds

The magic of this summery fruit trifle is in the assemblage. Why bake a sponge cake from scratch when there’s an abundance of Panettone? Soak pieces of Panettone in Cointreau and layer with grilled fruit and dollops of mascarpone.

Get the recipe

Rosé and vanilla zabaglione trifle

Decadent and delicious

Three distinct layers of rosé jelly, zabaglione and gently singed Italian meringue make this trifle especially picturesque. Everyone will be dying to dig into it!

Get the recipe

Limoncello sponge finger trifle

Easy to prepare in advance

Trifles have many favourable qualities: they look great and taste even better, but one thing that makes them invaluable to the busy Christmas host is that they can be prepared ahead of time. This fresh and zesty trifle (featuring a hit of limoncello) can be completely prepared and assembled the day before.

Get the recipe

Cassata ice-cream sandwiches

Perfect for a hot summer’s day

On a hot summer’s day, nothing beats ice-cream. This dessert takes ice-cream to the next level, sandwiched between two shortbread biscuits and topped with fresh summer berries and pistachios. A delicious crowd-pleaser.

Get the recipe

Biscoff swirl bundt cake

The flavours of Christmas

Serve warm with dollops of Biscoff spread for a dessert that’s as joyful to share as it is delicious.

get the recipe

The post 30 irresistible Christmas desserts to wow your guests appeared first on Home Beautiful.

How to style a festive ottoman

Wondering how to style your ottoman? The first step is to identify and complement both your living room decor and your festive theme.

Are you a fan of classic Hamptons sophistication? Is a traditional, wintry tartan aesthetic your jam? Perhaps contemporary, nature-inspired Australian style floats your boat.

Make sure you include practicalities, but don’t forget some festive flourishes at the end. The key to successfully styling an ottoman is all in the layering.

Begin with a tactile rug that either blends with the tones in the ottoman or provides a contrast.

It’s important to choose the right ottoman for the space, whether that is a small round one for a compact corner or one in a bold hue for an area that needs a pop of colour.

Place a tray off centre on the ottoman to act as a base for your items — a mirrored or timber tray works well. It’s best to put any vase with flowers on your tray as this provides a stable, flat surface.

You can also use bowls, baskets, platters, serving boards and plates to display smaller items.

Include coffee table books with covers that go with your theme. Cordless lamps are useful as you don’t need a powerpoint nearby.

Add a bowl full of baubles, your favourite festive treats and maybe a gift or two along with the always essential glass of bubbles.

Shop for festive styling items

Valencia Tray, $129 $103.20, Freedom

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Aesop Bronze Incense Holder, $210, Myer

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Aurora Aluminium Table Lamp, $89.00 $79.99, Temple & Webster

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Christmas Plaid Pillow Covers, $28.96, Amazon 

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Frayed Linen Napkins | Set of 2, $55, Corey Ashford

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Villeroy & Boch Champagne Dessert Bowl | Set of 2, $54.95

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Nolan Cheese Knife Set, Country Road, $49.95

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Rogue Dancing Orchids & Rachel Vase, $164.99, David Jones

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The post Festive styling ideas for your ottoman, plus beautiful decor buys appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“It’s the first glimpse of your Christmas spirit,” says Jade Pausewang, creative director at Provincial Home Living. Be it a brilliant red bow, twinkling lights or a touch of greenery, small touches bring a sense of warmth and joy. “It’s a simple way to spread a little joy before anyone even steps inside,” she adds.

The front of your home sets the tone for the season ahead. This year, think beyond the basics: layer natural greenery with elegant ribbons, add gentle lighting for ambience, and finish with charming details like potted evergreens or a cheerful doormat. These simple touches elevate your home’s exterior and make every arrival feel special.

It’s not just the decorative elements that make your home’s entry feel like a breath of fresh air. “A neatly trimmed hedge, freshly swept path or pressure-washed steps instantly elevate your entry,” shares Jade. “A quick coat of paint on the front door or crisp white trims can make everything feel new.” Beyond the threshold, continue that feeling of comfort. “If you have a hall console, it’s the perfect place for candles, a small tree or other decorations,” says Jade.

Shop the look

‘Noelle’ berry wreath, 70cm
$144 (usually $240), Provincial Home Living

shop now

‘Cinta’ urn, $390, and boxwood topiary, $595/50cm, Provincial Home Living

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‘Alexis’ antique lantern,
$130, Provincial Home Living

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‘Welcome’ doormat,
$29, Provincial Home Living

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‘Nick’ ribbon in Red,
$5.60 (usually $8), Provincial Home Living

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, ‘Noelle’ eucalyptus garland,
$78 (usually $130), Provincial Home Living

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‘Alexis’ antique lantern,
$130, Provincial Home Living

shop now

‘Wye’ lantern,
$97.50 (usually $130), Provincial Home Living

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The post Outdoor Christmas decorations that will make your home shine this season appeared first on Home Beautiful.

More recipes from Skye McAlpine

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Pomegranate-glazed turkey

Easy beetroot salad recipe for Christmas: Colourful, fresh and make-ahead

Panettone Perduto: The luxurious Italian twist on French toast for your Christmas morning

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_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Christmas Companion’ by Skye McAlpine, published by Bloomsbury Publishing, $55.}

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More recipes from Skye McAlpine

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Panettone Perduto: The luxurious Italian twist on French toast for your Christmas morning

Pomegranate-glazed turkey

Black and gold cake

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_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Christmas Companion’ by Skye McAlpine, published by Bloomsbury Publishing, $55.}

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The post Easy beetroot salad recipe for Christmas: Colourful, fresh and make-ahead appeared first on Home Beautiful.

More recipes from Skye McAlpine

Previous

Panettone Perduto: The luxurious Italian twist on French toast for your Christmas morning

Easy beetroot salad recipe for Christmas: Colourful, fresh and make-ahead

Black and gold cake

Next

_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Christmas Companion’ by Skye McAlpine, published by Bloomsbury Publishing, $55.}

Be the first to read this story by subscribing to Home Beautiful magazine.

⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post Pomegranate-glazed turkey appeared first on Home Beautiful.

More recipes from Skye McAlpine

Previous

Pomegranate-glazed turkey

Easy beetroot salad recipe for Christmas: Colourful, fresh and make-ahead

Black and gold cake

Next

_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Christmas Companion’ by Skye McAlpine, published by Bloomsbury Publishing, $55.}

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⁠Have it delivered to your door!

The post Panettone Perduto: The luxurious Italian twist on French toast for your Christmas morning appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Tip These can be made up to 3 weeks in advance. To make a loaf, instead of cutting circles from the sponge in step 3, crumble all the sponge and soak in amaretto. Follow recipe and fold soaked sponge into your cassata ice-cream base. Set in a 25cm x 10cm loaf tin lined with non-stick baking paper with a 3cm rim. Scoop or slice to serve.

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The post Cassata ice-cream Christmas tree cones appeared first on Home Beautiful.

For more festive fare, try these cassata ice-cream sandwiches, this chocolate hazelnut ice-cream pandoro or check out our round-up of some of the best Christmas desserts.

Tip You can set the ice-cream in a tray and cut portions out to the size of the brandy snaps to serve.

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The post Eggnog brandy snap ice-cream cookies appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Tip Truffles keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

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The post Ice-cream chocolate rum and raisin truffles appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The biggest Christmas trends of 2025

Evergreen

A big trend I’m noticing in stores this year is what they’re calling the woodland or evergreen look, which is all about greens, earthy browns and warm tans. It works in every kind of home, whether yours is brick, weatherboard or contemporary.

Create the look by layering those greens and browns to create something that feels grounded and natural but still clean and timeless. A nature-inspired table with fresh hydrangeas in green and white would tie in so nicely with the Australian summer. This trend feels festive without being over the top.

Powder blue

Blue is a really big trend this year and it’s only getting bigger. I love the idea of bringing it in through ribbon – not just tied in bows, but cascading down the tree using wire. Velvet is my favourite because it feels so luxe, and in a light powder blue it strikes that perfect balance between wintry and summery.

It still feels fresh but has that nostalgic touch, especially when paired with silver ornaments or mercury glass baubles. If you want to do something crafty, I also love mixing in dried orange slices – blue and orange are complementary colours, so it adds a beautiful, natural element that feels really timeless.

Paper accordion trees

If you want to nod to the season without going all out, paper accordion trees are the way to go. They’re kid- and pet-friendly (since they’re just paper, there’s nothing to smash or break) and totally recyclable. Perfect for apartments or smaller homes, or if you’re heading away for the holidays but still want a festive touch. You can keep it neutral and minimal, go classic Christmas, or have fun with bold, bright colours, adding trees on consoles and stars hung in windows.

The paper accordion tree trend is really good for people who live in small spaces” Loui

Traditional

This year we’re seeing a big return to traditional Christmas, or what everyone’s calling ‘Ralph Lauren Christmas’. It’s that classic, heritage look with reds, greens, gold accents and plenty of tartan. In Australia, with our warmer climate and love of light, coastal spaces, it can feel heavy if it doesn’t suit your interior.

It works best in older terraces or cottages with character – places that already have that Victorian warmth. Whereas in modern homes, you might want to take cues from this trend rather than go all in.

Australiana

The Australiana theme is still around, with the kangaroos, koalas and wattle. I think it’s nice to have that nod to Australia, but sometimes it ends up feeling a bit more like an Australia tree rather than a Christmas tree.

Last year, I did a yellow tree inspired by a Martha Stewart one from the ’90s, with lemon picks, lemon ribbon and silver ornaments. It felt really different, and people seemed to love it, but I don’t know if it’s the most accessible look. Still, I think the yellow vibe is a modern, cheerful take on an Aussie summer Christmas.

Character christmas

It’s all about personality and play, with ornaments that celebrate the gifts, food and fun we share at this time of year. Skip the polar bears, deer and snow globes, and go for something more charismatic: cocktail glasses, prawns, Santa boots, even mini picture frames. Add a touch of lametta tinsel for sparkle and you’ve got a playful, fashion-forward tree that suits chic contemporary interiors or mid-century modern homes.

Coastal

There’s a focus on a coastal, ocean-inspired theme this year, which I love, but I’d stick to blues, browns and tans and avoid going full-on coral or jellyfish energy. I’ve seen festive jellyfish hanging ornaments with little mushroomhead shapes with beaded tails, and while they’re fun, I think it’s tricky to make them feel chic and Christmassy.

For that reason I’d avoid going too literal with animals or fauna on the tree. Stick to classic baubles and picks, because once you head down the animal path, it can get a bit rogue and lose that traditional Christmas feel.

Pink

Pink paired with red has been popular at Christmas for a few years, and globally it’s still a trend, but here in Australia we’re seeing it more on its own, with gold or forest green. Although there are a few brands with red and pink in their festive ranges.

I love pink, but we can play with it all year in homewares, so for Christmas I prefer something different. That’s why this year I’m loving blues, and next year I can see purples, magentas, silvers and greys coming in.

Gingerbread

I think the gingerbread theme is really fun for anyone who loves warm browns and cosy tones. It’s a bit cute without tipping too far into full-on winter territory, and it works really well in lots of homes because it’s neutral in tans and creams.

Kids love it, and you can go all out with gingerbread villages or little houses, which I think looks best when it feels authentic rather than too fake. Some people even go gingerbread crazy with dinnerware, but for me, I love it on the tree or as part of a little festive display. It just feels so warm and welcoming.

Burgundy

For a more chic and romantic look, burgundy is really coming through this year. We saw a lot of burgundy over winter, and I think it’s going to make its way onto Christmas trees too, especially in ribbons.

It gives such an elegant feel, perfect for a festive season that’s a little more grown-up and timeless. People are also loving glass hanging ornaments. They’re very chic and happening at the moment and bring that nostalgic feel.

You can follow Loui on Instagram and Tik Tok.

The post The biggest Christmas trends of 2025, according to Loui Burke appeared first on Home Beautiful.

You’ll love our edit of fabulous gifts to buy for everyone on your list from bakers, coffee makers and book curators. It’s time to deck the halls and spread some holiday cheer!

