… and a happy New Year. 

Do you know the song?

Today’s the big day—it’s Christmas Day. (Or as we call it in Germany, der erste Weihnachtstag 😉)

So, were Father Christmas and Rudolph busy at your place last night?

Or maybe das Christkind was the one to leave gifts under the tree?

In the UK, Christmas morning is magical—children (and grown-ups!) wake up to find stockings filled with small surprises and larger presents waiting under the tree.

That’s the tradition for us in the Burgmer family, too.

We’ll be unwrapping our gifts after breakfast, especially excited with two little ones in the family this year. 🎁

Here’s hoping your Christmas is full of joy, laughter—and warm holiday memories.

Wishing you an enchanting holiday break. 🎅

Christine

‘Twas the night before Christmas*, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring… except for those last-minute gift wrappers and biscuit bakers, right? 😉

Christmas Eve is here, and the holiday magic is in full swing.

Children are setting out milk and biscuits, hoping Father Christmas and his reindeer will make a stop.

Stockings are hung, Christmas lights are twinkling, and there’s that wonderful hush that only happens on Christmas Eve. 🎅

Whether you’re settling in with hot cocoa or a glass of wine, finishing up your wrapping or already opening presents, sneaking one more mince pie or enjoying your potato salad… here’s to a cosy, magical night filled with wonder and joy.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas Eve.

———
*Twas the Night before Christmas is a well-known poem. 

Forget shopping stress—why not make someone’s day with a thoughtful social media gift?

Alan Stevens, The Media Coach, has great ideas on how to spread holiday cheer online. And you can try these, too.

Here’s how:

• Mention someone’s brilliant idea. That little shout-out can mean a lot.
• Thank someone publicly. Gratitude is one of the best gifts.
• Share a fantastic article or retweet a helpful tip. This can bring valuable content to others.
• Encourage people to check out someone’s site or follow a favourite account. It’s like giving a virtual boost.
• And don’t forget: Reach out to old friends or comment on a photo or video you love. Sometimes, a few words go a long way.

It’s all simple, free—and shows you’re thinking of others this season. Plus, you’re building connections that matter.

What’s your first social media gift going to be? 

We’ve all been there—the holiday rush sneaks up, and suddenly, you realise you didn’t send out your Christmas messages.

Don’t worry! A last-minute message can still be heartfelt and festive. And it only takes a few thoughtful lines to spread some holiday cheer.

• Keep it simple and sincere. Start with a warm greeting like, “Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season” or “Sending a little extra cheer your way this Christmas.”
• Mention something personal if you can—maybe a shared memory from this year or a quick “Thank you for all the wonderful moments together.”

If you’re reaching out to clients or colleagues, keep it professional but warm: “Thank you for being part of our journey this year. Wishing you a wonderful holiday and a happy new year ahead.”

And don’t worry about your message being late—just say something like, “Better late than never! Wishing you all the best this holiday season.”

✨ Take a few minutes, write from the heart—and make someone’s holiday a little brighter! ✨

Let me break down the Christmas celebrations in Germany versus the UK/the US:

24th December:

• In Germany: This is “Heiligabend” — the main Christmas celebration. Families get together for a special dinner, and children receive their presents in the evening.
• In the UK/US: This is “Christmas Eve” — mostly a day of preparation. People finish shopping and get ready for the next day.

25th December:

• In Germany: Called “1. Weihnachtstag” — a quieter day often spent with family.
• In the UK/US: This is “Christmas Day“— the big celebration. Families open presents, enjoy a big feast, and spend the whole day celebrating.

26th December:

• In Germany: Known as “2. Weihnachtstag“— another day for family visits and relaxing.
• In the UK: Called “Boxing Day” — famous for shopping sales and watching sports.
• In the US: Simply “the day after Christmas” — usually quiet, with people enjoying leftovers.

The biggest difference? In Germany, the main celebration is on 24th December, while in the UK and US, it’s on 25th December*.

💭 Which day do you celebrate most? I’d love to hear about your traditions.

*In the Burgmer family presents are opened on 25th December!