Tag: Christmas

Tips for Hosting a Christmas Tea

Are you thinking about gathering guests together for holiday cheer? Hosting a Christmas tea is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends. If you do not know where to start, check out the following tips for hosting a Christmas tea.

Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.com

Send Out Invites

Start by sending out invitations well in advance to give your guests time to plan.  If your group is small, coordinate your calendars to find the best date for a Christmas tea. Holiday commitments quickly fill up everyone’s schedules. Consider sending physical Christmas tea invitations to remind everyone of the date. Use social media to create a group or chat to keep your guests up to date.

Christmas Tea Theme

Choose a Christmas theme for your tea party. A theme helps set the mood for the type of party.  

  • Traditional Christmas Tea
  • Rustic or outdoor theme
  • Elegant
  • Holiday movie inspired.
  • Television series inspired.
  • Book theme

Menu

Decide on the types of tea you will serve at your Christmas party. Offer a variety of choices to ensure everyone finds the perfect tea for the occasion.

  • Black tea
  • Green tea
  • Herbal tea
  • Festive Christmas blends like cinnamon or peppermint.

Along with a large variety of teas, provide snacks at your Christmas tea party.

  • Finger sandwiches
  • Scones
  • Cakes
  • Cookies
  • Christmas themed treats

Tea Station

Create a beautiful tea station area. Start with a festive tablecloth, and add small decorative touches like fresh flowers or Christmas figurines. Set out everything for your guest to have the perfect cup of tea.

  • Selection of teas
  • Hot water in a tea kettle (Christmas kettle adds an extra touch of the season)
  • Christmas teacups and saucers
  • Tea strainers
  • Sugar
  •  Milk
  • Honey
  • Lemon slices

Depending on the size of your tea station area, you can add the food there. Or create another spot for your food set up. Use matching table clothes or create a theme for the two areas.

Seating Arrangements

Set up your Christmas tea party space with enough seating for all your guests. Encourage conversation by circularly arranging the tables and chairs. Creating a cozy atmosphere for all your guests is essential.

Decorate

Use Christmas decorations to transform your space into a winter wonderland or enhances your party’s theme.

  • Hang twinkling lights.
  •  Set up a Christmas tree.
  • Use seasonal decor like wreaths, garlands, and ornaments.
  • Add festive touches to the tables with themed centerpieces (try to avoid larger centerpieces that may hinder the line of sight for your guests to engage with others.
  •  Create Christmas place cards for assigned seating.

Play Christmas Music

Create a holiday-themed playlist to enhance the festive mood. Include classic Christmas songs, instrumental melodies, or any music that suits your chosen theme.

Games and Activities

Plan Christmas-themed activities or games to entertain your guests at your Christmas tea. Play holiday-themed trivia quizzes, host an ornament exchange, small gift exchange, book exchange, or set up a cookie decorating station. Activities and games are a great way to engage your guests.

Party Favors

Everyone loves small gifts or trinkets. Prepare small party favors or treat bags for your guests to take home. It could be something as simple as individually wrapped cookies, small bags of tea leaves, or handmade ornaments. Personalize the bags with Christmas-themed tags and ribbons.

Enjoy Your Party

As the host of your Christmas tea, remember to enjoy the company of your guests. Your hard work is over. Now, take time to savor the tea and delicious festive treats. Capture memories by taking candid pictures and a group photo. Next, relax to embrace the joy and warmth of the Christmas season.

Merry Christmas!

Themed Christmas Party Ideas

Are you hosting a Christmas party for friends and family this year? But you want to do something a little different and fun. Themed Christmas parties are an excellent way to add extra cheer to your annual event. If you are searching for inspiration, check out the following themed Christmas party ideas.