The ultimate shopping list of Christmas gift ideas

Jump to:

• Christmas gift ideas for entertainers and party-goers
• Christmas gift ideas for enthusiastic cooks
• Practical Christmas gift ideas
• Christmas gift ideas for fashionistas and beauty lovers
• Christmas gift ideas for budding gardeners
• Christmas gift ideas for home makers
• Christmas gift ideas for health and wellness lovers

Christmas gift ideas for entertainers and party-goers

01

Fazeek ‘Swirl’ coupes in Black and White

$65 (was $99)/set of 2, David Jones

Cheers to style! These champagne coupes are elegant, timeless and yet still whimsical thanks to a minimalist monochrome palette and swirled stripe pattern. Each coupe is handcrafted and has a 135ml capacity.

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02

Georg Jensen ‘Bloom’ mirror bowl

$170/petit, David Jones

This bowl perfectly combines form with function, creating a stylish centrepiece for your festive gatherings. Crafted from stainless steel, the asymmetrical curved design by Helle Damkjær was inspired by cherry blossoms in full bloom.

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03

Embroidered linen-blend placemats in Beige/Bows

$19.99 (was $24.99)/set of 2, H&M

Feminine and fun, these placemats feature a trendy bow design that is sure to delight your guests. The neutral linen-blend benefits from a splash of red, complementing a wide range of dinnerware colour palettes.

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04

‘Volute Lobster’ platter

$199, Maison Balzac

Over the past few years we’ve seen a lot of trends hit homewares but one of the most prevailing has certainly been whimsical design. A touch of whimsy in design creates delight and that’s certainly the case with this Maison Balzac platter, complete with a glass stand featuring lobster claws. Why not?

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05

Seed Heritage ‘Tavi’ rattan cloche

$159, The Iconic

Protect your alfresco feast from flies in style with this rattan cloche. The rattan design instantly adds texture to your tablescape while the loop handle ensures it’s easy to use. The diameter is 30cm while the height is 20cm.

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06

Green ‘Raffia’ glasses

$60/set of 4, In The Roundhouse

Made for summer celebrations, these statement green and woven glasses are the perfect gift for the entertainer in your life. The raffia detaches from the glass for easy cleaning, while adding effortless texture and colour to your table.

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07

Stainless steel ice cream bowls

$39.99, Brosa

Even ice cream can be served in style. Mimicking the style of a champagne coupe, with a thin stand, these stainless steel dessert cups are functional, durable and yet oh-so chic. Bon appetit!

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08

‘Provence Totem’ glasses

$139 (was 199)/set of 2, David Jones

Made for summer celebrations, these statement Sophie Lou Jacobsen glasses are the perfect gift for the entertainer in your life, with colourful bases inspired by totem poles and postmodern design.

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09

‘The Champagne Guide’ Edition Vll by Tyson Stelzer

$84 (was $120), David Jones

This is the ultimate guide to everything champagne, from how it is grown and made, to behind-the-scenes secrets. Perfectly for the bubbly little champagne connoisseur in your life or anyone looking for a stunningly chic coffee table book.

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10

Waterford crystal ‘mixology’ martini glass set

$689/set of 4 mixed 125ml designs, David Jones

Classic and timeless, these crystal Waterford martini glasses showcase a classic martini shape. The etched design on each glass is different, creating a lovely sense of visual interest while also avoiding any glass mix-ups. This luxury Christmas gift sure to be the star of holiday gatherings.

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11

Laurent Perrier ‘Cuvée rosé’ champagne

$175/750mL, Vintage Cellars

The dream gift for lovers of rosé champagne! Made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, this wine received 95 points from renowned wine writer and critic James Halliday, who loves the “cherry and strawberry flavours of the long, sustained palate.” It is considered the benchmark of all champagne rosés.

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12

Victrola automatic turntable in Green

$469.95, The Iconic

Give the gift of beloved music with this automatic turntable from Victrola. The product itself is compact, in a chic green shade and the automatic design means music will be ready at the push of a button, perfect for parties. Plus, who doesn’t love giving a gift that can lead to follow up gifts (vinyls, anyone?)

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Christmas gift ideas for enthusiastic cooks

13

Le Creuset signature round casserole dish in Garnet with Gold Knob

$624 (was $780)/28cm, David Jones

Le Creuset is the gold standard of cookware, fusing fabulous style and colour with serious French form and function. This 28cm-diameter casserole dish has two handles, a lid and of course features Le Creuset’s signature enamelled cast iron material. The deep, rich red colour is inspired by the wine-making region of the Côtes du Rhône in France.

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14

The ‘Olive’ bottle

$139, Maison Balzac

Add whimsy and charm to daily duties with this delightful olive oil bottle. There’s something charming about a bottle that takes its design cues from the fruit it is filled with. Maison Balzac’s playful ‘Olive’ bottle is studded with plump green olives made from opaque handblown Borosilicate glassware. This product is an ode to alfresco dining underneath the Mediterranean sun.

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15

Smeg ’50s Retro-Style’ espresso coffee machine in Pastel Blue

$549.95 (was $699), Kitchen Warehouse

What is better than waking up to the scent of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air? This espresso coffee machine is compact in design, perfectly suited to kitchens of any size. This retro coffee machine is made in Italy with an eye-catching design and pretty pastel palette.

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16

KitchenAid ‘Artisan’ tilt head stand mixer in Contour Silver

$678 (was $1049), David Jones

KitchenAid’s stand mixers are world-renowned and for good reason! With a durable tilt-head, ten mixing speeds and a range of accessories to whip up a meringue or knead dough, this stand mixer is a kitchen powerhouse. The stainless steel bowl and Silver stand mixer will look right at home in contemporary and modern spaces.

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17

Titanium ‘Always Pan’ pro

$235 (was $295)/27.6cm, From Our Place

Cook up a feast easily and safely with this non-toxic, high-performance titanium pan. The nonstick technology is coating-free, keeping toxins far away from your food. It is safe for temperatures up to 535°C, ensuring high-heat searing, roasting and stovetop-to-oven cooking. This pan comes with a lid and spatula.

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18

‘Pomodoro’ napkin set

$21.99 (was $54.99)/set of 4, Linen House

Summer style meets holiday cheer with this vine tomato and floral napkin set, the ultimate gift for those who love a pop of colour! Hand-painted on textured cotton slub with bright pink, red, orange and green hues, they truly are a festive feast for the eyes.

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19

Smeg x Dolce & Gabbana 50’s style 2 slice toaster in Blu Mediterraneo

$949 (was $1099), David Jones

Why not indulge in a little luxury for your everyday kitchen essentials? This collaboration between Smeg and Dolce & Gabbana has resulted in a two-slice toaster that is more than just functional. It will be the centrepiece of your kitchen, with a European-inspired design that commands attention and admiration.

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20

‘Temple’ cake stand in Light Horn

$380, Dinosaur Designs

This round, resin cake platter will elevate baked goods and complete any stylish tablescape. It features a lipped edge to help prevent slipping and sliding and has a diameter of 33cm. It’s available in six stunning colours but Light Horn is our personal favourite.

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21

Le Creuset mini casserole with Star Knob in White

$650/24cm, Myer

With a sleek white finish and a gorgeous gold star on top, this Le Creuset casserole dish is the perfect cookware to inspire festive cheer. The enamel cast iron finish ensures durability and easy cleaning. The 14cm diameter has a 700ml capacity.

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22

Georg Jensen ‘Alfredo’ salt and pepper set

$315, David Jones

With a gently curved, tall design, this Georg Jensen salt and pepper shaker set will look stylish on any table. The set has a sleek and modern mirror polished stainless steel finish. The adjustable grind technology creates the perfect grain size.

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23

KSM180 tilt-head stand mixer in Evergreen

$949, (was $1,149), KitchenAid

KitchenAid’s stand mixers are world-renowned and for good reason! With a durable tilt-head, ten mixing speeds and a range of accessories to whip up a meringue or knead dough, this stand mixer is a kitchen powerhouse. With a deep, forest green stand and a walnut wood bowl, the Evergreen stand mixer will add an organic touch of natural beauty to your kitchen.

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24

‘Dome Gen 2’ outdoor oven in Bone

$2,999, Gozney

The culinary options are almost endless with this wood-fired outdoor oven. Your loved ones will enjoy roasting, smoking, steaming and baking (and if you’re lucky, you’ll get to reap the benefits of your present, too). This is the Gen 2 ‘Dome’, back and better than ever. The stand is available for $849.

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Practical Christmas gift ideas

25

‘Bronte’ bookmark in Cognac

$59, Oroton

The perfect Christmas gift idea for the reader in your life, this bookmark is crafted from premium pebble leather then finished with a foil-embossed Oroton logo. The smooth leather tassel is a timeless design. You’ll never lose your place again!

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26

Fieldbar ‘Drinks Box’ in Sea Boat Blue

$289, Aura Home

Keep it cool at your Christmas celebrations this summer with the Fieldbar drinks box. This hardcase cooler box is designed for superior thermal performance. With a sleek, modern design, this cooler is durable, versatile and (best of all) easy to carry with a leather handle. It has a 10L capacity.

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27

Baina body wash

$65, Lee Matthews

This is the perfect gift for someone who is hard to buy for, or someone you don’t know very well. The nourishing, aromatic body wash is luxurious enough to feel absolutely gorgeous on the skin. It cleanses and hydrates at the same time, with a soft sandalwood scent.

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28

Georg Jensen ‘Sky’ drink bottle in Stainless Steel

$115, David Jones

There’s no doubt about it: a reusable water bottle is the latest trendy accessory. Instead of gifting someone the same old Stanley that everyone else has, why not opt for a more elevated option? Designed by Aurélien Barbry, this stainless steel water bottle is functional, hardy and absolutely beautiful with an asymmetrical design and a natural calf leather strap for easy carrying. Best of all? It’s dishwasher safe.  

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29

Leif ‘Lemon Myrtle’ body lotion

$56/500mL, David Jones

Nourish your skin with this luxurious, moisturising body lotion that has envigorating scents of Australian native botanicals. At once zesty and calming, the aroma of lemon myrtle, sandalwood and eucalyptus will have you smelling fresh while the lotion itself will leave skin feeling soft and supple.  

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30

Fortnum & Mason ‘Jasmine Pearls’ green tea

$30.95, David Jones

Have a tea connoisseur on your Christmas list? This high-grade Jasmine Pearl tea is from the Fujian Province in China with a delicate but aromatic floral taste for the perfect brew. Available in a miniature Classic World Tin, this enchanting tea is a must-have!  

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31

Swatch ‘Casual Blue Quartz’ watch

$115, Myer

This design by Swatch is sleek yet interesting, with a solar spectrum glass that that complements the cool blue tone of the transparent strap. The material is plastic, making this the perfect watch for those on-the-go and active people.

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32

Sudio ‘R3’ over-ear bluetooth wireless headphones

$64 (was $79.95), The Iconic

Your loved ones can listen to their favourite songs, audiobooks and podcasts with these wireless bluetooth headphones. They are designed for optimal sound isolation and have up to 35 hours of uninterrupted playtime. Comfortable and versatile, made for those on-the-go.

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33

Country Road ‘Elysia’ lunch box in Pear

$89.95, Country Road

Made from a durable cotton canvas with an insulated lining, this lunch bag blends classic stripey style with all the function needed to keep food fresh throughout the day. It also includes a water bottle holder.

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34

‘Hastings’ picnic blanket in Evergreen Stripe

$179, Country Road

Make the most of Australia’s glorious weather with a durable, heavy-duty, water-resistant and yet stylish picnic blanket. Available in an Evergreen stripe, this picnic blanket perfectly blends into serene green settings.

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35

Cotton ‘Heritage’ zip canvas tote in Pink Meringue

$79.95, Country Road

This is a practical yet delightfully nostalgic present. These Country Road canvas totes were a must-haven item in the mid-to-late 2000s. Indulge your inner teen with the heritage tote. Available in Pink Meringe, Black, Forest Green, Chambray and Navy.

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36

Allkinds ‘Going Places’ set in Totally Clear

$27.74 (was $36.99), Myer

Your kids will be packed and ready for any and all travel with this bag of toiletry essentials. The set has a mini body wash, body cream, sponge and eye mask all coming in a pretty blue re-usable bathroom bag.

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37

‘Everyday’ small duffle in Natural

From $195, July

Practical gifts are sometimes the best, with this everyday duffle bag from July a sturdy companion. It is machine washable for easy care and maintenance, with detachable and adjustable shoulder straps and an internal 14 inch laptop pocket with rib based padding.

