11 Fireplaces should make a statement when Santa's on his way. Cram your mantel with pinecones, greenery and flickering tea lights. Dress with clementines and cinnamon-stick bundles tied with ribbon.
12 Our top Christmas shopping decor source? Dollar stores. We go wild in the aisles during the run up to the 25th. Candles, doilies, glassware -- the lot. Maybe it's the Scottish in us, but we love a bargain.
Colin and Justin in the kitchen
The boys share two recipes that are sure to fill your noses and tummies with Christmas cheer.
Homemade potpourri Evoke mood and memories in even the most Scrooge-like guests with your own potpourri. It couldn't be easier. First, cut two oranges into thin slices and arrange on a broiling pan. Bake in a medium hot oven, turning occasionally until bone dry. Allow to cool and pop into a freezer bag. Break a couple of cinnamon sticks into the mix and add a few drops of rose oil or your favourite aromatic essence. Close the bag, shake lightly and leave overnight. Finally, arrange in an attractive bowl.
Mulled wine For a good party, make sure you get the alcohol balance right. We're not saying you should get sloshed (mind you, it is Christmas!), but a wee, ahem, tincture makes all the difference. As guests arrive, serve them mulled wine in sparkly Moroccan tea glasses. Here's a tried- and- tested Colin and Justin recipe to bring even the dullest bottle of vin rouge to life: In a saucepan, bring a cup of lemonade to a boil. Stir in two tablespoons of honey, the juice of two oranges, six whole cloves and a couple of crumbled cinnamon sticks. Boil for five minutes. Add the wine, then simmer gently for another 10 minutes. Strain through a sieve, pour into glasses and be merry!
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