  1. Winter Wonderland Party: Transform your space into a snowy paradise with white decor, snowflakes, and icy blue accents. Hang white Christmas lights to add a magical touch to your home or party venue.
  2. Ugly Sweater Party: Encourage guests to wear their most hilariously ugly Christmas sweaters for a fun and festive gathering. Give out Christmas prizes for the ugliest sweater and originality.
  3. Holiday Movie Marathon: Host a movie night featuring classic Christmas films, complete with themed snacks and decorations.
  4. Holiday Movie Costume Party: Encourage guests to dress up as their favorite holiday movie character. Award prizes for best-dressed, best homemade costume, or couple costumes.
  5. Gingerbread House Decorating: Set up a gingerbread house decorating station for guests to get creative with their sweet creations. Whether using a kit or homemade, provide each guest with enough resources to create and take home a fully completed gingerbread house.
  6. Pajama Party: Have a cozy and casual Christmas celebration where everyone wears their favorite holiday-themed pajamas.
  7. Christmas Around the World: Highlight diverse cultural traditions and cuisines from various countries that celebrate Christmas. Ask guests to bring a different dish or dessert from another country.
  8. Santa’s Workshop: Create a DIY craft party where guests can make their own ornaments, decorations, and holiday crafts.
  9. Masquerade Ball: Combine the magic of Christmas with a touch of elegance by hosting a formal masquerade-themed event.
  10. Formal Dinner Party: Encourage guests to wear formal attire. Cook or cater an elegant dinner. Play soft classical or jazz Christmas music in the background.

Remember to tailor your themed Christmas party to your guests’ preferences. Add your individualized touch to make the party memorable. Have fun!

Tips for Preparing for Christmas in October

Preparing for Christmas in October allows you to get ahead of the holiday rush and ensure a smoother and more enjoyable holiday season. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your early Christmas preparations:

1. Create a Christmas Budget

Start by setting a budget for your Christmas expenses. This will help you plan your spending on gifts, decorations, food, and other holiday-related costs.

2. Create a Gift List

Begin by creating a list of people you plan to buy gifts for this Christmas season. Jot down gift ideas for each person. By starting early, you allow yourself ample time to find or create the perfect presents for everyone on your list.

3. Shop Early

Start shopping for gifts early. Many larger department stores are already gearing up for the holiday season. Take advantage of sales and avoid the holiday rush. Look for deals and discounts both online and in physical stores.

4. Shop Small

Shop independently owned small stores, novelty shops, church bazaars, or craft shows for unique items. Shopping small promotes your local economy. Plus, finding a one-of-kind gift for the hard-to-shop person on your Christmas gift is always a win.  

5. DIY Gifts and Crafts

Get crafty. Consider making homemade gifts or crafts. This not only adds a personal touch but can also be a cost-effective way to show your love and creativity. Homemade Christmas ornaments are always a wonderful gift to make and receive.

6. Decorate

Begin decorating your home or workplace with Christmas decorations. Take advantage of the warmer weather. Consider putting up outdoor Christmas lights early as you are taking down your Halloween directions. Decorating early is a great way to get a head start on the holiday season.

7. Plan Holiday Meals

Plan your Christmas menus and make a shopping list for ingredients. Purchase spices, flour, sugar, and other long-dated food items early. Stock your pantry with the essentials for your holiday baking.  The closer you get to the holiday season; you can even start prepping some freezer-friendly dishes. Planning in advance saves time during the busy holiday season.

8. Christmas Cards and Party Invitations

If you send out holiday cards or invitations for Christmas gatherings and parties, start addressing them early. Spend 30 minutes a day addressing envelopes to ensure they are ready to be sent out when the time comes.

9. Plan & Organize Events and Gatherings

If you are hosting a Christmas party, meal, or gathering, start planning the details now. Secure a venue, plan the menu, and send out invitations to ensure a successful event. Starting early helps stay organized during the busy holiday season.

10. Arrange Travel

If you plan on traveling during the holiday season, make your travel arrangements now.  Booking flights, arranging accommodations, and transportation well in advance help you get the best deals.

11. Review Traditions

Take the time to review your family’s Christmas traditions. Make a list of traditions that you do with your friends and family. Decide if any adjustments or additions should be made this year. Planning allows for a smooth execution of these traditions. Remember if a tradition does not fit into your schedule or the cost is too high, skip it. Or find a new tradition to try, one that suits your family.

