{"id":46716,"date":"2025-11-27T13:16:03","date_gmt":"2025-11-27T11:16:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/highway-berea\/?p=46716"},"modified":"2025-11-24T14:13:43","modified_gmt":"2025-11-24T12:13:43","slug":"tinsel-traditions-togetherness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/highway-berea\/blog\/2025\/11\/27\/tinsel-traditions-togetherness\/","title":{"rendered":"Tinsel, traditions & togetherness"},"content":{"rendered":"

Here\u2019s a heart-warming collection of stories, memories and festive inspiration from some of our favourite people who celebrate the magic, meaning and joy of the holidays.<\/p>\n

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Photo: Shelley Kjonstad Photography<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sophie Thompson<\/strong><\/p>\n

For Sophie – a publicist, photographer, community connector and wanderer of landscapes and hearts, who also happens to be affectionately known as The Elf – Christmas has always been magical. \u201cWe\u2019re German, so we\u2019ve always celebrated on Christmas Eve,\u201d she says. \u201cGrowing up, it wasn\u2019t about gifts – it was about family time.\u201d As the laatlammetjie with three older sisters and two adoring parents, she remembers laughter-filled evenings, swimming and the chaos of everyone in their small kitchen with assigned cooking roles.<\/p>\n

From their teens onward, the family would descend on her posh big sister Steph\u2019s house – a sparkling haven of glittering decorations and a tree laden with gifts for nephews and grannies. \u201cWe\u2019d get there early and prep an award-winning feast,\u201d she recalls. \u201cThat tradition continues today. We still gather at Steph and Ron\u2019s beautiful home, and share a special meal, with the rule of no gifts. Our presence is presents enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

Since losing their parents, the Thompsons have opened their circle wider, welcoming others who might not have family nearby. \u201cWe\u2019re often joined by the inspiring Raymond Perrier and his delightful mum, Phil, who visits from the UK,\u201d she says with a smile.<\/p>\n

One Christmas stands out vividly: Spending the holidays with her friend Domy in rural France. \u201cMid-December, he asked what I wanted to do for Christmas. I said, a quiet one at his home and suggested we have a bunny chow as our Christmas meal.\u201d<\/p>\n

After sourcing spices across the French countryside and persuading the local boulangerie<\/em> to bake the perfect loaf, they sat down on Christmas Eve to enjoy a Durban classic – mutton bunny and moonshine brewed by Dom\u2019s dad in the \u201980s. \u201cIt was the most delicious \u2018local\u2019 meal a Durbanite could ask for,\u201d she boasts.<\/p>\n

Today, Christmas Eve at Steph\u2019s still runs like a well-oiled machine. \u201cNuut glides around the kitchen conducting us like an orchestra,\u201d says Sophie. \u201cThese days, we opt for semi-prepared ingredients to spend more quality time together. Our starter is always spargels<\/em> (asparagus), and Lindt balls are a must.\u201d<\/p>\n

Her annual duty? Festive ice cubes – sprigs of rosemary and fresh berries frozen into beautiful little bursts of cheer – and crafting tiny woolly hats for Lindt balls from toilet rolls and yarn. \u201cI\u2019m a superb sous chef and queen of finding fab recipes and getting others to make them,\u201d she laughs.<\/p>\n

Christmas Day is all about her furry companions, \u2018the Motleys\u2019. \u201cI play Santa Paws – they get to unwrap or destroy their presents, usually a bone or treat of some sort. The rest of the day is totally chilled. New Year\u2019s is usually a quiet night in \u2013 the Motleys get their calming meds, and we head to bed early.\u201d<\/p>\n

Still, Sophie adds plenty of festive creativity to the season. This year\u2019s project? Hand-drawn self-portraits on Christmas cards, each paired with an uplifting message. \u201cWe try to do something new each year,\u201d she says. \u201cMy sisters also get a homemade something – like my \u2018amateur art\u2019 of our grandfather\u2019s bombed-out church. They actually hang them!\u201d<\/p>\n

As for beauty tips, she keeps it simple: \u201cUse sunscreen and wear a hat!\u201d This season, she plans to read her collection of \u2018Sophie\u2019s\u2019 books, rewatch The Secret Life of Walter Mitty<\/em>, and listen to Of Monsters and Men<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Her advice to readers? \u201cDo something new and fun. We\u2019re playing croquet, making edible biscuit art, and trying the German trend Pudding Mit Gabel<\/em> – finding a scenic spot, pudding and fork in hand, and just enjoying being outdoors.\u201d And, of course, she and her sister, Illa, never miss a Carols by Candlelight. \u201cWe try somewhere new each year – from shopping centres to churches and parks. It\u2019s the best way to feel the magic of Christmas.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Photo: \u00a0Tantalising Twins Content Creators<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Marissa Groenewald<\/strong><\/p>\n

