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Top things to do on Christmas Day

We couldn’t be more excited that Christmas is upon us. We’re decking our halls, hanging the stockings and jingling our bells in anticipation for the big day. As it’s the most wonderful time of the year we wanted to help get the most out of it. So here are our top things to do on Christmas day.

Secret Santa

It’s not too late to set a secret Santa up for everyone who will be at your house on Christmas day. Set a small budget and a theme – perhaps all gifts must be under £5 and hilariously funny joke gifts.

Games

Whether your family is a traditional Monopoly family or prefers a bit of trivia, we think games are a must on Christmas day! If you’re yet to add this fun tradition to your Christmas day festivities, you’re missing out. Yes, be prepared for board flips, arguments and intense frustration – it’s all a part of Christmas.

Movie time

This is the time where everyone has eaten far too much, food babies are out and about, and the Baileys and whisky are in full flow. Pick a Christmas favourite – we love Home Alone or Love Actually and hunker down in the living room with blankets, pillows and fairy lights. Dad is sure to fall asleep and start snoring, and someone will be eating popcorn far too loudly, but that’s what it’s all about.

Eat

I mean, come on, this one is a given. Christmas is the one time of the year where we all become glutens. It’s the time of the year where anything and everything goes – chocolate and cheese, sure. If you’re going to do it, you must do it right. Be sure to start off with a fairly light breakfast; in preparation for the main event of course. After you’ve stuffed yourself with your roast dinner, dessert is a must. Then we advise that you give yourself at least an hour or so to feel full but not stuffed. Then it’s selection box chocolate time, followed by cheese glorious cheese, followed swiftly by a lot of snacks, crisps and dips. We’re talking going ALL out. It’s Christmas after all.

So, they’re our favourite traditions, what are yours? Let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear!

We hope you have the most wonderful Christmas – filled with all the best things and people in life.

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November Favourites | Editors Pick

Another month and more favourites from our editors. We’re talking all thing homeware today – we know, we’re super excited too.

If red and greens are not your scene, what is your theme this Christmas? If you’re set on making your home beautiful all year round, not just for Christmas, you’re going fall (real hard) in love with this beautiful statement chair from Angel and Boho. We’re not saying this is just for the ladies because we think everyone should have a touch of pink in their lives. Plus, boys like pink too, are we right guys?! This Powder Pink Pleated Velvet Chair is the perfect addition to your home study. Finished off with delicate gold mid-century style legs, this is going straight in the basket.

 

Lighting is everything. The perfect selfie, the perfect cosy evening, the perfect atmospheric date night – lighting is what makes every moment and every room perfect. If you don’t have the right lighting, you’re probably not enjoying your moments as much as you could be. You’re right, that was quite dramatic, but we still think lighting is very important and hugely overlooked. That’s why when we saw this gem at Décor-us we knew it was a match made in heaven. The perfect kitchen island lighting has been found and it’s this gorgeous Antique Copper and Kitchen Lamp. At £75, we think it’s a steal – come on, it’s antique!


If Christmas time isn’t the best time of year to switch out that boring duvet set, we don’t know what is. Seriously, it’s time to treat yourself to a new duvet set – whether it’s Christmas themed or not, you need one. What’s more incredible than the feeling of FRESH SHEETS?! We have an answer – it’s this Alana Pale Grape VELVET Duvet Cover from Laura Ashley. We know, we outdid ourselves on this pick.

 

Our last, but most definitely not least favourite of November has to be this Fairmont Faux Fur Rug in Taupe. You don’t even need a sofa in your living room or a bed in your bedroom if you’ve got this bad boy. Yes, it’s that soft. It’s like a big cuddle from happy ol’ Nick! Fantastically fluffy and oh so soft, you’ll be obsessed with this rug just like we are!

That’s a wrap on our November favourites and although November flew by, we’re happy to be living the Christmas life right now. Stay tuned for our December favourites – that’s sure to be a good one.

If you’re looking for even more home inspiration, décor or just love to browse homewares (don’t worry, we all do), head on over to Catalink for a huge range of homeware companies – all in one place.

