Christmas is almost here! It's time to pull out the recipe books and plan your feast, hang your favourite decorations, and wrap that pile of presents you've been collecting for your loved ones. Some of you may already have your special day planned and prepared but for those that need a little inspiration to get started, you'll find everything you need right here!



Deck The Halls
To create the perfect environment for Christmas Day you'll need some dazzling decorations. You can create a stunning table display as the focal point of your room, then use elements of the display to decorate the rest of your house. For example, if your table has an Australian bush theme with a native flower centrepiece, make a wreath (like this one) for the front door using some of the same plants as the centrepiece. Then make smaller bouquets to sit around the house, or tiny bunches to hang from door knobs. Check out Tara's video for hot tips on creating a beautiful table display, or try these other decorating ideas for a different look:

Christmas Table Settings
Creative Christmas Tree Themes



Festive Feast
There are so many options when it comes to the perfect Christmas meal. It can be hard to choose! To keep things simple pick a food theme and base each dish around that. For those that love a traditional spread, try our step-by-step video for a scrumptious Smokey Apple and Honey Glazed Ham. Or maybe summery seafood appeals to you more - if so, our collection of delicious seafood recipes is the perfect option. So keen for your Christmas meal that you simply can't wait until dinner? Try these brunch recipes. And don't forget the sweets! These treats are the perfect accompaniment to any festive meal.  And if you're still after more ideas, you'll love these recipes too.



The Perfect Gift
There's something extremely touching about receiving a present that's been handmade with love. Show your family just how special they are to you by making them a Christmas present they'll truly adore. Wrapped parcels filled with handmade candy canes will surprise and delight - check out our How-To Guide and learn to make your own. Make and wrap one of these No-Sew Craft Projects in a flash, they're simple and stunning! And for something your loved ones can enjoy and then eat, these edible Christmas gifts will go down a treat! Top it all off by wrapping your gifts with our beautiful Christmas gift wrap, found in our Christmas Issue.

No matter where you are and what you decide to do on Christmas Day, we hope that you have a wonderful time with family and friends. Merry Christmas from all of us at Better Homes and Gardens.

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