ADVENT CALENDARS: A Guide for the Whole Family 2020

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Well, what a year it has been. I don't think any of us were expecting a worldwide pandemic and the impact that had on every area of life when we were sitting around eating Christmas dinner last year. It's quite shocking to think back really, but we can't let the ever changing restrictions and regulations ruin the run up to Christmas. This year, more than ever before, we all need something positive and exciting to focus on. It is looking like Christmas won't be a 'normal' one, but something we can do is treat ourselves and/or loved ones to an advent calendar that will bring a smile to their face every day during December. Each year the world of advent calendars becomes even bigger, better and more exciting, as the offerings provide excellent value for money and the designs simply wow. 

FESTIVE: Advent Calendar Guide for the Whole Family 2019

*Advertorial Content - Gifted Items

The world of advent calendars has changed quite a lot since my childhood when there were two options...chocolate or pictures. Nowadays the number of different advent calendars increases each year with many getting all the more extravagant, creative and impressive. It's so exciting to see what the new releases will be; there really is something for the whole family, gone have the days when advent calendars were just for children. We can now join in on the magic as the countdown to Christmas begins on December 1st, so I thought I'd put together a guide to some of the best advent calendars available on the market this year. It doesn't matter whether you're shopping for your little ones, loved ones or treating a friend; there is the perfect advent calendar out there for them and hopefully these will inspire you.

CHRISTMAS: Advent Calendars without chocolate?

Every year there seems to be more and more 'alternative' advent calendars to choose from. Forget chocolate or pictures, you can now get advent calendars filled with beauty products, alcohol, candles, puzzles, jewellery etc. This concept excites me greatly, I'm a massive Christmas fan and anyway of extending that excitement across the whole of December is ok with me. Generally the downside of these advent calendars is the price, too often they are very expensive for an 'advent calendar'. After searching the internet it's clear that the options are almost endless, so here's my quick guide to some of the choices. Starting with the cheapest...

Nutcracker Advent Charm Bracelet by Little Baby Company - notonthehighstreet - £16.95

Advent Christmas Tea Gift Set by Victoria Mae Designs - notonthehighstreet - £19.50

W7 Cosmetics Advent Calendar - TK Maxx - £19.99

Yankee Candle Advent Calendar 2014 - Yankee Candle - £21.99

No7 Beauty Calendar - Boots - £35 (Sold Out now)

Ciate Mini Mani Manor Advent Calendar - Ciate London - £49

12 Beers of Christmas by Best of British Beer - notonthehighstreet - £49.50

The Body Shop 24 Days of Joy - The Body Shop - £50

Elemis 12 Days of Beauty Gift Set - timetospa - £59.50

Jo Malone Advent Calendar - Harrods - £250

What would you want in an advent calendar?

I love the idea of having a new candle each day, especially when they are festive scents. I'd also love to have an advent calendar that had a different vouchers/gift cards in each day, so you can treat yourself when money is tight!

Helen x