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38

‘Voyager’ weekender in Forest

$599, Oroton

For those who prefer a weekend adventure, a stylish but functional travel bag is a must and with luxurious leather, spacious compartments and brass touches, Oroton has all your travel needs covered.

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39

‘AirPods’ pro 3

$429, Apple

Give the gift of high quality audio and noise cancellation with Apple’s AirPods pro 3. This is the perfect gift for the music and tech lover in your life. You can even add a personalised engraving on the case for free!

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Christmas gift ideas for fashionistas and beauty lovers

40

‘Seaside’ ring

$139, Kirstin Ash

Made with a sterling silver base and plated in 18k gold vermeil, a historical French plating method, this ring is affordable yet gorgeous. It features a series of hand drawn seashells across the band, making it a thoughtful gift for the ocean lovers in your life.

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41

Luda ‘Alemais’ midi dress in Blue

$490, David Jones

This midi dress has a fitted bodice with a slightly flared silhouette, with a round neckline and puffed sleeves. It is made from 100% European linen with a summery, sensational colour and pattern reminiscent of Mediterannean days.

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42

Oroton ‘Florence’ small shoulder bag in Currant

$429, The Iconic

This timeless shoulder bag design packs a punch of serious style thanks to the gorgeous deep, rich red shade of the leather and lining. It’s also available in Clotted Cream and Black but we think that pop of red adds a festive touch, no?

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43

Lunar sunglasses in Tan

$154 (was $220), Le Specs

Stylish sunglasses are an evergreen gift idea, and with Australian Christmases set in summer, they’re absolutely perfect. These narrow sunglasses are sleek, stylish and so on-trend. They provide UVA/UVB protection and are available in four colours.

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44

GHD ‘Chronos’ max wide plate hair straightener in White

$495, David Jones

GHD offers a gold standard of heat styling and their straighteners are a cult-classic product. This straightener, in White, has an 85% larger plate and is ideal for long, thick and curly hair (although it will of course suit other hair types too).

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45

‘Solo’ shadow eye colour

$42, Merit Beauty

Merit Beauty has eyeshadow in colours and finishes that suit everyone. The eyeshadows are available in glossy Sheens and sleek Mattes, perfect for whatever makeup look you’re going for. Add a glimmering gold, soft plum or striking neutral to your eyelids.

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46

Natio ‘Lunar’ eau de parfum

$39.95, Myer

The Lunar eau de parfum has top notes of grapefruit, bergamot, rosemary and pepper. These create a calming aroma, deepened by comforting cashmere wood, papyrus, apple and nutmeg with final touches of musk, amber and cedarwood. It’s at once citrusy and woodsy.

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47

‘Signature Lip’ lipstick in Ginger

From $33.60, Merit Beauty

The search for your signature lipstick is over! Merit’s ‘Signature Lip’ lightweight lipstick is available in 17 shades, in Satin and Matte finishes. Our pick is Ginger, a soft peach shade perfect for everyday use and to subtly enhance your pout.

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48

Oliver Peoples x Khaite oval-frame sunglasses in Burgundy

$1065, Net-A-Porter

This collaboration between iconic brands Oliver Peoples and Khaite has resulted in sleek and stylish accessories. This oval frame is almost retro in style with chunky arms that are oh-so-cool.

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49

Pyjama shirt and shorts set in Powder Pink

$49.99, H&M

These summer pyjamas feature a soft and delightfully demure shade of powder pink. They are also available in black, grey and blue.

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50

Roxanne Assoulin ‘The Slider- gold-tone crystal necklace

$225, Net-A-Porter

Add sparkle to someone’s life with this stunning gold-tone necklace, with five sleek rings attached that are encrusted with glinting and glimmering crystals. These are showstopping while still looking sleek and elegant in its simplicity. You can mix and match with more charms (future Christmas gift ideas, anyone?) or leave as is.

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51

Classic square neck one piece in Black

$229, David Jones

A dip in the pool is essential this summer, and your loved ones (or you!) will feel comfortable in this flattering and stylish design. With a square neck, scoop back and adorable bows upon the shoulders, this is a summer staple.

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52

Chloé ‘Atelier Des Fleurs’ eau de parfum in Nuit D’Oranger

$236, David Jones

The Fleurs de Nuit collection takes inspiration from the fragrance of three flowers whose perfume changes as night falls. The Nuit D’Oranger eau de parfum has a delightful orange blossom scent, reminiscent of the Mediterranean basin where Chloé founder, Gaby Aghion, was born.

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53

Large ‘Rock’ bangle in Grass

$105, Dinosaur Designs

Your loved ones will make a bold and bright statement with these gorgeous resin bangles from Dinosaur Designs. Available in two sizes and 33 colours, there is truly a shade for everyone. Why not mix and match a few?

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Christmas gift ideas for budding gardeners

54

‘Pool Ring’ in Cotton Candy

$34.99, SunnyLife

The benefit of Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere is long days spent lounging in the backyard. Cool off with the SunnyLife pool ring, available in seven fun colours. We especially love the Cotton Candy version, which features sections of clear ring to showcase the confetti inside.

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55

‘The Tulip Garden’ by Polly Nicholson

$59.95, Dymocks

This hardcover book showcases rare tulips in the English country garden of tulip expert Polly Nicholson. This is perfect for the budding gardener in your life (or anyone in the market for a new coffee table book!).

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56

&Sunday ‘Scallop’ inflatable round paddling pool in Olive, The Iconic

$179.95

The benefit of Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere is long days spent lounging in the backyard. Cool off with the &Sunday round paddling pool, in a stylish scalloped pattern.

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57

Mist sprayer in Brass

$104.50, Aura Home

Whether your loved ones have a thriving and spacious garden to attend to, or simply a few potted plants in their home, this mist sprayer will give their plants much needed hydration this summer. With a gorgeous brass finish, it’s a garden accessory that’s as stylish as it is practical.

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58

‘Classic Clog’ in Blue Frost

$79.99, Crocs

Comfortable, versatile and easy to clean: there’s no better shoe to garden in than Crocs. Best of all, they are really trending with the younger generation right now!

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Christmas gift ideas for home makers

59

Home Beautiful magazine subscription

$89.99, Magshop

We love receiving our Home Beautiful magazine in the post each month – there’s something a little old-school about it and it brings the promise of stolen moments curled up with a cup of tea. Subscribe now and never miss an issue of your favourite magazine.

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60

Business & Pleasure Co The ‘Amalfi’ umbrella in Crew Mimosa Yellow Stripe

$379, The Iconic

Soak up the sun then sit back in the shade with this generoualy-sized and stylish umbrella. The yellow and white stripe is summery and chic but this product is available in five other colours.

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61

Tall ‘Bobbin’ candlestick holder in Cherry

$109/24cm, Addison Ross

Bobbin style furniture might trace its roots to 17th-century Jacobean England but it’s certainly proved timeless as it is trending in homewares right now. These glossy candlestick holders are available in 8 colours. All that’s left to do is add a tapered candlestick!

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62

‘Alana’ small trinket dish in Dark Olive

$39.95, Country Road

Somewhere to put your treasured trinkets? What a wonderful gift idea. This is made from stoneware with a hand-dipped glaze, ensuring a glossy finish. It is available in two colours and is perfect for storing small keepsakes.

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63

Oil burner in Beige

$99.95, Country Road

Made from solid marble, this is a luxurious Christmas gift idea for anyone looking to make their home a little cosier. Place a tea light at the base of the oil burner and then add 3-6 drops of your favourite essential oil at the top for a fragrance that will last hours.

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64

‘Kyler’ table lamp in White

$62 (was $89.95), Freedom

Ambient lighting is so important and table lamps are a wonderful way to incorporate ambience, as well as task lighting, in the home. This lamp features a shade with a waved design, very on trend right now.

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65

Trudon ‘Libra’ candle

$520/800g, Myer

Got a loved one born in late September or early-mid October? They might just be a Libra. This candle is named for the Libra constellation, not necessarily the astrological star sign, so it could suit budding astronomers, astrologers or anyone who just loves a high quality candle. With fragrance notes of amber, cedar and tonka bean, this luxurious candle will delight the senses.

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66

‘Byron Bay’, Assouline

$185, David Jones

There’s nothing like getting back to nature, especially in Byron Bay where surf and creativity combine. With photography capturing the charming spirit of Byron Bay, the beach lovers in your life will adore this coffee table book.

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67

‘Milos’ bath towel set in Sand

$199, Aura Home

There’s nothing better than super soft towels, especially these ones from Aura Home made from sustainable cotton in a reversible design that’s like a comforting hug. The set includes two bath and hand towels, plus a bath mat.

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68

Hamptons Homes

$44.99, Are Media Books

There’s something about Hamptons homes and East-Coast American architecture that continues to inspire, and in Home Beautiful’s first-ever book, we take a deep dive into a collection of our favourite homes with plenty of photography and stories in this gorgeous keepsake.

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69

French flax linen napkins in Ivy Stripe

$55/set of 4, I Love Linen

These French flax linen napkins have a soft but textured elegance, with a classic striped design available in six colours, just perfect for picnics and outdoor gatherings.

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70

‘Calo’ bath robe in Charcoal

$79.95 (was $159), Country Road

‘Tis the season for rest and relaxation and this cotton bathrobe from Country Road blends snug comfort and breathability, featuring an amazing towel-like texture that’ll spoil your loved ones rotten!

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71

Muslin throw in Oatmeal & Olive, Bed Threads

$240, Bed Threads

This throw blanket, made from 100% French flax linen, will look and feel beautiful no matter whether your loved ones keep it draped over their couch or at the end of their bed.

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72

‘Agra’ rug in Salmon

From $5,300, Armadillo

Versatility is always a winner in our books. This rug is made with a deep cut pile and is available in three sizes, all with the option of six standard colours and 47 custom colours.

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73

‘Victoria’ striped linen tablecloth in Dusty Rosewood

$440/160cm x 260cm, Rebecca Udall

This tablecloth adds a touch of luxe to a homewares staple as it’s made of pure linen, from Belgian grown flax. It also has a mitred hem and a classic ticking stripe pattern with a jagged twist.

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74

‘Paros’ bath towel in Limestone

$59.95, Aura Home

This towel is an excellent option for your more eco-conscious friends and family, as it’s made from pure sustainable cotton that is ethically sourced.

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Christmas gift ideas for health and wellness lovers

75

‘YR Studio’ reformer pilates machine in Dusty Rose

$4,195 (now $3,995), Your Reformer

Help your loved one enjoy their favourite workout from the comfort of their own home with this sleek and compact reformer pilates machine. Available in four stylish colours, our pick is Dusty Rose.

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76

‘Eleos’ aromatique hand balm

$45/75mL, Aesop

Give the gift of soft skin with this intensely hydrating balm. With cedar atlas, patchouli and clove bud providing aromas of herbaceous, woody and spicy notes, it’s a total sensory experience.

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77

Therabody ‘Theragun relief’

$199, Shaver Shop

There’s no greater gift than comfort, pleasure and relief. This massage gun can help relieve aches and pains, while reducing tension and helping to increase circulation.

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78

MoveActive pilates ball in Limoncello

$20/22cm, The Iconic

Help your loved ones take their pilates practise to the next level with this 100% PVC pilates ball. Best of all, it’s available in an aesthetic yellow shade.

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79

‘Secret Yoga Club: Self-empowerment through the magic of yoga’ by Gabrielle Hales

$16.99/ebook, Booktopia

The first rule of yoga club is: you do not talk about yoga club. This ebook will help you keep the secret.

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80

Business & Pleasure Co The ‘Hemingway’ flask in Sage Green

$79, The Iconic

Staying hydrated has never looked so stylish! This flask from Business & Pleasure Co has a 750mL capacity and is available in four chic shades. Our favourite is Sage Green.

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81

Silk eye mask in Natural

$60, Cultiver

There’s no greater gift than helping someone achieve a deep, restorative sleep and that’ll be all the more comfortable thanks to Cultiver’s flip eye mask. It’s crafted from pure mulberry silk so will feel sensational on the face.

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It doesn’t matter whether you’re planning something traditional, like a glazed ham or roast turkey, or want to mix it up with whole roasted cauliflower or baked salmon, there’s something here to suit everybody’s tastebuds.

