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All I want for Christmas…

I think I’m quite easy to buy for, but I’m sure my family would tell you otherwise, writes Morag Bootland. I’m massively into outdoor adventures, but I also like nothing better than a coorie night in by the fire with my family and dog. For those that know me, they’d tell you that I’m not adverse to a night out either and am always happy to enjoy a wee pamper session in preparation. So, I’m hoping that sharing the contents of my Christmas stocking with you might just give you some valuable Christmas gift inspiration for anyone in your life who you find it tricky to buy for.

Essence of Harris Candles, £30

Scottish candle brand Essence of Harris launched a new range of candles just in time for Christmas. There are four new scents to choose from, each inspired by the company’s Hebridean island home. Haar is earthy with cedar and figs, Mara transports you to the coast with samphire, sea salt and juniper, Dusk is a heady mix of peony, neroli, rhubarb and musk, while Adru is a leafy scent with bergamot, peppercorns and sandalwood. When burning the scents are strong enough to fill a good sized room and are also available as diffusers. If I had to pick a favourite it might be Adru, in fact if they made it into an aftershave I’d absolutely put it in my husband’s Christmas stocking. These natural soy wax candles burn for around 40 hours. Available at the Essence of Harris stores in Tarbert and Glasgow’s Princes Square and online at essenceofharris.co.uk

 

Vango Radiate Grande DLX Chair, £99

Vango is a tried and tested Scottish brand that has always featured in my camping kit. And as someone who swims outdoors through the winter my interest is always piqued by ways to keep warm while enjoying the great outdoors, whatever the weather. This cool camping chair has a pocket to hold a power bank (not included). The power bank is plugged in and provides four heat settings to keep you toasty cosy. Whether you’re enjoying a post-swim cuppa by the loch, or sitting by the campfire, you can be sure that you’re derriere will never be chilly again. Hallelujah! Oh, and did I mention that it reclines too in case you fancy gazing up at the milky way. Available from Outdoor World Direct at outdoorworlddirect.co.uk

 

 

Kelty Bestie Blanket, £30

I love this versatile blanket. It’s really lightweight, so much so that I doubted it would keep me warm. But by some miracle it really, really does. Perfect for camping trips due to its weight, I’ve already sat around the fire in the garden under this blanket. The only issue is that my teenage daughter loves it too, so there’s often a battle for the pleasure of sitting under the bestie. It’s soft and colourful and I can’t wait to take it camping with me. For more info on Kelty go to kelty.com or to purchase a blanket search online for stockists.

 

Philip Kingsley Moisture Balancing Jewels Haircare Gift Set, £49.50 (usually £83)

Philip Kingsley have been in the business of haircare for over 60 years, so they know a thing or two about keeping your crowning glory looking at its best. Presented in a lovely Christmassy gift box, this set features a full-sized shampoo and conditioner, as well as a deep-conditioning treatment that’s perfect for dry winter hair and a finishing touches serum to make sure you won’t have a hair out of place this festive season. It smells fabulous too and is a bit of a bargain with 40% off when ordered online at philipkingsley.co.uk

 

ARRAN Sense of Scotland hand care set, £30

This luxurious hand care set is just what you need for dry winter hands, with a full-sized luxury hand wash and hand cream in a beautiful gift box. The fragrance is inspired by the late summer sun on Kildonan beach on the isle of Arran, so if you’ve had your fill of cinnamon and spice then this is absolutely one for you. Transport yourself to warmer times and dream of long summer days while enjoying the scent of orris and violet root. arran.com

 

Ariat Three Chimney Sweater, £95

A gorgeous hug of a jumper that’s perfect for chilly winter walks. Made from an ethical wool blend, I love the cowl neck, perfect for stopping chills creeping in around your neck. It’s a good length so there’s no chance of draughts at your lower back and the simple ribbed styling means it’s incredibly versatile. I love my oatmeal coloured sweater paired with jeans and boots but may need to invest in the earth-coloured one too. ariat.com

 

Pantherella ladies cashmere Tabitha socks, £34.50

Can there be anything more warming and luxurious than slipping your tootsies into a pair of cashmere socks at the end of a long day? Made from fine Italian yarns in the UK, I had planned to wear these beauties to help heat up my feet after a chilly winter swim, but in all honesty they are so lovely that I haven’t left the house wearing them yet for fear that they might get soiled. So, they’re now my wee treat to myself while I’m curled up on the sofa in front of the fire. pantherella.com

 

Edinburgh Natural Skincare Company Botanical Perfume Oil, £15 (currently 3 for 2)

This ethical Scottish skincare brand makes handy little perfume oil mini roll ons. Available in six fragrances they are perfect for travelling, or for anyone who likes to change their scent on a whim. As well as the perfume, they produce all-natural creams and serums, soaps and beautifully packaged hand cream bars, all manufactured in East Lothian, Scotland. Check out their gift sets in one of their Edinburgh stores (Victoria Street and Cockburn Street) or online at edinburghskincare.com

 

 

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