She\u2019s an entrepreneur, a marathon runner, a history-maker and mum – not to mention the queen of chimichurri sauce and Christmas crackers. But when the festive season arrives, Marissa Groenewald slows the pace to celebrate what matters most.<\/p>\n

Growing up, Marissa\u2019s Christmases were a mix of big family gatherings and intimate lunches, always centred on the essence of the season – the birth of Jesus Christ. \u201cWhether it was a full house or a quiet table, Christmas was about togetherness, laughter and love,\u201d she reflects.<\/p>\n

Today, those cherished traditions continue with her own children. \u201cChristmas at home is still about family, but now I get to create my own little traditions,\u201d she says. And one of her favourites? – Christmas crackers. \u201cI\u2019m a sucker for dad-jokes and pointless trivia, so I always make sure there are crackers on the table. It\u2019s the best part – right after the steak and dessert!\u201d<\/p>\n

Marissa\u2019s festive table wouldn\u2019t be complete without her signature chimichurri. \u201cYou see, this is why I run\u2026 because I love to eat,\u201d she laughs. \u201cI make a mean chimichurri for all the steak lovers out there. The recipes are easy to find online, but the secret is in balancing sweet, salty, sour, fresh and a bit of a sting.\u201d<\/p>\n

The festive season is also a time for her favourite holiday rituals. Marissa cherishes time outdoors – whether it\u2019s beaches, forests, mountains, or lakes – and always tries to complete a challenging puzzle, even if sitting still is a stretch for someone with her energy.<\/p>\n

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Photo: Supplied<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Lenore Goss-Matjie<\/strong><\/p>\n

Fashion entrepreneur. Reality star. Motivational speaker. Mom. Fibromyalgia warrior – Lenore Goss-Matjie is on a mission to build a community rooted in positivity, self-care and strength. And, when it comes to the festive season, her spirit shines just as bright as her message.<\/p>\n

For Lenore, Christmas growing up was pure magic – a celebration filled with colour, laughter and the irresistible aromas of home-cooked feasts. \u201cI remember twinkling lights, a kaleidoscope of wrapped gifts under the tree, the smell of biryani, curries, roasts and Christmas pudding being prepared, and the joyful pop of Christmas crackers,\u201d she recalls. \u201cChristmas began early in December with decorating the lounge and the tree – glittering tinsel, porcelain ornaments, fairy lights and that festive feeling that filled every corner of our home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Christmas morning meant early wake-ups to open presents before heading to church, and then off to her grandmother\u2019s home for a family feast. \u201cMy mom would pack up all her dishes and we\u2019d gather with family and friends – full bellies, full hearts. After lunch, I\u2019d sit with my dad, uncles and their friends, joining in their conversations and inside jokes, and of course, eating Christmas pudding – even though I didn\u2019t like it much! But there was always money hidden inside, and that made it worth it.\u201d<\/p>\n

These days, Lenore enjoys a quieter, more intimate Christmas surrounded by her family and a few close friends. \u201cWe wake up early, open gifts, go to church, and then get ready for lunch,\u201d she says with a laugh. \u201cAfter complaints about my air-fryer lunch specials, I\u2019ve happily outsourced some of the cooking – less mess, less fuss and always great food!\u201d Her eldest daughter takes charge of the kitchen, preparing her famous butter chicken curry, roast veggies, trifle and peppermint tart, while her husband and two younger children set the table to perfection. \u201cThe day ends with naps, board games, singing and dancing – a house full of joy.\u201d<\/p>\n

This year, Lenore\u2019s festive break is all about rest and recharging. \u201cI\u2019m not sure of my plans yet, but the New Year in Durban is always special – the vibe, the ocean breeze, the energy. One day, I\u2019d love to spend Christmas in Egypt. Imagine starting a new year surrounded by so much history and beauty!\u201d<\/p>\n

Her go-to festive favourites? \u201cPeppermint tart and perfectly roasted chicken – simple, classic and always a crowd-pleaser,\u201d she says. And when it comes to d\u00e9cor, she keeps things fun and personal: \u201cWe love spray-painted pinecones as table d\u00e9cor – it\u2019s a family favourite.\u201d<\/p>\n