12. Stay Organized

Use a planner, notebook, or digital calendar to stay organized.  Keep track of your tasks, spending, gift purchases, deadlines, and events leading up to Christmas.

13. Volunteer and Give Back

If volunteering is your way to give back at Christmas, research and reach out to prospective non-profits for volunteer opportunities. Set up your time with an organization early.

14. Spread Joy and Gratitude

Begin cultivating a spirit of joy and gratitude by reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas. Find ways to express gratitude to those around you throughout the Christmas season.

By starting your Christmas preparations in October, you will reduce stress. Allowing you more time to enjoy a more relaxed and meaningful holiday season with your loved ones.

30 Quotes for Christmas 2022

Do you love the Christmas season? If you are searching for inspiration to add to your website, social media posts, or blog, check out the following quotes for Christmas.

  1. “Christmas is like candy; it slowly melts in your mouth sweetening every taste bud, making you wish it could last forever.” – Richelle E. Goodrich
  2. “Christmas is the day that holds all time together.”  – Alexander Smith
  3. “Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality.” – Washington Irving
  4. “Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.” – Peg Bracken
  5. “Christmas gives us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the important things around us.” – David Cameron
  6. “The Christmas tree is a symbol of love, not money. There’s a kind of glory to them when they’re all lit up that exceeds anything all the money in the world could buy.” – Andy Rooney
  7. “We are better throughout the year for having, in spirit, become a child again at Christmastime.” – Laura Ingalls Wilder
  8. “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” – Will Ferrell
  9. “Nothing ever seems too bad, too hard, or too sad when you’ve got a Christmas tree in your living room.” – Nora Roberts
  10. “The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.” – Burton Hills
  11. “Some Christmas tree ornaments do more than glitter and glow, they represent a gift of love given a long time ago.” -Tom Baker
  12. “Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” – Hamilton Wright Mabie
  13. “Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.” – Charles M. Schultz
  14. “Like snowflakes, my Christmas memories gather and dance – each beautiful, unique, and gone too soon.” – Deborah Whipp
  15. “When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things – not the great occasions – give off the greatest glow of happiness.” – Bob Hope
  16. “Let us keep Christmas beautiful without a thought of greed.” – Ann Garnett Schultz
  17. It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” – Edward Pola and George Wyle
  18. “As we give presents at Christmas, we need to recognize that sharing our time and ourselves is such an important part of giving.” – Gordon B. Hinckley
  19. “Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.” – Dale Evans
  20. “I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year.” – Charles Dickens
  21. “At Christmas, all roads lead home.” – Marjorie Holmes
  22. “Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts.” – Janice Maeditere
  23. “Christmas is a stocking stuffed with sugary goodness.” – Mo Rocca
  24. “A good conscience is a continual Christmas.” – Benjamin Franklin
  25. “Christmas is the spirit of giving without a thought of getting. It is happiness because we see joy in people. It is forgetting self and finding time for others. It’s discarding the meaningless and stressing the true values.” – Thomas S. Monson
  26. “What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future.” – Agnes M. Pahro
  27. “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.”   – Romans 15:13
  28. “Christmas isn’t just a day, it’s a frame of mind.” – Valentine Davies
  29. “For it is in giving that we receive.” – Francis of Assisi
  30. “As we struggle with shopping lists and invitations, compounded by December’s bad weather, it is good to be reminded that there are people in our lives who are worth this aggravation, and people to whom we are worth the same.” – Donald E. Westlake

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Season Edition: How to Be a Tourist in Your Hometown

The Christmas season is a great time to be a hometown tourist. The first snow, holiday decorations, and community events are perfect for going on an adventure close to home. Make the season more festive by taking time out of your busy schedule to explore your hometown. If you need inspiration on how to be a tourist in your hometown at Christmas, check out the following for ideas.

Check Community Events

When was the last time you spent an afternoon or entire day being a tourist in your hometown or closest major city?

