Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but how do you sprinkle that extra bit of festive magic into your preparations? As a St. George’s, Harrow elf, I’ve got the inside scoop! Here are my top tips for adding sparkle, fun, and flavour to your festive season.

1. Get the Kids Elf-Ready at the Academy!

2. Wrap and Send with Sparkle

Elevating your gifting game starts with the presentation. Don’t wait until the last minute to panic-buy tape and generic cards!

• Cards & Wrap: Head to Cards Direct to stock up on beautiful Christmas cards and coordinating gift wrap. Choosing unique designs adds a personal touch that shows you care.
• The Perfect Present: Whether you’re wrapping up a luxurious, personalised bracelet from Pandora or a new seasonal coat from H&M, presentation is key! If you’re planning a special Christmas gift for someone special, head to Warren James for some sparkle

3. The Ultimate Gift Haul: Toys & Treats

Make your list and check it twice! Finding those perfect presents for every age is easy right here at the centre.

• Fun & Fandom: Head to Smiggle for awesome stationery and accessories, like their new Marvel or Care Bears range, perfect for creative kids and collectors.
• Novelty Finds: For brilliant stocking fillers and character gifts, look no further than B&M. You can find adorable Stitch gifts and much more!
• Value & Variety: Score incredible bargains on toys, games, and unique novelty items at TK Maxx, great for grabbing high-quality gifts without the high price tag.

4. Scent the Season (and Save Money!)

Scent is a powerful way to make your home feel festive. You don’t need to spend a fortune to get those warm, cosy smells, or to stock up on great beauty gifts!

• Gifting Deals: Head to Boots, where you can grab gifts for everyone from gifts inspired by film and TV shows, amazing bath and beauty sets, many of which are on their 3 for 2 Christmas mix and match offer!
• Luxury Scents for Less: Pop into B&M for amazing dupes from well-known brands, find a wide range of beauty must-haves and scented treats that smell incredible but keep your budget happy.
• Signature Scents: Looking for the ultimate gift? Explore the latest luxury fragrances at The Fragrance Shop. You could even gift a Scent Addict subscription for a surprise new sample every month!

5. Schedule Festive Fun and Games!

After a long day of shopping and elf training, treat your family to some entertainment right here at the centre.

• Catch a Flick: See the latest blockbusters and festive films at Vue Cinema. You can even grab exclusive merchandise from upcoming releases, like Wicked, which is a great gift for a film lover. 
• Game On: Head to Putt & Play for competitive fun. Beyond the mini-golf, their arcade games are packed with high scores, flashing lights, and great prizes, a brilliant way to unwind!

6. Treat Yourself (You Deserve It!)

Elf work is tough! Make sure you schedule in some festive self-care and treats to keep your spirits high.

• Sweet Indulgence: Nothing screams weekend luxury like colourful, delicate macarons from Heriots. Grab a box for an instant uplift. They also make a great gift for a food lover or an extra treat on a Christmas table for a little wow! 
• Mid-Week Feast: Need a break from cooking? The Prezzo lunch deal offers two courses for just £13.50, Monday to Friday until 4 pm. Perfect for fueling a busy shopping day!

7. Join the Elf Hunt!

Want some extra fun? Help us find our mischievous, freshly graduated elves who have gone rogue!

The Elf Trail: Join the Elf Trail, running from Saturday, 6th December to Wednesday, 24th December. Pick up a trail sheet from Vue, spot the naughty elves hiding in shop windows, and drop off your sheet for the chance to win an elf-tastic prize.

Ready to make this your most magical Christmas yet? You now have the ultimate elf playbook! 

Follow these tips, and you’re guaranteed A Very Merry Elfmas!