One tradition that continues to bring joy is decorating the Christmas tree in early December. \u201cMy kids invite their friends over, we play carols, dance, sing and end the night with Christmas movies and take-out.\u201d<\/p>\n

As for her must-watch holiday line-up? Home Alone, The Santa Clause movies, Barbie Christmas specials<\/em> – and, of course, Mariah Carey and Michael Bubl\u00e9 on repeat. \u201cIt\u2019s not Christmas without them!\u201d Lenore laughs.<\/p>\n

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Photo: \u00a0Demi farren photography<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Natalie Beuster<\/strong><\/p>\n

For many in the world of wellness, Natalie Beuster is a true skat<\/em> – a mother, Summer lover, IT nerd and wellness enthusiast that is living life with passion and purpose, one nourishing meal at a time.<\/p>\n

Growing up, Christmas for Natalie was always busy, joyful and full of family. \u201cWe would alternate between travelling to Joburg to see all our cousins and grandparents on my mom\u2019s side, or staying home with my dad\u2019s parents and local friends,\u201d she recalls. \u201cIt was always about being together – and, of course, eating yummy food!\u201d<\/p>\n

The tree was a big deal in their household. \u201cWe\u2019d put it up twelve days before Christmas, all of us together, with carols playing in the background,\u201d she says. \u201cIt always came down on the 31st because my mom believed you should start the New Year on a clean slate.\u201d As a teen, Natalie added a unique twist to her Christmas routine – joining her lifesaving club on the 25th to do a two-hour shift before heading home for the family feast.<\/p>\n

Today, with most of her family living overseas, Christmas looks a little different – but the spirit remains the same. \u201cWe started a tradition of going for an early-morning sea swim with friends who don\u2019t have family nearby, and now our kids join in too,\u201d she says. Their tree goes up on December 1, with festive music filling the air, and it\u2019s always packed away before New Year\u2019s Eve, just as her mom did.<\/p>\n

Each year, one new ornament is added to the tree, and the build-up to Christmas is filled with themed baking. \u201cWe always make shortbread, brownies cut into triangles and decorated as trees, and simple cut-out cookies for the kids to ice with friends,\u201d says Natalie. \u201cMy mom did this with us when we were little, and it\u2019s a memory I wanted to pass on.\u201d<\/p>\n

Christmas Day is all about connection – whether it\u2019s with friends or family. \u201cThere\u2019s always gammon on the table because who doesn\u2019t love leftover gammon sandwiches the next day?\u201d she laughs. Between video calls to family overseas, swimming and relaxing with full stomachs, it\u2019s a day of gratitude and sunshine.<\/p>\n

New Year\u2019s Eve looks a little different these days too. \u201cGone are the midnight chaos and hangovers,\u201d she grins. \u201cWith young kids, we have a braai, play pool cricket and toast the New Year around 8pm so the children can join in before bedtime.\u201d<\/p>\n

Natalie also adds a creative touch to her festive d\u00e9cor each year. \u201cWhen I was little, my mom would attach all the Christmas cards we received in the post to a ribbon on the wall – but these days, who gets post? So, I\u2019ve adapted that tradition by hanging all the kids\u2019 art from the year on a ribbon. They\u2019re always so proud to see their creations on display.\u201d<\/p>\n

And when it comes to sweet treats, her Christmas Brownies are a family favourite. \u201cThey\u2019re perfect on their own with coffee or served warm with ice cream for pudding,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

\"\"Natalie\u2019s Christmas brownies<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/em> 3 eggs; \u00bd cup melted butter or margarine; 1 cup flour or gluten-free flour; \u00be cup cocoa powder; 1 cup sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp instant or decaf coffee; chopped nuts and chocolate chunks (optional).<\/p>\n

Method:<\/em> Mix all the ingredients together until smooth, then stir in any nuts or chocolate chunks. Spread the batter into a 20cm baking tin and bake at 180\u00b0C for about 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut the brownies into triangles, mix a thick icing with icing sugar and water, and pipe it over the \u2018trees\u2019 to look like tinsel. Finish with festive sprinkles or stars for decoration.<\/p>\n

Tip:<\/em> These brownies make a gorgeous edible gift or an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert on Christmas Day.<\/p>\n

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Photo: Supplied<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Shareez Bagaria<\/strong><\/p>\n