Jump to recipes:

• Christmas ham recipes
• Christmas turkey recipes
• Christmas pork recipes
• Christmas seafood recipes
• Vegetariam Christmas recipes
• Christmas side dishes
• Christmas desserts
• Cherry Christmas desserts
• Christmas wreath desserts
• Pavlova recipes
• Trifle recipes
• Fruit cake recipes
• Christmas nibbles recipes
• Christmas cocktail recipes

Christmas mains

Choosing a Christmas main course really comes down to whether you’re a stickler for tradition or want to try something a little lighter and a little less meat-centric. Will you be making ham again as tradition dictates, or will you branch out with a succulent pork roast, or perhaps go totally rogue by serving whole roast cauliflower or sticky baked salmon? The choice is yours.

Christmas ham recipes

Ham’s versatility makes it an Aussie favourite at Christmastime. You can either make it on the day, or make it ahead of time and enjoy it cold, mixed through a salad or served with crusty bread, dips, cheese and salad. The beauty of ham is that it’s relatively hard to mess up – it’s quite forgiving and difficult to overcook. It’s also important to store ham correctly to ensure the leftovers last as long as possible. To keep ham on the bone, wrap it in a seasoned cloth and place it in the coldest part of the fridge where it can last up to 2 weeks. For even more longevity, cut the ham into pieces and store it in an airtight container in the freezer (where it can last up to a month). 

01

Sticky peach and pepper-glazed ham

This glazed ham dish combines the rich, smoky flavour of ham with a sweet, glossy glaze made from peach jam, fresh ginger, honey, brown sugar, Chinese cooking wine or dry sherry and rice wine vinegar. Accompanied by caramelised peaches, it’s hard to beat.

Get the recipe

02

Pear, cinnamon & clove caramel glazed ham recipe

Make a celebratory statement with this show-stopping glazed ham recipe flavoured with pear, cinnamon and cloves. Perfect for Christmas lunch or dinner.

Get the recipe

03

Ginger and lime glazed ham

Combine ginger beer, fresh ginger and marmalade to make a quick and tasty glaze. This recipe also contains tips on how to store your ham correctly so it lasts as long as possible!

Get the recipe

Christmas turkey recipes

Roast turkey is a classic, quintessential Christmas dish that dates back all the way to the 1500s. It may not be as popular as ham but it’s still a top seller. Because turkey is a relatively lean meat it’s important to periodically baste it in pan juices to prevent it from drying out. Traditional roast turkey is commonly served with cranberry sauce, roasted or mashed potatoes and steamed greens. 

04

Easy slow-roasted turkey with stuffing

If you’re a traditionalist, you’ll love this Women’s Weekly recipe for roast turkey with stuffing. The stuffing contains a mouth-watering mix of butter, caramelised onions, prosciutto, polenta, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, cranberries and almonds.

Get the recipe

05

Roast turkey with lemon, cranberry and thyme stuffing

Nothing screams Christmas dinner quite like a magnificent roast turkey in the centre of the table. This recipe features a crowd-pleasing stuffing made from lemon, cranberry and thyme, the fragrance of which will permeate your entire home as it cooks.

Get the recipe

06

Turkey, chicken & cranberry terrine

It doesn’t get much better than turkey, wrapped in bacon! This tantalising celebration centrepiece will feed a crowd.

Get the recipe

Christmas pork recipes

The secret to a cracking Christmas? Serve roast pork. Crackling off the top of the roast pork can create more competition at the dinner table than even the most expensive pack of bonbons. To get the perfect crackling, dry out the fat as much as possible either by patting it with a paper towel or by storing it in the fridge uncovered for at least four hours or, if time allows, overnight. Apply plenty of salt to the fat before placing it in the oven.

07

Roast leg of pork with crunchy stuffing & apple gravy

Is it really Christmas Day if there isn’t a fight over the last piece of pork crackling? This classic recipe contains detailed instructions to ensure your crackling turns out crispy and crunchy. There’s even extra crispy bits, in the form of crunchy stuffing balls made from apple, breadcrumbs, walnuts and sage.

Get the recipe

08

Rolled roast pork loin with apple and thyme

Served with roast potatoes and a simple salad, this elegant take on a classic roast pork recipe makes for easy preparation and around half the cooking time, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the day.

Get the recipe

09

Roast pork with leek & walnut seasoned stuffing

This festive main will definitely lure your dinner guests to the table. The stuffing, which is made by gently sweating leek with speck, walnuts and breadcrumbs gives this pork roast a delicate, mouth-watering flavour.

Get the recipe

Christmas seafood recipes

Getting the whole family together is a good excuse to go out and enjoy the freshest seafood you can get your hands on. Everything from prawns to freshly shucked oysters are a real Christmas treat. Planning to trek down to the fish market ahead of Christmas Day? Check out these tips for buying the freshest possible seafood.

10

Quick baked salmon with orange, dill and pistachio kernels

Served with a sweet sauce, which heroes the citrus tang of orange and the taste of dill, this delicious baked salmon has a scattering of crunchy pistachios on top. It takes less than an hour to make so it’s the perfect dish for busy festive celebrations.

Get the recipe

11

Puttanesca-style salmon traybake

This salmon tray bake has all the hallmarks of an ideal dish for Christmas Day – simple yet impressive and enough to feed a crowd. Taken from Ottolenghi’s book Comfort, it’s bursting with punchy flavour and has an element that can be made ahead.

Get the recipe

12

Garlic prawns in butter, chilli & parsley

The secret to nailing this recipe is in the prawns. Select small, sweet school prawns so that once they’re cooked you can eat the soft shells and tails. No peeling required!

Get the recipe

13

Honey soy marinated whole baked salmon

Salmon is at its peak in Australia in late autumn to early spring, but this succulent whole baked salmon recipe can be enjoyed any time of year. Serve to family and friends on a statement platter to form the centrepiece at a special celebration or gathering.

Get the recipe

14

Coriander-seed, honey and lime roasted salmon

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to a glazed ham this year, try this sticky, spicy whole baked salmon. A sauce made from crushed garlic, tamari (or soy sauce) and sriarcha give this delicate fish lashings of flavour.

Get the recipe

15

Dressed oysters with radish & cucumber salad

Fresh oysters always go down a treat on Christmas Day. This recipe doesn’t overpower the natural flavours of the oyster, but enhances them with a touch of vinegar and garlic which is then topped with crunchy cucumber, celery and radish.

Get the recipe

Vegetarian Christmas recipes

According to Roy Morgan research, almost 2.5 million Australians are vegetarian or mostly eat vegetarian food. That’s a lot of people! Keep meat out of your Christmas main by embracing hearty salads and one versatile vegetable in particular: cauliflower. It carves just like any other traditional roast and is just as delicious.

16

Whole roasted spiced cauliflower

Cauliflower is such an amazing all-rounder. Not only is it budget-friendly, it’s also quite hearty when roasted whole. It makes an ideal centrepiece for a meat-free Christmas, and it’s sure to be so popular you might want to roast not one, but two, whole cauliflowers!

Get the recipe

Christmas side dishes

Ok, so the mains have been decided. Now it’s time to rally together the supporting cast of salads and vegies. With temperatures soaring in December, nothing quite beats a refreshing summer salad – or the tangy burst of freshly harvested heirloom tomatoes treated simply with a drizzle of high quality olive oil or vinaigrette. Other options include roast vegies such as potatoes or carrots to round out the meal.

17

Classic crunchy coleslaw

Take the humble coleslaw to new heights with this recipe and display in a glass bowl to create the same showstopping effect. With a prep time of only 15 minutes, it’s also a breeze to bring together at the last minute if you’ve just found out you’re expecting a few more people.

Get the recipe

18

Roasted cauliflower, haloumi and zucchini salad

Slow-roasted cauliflower and gently seared vegetables, including zucchini and asparagus, shine in this vegetarian salad which can be served either as a light meal or side.

Get the recipe

19

Potato, squash & pumpkin gratin

A potato bake is always a winner and is sure to please the troops on Christmas Day. This one adds squash and pumpkin for extra goodness. It’s the ultimate comfort food that is perfect paired with a meat dish such as turkey or ham.

Get the recipe

20

Perfectly roasted gin and orange carrots

Pair your main with this dish, which combines carrots with the rich flavours of orange wedges, butter, honey and a good splash of gin. Use heirloom carrots to elevate the dish to the next level for Christmas.

Get the recipe

21

Crispy roast potatoes

Cook the perfect, crunchy roast potatoes with our recipe for crispy, salt and vinegar roast potatoes.

Get the recipe

22

Brown butter carrots with walnuts & cauliflower sauce

Sweet carrots are an excellent side dish to freshen the palette after consuming Christmas’s heavier mains. The perfect accompaniment to roast chicken, pork, turkey or ham.

Get the recipe

23

Heirloom tomato salad with grilled zucchini

We love heirloom tomatoes! Considered by many as the best tomatoes for growing, this simple and wholesome salad recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the lush flavour of homegrown and a level up from eating them simply with a sprinkle of salt straight from the garden.

Get the recipe

Christmas desserts

A showstopping Christmas dessert is always a good idea. And the best place to start is by letting seasonal fruit inspire you: fresh berries, cherries, mangoes, passionfruit, watermelon and lemons are all at their best in December. Bake them in a pie, place them atop a pavlova or sneak them into the layers of a decadent trifle. Or, keep it simple and serve a glorious fruit salad with a side of custard. The perfect palate cleanser to chase down a hearty roast.

24

Chocolate hazelnut ice-cream pandoro

This frozen dessert from the Women’s Weekly kitchen is ideal for Australia’s Christmas in summer. A hollowed out pandoro is filled with hazelnut spread, raspberry jam, salted caramel ice-cream and is served with raspberries that are sprinkled with icing sugar.

Get the recipe

25

Red plum and blackberry pie

This pie, featuring a vermillion pairing of juicy plums and blackberries, will sweetly round off any dinner party or special occasion meal.

Get the recipe

26

Cassata ice-cream sandwiches

This beautiful recipe for ice-cream sandwiches with a twist is so pretty, it’ll make a show-stopping centrepiece for a festive feast.

Get the recipe

27

Eton-mess cheesecake

Celebrating berries, meringue and sweet cream cheese, it’s the perfect pudding to serve at a party.

Get the recipe

Cherry Christmas desserts

28

Gluten-free cherry meringue pie

Light-as-air meringue tops a tart cherry filling and crunchy cookie crust.

Get the recipe

29

Cherry custard tart

Cherries and custard are both Christmas staples. Bring them together in this tart featuring a crumbly, pastry base. Making this dessert is a labour of love that will be rewarded with empty plates and happy tummies.

Get the recipe

30

Pink lady apple and cherry pie

This sweet pink lady apple and cherry pie uses frozen cherries, so it’s a recipe that can be enjoyed all year round (and not just at Christmas).

Get the recipe

Christmas wreath desserts

Want to take Christmas dessert to the next level? Make it wreath-shaped! For these desserts, a bundt tin is your best friend – perfect for cakes, sweet breads and even jelly. Pavlova is another dessert that can be adapted into a wreath shape, simply dollop the meringue onto some baking paper in a circle before baking it and voila!

31

Biscoff swirl bundt cake

Embrace the Biscoff trend and serve up this Biscoff bundt cake as the finale to your festive feast. Layered with crushed Biscoff, it’s served with Biscoff spread. Divine!

Get the recipe

32

Stollen wreath cake

Once baked and dusted with icing sugar, this Christmas wreath cake will look incredible in the centre of the table – and will surely complement other seasonal sweets including pavlova or a trifle.

Get the recipe

33

Pavlova wreath

Pavlova is the ultimate Christmas dessert, and this beautiful, wreath-shaped recipe deserves a spot right in the centre of the table.

Get the recipe

Pavlova recipes

A classic pavlova is the ultimate Australian Christmas dessert. The delicate base is the perfect vehicle for all kinds of fruits and toppings, so you can really customise it to suit your family’s tastes. One way to mix up the classic dessert is to put cherries on top – literally! And why not take it a step further by giving it an all-round black forest flair?

34

Strawberry and roasted stone fruit pavlova

This recipe creates the ultimate pavlova that you’ll be returning to each year as the weather warms, especially at Christmas time. Created by head chef Dan Cooper from Chiswick restaurant in Sydney’s Woollahra, it’s a fresh take on an Aussie Christmas classic.