 

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Black Friday Deals on Catalink

As we’re sure you’re aware, it’s Black Friday week! We thought we lend you a little hand and let you in on all the sales happening across our clients onsite – and, boy, they’re good.

We’re going to give you a little something that will suit every need and taste, so get your wallet at the ready and get ready to shop Black Friday style.

Clothing

Whether you’re looking for those AW18 lines, want to kit out the family for next year or really fancy being that cute couple with the matching Christmas jumpers, we’ve got you sorted.

Lands’ end has a huge range of clothing for the whole family – and its top quality. This Black Friday week – as in, right now – they have 40% off full price items across the whole website. That’s not up to either – it’s a solid 40%.

If it’s the girls you’re looking to buy for, Yumi has a beautiful selection of clothing for women and girls and they’re offering up to 60% of selected lines this week.

Looking to suit up in time for the festive season lads? Moss Bros have you covered (in the most stylish suits around) with an extra 20% off everything sitewide.

Drink (the strong stuff)

What’s better than discounted food? Erm, maybe discounted alcohol!

Rude Wines have some unmissable deals on their wine selection this week, with some cases offering savings of 40%. What’s not to love?

Homeware

If you’re hoping to have your living room fresh in time for Christmas and can’t find anywhere that guarantees delivery and fitting in time for Christmas, we have the place for you. United Carpets and Beds have up to half price off on beds, carpets and mattresses. Plus, they ensure they’ll have your carpet fitted in time for the big day.

Fancy some décor that’s a little bit different from the usual boring homewares? Culture Vulture has a delightful 25% off different categories all week long. Don’t miss out, head over there now.

Health & Beauty

Protocol Beauty is known for their expertise in collagen – that’s the stuff that makes your skin feel and look more youthful. Their Black Friday deals are still a big surprise, but they’re advertising some big expectations. Head over to their site to have a little look at what you might like when the discounts drop.

Looking to keep that cold at bay this year? Now, you may not think about spending your hard-earned cash on medication this black Friday, but you’re wrong not to do so. Let’s be honest, you’re bound to get a winter cold right? Medication is expensive! So, get yours on sale this week at Pharmacy First and prepare for that likely event. They’ve got a random, but impressive, up to 62% off.

Gifts

With Christmas coming up, it’s the best time to use Black Friday to your advantage and get some great bargains on those gifts.

Head over to Angels Face for the cutest little girl’s tutus. Your little girl is sure to love a handcrafted tutu or a pretty new dress to show off to the family at Christmas time. They’re offering up to 80% off – we know, it’s an unmissable deal.

Buy your lady (or treat yourself girls) a beautiful set of lingerie or maybe even opt for something a little kinkier. Either way, Playful Promises have an incredible collection of lingerie to choose from. They’ve got a bunch of sales across site right now – including great discounts on their famous Gabi line.

Trim and tame that beard in time for Christmas lads. If you’re yet to invest in some high-quality shaving equipment, now’s your change. Pop on over to Executive Shaving’s website for a sneaky 25% off their incredible products.

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How to throw the Ultimate Christmas Party

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and we’re so excited to bring you our Christmas Party guide. We’re including all our must haves for the ultimate Christmas party – whether it’s on Christmas Day or a friendly gathering.

Decorations

If you’re the host this year, you’re going to want to impress – right? It’s easy to set the scene for a Christmas Party. You’re going to need to put up a tree, choose a colour theme and put up some garland and lights around your house. If you’re looking for some festive but completely unique ornaments, Angel and Boho have exactly that. Check out their gold string leaf lights or pick up their precious pine cone baubles. If you love their stuff, be sure to sign up for their incredible updates and offers, here.

Drink

After you’ve decorated the tree, hung the wreaths and strung the lights, it’s time to think about the drink. What’s a Christmas party without an array of festive alcohol?! We’re going to go with the most obvious and say a pot of mulled wine is a great statement drink for a Christmas party. We’re going to give you a little how-to, don’t worry.