Entrepreneur, adventurer, dream chaser and mountain climber – both in the world and within herself -Shareez Bagaria has been on a mission to scale some of the world\u2019s most challenging peaks – not just for the thrill of the climb, but to remind us that the greatest summits are often the ones we conquer within. But, when December rolls around, this trailblazer swaps hiking boots for Christmas sparkle, and adventure takes on a whole new meaning.<\/p>\n

For Shareez, Christmas has always been a season of family, food and festive magic. \u201cChristmas was always a big celebration in our home,\u201d she says. \u201cAround 1 or 2 December, we\u2019d take out the tree and start decorating it. Then a few days before the 25th, my mum, my sister and I would begin the traditional cooking and baking.\u201d<\/p>\n

Their festive table was legendary – trifle, turkey, roast potatoes and, of course, her mom\u2019s famous brandy Christmas pudding. \u201cThe night before, the lights would come on, and in the morning, my sister and I would race to the tree to see what Santa had left! My most memorable gift was my very first Barbie doll – I must have been eight or nine, and it was the most exciting thing ever!\u201d<\/p>\n

The day itself was filled with tradition – church in the morning, a big family lunch, and relatives popping in with treats and gifts. \u201cIt was noisy, happy and full of love,\u201d she recalls.<\/p>\n

Today, Shareez keeps the spirit of those childhood Christmases alive. \u201cIt\u2019s pretty much the same – church in the morning, exchanging gifts, and a long lunch or dinner with family and friends,\u201d she says. \u201cThere\u2019s always laughter, music and that feeling that everything slows down for a while so you can just be together.\u201d<\/p>\n

Her festive table wouldn\u2019t be complete without a few favourites. \u201cDefinitely trifle, turkey and a good merlot,\u201d she laughs. \u201cAnd the table must be beautiful – lots of colour, candles and sparkle!\u201d<\/p>\n

This year, Shareez and her family will be taking the celebration on the road. But no matter where they are, the Bagarias bring the cheer with them – and the soundtrack is always the same. \u201cWe have Michael Bubl\u00e9\u2019s Christmas playlist on repeat for the whole of December! The kids love it, especially Jingle Bells and Silent Night,\u201d she says. \u201cAnd we can\u2019t miss our annual Christmas movie marathon – Home Alone<\/em>, National Lampoon\u2019s Christmas Vacation<\/em>, The Holiday<\/em> and Love Actually<\/em> are all musts!\u201d<\/p>\n

When it comes to festive flavours, her go-to is Gordon Ramsay\u2019s roast turkey basted with garlic parsley butter and wrapped in crispy bacon. \u201cIt\u2019s moist, flavourful and always a hit on the lunch table – especially with roast potatoes on the side.\u201d<\/p>\n

And to keep the magic alive, there\u2019s one sweet new family tradition she treasures most: \u201cWe\u2019ve started leaving cookies and milk under the tree for Santa – and the joy on the kids\u2019 faces in the morning when they see Santa helped himself? Absolutely priceless.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Megan with her little angels Mackenzi and Harvey. Photo: \u00a0Tantalising Twins Content Creators<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Megan Bobbert<\/strong><\/p>\n

Businesswoman, beauty queen and devoted mom, for Megan Bobbert, Christmas is all about family, food and festive magic.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, the excitement of Christmas as a child!\u201d Megan still remembers those early mornings when she and her sister would wake up before dawn, creeping into the lounge to see if Father Christmas had arrived. \u201cWe\u2019d sit there in awe, just staring at the presents until it was a reasonable hour for our parents to get up,\u201d she laughs. \u201cThen we\u2019d tear through the gifts at record speed!\u201d<\/p>\n

After the morning mayhem, it was off to church, followed by a big family lunch – alternating between her mom\u2019s and dad\u2019s sides each year. \u201cThose gatherings were always so much fun,\u201d she recalls. \u201cThere were five siblings on each side, so plenty of cousins to play with!\u201d<\/p>\n

These days, Megan is reliving that same magic through her children\u2019s eyes. \u201cIt\u2019s so special to experience the excitement all over again,\u201d she says. The Bobberts keep the traditions alive – from snowy footprints left by Santa to half-eaten carrots for the reindeer. \u201cLast year we even made a video of Santa in our home to show my daughter when she woke up,\u201d she grins. \u201cHer face was priceless.\u201d<\/p>\n

Christmas Day still follows a familiar rhythm – presents in the morning, church, and then a long, laughter-filled lunch with family. \u201cWe alternate Christmases between my family and my husband\u2019s, and there\u2019s always too much food and way too much eating!\u201d Megan admits. \u201cOur table wouldn\u2019t be complete without turkey, gammon, loads of salads, and my dad\u2019s incredible desserts – his cheesecakes and milk tarts are legendary.\u201d<\/p>\n