Get the recipe

35

White chocolate pavlova

Looking to feed a crowd? This double-decker pavlova will please everyone with the addition of liqueur-marinated strawberries and a dusting of grated white chocolate. Pile it high for a show-stopping centrepiece.

Get the recipe

36

Black forest pavlova

In this fun on a traditional pavlova recipe, more-ish cherry syrup oozes its way down soft meringue peaks, melding with the rich flavours of dark chocolate and whipped cream to form the most decadent festive dessert.

Get the recipe

Trifle recipes

Nothing grabs more attention on the Christmas table quite like a perfectly layered trifle. In a clear trifle dish, it’s a dessert that commands attention and invites you to delve into its layers to indulge in a journey of goodness. Just be sure to dip that spoon all the way to the bottom to enjoy the naughty-but-nice liqueur-laced cake.

37

Rosé & vanilla zabaglione trifle recipe

This decadent trifle is sure to impress! And while the recipe does contain alcohol (in the form of botritys, or dessert wine) and rose jelly, these can easily be swapped out for milk and raspberry jelly crystals to create a completely child-friendly version.

Get the recipe

38

Limoncello sponge finger trifle recipe

A quintessentially Australian celebration dish, mastering this simple trifle recipe will give you a crowd-pleasing dessert that makes an impressive centrepiece.

Get the recipe

39

Grilled fruit trifle with panettone

The magic of this easy-to-make trifle is all in the assemblage. There’s no waiting for jelly to set or baking sponge cake from scratch. Simply douse panettone in Cointreau and layer in grilled peaches and generous dollops of mascarpone.

Get the recipe

Fruit cake recipes

For the traditionalists, it’s not really Christmas if fruit cake doesn’t make an appearance at some stage of the proceedings. This moist cake needs to be made ahead of time and the making of it is often part of families’ Christmas rituals, where multiple generations will come together to make the cake. Perfect with custard or on its own.

40

Chocolate and citrus fruit cake

Take your Christmas cake to a whole new level with this cake, a twist on the traditional version with the addition of chocolate and hazelnuts. For chocoholics among us, it also comes served with chocolate sauce.

Get the recipe

41

Fig fruit cake with caramelised marzipan

This traditional fruit cake is the perfect end to the Christmas meal and is also a handy snack to have at the ready during the festive season. Best of all, if it’s kept in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 6 weeks.

Get the recipe

Christmas nibbles recipes

When the whole family is in town, there’s no shortage of mouths to feed. Keep tummies full between main meals with a selection of fuss-free yet incredibly tasty nibblies.

42

Pork scratchings with spiced apple sauce

Can’t get enough of pork crackling? Make your own (without having to do an entire roast) with this crispy, crunchy snack recipe.

Get the recipe

43

Grazing platter

One way to quickly and easily feed a crowd is by creating a cheese platter or grazing board. This lets everyone choose exactly what they want, and allows you to step away from the stove and kick back with a slice of cheese and a glass of vino. It’s a win-win.

Get the recipe

44

Fig and almond pastries

Portable snacks are a must at Christmas time, especially to refuel those backyard cricketers. Pile these sweet pastry parcels on a platter on the back deck and watch them disappear, demolished by ravenous kids in seconds.

Get the recipe

45

Smoked salmon blinis with whipped ricotta and chives

Blinis are a staple party starter for a reason. Made by topping tiny pancakes with tasty morsels, they can be delicately held in one hand and eaten easily in one bite. 

Get the recipe

46

Almond brittle truffles

Sugared almonds are often shared during celebratory events. This recipe takes the old classic and turns them into a decadent truffle you can share as a take-home gift to your guests (or simply as an accompaniment to an after-dinner coffee).

Get the recipe

Christmas cocktail recipes

Don’t forget a drink to get you through it all. Christmas is a joy, but some parts of it can be stressful (particularly if you’re hosting!) An icy cold, Christmas-inspired tipple will go down a treat.

47

Frozen Cherry Christmas cocktail

This very cherry cocktail is perfect for the upcoming Christmas season. The key is to select good quality cherry cordial (Australian-owned Billson’s Cherry Cordial is a great option). Finally, don’t forget to garnish with a fresh cherry and pomegranate seeds.

Get the recipe

48

Classic champagne cocktail

From the team at Chiswick Woolahra, ring in the silly season with this classy champagne cocktail. It’s simple to prepare ahead when hosting a crowd, and it makes a splash with a little bit of bitters and a whole lot of bubbles.

Get the recipe

49

Frozen margarita

There’s never a better time to dust off your cocktail glassware and press it into service! This frozen margarita recipe is a twist on the classic margarita recipe and is a real party starter.

Get the recipe

50

Pimm’s peach cocktail

The perfect accompaniment to your baked Christmas ham, harness the taste of summer with this deliciously sweet peach cocktail that celebrates seasonal stone fruit, baked in Pimm’s syrup.

Get the recipe

4 fab festive cocktails to whip up at this year’s Christmas gathering

The post 50 fabulous Christmas recipes to inspire a memorable festive feast appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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The post Strawberry cranberry frozen souffles appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Tip Pandoro can be filled up to a week in advance. The pandoro will need time to soften before serving.

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The post Raspberry limoncello bomb appeared first on Home Beautiful.

We’re looking for Christmas decorations that don’t assault the eyes or add chaos to your home, but fit right in while adding the right amount of Christmas joy. There’s a balance of natural tones and vibrant pops of colour across our best Christmas tree decorations, Christmas tables settings, wreaths and ornaments for the festive home. We love mixing new with old and hand-made decorations when getting ready for Christmas.

Big W has a habit of creating small collections of thoughtful Christmas decor that appeals to the eco-minded, junk-resisting home decorators among us, but who don’t want to break the bank. There’s plenty of tinsel out there, but there are plenty of options for the more conscious shopper as well. We’re rather focus on putting something special under the tree. Much of Big W’s Christmas collection is priced at $10 or below. And we can get behind ideas like making their decorations 100 percent glitter free. 

Here are the most covetable ideas from Big W’s Christmas range in 2025

Our top picks from Big W’s Christmas collection

Christmas trees

Colorado Pine Christmas Tree,
$79, Big W

shop now

Deluxe Pre-lit Pine Christmas Tree,
$199, Big W

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Fraser Fir Pre-lit Pear Shaped Tree,
$179, Big W

shop now

Table Top Christmas Tree,
$16, Big W

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Christmas decorations

Christmas Pre-Lit Plain Wreath,
$6, Big W

shop now

Christmas Vintage Greetings Baubles,
$4, Big W

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Christmas Gold Berries in Vase
$8, Big W

shop now

Fairy Lights Warm White,
$20, Big W

SHOP NOW

Christmas table

Christmas Cheese Knives 2 Pack
$8, Big W

shop now

Christmas Premium Bon Bons 6 Pack,
$22, Big W

SHOP NOW

The post 10 must-have festive ideas to shop from Big W appeared first on Home Beautiful.

While those in America have Thanksgiving to mark the beginning of the festive season and holiday decorating, Australia’s festive calendar is a little more flexible. The stores tend to start bringing out their Christmas decorations in early October, but in our homes, it can be anywhere from early November to mid-December.

To help you figure out when to put up your tree, we look back at what history has to say.

The history of the Christmas tree

The Christmas tree tradition as we now know started in Germany in the 16^th century, when devout Christians would decorate trees in their homes. However, Christmas wasn’t quite the celebration then as it is now.

During the Victorian period, Christmas was celebrated in a way that is more similar to what we experience today and at that time, it was customary to put up the Christmas tree and decorate it much later in December, usually the afternoon of Christmas Eve–the end of the advent season and the beginning of the twelve days of Christmastide. This was a tradition the ancient Romans also adhered to.  

When should you put up your Christmas tree?

The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree is now widespread across the globe, but where you live and what you believe may dictate when you put the tree up. In America, for instance, many families put up a tree the first Friday after Thanksgiving at the end of November, while Christians may choose to put the tree up on the first day of Advent – the first Sunday of the four Sundays preceding Christmas Day, which often falls somewhere between November 27 and December 3. This year, Advent begins on Sunday, 30th November 2025.

And although Christmas decorations start going up in department stores and shopping centres from early November in Australia, setting up your tree on December first, the first Sunday in December or the second Saturday in December is now widely considered to be appropriate timing.

Psychological benefit of putting your tree up early

If you’re someone who can’t wait to put up your Christmas tree, then you actually might be happier than those who wait until later in the year. According to research, putting your Christmas tree up early has some pretty significant psychological benefits, with the activity acting as a pathway to access nostalgic childhood memories. The research also shows that putting up the decorations can get you into the festive spirit earlier, making you likely to feel more social and receive more emotional benefits from social connection.

When should I take my Christmas tree down?

Depending on their traditions and motivation levels, people tend to start taking their Christmas trees down anytime from Boxing Day to 5th January, which marks the end of the 12 Days of Christmas. However, there’s nothing stopping you from leaving it up longer than that, if you choose to!

The post What is the correct date to put up your Christmas tree? appeared first on Home Beautiful.

1. Paper star decorations

Materials needed: Bespoke Letterpress gift paper, scissors, hot glue or double-sided tape, string or ribbon (to hang).

How to make:
Fold the paper: Fold back and forth in an accordion (zig-zag) style, about 1–2 cm per fold
Trim the ends: Using pinking shears, cut the ends of the folded paper into a point or rounded shape, depending on the star style you want
Secure the centre: Fold the accordion in half so the ends meet, then glue or tape the centre together along width  
Fan out the star: Spread out each side to meet at the ends of the folds, then glue together
Finish the Star: Attach a string or ribbon at the top so it can hang on the tree

2. Paper chain garland

Materials needed: Strips of Bespoke Letterpress gift paper about 1–2 cm wide and 10–15 cm long, hot glue or a stapler. Optional: string or ribbon for extra length.

How to make:
Cut paper strips: Cut your paper into uniform strips
Make the first loop: Take one strip, curl it into a circle, and secure the ends with glue, tape, or a staple
Add more links: Take a new strip, thread it through the first loop, and secure its ends
Continue linking: Repeat step 3 until the chain is the desired length
Hang the garland: Drape it on your tree, across a mantlepiece, or along a wall

3. Decorative picture frame

Materials needed: Bespoke Letterpress gift paper, picture frame, scissors or craft knife. Optional: ruler and pencil.

How to make:
Remove the frame backing: Remove the glass and any existing photo or art
Measure the frame: Measure the inside dimensions of the frame
Cut the paper: Cut your paper to match the frame’s interior size
Insert the paper: Place the paper inside the frame, where the backing would normally go, then place your desired picture on top
Reassemble the frame: Replace the backing and glass inside the frame, then secure

4. Fabric gift wrapping

Remnants of fabric, partnered with natural touches, are the ideal DIY solution for gift wrapping with a carefree, sophisticated style.

Materials needed: Fabric scissors, pieces of fabric in assorted fibres and colours, selection of flora.

How to make: Cut fabric to suit size of gift. For a square- shaped gift, lay fabric flat and shaped like a diamond. Place gift in centre. Fold one corner over gift. Fold opposite corner over the top. Bring together the other two corners of fabric and tie in a knot to secure. For unusual-shaped gifts, experiment with size and shape of fabric. Decorate gifts with leaves, small branches or handmade name tags.

Tip: Select soft, natural fabrics such as linen or cotton for a touch of elegant simplicity.

5. Personalised clay name tags

Made from white air-dry clay, these personalised keepsakes can be used year after year. Position a tag on each place setting at your Christmas table, hang them on your tree or use them as gift tags.

Materials needed: Rolling pin, air-dry clay, cookie cutters in Christmas shapes, damp sponge, letter stamps, pin, scissors, white cord.

How to make: Using rolling pin, roll out clay on clean surface. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Set aside. When clay is slightly hardened, smooth edges with sponge. Gently stamp names into centre of shapes. Use a pin to pierce a small hole near top of each tag. Cut and thread a length of cord through each hole. Tie to make loops. Leave to dry for 24 hours.

Tip: Display handmade name tags atop linen napkins and decorate your Christmas table settings with a fresh-cut olive branch.

6. DIY advent calendar

As you near December 25, add to the excitement of Santa’s arrival by starting each day with a lovely message or small gift with this easy DIY paper advent calendar project.

