The festive season is officially underway for a prominent radio host who has embraced the spirit of Christmas earlier than many. On the evening of November 26, the unmistakable sound of a delivery truck disrupted her sleep, marking the start of her holiday preparations. As she prepared for her early morning shift on Radio 2, she discovered her home transformed into a festive display of seasonal treats, including tins of chocolate and a single carrot.
This enthusiasm for Christmas is not new for her. Despite being labeled “basic” by etiquette coach William Hanson, who criticized her early decorations, she remains unapologetic about her love for the holiday. For her, the joy of Christmas extends beyond decorations; it encompasses the lights, films, and the celebratory atmosphere that she cherishes.
Finding Joy in Early Celebrations
The radio host shares that her passion for Christmas has always been a part of her life. In fact, during her time at Radio 1, she once played the first Christmas song in August, a decision she now admits was perhaps too early. However, her enthusiasm has found a partner in her husband, Sam, who encourages her to indulge in the festivities. Their home has become a canvas for elaborate decorations, including oversized bows that capture attention.
Despite the light-hearted criticism from Hanson, she believes that earlier celebrations are a necessary antidote to the dark winter months. The days in winter are short, often leaving her with little daylight due to her demanding work schedule. Decorating early not only brightens her home but also boosts her mood, filling her space with warmth and cheer.
Psychologists suggest that decorating for the holidays early can enhance happiness. It taps into feelings of nostalgia and offers a respite from the daily grind. While the radio host admits she is not an expert in psychology, she personally experiences a surge of joy when engaging in holiday preparations.
The Impact of Pantomime on Holiday Traditions
This year marks her third season performing in pantomime, where she plays Mayor Mills in Jack and the Beanstalk at The Wycombe Swan in High Wycombe. The rigorous schedule of two to three shows a day means she misses out on traditional holiday activities, making her early decorating all the more important. She aims to create a festive environment that allows her to enjoy the season, even if her Christmas Day is limited to a single day off.
In her opinion, the UK lacks a dedicated holiday like Thanksgiving, which would provide a natural transition into the Christmas season. Instead, she advocates for starting celebrations earlier, especially as Halloween wraps up and winter sets in.
Listeners of her Radio 2 Breakfast Show have expressed their support for early decorators, with approximately 70 percent endorsing the initiative. While some listeners question the timing of Christmas music, the majority share her enthusiasm, with many enjoying a nightly Baileys, affectionately dubbed “Irish Christmas Milk.”
Social media reactions to her festive posts have varied, with playful comments about her decorations. Notably, Alex Jones from The One Show reached out to inquire about her large bows, highlighting the camaraderie among fellow Christmas enthusiasts.
Beyond the decorations, the radio host takes great joy in gift-giving. She spends considerable time selecting presents, carefully considering each recipient’s preferences and imagining their reactions. This thoughtful approach to gift selection is a cherished aspect of the holiday season for her.
In conclusion, whether labeled as “basic” or a “Christmas Creeper,” she embraces her passion for the festive season without hesitation. With plans to continue her holiday preparations, she remains committed to spreading joy, stating, “I unashamedly adore Christmas.” As she heads out for more decorations, it is clear that her holiday spirit is infectious and unapologetic.