This year is a big one – it\u2019s a \u2018Bobbert Christmas\u2019, which means an enormous family gathering. \u201cMy parents will join us, and there are usually about 50 people including all the kids,\u201d says Megan. \u201cIt\u2019s chaos, but the best kind of chaos.\u201d New Year\u2019s Eve will be a little more relaxed, celebrated in Mauritius where the family will be marking her mother-in-law\u2019s 70th birthday. \u201cIt\u2019ll probably be an early night with the little ones, but what a beautiful way to ring in the New Year.\u201d<\/p>\n

And because no festive story is complete without a delicious dish, Megan shares one of her go-to recipes from last Christmas – a vibrant green bean, pomegranate and pistachio salad that\u2019s as gorgeous as it is flavourful. \u201cIt\u2019s fresh, festive and always a hit,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

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Megan\u2019s green bean, pomegranate & pistachio salad<\/strong><\/p>\n

Serves 6 to 8<\/em><\/p>\n

Ingredients:<\/em> 1 cup salted pistachios, chopped; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp cumin; 1\u00bd lbs (700g) fresh green beans, trimmed; \u00bc cup unsalted butter; 1 bag salad sprinkle; 8 oz (225g) feta cheese, crumbled; 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt; juice of 1 lemon (about 3 Tbsp); 3 Tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; \u00be cup pomegranate arils; lemon zest.<\/p>\n

Method:<\/em> Mix the chopped pistachios with the cinnamon and cumin and set aside. Bring a large pot of water to the boil, add the green beans and cook until crisp-tender, about four minutes. Drain and plunge into ice water to cool, then pat dry. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until golden and fragrant, then reduce the heat to low and stir in three-quarters of the pistachio mixture. Add the beans and saut\u00e9 gently for five to six minutes until warmed through, then remove from the heat. To make the lemony whipped feta, blend the feta, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil and garlic in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Spread the whipped feta evenly over a serving platter, top with the warm green beans, and finish with the remaining pistachio mixture, pomegranate arils, lemon zest and a sprinkle of salad mix. Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, festive showstopper alongside your holiday feast.<\/p>\n

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Anna and her pooch Casper are getting into the festive spirit early. Photo: Supplied<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Anna Ballantine<\/strong><\/p>\n

From Durban to London, Anna Ballantine – film enthusiast, world explorer, Christmas aficionado with a love for sparkle – has seen Christmas through many lenses. From sunny South African backyards to crisp English countryside Winters. Yet, no matter where she celebrates, the magic of the season never fades.<\/p>\n

Looking back, Anna recalls childhood Christmases with a special kind of wonder. \u201cI\u2019ll never forget those magical mornings running downstairs to see the \u2018snow\u2019 that Santa had left – which was really just flour my parents scattered under the tree!\u201d she laughs. \u201cI loved everything about it – decorating the tree together, watching Durban light up with festive decorations, swimming in the pool, playing games, and enjoying that easy, happy energy that a South African Christmas brings.\u201d<\/p>\n

Today, her celebrations have adapted to a chillier climate, but the spirit remains. In England, Christmas Day begins with a long countryside walk – complete with her dog Casper sporting a sparkly bow tie. \u201cThere\u2019s something so lovely about the crisp Winter air, bundling up in silly Christmas jumpers, and then coming home to sit around the fireplace with mulled wine in hand,\u201d she says. Yet when she returns to Durban, it\u2019s back to sun, cocktails and poolside fun, with everyone dressed in red and laughter filling the air.<\/p>\n

Despite switching continents, the festive table is always thoughtfully curated – and completely vegan. \u201cWe go all out – roast potatoes, brussel sprouts, carrots and parsnips, stuffing, cranberry sauce, nut roast or vegan Wellington, and lots of gravy. Mulled wine bubbles away, Christmas pudding with custard makes an appearance, and I love roasting chestnuts by the fire too,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

This year, Anna and her husband, Bradley, will celebrate Christmas with his family in England – extra special now that they\u2019ve become an aunt and uncle for the first time. \u201cThere\u2019s something magical about seeing Christmas through a little one\u2019s eyes,\u201d she says. New Year\u2019s, however, is full-on fun: Themed dress-up parties with friends, sequins, laughter and joyful chaos. \u201cLast year was Shrek-themed – unforgettable!\u201d<\/p>\n