  • Start by researching your hometown for upcoming events.
  • Look for anything new that interests you. But do not hesitate to check out events that are new. Trying something different is a great way to grow and meet new people.
  • Join social media groups that focus on your hometown, nearby cities, or county. The shared information from other group members is a great resource.

Check for Christmas Season Events

The Christmas season brings new events to many communities.

  • Christmas tree lighting ceremonies.
  • Candlelight services
  • Church events
  • Live Nativity scenes
  • Christmas caroling
  • Festival of Trees
  • Christmas light decorating contests. (Many community pages will post a map to view the best lights in your town).
  • Christmas parades
  • Christmas community concerts or plays
  • Christmas Fairs
  • Go to a Christmas Market
  • Christmas craft shows or holiday bazaars

Create a Local Christmas Bucket List

Go ahead and make a bucket list for your hometown or nearby neighborhood. If you are going with family and friends, create the list together. Travel buddies are a great way to enjoy your hometown Christmas experience,

  • Check out new restaurants, revisit childhood favorites, go to art galleries, historical sites, or other interesting Christmas events.
  • Considering taking a different mode of transportation to get around your hometown. If the weather is good, consider walking.
  • Use coupons to save money which is a bonus during the holiday season. Also, many coupons use free items as an incentive for customers to spend a specific amount of money. Small trinkets or Christmas ornaments are a fun part of the shopping experience.
  • Take hometown tours.

Document Your Christmas-Themed Travels

Grab your camera or use your phone to document your hometown Christmas experience.

  • Go to your local café for a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea. Sit and jot notes in a journal about your day’s adventure.
  • Buy postcards and write about adventures on the back.
  • Take lots of photos. Even if you pass the place every day while going to work or running errands, stop and snap a photo. Try different angles.  
  • Create a Christmas scrapbook. Use your photos, postcards, sales receipts, business cards, and notes to make lasting memories of your hometown Christmas adventures.

Enjoy your journey! Merry Christmas!

116 Hashtags for Christmas 2022

The Christmas season is going strong. Are you ready to share your business or social media posts? Adding hashtags is a great way to draw attention to your posts for maximum viewing. If you are searching for inspiration, check out the following hashtags for Christmas.

Photo by Gary Spears on Pexels.com
  1. #Christmas
  2. #Christmas2022
  3. #MerryChristmas
  4. #ChristmasSeason
  5. #Holiday
  6. #HolidaySeason
  7. #Holiday
  8. #Holidayseason
  9. #Christmasseason
  10. #Christmasdecor
  11. #ChristmasTime
  12. #TistheSeason
  13. #ChristmasEve
  14. #ChristmasDay
  15. #Christmas
  16. #HappyChristmas
  17. #ChristmasIsComing
  18. #ChristmasLights
  19. #ChristmasDecorations
  20. #ChristmasTree
  21. #ChristmasLove
  22. #ChristmasStory
  23. #HollyJollyChristmas
  24. #ILoveChristmas
  25. #WishYouAMerryChristmas
  26. #ChristmasTraditions
  27. #ChristmasIsHere
  28. #MerryandBright
  29. #Christmasvibes
  30. #Handmade
  31. #Homemade
  32. #HomemadeChristmas
  33. #ChristmasCrafts
  34. #HyggeChristmas
  35. #AllThingsChristmas
  36. #ChristmasWithFriends
  37. #FamilyChristmas
  38. #HappyBirthdayJesus
  39. #CelebrateChrist
  40. #Nativity
  41. #AwayIntheManger
  42. #ChristmasCheer
  43. #HolidayCheer
  44. #FestiveSeason
  45. #ChristmasMagic
  46. #MagicalTimeOfYear
  47. #ChristmasTraditions
  48. #Traditions
  49. #FavoriteTimeofYear
  50. #ChristmasCountdown
  51. #Advent
  52. #AdventCalendar
  53. #ChristmasStyle
  54. #ChristmasNight
  55. #ChristmasGoals
  56. #HolidayLights
  57. #DeckTheHalls
  58. #FaLaLa
  59. #ChristmasPresents
  60. #ChristmasGifts
  61. #ChristmasGiftIdeas
  62. #Winter
  63. #FirstDayofWinter
  64. #Snow
  65. #IBelieve
  66. #Believe
  67. #IBelieveInSanta
  68. #DearSanta
  69. #Santa
  70. #SantaClaus
  71. #MrsClaus
  72. #Rudolph
  73. #Reindeer
  74. #NiceList
  75. #NaughtyList
  76. #NautyorNice
  77. #StNick
  78. #Stockings
  79. #ChristmasStockings
  80. #StockingStuffers
  81. #StockingStufferIdeas
  82. #ChristmasEveCelebrations
  83. #ChristmasEveDinner
  84. #ChristmasEveService
  85. #ChristmasParty
  86. #ChristmasDinner
  87. #HolidayParty
  88. #ChristmasBaking
  89. #ChristmasCookies
  90. #ChristmasCandy
  91. #ChristmasCake
  92. #ChristmasMusic
  93. #ChristmasFood
  94. #ChristmasPudding
  95. #EggNog
  96. #HolidayVibes
  97. #HolidayStyle
  98. #HolidayNails
  99. #HolidayGoals
  100. #HolidayMakeUp
  101. #JingleBells
  102. #BabysFirstChristmas
  103. #ChristmasFeast
  104. #ChristmasMood
  105. #ChristmasJoy
  106. #Peace
  107. #SpreadKindness
  108. #Joy
  109. #Love
  110. #SilentNight
  111. #ChristmasWreath
  112. #ChristmasPJs
  113. #MeetMeUnderTheMistletoe
  114. #Blessed
  115. #FelizNavidad
  116. #BeMerry