Pick a red wine that delights, whether mulled or not. If you’re struggling, Rude Wines has the most incredible selection of fine wines. Plus, they have incredible deals at this time of the year.

  1. Add the mulled wine to saucepan with half an orange (sliced), 60g of brown sugar, a bay leaf, one cinnamon stick and a teaspoon of grated nutmeg.
  2. Heat gently until all of the sugar has dissolved.
  3. Et Voila – you’re finished.

This simple yet show-stopping mulled wine will really set your party apart from the rest. Sign up to the Rude Wines newsletter to get incredible wine deals, direct to your inbox.

Food

What’s a party without delicious food? If you’re looking for ease, party food is the way to go, but if you want something a little more warming and personal, it’s not much harder to make a huge batch of chilli. Throw some potato wedges into the over and leave your chilli simmering on the stove-top. It’s sure to be a crowd pleaser!

If you’re looking for a special addition to your delicious chilli, head over to Spicers to choose yourself an affordable but super luxury Christmas hamper. Because who doesn’t like delving into a salted caramel hamper?

Entertainment

This is a great one because, in all honesty, you don’t need to do much to entertain people. Once they’re surrounded by friends and family, enjoying their food and have the drinks flowing, people tend to keep themselves entertained.

Make sure you throw some classic Christmas music on maybe leave out some instruments (if you have any), so people who can play, will play. Everyone loves a good sing-along! If you’re wanting some backup entertainment, get the Mr and Mrs game out, play some heads up (Christmas themed) and let the arguments begin!

So that’s it, that’s your Christmas party plan done. You can layback, grab yourself a drink and delegate now.

 

 

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October Favourites | Editors Pick

As October has come to an end – and yes, we know, it’s flown by – we’re here with our must-haves of October. This month is a fashion edit and so we’re bringing you all our favourite items of October – the things we loved best and couldn’t live without through the month of October.

We obsessed (and still are obsessing) over this Teddy Bear Coat from Yumi. With Teddy Coats popping up all over the place right now, it’s super hard to find a one that will last through the Winter without falling apart or going bobbly. A lot of the ones we’ve tried out are also super scratchy and not quite as soft as they look. Either that or they’re priced way out of our comfort zones. This coat from Yumi is unreal. Head on over to Yumi for a sneak peek, we won’t tell anyone.

Continue reading “October Favourites | Editors Pick”

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Winter Work Wear Essentials

The weather has spoken and as Jon Snow would say, winter is coming (it’s basically here, we know). At this time of year, we know how important it is to feel cosy – even when you’re at work! We’re here to lend a helping hand and help you look great but feel cosy during these Winter months.

Turtlenecks & Roll-Necks

Roll or Turtle neck jumper under a suit / tweed jacket

Let’s be honest, wearing a turtleneck is like receiving a big hug every second of the day. They’re not only cosy, but they look good. Pair a long-sleeved roll neck thin knit with a pair of paper bag trousers if you’re woman or some slim-fit suit trousers if you’re a man, slide on some black boots and throw on some cute gold accessories or a statement watch and you’re in for one cosy (but stylish) day in the office.

Take a look at Moss Bros Wine Merino Wool Roll-Neck Jumper for men here and sign up for their newsletter for even more stylish Winter pick, right here.

Dress up this Cotton Stripe Roll Neck from Lands’ End with a cute wool blazer and keep yourself warm and looking good through this season. If you love their stuff, order their catalogue here for deals and updates on their clothing.

Winter boots

Annabelle Fleur of the Viva Luxury Blog in the TIELAND in Black Suede.

We love UGGs as much as the next person, but, for some reason, they aren’t work-attire – I know, crazy! So, we’re talking about investing in a good quality pair of cosy smart boots – perfect for office wear, meetings and a nice dinner with the partner.

Walktall has men with big feet sorted and we’re in love with these Chatham Aplin Boots – don’t they just look cosy as heck?! Sign up to their newsletter for incredibly BIG deals on their selection of large shoes.

