Christmas can be a whirlwind, especially when you’re juggling family, work, and everything in between. For our founder Gemma Atkinson, it’s all about preparation, perspective, and a little bit of self-care. Read on for Gemma’s top tips!

Plan Ahead (Even if It Feels Impossible)

One of Gemma’s biggest tips for a stress-free Christmas is simple: don’t leave things to the last minute. Making a list and crossing items off as you go is her secret weapon. It keeps everything organised and gives that satisfying sense of progress.

Although as Gemma warns, planning ahead comes with its own challenge: finding places around the house to hide the presents from the kids!

Making Time For What Matters Most

This year, Gemma and Gorka are hosting Christmas for 15 people (Gorka will take on the cooking, while Gemma is responsible for the decorating!) Amid the festive chaos, Gemma hopes everyone remembers that Christmas is really about slowing down, spending time with family and loved ones, and enjoying the little things.

Gemma’s favourite part of Christmas Day is after lunch where everyone is full from all the food, all sat around in paper hats playing board games and nibbling on cheese boards and Celebrations. There’s no clock watching, no rush to clean up, and all the family are together – for Gemma, this makes it one of the best days of the year.

Recharge & Relax

Amid all the festive hustle, it’s essential to carve out moments just for yourself. Whether that’s curling up with a mug of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, taking a few deep breaths by the twinkling lights, or treating your skin to some soothing Gem & Tonic skincare. These small acts of self-care help you recharge, relax, and glow!

Fun Things to Look Forward To

Don’t forget to sprinkle the season with experiences that bring smiles and laughter. Gemma loves booking family outings like the panto and Disney on Ice. In addition, little traditions like visiting a Christmas market, watching the lights, or baking cookies together help to turn ordinary days into lasting memories.

Gemma’s Quick Christmas Survival Tips:

• Make lists and tick things off!
• Delegate duties + teamwork = dream work.
• Indulge without guilt. Everything in moderation!
• Plan fun experiences to balance the chaos.
• Take care of yourself with a Gem & Tonic moment.

So whether you’re wrapping gifts, planning a feast, or sneaking in a moment of hot chocolate bliss, remember Gemma’s advice: a little planning, a lot of laughter, and some Gem & Tonic self-care can make your Christmas magical.