In our house, Christmas actually starts A LOT earlier that December. We start to get into the festive mood all the way back in October when the Christmas display opens at Reuben Shaw & Sons Garden Centre.
Every year they transform the inside of the centre into a winter wonderland, … and Santa’s Grotto all mixed into one. We make a special journey in October half term to get our first glimpse of the decorations and maybe even buy a few new ones for our own home.
The display this year was as beautiful as ever. There were so many different things to see that we’ve had to make a few repeat journeys just to take it all in. There were a huge range of trees of every shape and size as well as garlands and wreaths to suit every home.
Each section of the shop was decorated in a different theme, with a variety of beautiful bauble and trinkets to suit every taste, and every budget. There was a children’s area filled with elves, nutcrackers and crafts for the kids to do. There was Santa’s kitchen jam-packed with ornamental gingerbread and candy canes.
Mr Mess is always fond of the woodland section, with it’s animal decorations and natural elements. We’ve certainly added a few items from this collection to our home over the years. I particularly love our little woodland friends who have made their home in our Christmas tree.
The show-stopper this year was the winter wonderland, complete with Santa’s sleigh over-flowing with presents, surrounded by his reindeer helpers. The girls absolutely loved this section – I even had to try and stop them climbing into the sleigh! It really was a magical experience.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without picking up a few treats for ourselves. Miss Mess picked a couple of baubles for the tree and I got these adorable golden reindeer figurines which now have pride of place on the mantle piece. (Sorry the picture is so dark – that’s my house for you!) In the past we probably would have bought a lot more, but we have to be a little more sensible nowadays.
If you visit Reuben Shaw & Sons on any weekend between now and the 18th December you can also meet Santa himself! I’d highly recommend you head over for a look around if you’re ever in the area. There’s even a tea shop so you can grab a drink and a treat. Why not make a day out of it?
Check out their website for more details.
Do you have any special places that you have to visit over Christmas? Is there a Christmas display that holds memories for you? I’d love to hear about them. Leave me a comment below or tweet me @messindressblog