These Ring Pull Cleated Ankle Boots from Select Fashion are to die for. We’re seriously loving these and know they’ll keep your feet super warm – looks like there is definitely room for a fluffy sock. They have great savings in their newsletter if you’re looking for a bargain!

Cable Knits

Burberry London Cable Knit Sweater

You’re probably wondering how a cable knit can possibly pass as work wear right? We’re here to tell you that it’s possible and it’s actually quite easy. Pair a beautifully chunky pink cable knit (we like this one from Yumi) with a pleather black skirt, some wool tights and your new boots and you’ve got a cosy, but sophisticated work look. Their newsletter is filled with great winter fashion inspo!

If you’re a guy who isn’t quite feeling the pleather skirt, we have you covered too. Choose a light-coloured chunky knit, like this one from Culture Vulture and pair it with a slim-fit shirt (collar out), some tailored chinos and some brogues and you’ve got yourself a smart but warm work look. If you like Culture Vulture as much as we do, order their catalogue – they have loads more great winter fashion picks just waiting for you.

Hopefully, these ideas have given you enough inspiration to create the most stylish but, most importantly, cosy outfits for work this Winter. Be sure to send us pictures of your outfits – we’d love to see them.

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5 Things to do with your kids this Halloween

With Halloween right around the corner, it’s a good time to start planning this year’s Halloween event for the kids! If you, like us, are Halloween crazy, then you’ll probably want to make it super special for your little ones. We’re here to give you some super simple ideas for the kids this Halloween.

Halloween Sleepover

This works no matter the age – it’s a tried and tested way to get the kids into the ghostly spirit. Arrange an old-fashioned sleepover with some of their friends, decorate the living room and leave a selection of spooky movies for them to watch. There are so many age-appropriate films for Halloween, so no matter their age, there’s a definite scary movie out there for them. We’re all about going all out so be sure to request a theme and get the kids to come in spooky, Halloween inspired PJ’s like the ones over at Lands’ End Kids – it’s sure to be a winner.

Have a pumpkin picking party

 

This will be a pre-Halloween party, but what’s not to love! Get a group of their friends together and take the kids to a local (there are plenty across the whole of the UK) pumpkin picking farm and watch them go wild. Nothing is more fun (apart from trick-or-treating of course) on Halloween than picking out your own pumpkin. Most counties have plenty of farms that cater to pumpkin picking – The Lake District has a beautiful selection!

Have a pumpkin carving party

Whether you’ve picked your own pumpkins or popped over to the nearest supermarket, pumpkin carving is a massive part of Halloween. Print out a bunch of stencils for the kids (and yourself of course), cover the table and decorate the kitchen with spooky lights and bats and watch your little ones release their creativity. Truth is, you’ll probably have to finish theirs off for them or worst of all, scrape the seeds out because it’s far too “yucky” for them to do, but they’ll still have a blast.

Make your decorations

Creativity is what kids’ do, it’s what they love and what they remind us about every day. So why not make your household Halloween decorations this year? Head over to Bureau Direct Stationery to stock up on the essentials for your DIY party. Go wild with bats, ghouls, ghosts and witches – the more the scarier – and don’t forget orange and black is a must and glitter just makes it more fun.

Bake spooktacular treats

No season is complete without some fun home baked goods. We’re talking spooky cupcakes, toffee covered apples, ghostly cookies, toasted marshmallows and tons of orange frosting! Stock up that baking cupboard, get yourself some spooky cookie cutters and spend a few hours in the kitchen with the kids. You could even make it a Halloween baking party and invite their friends. Choose simple cookies and perhaps even pre-make or buy the cupcakes and let the kids decorate them – that’s the fun part after all!

Don’t forget that kids love a good old fashioned trick-or-treat session – how else will they ever get so many sweets in one go? Whatever you’re planning to do this year for Halloween, these ideas are a great accompaniment. Let us know in the comments what your traditions are for Halloween or what your children love to do this time of the year.