Christmas 2022: The Extra Christmas Stocking

The Christmas season is here! Are you ready to spread joy with family and friends? The holidays can be tough financially, mentally, and spiritually. If you feel a sense of gratitude for everything in your life, consider sharing with others.

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Christmas is a great time to give.  As you attend Christmas church services, participate in social gatherings with your family, and other community events, think about all the people around you.  Do they need extra kindness this Christmas?

For many, filling Christmas stockings with goodies is a major part of the holiday celebrations. As you begin to play the honorary role of Santa Claus, consider making an extra Christmas stocking to share with others. One simple act of kindness at Christmas can create a positive impact on someone’s whole holiday season.

Are you wondering who may need a filled Christmas stocking? Consider all the people; you encounter daily. If you still wondering who to put on your list, consider the following people for an extra Christmas stocking.

  • Friends: Yes, you can make adult-themed Christmas stockings with a nice bottle of wine or lots of high-quality chocolate.
  • Extended Family Members: Do you know an older relative who is living alone? Or perhaps, do you have elderly neighbors who always greet you with a smile? Surprise them with a Christmas stocking filled with goodies.
  • Children: Do you know a family who is struggling? Are they able to give Christmas stockings? Giving a child a Christmas stocking creates a lasting memory. (Remember you may need to ask permission to give a child a Christmas stocking. Some foods and toys may not be allowed.) Leave the Christmas stocking somewhere special with a note from Santa Claus.
  • Teacher: The pandemic, health guidelines, switching between online and in-person learning, teachers are remarkable and deserving of an extra Christmas stocking
  • Bus Driver: Every day, you trust the bus driver to get your child safely to school. The person deserves a special Christmas treat.
  • Childcare Provider: High-quality childcare providers are in demand. If you are lucky enough to find a great person to care for your child, brighten the provider’s day with an extra Christmas stocking.
  • Dog Walker: Rain or shine your dog walker is always on time to take your precious four-legged friend for a walk. For added fun, make the extra Christmas stocking a gift from your dog.
  • Your Dog’s Pal: When you go to the dog park, does your dog always find the same pal? Give your dog’s pal an extra Christmas stocking filled with doggie treats and toys (and you can give one to the owner).
  • Customer Service Representative: An extra Christmas stocking for the bagger at the grocery store, the waitress at the local cafe, or the barista who always gets your morning order correct. Or the friendly cashier who always seems to be happy.