For a touch of festive sparkle, Anna shares her love of seasonal films – The Holiday being her perennial favourite – and simple traditions that make the season feel magical. \u201cLighting candles, putting up fairy lights, wearing a sequined dress for an evening out, or creating little pockets of magic around the home. One of our newer traditions is playing Jackbox on Christmas Day – an interactive game from everyone\u2019s phones. Once the wine starts flowing, it turns into wonderfully chaotic fun and endless laughter!\u201d<\/p>\n

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Photo: Supplied<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Sarah Morgan Walker<\/strong><\/p>\n

A creative at heart, entrepreneur by trade and mother by calling, Sarah Morgan Walker is living her purpose in full colour. As a semi-finalist in the 2025 Mrs South Africa pageant, she may be stepping into the national spotlight, but those who know her will tell you it\u2019s her humility, heart and quiet strength that shine brightest. And when it comes to Christmas, Sarah brings that same warmth and grace to everything she touches.<\/p>\n

\u201cChristmas was always such a magical time for me growing up,\u201d Sarah smiles. \u201cIt was about togetherness – the smell of my Nana\u2019s cooking, Christmas music filling the house, and the excitement of decorating the themed trees as a family.\u201d Every ornament had its own story, she recalls, and unpacking them each year felt like \u201copening a box of memories.\u201d There was always that childlike thrill of waiting for Father Christmas, waking up to find half-eaten biscuits and carrots, and the sparkle of fairy lights dancing over piles of colourfully wrapped gifts. \u201cIt was truly the highlight of the year for us,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

These days, the magic remains, though tinged with a little nostalgia. \u201cChristmas is still all about family, but it does come with some heartache,\u201d she admits. \u201cMy sister lives in the USA now with her husband and son, and we\u2019ve lost my Nana and Uncle Chris – so we spend time reflecting and remembering them.\u201d But with new family members and three spirited daughters, there\u2019s no shortage of joy. Mornings begin slowly, coffee in hand, as the kids open their gifts in matching pyjamas before the day unfolds with laughter, church, games and an abundance of food.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe usually host or join loved ones for a long outdoor lunch,\u201d Sarah says. \u201cThere\u2019s always roast chicken or gammon, colourful summer salads, and my favourite – Christmas pudding for dessert.\u201d And one tradition that never changes? A visit to the Christmas Angels in Westville for the annual family photo. \u201cIt\u2019s our little time capsule,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n

After a busy year, Sarah looks forward to the festive break as a time to slow down, reflect and recharge. \u201cIt\u2019s about being fully present with my family,\u201d she says. \u201cI\u2019m definitely planning to switch off my phone and reconnect with nature.\u201d As for New Year\u2019s Eve, the Walker household keeps it simple. \u201cWith three daughters, there\u2019s usually a bit of lifting to and from friends\u2019 homes,\u201d she laughs. \u201cSometimes we\u2019ll join friends or family, but more often it\u2019s pyjamas, good food and quiet gratitude as we count down to midnight. I love starting a New Year feeling rested, peaceful and ready for the possibilities ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Sarah\u2019s holiday pampering tip:<\/p>\n

\u201cIn the whirlwind of the festive season, don\u2019t forget to look after yourself – inside and out,\u201d she advises. Her go-to combo includes CollagenLift ampoules (the Red Carpet box) for an energy and skin boost, and Lamelle\u2019s Luminesce range – \u201cThe cleanser, rich day cream and evening glow night cream are my winning trio,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

And one last family tradition she treasures? \u201cEvery Christmas Eve we take a \u2018Christmas socks\u2019 photo,\u201d she grins. \u201cNo stress, no makeup, just our feet! It\u2019s simple, silly and so us.\u201d<\/p>\n

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Here\u2019s a heart-warming collection of stories, memories and festive inspiration from some of our favourite people who celebrate the magic, meaning and joy of the holidays. Sophie Thompson For Sophie – a publicist, photographer, community connector and wanderer of landscapes and hearts, who also happens to be affectionately known as The Elf – Christmas has […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":46738,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[11747],"class_list":{"0":"post-46716","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-personalities","8":"tag-sophie-thompson"},"yoast_head":"\nTinsel, traditions & togetherness - Get it Highway & Berea<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/getitmagazine.co.za\/highway-berea\/blog\/2025\/11\/27\/tinsel-traditions-togetherness\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Tinsel, traditions & togetherness - Get it Highway & Berea\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Here\u2019s a heart-warming collection of stories, memories and festive inspiration from some of our favourite people who celebrate the magic, meaning and joy of the holidays. 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