Released On 15 December 2025
Rachel's blog: Jingle All The Way
Throughout December I really enjoy watching Christmas films – new or old. I love seeing the snowy scenes and decorations in the latest cheesy Hallmark flick but also the nostalgia of the Home Alone franchise or It’s a Wonderful Life.
A 1996 classic that came up in conversation the other day is Jingle All the Way. This Christmas comedy stars Schwarzenneger as Howard Langston, a busy father who realises he’s forgotten to buy his son the most popular Christmas toy – a Turbo Man action figure. Determined to make up for it, Howard embarks on a frantic, last-minute shopping spree on Christmas Eve. I can imagine my brother being a Howard one day, as he’s so bad for leaving all his shopping until it’s very nearly too late!
What should be a simple errand turns into a chaotic adventure as Howard battles crowds, faces a rival dad with the same mission, and gets caught up in increasingly absurd situations.
I’m doing a Christmas shopping day with a friend on Thursday and whilst I very much doubt it will turn into something akin to Howard’s experience it has made me think about how Christmas shopping has changed over the years.
I think there’s something magical about Christmas shopping. The twinkling lights, festive music, and the smell of cinnamon in the air, for me, creates an atmosphere that makes even the busiest high street feel like a winter wonderland.
For many of us, it’s not just about ticking items off a list – it’s about the experience. Browsing for the perfect gift, imagining the smile on someone’s face when they unwrap it, and indulging in a cheeky hot chocolate along the way – these are the little joys that make the season special.
Once upon a time, Christmas shopping was a December ritual. People would head out after work or at weekends, armed with lists and carrier bags, ready to brave the crowds. There was a sense of anticipation – the closer to Christmas, the more the excitement built. Shops would go all out with decorations, and the buzz was infectious. Yes, it could be stressful, but it was part of the tradition.
Then came Black Friday. Originally an American phenomenon tied to Thanksgiving, it has now firmly planted itself in the UK retail calendar. What started as a single day of discounts has morphed into a week – sometimes even a month – of deals. Suddenly, the rhythm of Christmas shopping changed. Instead of waiting until December, savvy shoppers now start hunting for bargains in late November, believing they can save ££ in the Black Friday sales.
In favour of Black Friday is the fact that it can be a lifesaver for your budget when it comes to big-ticket items like electronics, appliances and premium tech items which often see significant discounts, making it easier to spread the cost of Christmas across a number of months. And for those planners among us, it’s a dream – avoiding the retail rush and bustling high street, and maybe even allowing that smugness that only comes from finishing your shopping before the advent calendar is opened!
But there’s a flip side. Consumer research now finds that these so called ‘deals’ aren’t as unique as they claim. For example, a Which? analysis of 175 products in 2024 revealed that 100s of items were cheaper or the same price at other times of the year – and 35% were even cheaper after the Black Friday period. The pressure to secure savings early can feel overwhelming, with social media and email alerts bombarding us with “unmissable” offers. Added to which is the drive to acquire items that prior to November you’d never given a second thought; for me, that included a fold-away treadmill that I was convinced would revolutionize my life and allow me to get my designated steps in every day. Suffice to say, I didn’t end up buying one, having come to the realisation that I’d probably use it for a week (maximum!) after which it would sit in a corner somewhere gathering dust.
So, how do we keep the magic alive? The key, for me, is balance. Use Black Friday for the big purchases – the things you know you’ll need and can genuinely save on. Then, leave room for December shopping trips, like mine, that make Christmas feel special. Wander through the markets, pick up those thoughtful little gifts, soak up the Christmas atmosphere and don’t forget to schedule some time to rest your feet and enjoy a delicious festive drink.
After all, Christmas isn’t just about presents – it’s about the memories we make along the way.
Rachel is a commercial property lawyer who has worked in a range of private practice firms as well as inhouse. Rachel sees great value in building legal community and the sharing of ideas, both to support more efficient working as well as prioritising wellbeing and satisfaction in our legal careers. She’s passionate about motivating and mobilising those around her to make a positive impact in the legal sector and the wider world. Rachel loves to travel and spends the occasional spare minute day-dreaming about her next adventure.
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