The Christmas season is a great time for giving gifts. A Christmas stocking filled with holiday-themed goodies is an easy way to spread joy. Merry Christmas!

75 Songs for the Christmas Season

Music is one of the joys of Christmas. Artists have been writing about the holiday season for decades. If you are looking to add some Christmas cheer to your holiday party or dinner, check out the following songs. (Be careful, you may find yourself singing out loud!)

Photo by Thirdman on Pexels.com

Please note: As an Amazon affiliate, I earn income from qualifying purchases.

  1. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Bing Crosby
  2. “Away in the Manger” by Nat King Cole
  3. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams
  4. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby
  5. “Sleigh Ride” by The Ronettes or “Sleigh Ride” by Ella Fitzgerald
  6. “What Christmas Means to Me” by Stevie Wonder
  7. “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” by Nat King Cole
  8. “Last Christmas (I Gave You My Heart)” by Wham!
  9. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey
  10. “How Many Kings” by Downhere
  11. “It’s True” by Sara Groves
  12. “Let it, Snow! Let it, Snow! Let it Snow” by Dean Martin
  13. “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You)” by Nat King Cole
  14. “Home for the Holidays” by Perry Como
  15. “Christmas Time Is Here” by Vince Guaraldi Trio
  16. “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
  17. “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Frank Sinatra or “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” by Bruce Springsteen
  18. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Judy Garland
  19. “Frosty the Snowman” by Gene Autry or “Frosty the Snowman” by Jimmy Durante (Both are fun reeditions!)
  20. “Angels We Have Heard on High” by Ella Fitzgerald or “Angels We Have Heard on High” by Josh Groban & Brian McKnight
  21. “Let It Be Christmas” by Alan Jackson
  22. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkston
  23. “Christmas Cookies” by George Strait
  24. “Little Saint Nick” by The Beach Boys
  25. “Christmas Time All Over Again” by            Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
  26. “Carol of the Bells/What Child is This?” by Point of Grace
  27. “Mele Kalikimaka (Hawaiian Christmas Song)” by Bing Crosby
  28. “Santa Baby” by Eartha Kitt
  29. “Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley
  30. “Run, Rudolph, Run” by Chuck Berry
  31. “Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy” by Garth Brooks
  32. “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms
  33. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee
  34. “Carol of the Bells” by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
  35. “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)”
  36. “Jingle Bells” by Ella Fitzgerald or “Jingle Bells” by Dean Martin (Both are great!)
  37. “Christmas, Baby Please Come Home” by Darlene Love
  38. “A Soldiers Silent Night” by Father Ted Berndt
  39. “Winter Wonderland” by Dean Martin
  40. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives
  41. “Merry Christmas, Baby” by Otis Redding
  42. “Happy X-Mas (War is Over)” by John Lennon
  43. “Please Come Home for Christmas” by The Eagles
  44. “Where Are You Christmas” by Faith Hill
  45. “Feliz Navidad” by José Feliciano
  46. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Dean Martin or “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” by Norah Jones and Willie Nelson
  47. “Merry Christmas Darling” by The Carpenters
  48. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkston
  49. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by Jackson 5
  50. “Santa I’m Right Here” by Toby Keith
  51. “Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy” by David Bowie & Bing Crosby
  52. “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney
  53. “Hard Candy Christmas” by Dolly Parton
  54. “Gold and Green” by Sugarland
  55. “Deck The Halls” by Mannheim Steamroller
  56. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid
  57. “Fairytale of New York” by The Pogues
  58. “We Need a Little Christmas” by Angela Lansbury
  59. “Believe” by Josh Groban
  60. “The First Noel” by Andy Williams
  61. “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” by Gayla Peevey
  62. “Joy to the World” by Aretha Franklin
  63. “O Come, All Ye Faithful” by Faith Hill
  64. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Bublé
  65. “Mary, Did You Know” by Kenny Rogers
  66. “Christmas Isn’t Canceled (Just You)” by Kelly Clarkson
  67. “When My Heart Finds Christmas” by Harry Connick Jr
  68. “Pretty Paper” by Willie Nelson
  69. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” by Thurl Ravenscroft
  70. “Christmas Day at my House” by Patty Loveless
  71. “Snow” by Leslie Odom Jr.
  72. “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem” by The Judds
  73. “My Favorite Things” by Julie Andrews
  74. “Santa Claus Is Back In Town” by Elvis Presley
  75. “O Holy Night” by Céline Dion or “O Holy Night” by Nat King Cole (Both versions are wonderful.)