Materials needed: Pen, C6 white envelopes (25), printer (optional), scissors, white cord, sticky tape or pins, white-painted pinboard or similar, paper or card (for handwritten notes), small gifts, small wooden pegs (25), selection of flora.

How to make: Using pen, neatly write numbers 1–25 on bottom right-hand corner of each envelope. Alternatively, print numbers with your home printer. Measure and cut five 1m lengths of cord. Tape or pin cord to a white- painted pinboard or similar, spacing each one to suit.

Place handwritten notes or small gifts inside each envelope. Working from the top row, left to right, peg the envelopes onto the string in numerical order. Decorate the calendar with sprigs of flora on randomly selected envelopes. Starting December 1, take turns to open an envelope until the big day.

7. Easy handmade eucalyptus and bells garland

Ring in the season with a gorgeous garland featuring mini golden bells and sprigs of softly scented eucalyptus. Drape it anywhere you please.

Materials needed: White cord, scissors, small golden bells, 10cm- long sprigs of eucalyptus.

How to Make: Measure cord to desired length – add an extra 50cm. Cut cord to suit. Tie one end of cord to one bell. Tie a sprig of eucalyptus up against bell. Wrap cord around length of sprig, then attach another bell. Continue alternating between bells and eucalyptus until all of the cord is covered. Hang garland from walls or stair rails, or use as a table decoration.

8. DIY festive half wreaths

Hang a display of striking wreaths on your front door or around your home for a contemporary spin on the season’s decorating.

Materials needed: Selection of fresh- cut flora, secateurs, steel rings in 200mm-dia (2) and 300mm-dia (1), florist wire, fishing line, scissors, self-adhesive removable hooks.

To make: Cut flora to manageable size and lay it over one ring – leaving half of the ring exposed – to determine what arrangement looks best. Once happy with the look, secure one stem at a time using florist wire. Continue until all stems are attached, ensuring foliage conceals wire. Tie a length of fishing line to the top of the hoop. Repeat for remaining two hoops. Hang wreaths from self-adhesive hooks.

Tip: Choose hardy fresh-cut foliage that will dry beautifully – try olive, eucalyptus and rosemary.

9. An easy wish light jar

This magical, twinkling jar is the perfect spot for kids to place notes for Santa or their best wishes for the Christmas holiday.

Materials needed: Battery-operated string of lights, jar with lid, pen, paper, eucalyptus sprigs.

How to make: Place lights inside jar – keep battery pack outside of jar. Write a note or wish on a strip of paper. Place paper inside jar and put it in a special place. Turn lights on at night for the ‘Make A Wish’ jar to work its magic! Decorate with eucalyptus sprigs nearby.

The post 9 easy DIY Christmas decoration ideas to try this year appeared first on Home Beautiful.

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Here’s our ultimate guide to preparing the best Christmas Day yet. 

Scroll through for the full countdown to Christmas or jump straight to:

• 1 month until Christmas
• 3 weeks until Christmas
• 2 weeks until Christmas
• 1 week until Christmas
• 1 day until Christmas
• Christmas morning

Christmas countdown: 1 month until Christmas

1. Deep clean your kitchen

Now’s the time to declutter your kitchen. Clean the oven, scrub the stovetop and sort through supplies in the pantry and fridge to check expiration dates.

Make a list of what you need to replace so you’ll be stocked and ready to go when it’s time to start prep. Test out small appliances to make sure they’re in working order.

2. Clean and prep your barbecue

Give your barbecue a good clean and make sure that it’s set up in a safe area with plenty of workspace. Stock up on bottled gas and barbecue wipes – they’re great for keeping it looking good between big clean-ups.

3. Choose a signature scent with candles and diffusers

Your home’s aroma is often the first impression guests get, so try to make it a good one. Home Beautiful editor-in-chief Elle Lovelock says there are two approaches: “One is to have a signature scent throughout your home. The other is to create a scent journey from room to room.”

For the latter, marketing director at Circa, Waffa Nakad, says, “The key is to choose fragrances that feel connected by the atmosphere they create… lighter and fresher scents for social areas or warmer, more comforting fragrances for relaxing zones.” For a bonus, choose odour- and mosquito-repelling scents like Circa’s ‘Alchemy’ range.

4. Choose your table theme

Your centrepiece is the heart of your table, so it pays to prep early. For cook and television presenter Justine Schofield, knowing how much space you have is key. “Lay your table and do a trial run,” she says. As for Justine's go-to Christmas table centrepiece? “I like to use different-shaped glasses and fill them with native flowers and foliage,” she says.

“I plan to combine my Grandma’s old plates and glassware with colourful tablecloths, serviettes and placemats”

Justine Schofield, Cook and TV host

Regardless of whether your interior style is minimalist, maximalist or somewhere in between, Christmas is the one time of year that you’ll want to go all out. “Whatever the theme, this is the time for abundance,” shares Elle. “If you don’t decorate the house, the table is one contained area to express your personality.” She suggests accenting your dining table with festive foods people can pick at, such as Vienna almonds and Christmas mince pies for traditional finger food, or fresh fruit for a more casual, coastal appeal. “You can elevate decor with red fruit, like cherries, dusted with edible gold leaf. It looks phenomenal and special,” she adds.

5. Prep your linen

“I love the opulence of table linen and fabric napkins at Christmas time,” says interior stylist and former Home Beautiful creative director, Imogene Abady. “Once I’ve confirmed the number of guests, I make sure I have my tablecloths and napkins laundered so they’re pressed and ready for the big day.”

Christmas countdown: 3 weeks until Christmas

6. Hide oversized gifts

Struggling to wrap oversized gifts? “Take a photo of the gift and wrap the photo in a box along with instructions on where to find the present,” says Vivienne Anthon, expert gift wrapper and founder of Daily Wrap.

“You could even give treasure hunt- style directions to where the gift is hidden.”

7. Prepare your servingware

Once your menu is set, it’s time to work out how and what to serve it on as you count down to Christmas. “I like to dedicate a sideboard where I start placing the servingware, dinnerware, glasses and cutlery for use on the day,” says Imogene.

“I use Post-it notes to write the name of each dish on the servingware and I give everything a polish at the same time.”

8. Donate unwanted toys

“The week between the end of school and Christmas Day is a great time to declutter toys with your kids,” says professional organiser Amy Revell.

“Help them donate toys that they’ve outgrown and create space for any new toys. This creates a lovely opportunity to talk about the spirit of Christmas and helping those less fortunate.”

Christmas countdown: 2 weeks until Christmas

9. Create handmade Christmas crafts

If you have small children, shelve the precious ornaments for a few years and embrace kid-friendly decorations. Time with loved ones is of course the greatest gift of all.

Alternatively, enjoy some crafting on your own, or with friends. Create paper chains with thick wrapping paper and a hot glue gun. Or, keep the hot glue gun but switch the paper for fabric to create an oversized bow for the front door. Festive and on trend.

“Make pompoms, string them into bunting and drape all over the tree,” says event stylist Alexis Teasdale. “Fake flowers also look amazing. Add paperclip hooks to easily slip them onto branches.”

10. Beat the supermarket rush

Two weeks out is when Justine likes to shop for nonperishables, beating the crowd.

“Before you go, check the pantry to ensure you don’t double up on ingredients such as herbs and spices,” she suggests. “Shopping now also means you’re likely to get the exact ingredients you need.”

When you’re hosting, it can be easy to focus on the big items, but that can sometimes leave the bare necessities neglected. Stock up on a popular variety of white wine, red wine and beer, plus classic party snacks such as delicious dips, a cheese board, bowls of olives and potato chips. Little offerings ensure that no one is left hungry or thirsty for even a moment. And don’t forget water! “Have a jug of sparkling water, with fruit like oranges in it, that people can sip throughout the day,” suggests designer Carlene Duffy.

11. Clear the decks

Start to think about the weather. “If you have an outdoor table, invest in a large outdoor umbrella to keep the area cool,” says interior stylist Aimee Tarulli of Archer Interiors. “Add some outdoor bean bags to create an informal break-out space where your guests can relax and unwind after a big lunch.”

12. Stock the bar

“It’s far better to have more booze than to run out,” says sommelier Virginia Selleck. “Prepare to get the party started with a bubbly, or greet guests with a cocktail. This year, try something light and fresh such as The Ruby, with Campari, Escubac, freshly squeezed grapefruit and juice from a lime.” For more Christmas cocktail recipes, click here.

13. Buy emergency stocking stuffers

It’s every host’s worst nightmare – an oversight, a miscount or an unexpected guest that leads to… an invitee without a gift. Thankfully, we have a simple trick to ensure you – and your loved ones – are never left empty-handed. Just remember the three Cs: candles, chocolates and coffee table books. These gifts are perfect to have up your sleeve, wrapped and ready to go. The three Cs work well because people of
all ages and backgrounds tend to enjoy at least one and they’re all available in a wide range of prices, so you can keep it simple or gift a little luxury.

Christmas countdown: 1 week until Christmas

14. Clean the guest bathroom and powder room

For a guest-ready bathroom, go back to basics. As Carlene admits, “When you’re using a guest bathroom, you don’t want to see too much sign of life.” Wipe up surfaces, empty the laundry basket if you have one in the room and fold a fresh hand towel (extra points for festive prints).

15. Refresh your spaces

Give your bathroom and powder room a quick zhoosh as you countdown to Christmas day. "Add some new hand towels, a special pump soap and, in the days leading to Christmas, a little bunch of flowers,” says Amber Clohesy from Down To The Woods.

“I love Ashley & Co’s soap, and Mud’s tear vase is the perfect size for a bathroom. This makes your bathroom special for guests, but is also a cheeky Christmas gift to yourself.”

Simply switching up the aroma can have a big impact. “Give bathrooms a special treatment with a fresh and clean scent in hand washes, lotions and diffusers,” says Elle, who favours Circa White Tea & Wild Mint.

16. Create pamper packages for guests

If there’s a chance your guests may settle in for the long haul and perhaps stay overnight – and what a compliment if they do – ensure you’re prepared in advance by having freshly laundered sets of towels at the ready. Some small pamper packages consisting of basic toiletries and guest soaps also make for a welcoming gesture. Try presenting everything together, tied with a ribbon or in a woven basket. And if the aim is to channel a high-end hotel, add a spare fluffy bath robe to their pamper pack. Along with crisp, fresh sheets gracing your guest bed and a vase of blooms on the bedside, these thoughtful details will seal your status as ‘the hostess with the mostest’ for many years to come.

17. Prepare the guest room

Put the final touches on the guest room: fresh linen, a carafe of water, a spare phone charger, a hairdryer and extra toilet paper in the bathroom, and a note with the wi-fi password on the bedside table.

18. Re-arrange the furniture

No matter whether your soiree is a formal dinner party or casual drinks and nibbles, your decor will help set the tone. Furniture placement silently communicates this to guests, showing them where to sit or stand and conveying any etiquette, and seating arrangements play a big part in encouraging or stifling chitchat. “The biggest mistake I see when people set up for guests? Lining seating up against the walls like a waiting room,” says HB editor-in-chief, Elle Lovelock. “Pull armchairs and sofas closer, so people naturally face one another – it makes chatting so much easier.”

If you have multiple zones in an open-plan space, try to delineate them. Anna DiNapoli, head of interior design at Coco Republic, says to “Define zones with rugs, planters or lighting – placing the dining area closer to cooking zones,” with your lounge arranged to maximise conversation and views. Finally, use the right mix of furniture for the event you are hosting. “Low-profile dining tables or ‘chat-height’ tables can double as both dining and lounge-friendly solutions,” explains Anna. “Dining chairs are ideal for eating, but less suited to long hours of lounging. Lounge seating, on the other hand, is deeper, cushioned and designed for comfort.”

Christmas countdown: The day before Christmas

19. Set the table

It’s always a nice idea to lay the table the night before – it takes way longer than you think. Kids about? Leave off the glassware and throw a sheet over it all so it remains safe from little hands.

Carlene also recommends a natural touch. She likes to scatter low vases down the middle of long tables, filled with pops of colourful florals; but less is more. “You don’t want anything too big – it needs to be functional so you can see each other and have room to eat,” she says. For Carlene, the most essential components in a festive tablescape are your napkins and table linen. “A great tablecloth sets the foundation,” she advises. “If you have a fabulous tablecloth, the hard part is done and everything else is a bonus.” As they say, start from the bottom and work your way up.