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Top 4 Winter Staycations

Winter can be bleak. The days are short, the evenings are dark and it’s often raining quite a bit. Now, here at Catalink, we’re hoping for a bright, crisp winter – yes, the whole winter through. But just in case we’re being too optimistic, we’ve got the best answer to avoiding those winter blues.

There is no better way to get through those boring winter parts (obviously not Christmas), than with a cost weekend away in the countryside. Whether it’s a boutique hotel not too far from the hustle and bustle of London or a cosy cottage break in the peaks – it’s always a win-win.

If you’re a fan of a staycation or want to give it a go, have a look at what we’ve put together for you!

Nottinghamshire

imageedit_1_7804633401We’ll start with the obvious – a beautiful woodland break in the stunning peaks. If you love the idea of a cosy fire burning in the corner of the room, beautiful scenery surrounding you for miles, nature on your doorstep and endless incredible restaurants just waiting for you to indulge, Nottingham has you covered.

Whether you choose a break in the countryside of Nottingham or pick something a little more lively near the city centre, you’re sure to have the cosiest winter break in the beautiful county of Nottinghamshire.

Worcestershire

Fancy something utterly beautiful? Somewhere you can enjoy and discover heritage sites surrounded by stunning greenery and stunning waterways. Yeah, we’re totally game for that. Worcestershire offers one of the most beautiful staycations in the UK – full of gorgeous gardens, cute little B&B’s, spectacular castles and adorable cosy cottages, it’s sure to tick all those winter essentials.

Cornwall

Combine beautiful beaches (who doesn’t enjoy a winter beach walk), colourful fishing villages and quaint cobbled streets and you have yourself a getaway in the beautiful county of Cornwall. Choose a sea view from your breathtakingly beautiful seaside apartment, stroll through the sand with a coffee in hand or eat your weight in delicious foods from any of the surrounding restaurants. HF Holidays offer a selection of incredible staycations in the beautiful Cornwall – don’t be a stranger, go check them out!

The Lake District

Cosy cottages, beautiful views and picturesque walks – why would you not want a winter break in the beautiful Lake District? Put some logs on that fire, get out your cosy winter slippers and warm yourself up with a delicious hot chocolate. Heart of the Lakes offers unique and cosy winter stays in the beautiful Lake District – you’ll never want to go home!

All there is to do now is choose a location (we won’t judge if you choose all of them), pick a companion and head out for an incredibly wintery stay in the beautiful countryside!

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5 Autumn Essentials

It has arrived. The leaves are turning yellow and drifting to the floor, the evenings are drawing in, the mornings are cooler, and the coats are being dusted off. Yep, that’s right, Autumn is here. Here at Catalink, we’ve got the jumpers at the ready, blown the dust off our favourite pumpkin candles and pulled the tights out from the bottom drawer. We’re ready. That’s why we thought we’d help those of you that aren’t so ready, get ready.

Here are our 5 must have Autumn essentials:

CANDLES

We’re talking pumpkin spice, crushed leaves, woodland and fresh breeze type candles. No Autumn is complete without a new, delicious smelling candle – preferably in a beautiful jar, with those burnt woodland colours laced throughout. If you’re not a candle person, well, what is wrong with you. How can you not be a candle person?! Check out Garden Trading’s Orange & Cinnamon Candle for a little bit of something delicious.

SCARVES

Shall we call them scarves or little miniature blankets that wrap you in a feeling of warmth, comfort and happiness. You may think we’re being overdramatic, but we’re not. Come on in and join the world of pure happiness when you envelope yourself in an incredible scarf from Johnstons of Elgin. Their cashmere scarves are not only cosy and super soft, but they’re also elegant and incredibly beautiful – they are the perfect addition to a cosy Autumn outfit.

COSY THROWS

Picture this: you’ve arrived home from work, you’re tired and looking forward to a wind-down evening in front of the TV. You eat a deliciously warming bowl of chilli, get into your comfies and take off your makeup. You’ve already selected the viewing material for the night and the kettle has just been whacked on – the choccy digestives are at the ready. Everything is perfect, but you feel a slight chill! You’re not cold enough to grab the duvet from upstairs but you’re cold enough to need a little something over those legs. Yep! You guessed it; it’s throw time. Imagine a cosy, autumnal throw placed oh so beautifully over your lap whilst you sit and enjoy your relaxing, evening in front of the TV.