Is your favorite song on the list? Merry Christmas! Keep singing!

62 Photo Prompts for the Christmas Season

The Christmas season is finally here. Are you ready to enjoy every minute of the holiday celebrations? Capturing memories through photography is a perfect way to catch every festive moment. If you are looking for inspiration, check out the following photo prompts for the Christmas season.

Photo by Element5 Digital on Pexels.com
  1. Festive Selfie
  2. ‘Tis the Season
  3. Christmas Decor
  4. Red & Green
  5. Toyland
  6. In the Kitchen
  7. Leftovers
  8. Red & White
  9. The Magic of the Season
  10. Tree
  11. Lights
  12. Snow
  13. Silver & Gold
  14. Santa
  15. Reindeer
  16. Star
  17. Community
  18. Food
  19. Beverage
  20. Holiday Spirit
  21. Childhood
  22. Traditions
  23. Parade
  24. Cityscape
  25. Mail
  26. Believe
  27. Travel
  28. Mistletoe
  29. Storefront
  30. Candy Canes
  31. Reflection
  32. Advent
  33. Nutcracker
  34. Sweater
  35. Ribbons & Bows
  36. Wrapped with Love
  37. Stockings
  38. Pajamas
  39. Gifts
  40. Nativity
  41. Ornaments
  42. Family
  43. Friendship
  44. True Meaning of Christmas
  45. Angel
  46. Warmth
  47. Landscape
  48. Black & White
  49. Crafts
  50. Weather
  51. Cozy
  52. Homemade
  53. Milk & Cookies
  54. Blessings
  55. On the Tree
  56. Silent Night
  57. Peace
  58. Love
  59. Joy
  60. Photographer’s Choice
  61. Celebrations
  62. 2023

Ways to Support Small Business Saturday

Did you know November 26th  is Small Business Saturday? Small or independently owned businesses play an important role in the United States economy. Small businesses create local jobs and other opportunities within the community.

Owning a small business requires hard work and dedication. If you are searching for ways to help promote local restaurants, hair salons, flower shops, mechanics, contractors, or other small businesses during the holidays, consider the following ideas.

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  1. Know Your Community: Check out new local shops or revisit long-standing independent businesses. Join community groups on social media to learn about new or other small businesses in your neighborhood. Many small businesses use social media groups to promote sales or new products, especially during the holiday season.
  2. Write a Review: After visiting a local establishment, write a review of your experience. If you made a purchase, describe your product or service. If you did not buy anything, you still can leave a review. Describe the business. How did the employees greet you? Will you return? Provide honest feedback for others to learn about your experience.
  3. Follow On Social Media Platforms: Many stores use social media to promote new items or services being offered. If a local business has a social media presence, follow the page and share posts. Even if you did not find anything for yourself, share posts with your followers or friends. Perhaps a person on your social media page will find the perfect Christmas gift for a loved one.
  4. Subscribe to Newsletters: Small business owners share vital information about sales or upcoming events through weekly or monthly newsletters. Subscribing to a newsletter keeps you informed. The holiday season is a perfect opportunity to learn about discounted items for everyone on your Christmas list.
  5. Show Gratitude: At Christmas time, a “thank you” to employees or the owner is a great way to show appreciation for their presence in the community. Consider buying gift cards or certificates to give away to loved ones. If you are visiting a local restaurant or hair salon, tip well to show your gratitude. A small act of kindness goes a long way this time of year.

What is the best way to support Small Business Saturday? Visit one. Enjoy the different atmosphere only a small business can offer during the holiday season.