20. Buy fresh flowers

Get the pick of the bunch by visiting your local flower market on Christmas Eve. “The best flowers are available from 5am,” says Imogene.

21. Create a Christmas playlist

All hosts hope to avoid awkward silences, but remember, lulls in conversation are a natural occurrence. Gentle background music can help fill the void. For a playlist that complements your event, match the tempo of the music to the occasion and time of day. Evoke wonder and magic on Christmas Eve with scores from Home Alone and Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. In the morning, keep the sonic experience merry and bright with choral arrangements of classic carols before moving on to the big, swinging sound of festive jazz songs over a long lunch.

22. Plug in and recharge

“Stock up on batteries and put all your devices on charge,” says Alexis. “There’s nothing like not being able to play with new toys to really bring down the festive mood.”

23. Prep the drinks station

“Make sure your bubbles, white and rosé wines are in the fridge chilling and ready to be cracked,” says Magnum & Queens’ Virginia Selleck. “Wash and polish wine glasses and decanters, and cut up limes and lemon slices for cocktails. If your cocktail recipes need freshly squeezed juice, do this ahead of time and store in the fridge.”

24. Recycle and re-use

“Gift wrapping is like Christmas fare – you have to plan for leftovers,” says expert gift wrapper Vivienne Anthon. “Have a box ready for paper, plus a basket for ribbons. Store re-usable paper in long cardboard cylinders.”

25. Check all your lighting works

Just after the sun sets on Christmas Eve, allocate 30 minutes to test your lighting. “Whether you’re using candles, tea lights or fairy lights, it’s a great way to see what will work as day turns to night and make last-minute touches,” says HB food director Imogene Abady.

26. Savour the season’s seafood

Chef and restaurateur Guillaume Brahimi recommends heading to the fishmonger on Christmas Eve to pick up the freshest catch.

“This gives you enough time to prepare it before the big day,” he says. To keep seafood at its very best, “Wrap your fish in Chux cloths to keep it dry,” suggests Lennox Hastie, chef and owner of Firedoor restaurant in Sydney.

Christmas countdown: On the day

The countdown to Christmas is over. Thanks to all of your amazing preparations over the past month, Christmas Day will be a breeze and you can sit back and actually enjoy this special time. We have just one piece of advice left, and it's all about how you welcome loved ones into your home.

27. How to greet your guests

Greeting guests is simple – it’s the moments directly following that are key. Once you’ve relieved people of coats or hats, switch into guide mode. Encourage guests to move into your home, so they end up right where you’ll be entertaining – this helps avoid awkward hovering – then offer everyone a welcome drink.

The post The ultimate Christmas countdown: 27 tasks to do before Christmas Day appeared first on Home Beautiful.

We’ve come a long way since cheap artificial Christmas trees that break after one season. High-quality Christmas trees are aplenty, but finding one that looks as good as the real thing? That takes a bit of digging. 

You might also like These pre-lit Christmas trees make holiday decorating a breeze

The best artificial Christmas trees to buy in 2025

01

Monterey Pine with LED Clear Lights

from $599 (was $1199) at Balsam Hill

Best for: Realistic, full and fluffy Holiday foliage

When it comes to artificial Christmas trees, Balsam Hill creates some of the most luxurious foliage on the market. Equipped with twinkling LED lights and remarkably realistic branches and needles, the Monterey Pine is the perfect holiday centrepiece. The best part? As part of Balsam Hill’s Black Friday Sale, you can now take this beauty home for $600 less than its usual price.

One 5-star reviewer says of the Monterey Pine, “Attractive foliage, easy to put together, sturdy and lights are well distributed across the tree, looks beautiful.” And with over 380 other 5-star reviews on this artificial Christmas tree, she’s not the only one with these sentiments.

Shop Now

02

Arrow pine flocked 180cm Christmas Tree

$399 at Myer

Best for: A luxurious, snowy pine

Get into the Christmas spirit with this snowy-tipped pre-lit flocked Christmas tree from Myer. With a realistic snow design all over, a white Christmas can be your reality (even when it’s 35 degrees outside!).

Take comfort in this artificial Christmas tree’s average rating of 4.6 stars and its glowing reviews. One of which states, “This tree is a total game-changer and has instantly elevated my festive décor. From the moment I took it out of the box, I was impressed. Setup was an absolute breeze thanks to the design—the sections fit together perfectly, and the pre-lit feature (with 200 beautiful lights!) means I skipped the most frustrating part of decorating.”

Shop Now

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03

Pine Cashmere LED Christmas tree

$279.99 (was $399.99) at Adairs

Best for: In-built fairy lights, no untangling required

Looking for a traditional full-bodied artificial Christmas tree? Look no further than this high-quality, luxurious number from Adairs. Pre-lit for your convenience, it’s a low-fuss way to set the scene this season. Why this tree? For us, it’s the fluffy pine needles, offering a full (or perhaps lightly flocked) appearance and, of course, the fact that we won’t have to spend hours untangling lights when dressing it up for the holidays.

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04

Christmas Tree Jingle Jollys

$87.95 at Big W

Best for: A classic Christmas tree under $100

Get into the festive spirit with this affordable Christmas tree from Big W. Featuring bushy multi-tonal green branches that will allow your favourite Christmas ornaments and lights to shine, it’s the perfect option for those who want a festive home without spending hundreds. Plus, it’s super easy to assemble and pack away, so you know you will bring it out year after year, season after season, without fail.

“I was definitely sceptical at first,” writes one reviewer, before adding “but when it arrived, and I set it up, I couldn’t have been more happy. It’s beautiful! It’s exactly how it’s described”

Shop Now

05

Royal Deluxe Bristle Christmas tree

from $149.99 (was $229.99) at Temple & Webster

Best For: A luxe, yet surprisingly affordable, classic pine

Lush and full, just how we like it. This artificial Christmas tree from Temple & Webster looks just like the real thing, and for the quality, it’s priced remarkably well. As it’s currently sitting at a 4.9-star rating with almost 600 reviews, you can shop with total confidence, even when we’re this close to Christmas.

One festive decorator writes in her review, “I am deeply obsessed with this tree. I purchased it last year after Christmas, and it is without a doubt the tree of my dreams. I didn’t open it up until this year and am blown away at how thick and lush it is in person.”

Shop Now

06

Perfect Holiday Christmas tree in Flocked Snow

$82.60 at Amazon

Best for: A white Christmas

Although a white Christmas won’t be on the cards for most Australians, there’s no harm in pretending. With a snowy-tipped tree like this one from Amazon, you can create the perfect winter Christmas scene at home (while still enjoying the sun and the beach during the day). Just add a white Christmas tree skirt to complete the look.

The Perfect Holiday Christmas tree currently boasts an average rating of 4.4 stars and over one thousand reviews; one of which offers the following advice to potential shoppers, “Don’t be thrown off by the box and compact size at the beginning. Those are full, well-made, and beautiful. Very happy I bought them.”

Shop Now

07

National Tree Company, Kingswood Fir Pencil Tree

$121.61 at Amazon

Best for: Bringing the Christmas Spirit to smaller spaces

If a slimline tree is more your forte, consider this one from the National Tree Company. With a much smaller base diameter than your usual artificial Christmas tree, this holiday staple is nice and compact, while still featuring hundreds of individually crafted branch tips to create realistic, full-bodied branches.

With over 5,600 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, it’s a trusted option for those working with a little less space this holiday season. “We do love this tree!” writes one reviewer, adding that it’s “easy to put up, fits in every corner, does not take up much space, and looks absolutely stunning!”

Shop Now

08

New Oregon 180cm cashmere Christmas tree

$299 at Myer

Best for: A showstopping Christmas centrepiece

Featuring 820 tips, this Christmas tree from Myer boasts varying tones of green that make it look just as good as the real thing. Plus, it’s 180cm high, making it a great option for both small and large spaces. The best part? It’s now included in Myer’s Black Friday deals, making it cheaper than ever to bring Christmas cheer home.

One 5-star reviewer writes, “Really happy with the New Oregon 180cm Cashmere Christmas Tree. It was easy to set up, looks full once the branches are fluffed, and the cashmere tips give it a really nice, soft finish. Good height for most rooms and feels sturdy. Overall, great value and looks fantastic once decorated.”

Shop Now

The post 8 luxe artificial Christmas trees that look as good as the real thing appeared first on Home Beautiful.

1. Espresso and wattleseed eggnog

Makes 1.25L (5 cups)
Prep time 10 minutes

Ingredients
2 cups milk
1 cup thickened cream
¼ cup caster sugar
3 eggs
⅔ cup brandy
½ cup chilled espresso coffee
1 tsp ground wattleseed, plus extra ground wattleseed
Pinch of ground nutmeg

Method
Blend milk, cream, sugar, eggs, brandy, chilled espresso coffee and ground wattleseed until smooth. Pour eggnog over crushed ice in glasses; top with extra ground wattleseed and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Serve immediately.

2. Raspberry and thyme gin sour

Makes approx 400ml (serves 4)
Prep time 10 minutes

Ingredients
½ cup gin
2 lightly beaten egg whites
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp store-bought sugar syrup
⅛ tsp Australian orange bitters
1 tbsp lemon thyme leaves, plus extra lemon thyme leaves
8 fresh raspberries, plus extra raspberries

Method
Place gin, egg whites, lemon juice, sugar syrup, Australian orange bitters, lemon thyme leaves and fresh raspberries in a cocktail shaker. Add a handful of ice cubes; secure lid and shake until well combined. Strain into chilled serving glasses. Garnish with extra raspberries on a cocktail skewer and sprinkle with extra lemon thyme leaves.

Tip Use Angostura bitters instead of the Australian orange bitters, if you like.

3. Lemongrass lemonade

Makes 1.625L (6½ cups)
Prep time 5 minutes (+ refrigeration)

Ingredients
4 thinly sliced kaffir lime leaves
4 x 15cm finely chopped lemongrass stalks
½ cup lemon juice
1.5L (6 cups) chilled lemonade

Method
Place kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass stalks and lemon juice in a high-powered blender; blend until smooth. Combine lemongrass mixture and chilled lemonade in a large measuring jug. Cover; refrigerate for 1 hour or until chilled. Strain into a large serving jug; discard pulp. Serve over crushed ice.

4. Spiced pear cider

Makes 2L (8 cups)
Prep time 10 minutes (+ standing)

Ingredients
50g peeled ginger, finely grated
½ cup store-bought sugar syrup
4 x 355ml bottles chilled pear cider
½ cup bourbon
2 tbsp lime juice
Pear wedges
Cinnamon stick (optional)

Method
Combine peeled ginger and sugar syrup in a large measuring jug; stand for 10 minutes. Top with chilled pear cider, bourbon and lime juice; stir until well combined. Pour cider mixture over crushed ice into glasses. Garnish with pear wedges just before serving and, if you like, with cinnamon stick.

_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Australian Women’s Weekly: The Christmas Collection’, published by Are Media, $45.}

The post 4 fab festive cocktails to whip up at this year’s Christmas gathering appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Tips

If you are transporting this salad, pack the almonds, noodles and dressing separately; toss together just before serving. For a presentation idea, we reserved a couple of the nicer looking outer leaves from the cabbage to line the salad bowl.

_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Australian Women’s Weekly: The Christmas Collection’, published by Are Media, $45.}

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Best Target Christmas decorations to shop

Christmas trees

Choose from traditional deep green cashmere to magical snowy pines.

Cashmere Prelit Christmas Tree,
$149, Target

shop now

Cashmere Christmas Tree ,
$69, Target

SHOP NOW

Snowy Prelit Christmas Tree,
$139, Target

shop now

Snowy Christmas Tree,
$59, Target

SHOP NOW

Christmas tree decorations

From glittering baubles to more muted decor, there’s plenty of magical decorations to choose from.

47 Pack 6cm Baubles, Natural,
$10, Target

shop now

47 Pack 6cm Luxury Baubles,
$10, Target

SHOP NOW

Wooden tree decorations,
from $3, Target

shop now

Flocked Hanging Decorations,
$12, Target

SHOP NOW

Christmas home decor

These sweet items are guaranteed to add some festive joy to your home.