Have we sold it to you yet? If so, check out the beautiful range of throws AHF Furniture has to offer!

WARM DRINKS

If you’re a real Brit, we’re talking about a perfectly brewed cup of tea! If your perfect Autumnal evening in doesn’t include a cup of tea, coffee or a hot chocolate (what a naughty little treat) then are you even having a cosy night in? Whether you’re at work, back home for the evening or have just woken up with a sleepy head; Autumn is the perfect time to re-introduce your favourite winter drinks into your diet. Head over to Nothing But Tea to have a browse of a huge range of delicious teas!

THE COAT

Well, well, well, it’s that time of the year again. If you’re like us, we like to invest in a new coat every single year. We’re not saying it’s a necessity… oh okay, we are. It’s a necessity. There is nothing that can transition you more perfectly into Autumn than a shopping session for a new coat. Select Fashion have an incredible – and we mean it when we say incredible – range of coats for the AW18 season. Not only that, but their prices are super affordable!

So, there you have it – are you more excited for those leaves to fall than you were before you began reading this? If so, our job here is done. If not, well, we’re not sure anyone can help you, but the rest of our website may. Head over to Catalink.com to explore a whole bunch of free catalogues, brochure and newsletters – we’re sure you’ll find something to make you happy!

 

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How to Give Your Man a Makeover

Do you often look at your man and think that a makeover would be revolutionary? It’s not that you think they’re unattractive – duh! It’s simply the thought that a few simple nips and tucks would really transform him.

If you ever find yourself thinking this, but just don’t know where to start, we’re here to give you a little helping hand. These top tips are the best way to get that makeover ball rolling.

The face

Whether your man sports a thick and straggly beard, a little dash of stubble or thinks he is clean shaved, he probably can improve what he thinks is already pretty good. You know that saying: you don’t want it until you’ve had, well this is exactly that.

Take him to the barbers – choose one that is actually decent and has friendly, helpful staff. Get him in for a beard trim (we’ll talk hair later) and let the barber work his magic. With the help of some trained professionals, his beard will transform into a neat, sexy and tidy masterpiece.

If he’s ‘clean shaven’, get the barber to really clean shave him – they’ll be a difference.

It’s all about creating a canvas so that he can follow on and continue to make masterpieces. Once you’ve made that canvas, it’s time to get him the tools to turn it into a masterpiece everyday.

The Executive Shaving Company offers a range of high-quality male grooming products that will be truly revolutionary for your man. Once he has the tools, they’ll be no stopping him!

The hair

Hair products are not just for women. It’s important that every guy has their own, personal hair products that they can use every day – designed for their hair type and their needs. This is a must for any man’s bathroom essentials.

Get your man the products that he needs to tame his mane! Head over to The Beauty Store and order those important products today. If he has dry hair – find something made for that, if he has dandruff – find him something that will solve this.

All you have to do is give him the tools to work his mane and get it in shape.

The clothes

Oh, the clothes. If you love shopping (for yourself), you’ll probably love shopping for your guy just as much – okay, probably not as much, but you’ll still enjoy it.

Start simple – choose plain T’s, paired with rolled up shorts, slim fitted jeans and a classic pair of everyday shoes. Vans are a safe option – they’ll look good with everything and are super comfy and stylish. Walktall have a range of Vans, Nikes, Adidas and Converse shoes. Head on over to explore their range that will for sure fit your man’s large feet.

A refresh of their wardrobe can be simple, super easy and doable – if he’s resistant to change, starting with simple changes is perfect. However, if you’re all about going in all or nothing, head over to Moss Bros for an affordable range of shirts, suits and occasion wear – they do have casual wear, but we’ll keep quiet about that.

Now you have the tools, there’s nothing to stop you – enjoy every minute of it and share your transformations with us on our socials. Use the hashtag #catalinkstyle so we can find your images!