Light Up Green Wreath,
$12, Target

shop now

Christmas Basket with Printed Liner
$9, Target

SHOP NOW

Medium Ceramic House,
$10, Target

shop now

The Red Berry Garland ,
$16, Target

SHOP NOW

The post 12 Target Christmas decorations that we’re adding to cart this year appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The details

• Balsam Hill has launched their limited-time Countdown to Christmas sale
• Holiday decorators can enjoy up to 40% off many of Balsam Hill’s most loved Christmas trees
• The sale is set to end on the 14th of November, so bargain hunters need to shop quickly

Artificial Christmas tree deals for every holiday decorator

Whether you’re keeping your Christmas decorations traditional or opting for a trendy coastal or white Christmas aesthetic, Balsam Hill’s artificial Christmas tree sale offers great savings on options to suit every taste.

Monterey Pine Flip Tree
$2699 $1749, Balsam Hill

sAVE $950

Pre-lit Canadian Spruce Tree
$1399 $829, Balsam Hill

SAVE $570

Pre-lit Classic White Tree
$1199 $719, Balsam Hill

Save $480

Berkshire Mountain Fir Trees
$799 $479, Balsam Hill

SAVE $320

How to take home additional savings

While the generous discounts are more than enough to inspire Christmas-enthusiasts like myself to take home a brand new artificial tree, there are even more savings to be enjoyed during Balsam Hill’s sale. Look out for sale items offering free delivery (as large items can be a little pricey to have shipped). You’ll be able to see the ‘Free Delivery’ note under discounted prices when you visit Balsam Hill’s sale page.

And if you love a certain style from Balsam Hill’s range of artificial Christmas trees, but can’t quite justify the price, play around with the different customisation options to see how much you can save. For instance, the 244cm Pre-lit Monterey Pine Flip Tree is currently on sale for $2,129, but if you opt for the same tree without the built-in lights or flip function, it’s $1079; you don’t even have to size down to save $1000.

If you still need a little help deciding on the right tree for you, check out this tree buyers’ guide, or take Balsam Hill’s quiz to be matched to your perfect artificial Christmas tree in just a few minutes.

Our editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. Read more here.

The post My dream Balsam Hill Christmas tree is now $950 off thanks to this 2-day sale appeared first on Home Beautiful.

“Choose a theme for your festive celebration,” says Home Beautiful editor-in-chief Elle Lovelock. Colour is a strong driver to bring a whole look together. “Green and white nods to tradition, but here we’ve elevated the palette to suit a contemporary setting – bold striped outdoor chair cushions lend a chic poolhouse feel, while shimmering metallics and gleaming crystal add the festive sparkle needed to mark a celebration.”

“Consider all five senses when creating your table setting and environment,” says stylist Nonci Nyoni. “Curate an inviting atmosphere that your guests will want to spend time in – candles or flowers for scent and visual interest, background music and lush fabrics of varied textures for touch and of course, a tasty meal!”

“Use objects of various height’s to add interest to the tablescape – lamps or candles for height paired with shorter vases, glassware and decorative bowls,” says stylist Nonci Nyoni.

Nonci suggests personalising each plate setting with handwritten name cards, “To make them feel extra special this festive season!” Elle agrees. “Reinvent your vintage homewares like plates and napery by mixing and matching with more modern pieces,” says Elle. “Extend the season’s treats to each place setting with individual chocolate gifts for everyone. Each year we wait with bated breath to discover the bonbon offerings from our favourite brands. These are another festive addition to the table with colour, pattern and texture.

Nothing says summer sophistication quite like fresh flowers. “Blousy white roses are always a good idea,” says Elle. “Garden roses are in full bloom at this time of year and you can buy them by the bucketload at market – a surefire way to add elegance to any occasion.” Cluster them in simple glass vases for a relaxed look or pair with silver accents for a touch of glamour. Whether scattered along a long lunch table or arranged in generous bunches, seasonal blooms add instant elegance and a sense of occasion that feels both timeless and fresh.

Beyond the table, consider editing the decor in your entertaining spaces to reflect your chosen theme. Ditch cushions that don’t match, take the plunge to invest in new outdoor furniture cushions, outdoor rugs or umbrellas.

The post The luxe palette redefining festive outdoor entertaining appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Tips

Use pandoro offcuts to make trifles, Christmas truffles or bread and butter pudding. This is a dessert that will make people smile (and kids squeal). It presents as an ordinary pandoro, and while there’s nothing wrong with that, hidden inside our version is a treasure chest of chocolate-hazelnut spread and caramel ice-cream.

_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Australian Women’s Weekly: The Christmas Collection’, published by Are Media, $45.}

The post Chocolate hazelnut ice-cream pandoro appeared first on Home Beautiful.

Tips

We use yellow peaches, but choose whatever looks best, or use a mix of yellow and white. Remember to keep the tomatoes out of the fridge so the flavour is not dulled. Buffalo mozzarella has a tangier flavour than cow’s milk mozzarella, which can be used instead if you prefer.

_{This is an edited extract from ‘The Australian Women’s Weekly: The Christmas Collection’, published by Are Media, $45.}

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The post Peaches, asparagus and mozzarella salad appeared first on Home Beautiful.

The vacant site opened them up to a world of new build possibilities but it was the vistas of surrounding plains and bays that sealed the deal. “We drove to the top of the hill and got a glimpse of the view… That was enough for us,” says Kirsten.

Who lives here?

Model Kirsten Stanley, her husband, AFL ruckman Rhys Stanley, and their three children, Jagger, seven, Sloane, five, and Hudson, two.
What do you love most in the home? Kirsten: “The open-plan living space where we can all enjoy spending time together as a family. We love watching the kids run around in that room.”
What’s on your Christmas menu? “Christmas ham, prawns, crayfish (if we’re in WA), homemade gingerbread houses and pavlova.”
Favourite Christmas tradition? “Santa sacks around the fireplace, the kids making milk and a plate full of carrots for Santa and the reindeer, and our glazed Christmas ham.”

Kirsten and Rhys Stanley’s new build process

Every part of the build process was inspired by the locale, from the open design of the family home to the material palette. And with Tanya Love-Hallihan, principal of Studio Hallihan, at the helm, this organic beauty took shape.

After a delay due to Covid, construction began in February 2022, aided by the couple’s clear vision. They imposed a strict “no white walls” rule, with a European take on farmhouse style that infused the space with warmth. Of the must-haves, Kirsten lists “large windows, open-plan kitchen for entertaining and hardy materials to handle a busy family”. A generously sized north-facing window, with a built-in day bed across the base, maximises views underneath a vaulted ceiling that stretches up to 6.4 metres.

Those soaring heights certainly come in handy at Christmastime, allowing for a tall tree and strategic placement of baubles. “The kids seem to take as many decorations off as they put on, especially Huddi, so we need to put the majority of them up high and out of reach,” admits Kirsten.

The flexibility of the space is something that Kirsten and Rhys appreciate most. The home’s design suits them in this season of life but will also grow with them, nurturing all the stages to come. This is especially true during the holidays. For now, the focus is on an unbridled excitement for Santa Claus, while for Kirsten the greatest gift is simple: “The pure joy the kids experience and seeing it written all over their faces.”

Inside Kirsten and Rhys Stanley’s Christmas traditions

This year will ring in their second Christmas in the home, where festivities begin with a family outing.

“We have a few local Christmas tree growers so we go and cut down a tree with the kids,” shares Kirsten, who adds that this adventure creates memories while enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection they’ve fostered in the home. “The smell of a natural tree adds a nice touch to the festive season.”

While the family didn’t have a chance to do the annual hunt for a real tree at the time of Home Beautiful’s visit, it’s still a special part of their traditions.

Kirsten says they often spend Christmas Day at her family’s holiday home, but they still love to entertain in the summer months.

Guests spread out in the spacious kitchen, living and dining area, starting off with platters on the island bench before moving on to “dinner around the dining table and wines in front of the fireplace”.

Leaving treats out for Santa Claus

Christmas and Santa Claus are synonymous in Kirsten and Rhys Stanley’s household. As such, the respective model and AFL ruckman notice exclusively nice list behaviour from their young children in the months leading up to the day.

Decorating the Christmas tree

Kirsten prefers a palette of greens and golds. As such, a fairly traditional festive scheme of warm whites, sparkly golds and soothing neutrals mixes in with tactile touches befitting the modern farmhouse style.

The ‘Noelle’ LED Christmas tree is paired with gold ‘Noelle’ baubles and drop baubles, in a vintage finish, all from Provincial Home Living, as well as an assortment of ‘Lucia’ decorations from Mediterranean Markets.

But Kirsten and Rhys Stanley are not adverse to trends. An oversized bow graced their front door last year (tied by Rhys who has an unexpected knack for this task), and the children each paint a bauble for the tree every year.

The Christmas table setting

The dining table feels abundant, draped in L&M Home’s ‘Terrace’ tablecloth in Oatmeal. This creates a neutral base for an assortment of festive cheer.

A mix of Robert Gordon ‘Haven Heart’ tumblers and the family’s own wine glasses are ready for tipples. Each place setting features a set of Robert Gordon ‘Nest’ plates beside ‘Nolan’ cutlery in Soft Gold from Country Road. L&M Home’s ‘Riviera’ striped napkins in Jade are neatly clasped in ‘Haven’ napkin rings from Country Road.

Tour Kirsten and Rhys Stanley’s modern farmhouse

Where better to await a visit from Saint Nick than a daybed? The custom design by Studio Hallihan stretches across the length of the vast window, taking in views that stretch to the horizon. “Anchoring these views… was our core design objective,” says Studio Hallihan principal and interior designer, Tanya Love-Hallihan, who adds that they create an effect like a large artwork of slow-moving colour.

“Creating a home with views was always part of the plan. We think about how lucky we are every day” – Kirsten Stanley

Living

An organic palette grounds the home and deepens the connection between the interior and exterior. “Our materials were selected for their tactile qualities, natural imperfections and resilience,” says Tanya. Timber beams from Simply Oregon highlight the vaulted ceiling, while a dramatically veined Calacatta Viola marble from Artedomus graces the kitchen island and benchtops. Even the timber coffee table from MCM House is topped with a generous slab of travertine. This palette of natural materials is at once rustic and luxe, tactile and elegant.

An earthy colour palette complements the rural appeal, including the olive green MCM House sofa, topped with ochre-toned cushions and a ‘Matteo’ wool and silk lumbar cushion from L&M Home. “Stone washed linen, heavy woollen textures and classic stripes provide a timeless design and textures that sit comfortably in the rural property,” says Tanya of the soft furnishings. Beyond the living room, the MCM House ‘Galleria’ armless dining chairs in Caramel Rattan maximise views of rolling hills.

Hallway

Tactile touches abound with a custom plinth from Friday Crafted and the family’s console table.

Sloane’s bedroom

The ‘Beatrix’ bedhead from McMullin ensures Sloane will nestle all snug in her bed. Society of Wanderers’ linen curtains softly filter sunlight on walls finished in Porter’s Paints Moonstone, with a band of Himalayan Salt above.

Jagger’s bedroom

It’s a blue Christmas thanks to walls in Porter’s Paints Newport Blue, complete with built-in niches for beloved books.

The ‘Luella’ bedhead from Heatherly Design adds a classic touch, paired with the ‘Sumba’ wall light by Faro Lab from Lighting Collective. But the most exciting feature is the presents, all wrapped and stacked on the bedside table.

Guest bedroom

Soft florals envelop the guest bedroom thanks to the Thibaut ‘Rosalind’ wallpaper in Beige.

These warm tones are complemented by luscious layers of linen. This includes the ‘Aspen’ blanket in Natural from In The Sac and ‘Etro’ cushions in Toffee from L&M Home.

Main bathroom

Subtle variations in the ‘Rosso’ mosaic tumbled tiles from Gather Co add movement beside Astra Walker tapware.

Source book

Architecture & interior design: Studio Hallihan, studiohallihan.com.

Builder: Homes by NH, homesbynh.com.au.

Joinery: Windsor Kitchens, windsorkitchens.com.au; Hammer & Stone, hammerandstoneworkroom.com.

The farmhouse: Stay up to date on Instagram @thatfarmhouse_

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The post Step inside Kirsten and Rhys Stanley’s cosy country Christmas appeared first on Home Beautiful.