If there is one thing we British do well, it is Christmas. Some say that the 'traditional' Christmas we celebrate today was modelled on a Victorian invention. Indeed from Christmas cards to decorated trees and Christmas crackers, many of our best-known Christmas traditions were invented in Victorian times.
At the beginning of the 19th Century Christmas was hardly celebrated. The concept of a holiday at Christmas was not widely accepted especially by businesses. Gifts if any, were traditionally a New Year activity, but moved as Christmas became more important to the Victorians.
By 1900, Christmas had become the biggest annual celebration in the British calendar. Victorian advancements in technology, industry and infrastructure – as well as having an impact on society as a whole – made Christmas an occasion that many more British people could enjoy.
One of the most significant seasonal traditions to emerge from the Victorian era was the Christmas card. Sir Henry Cole, the first director of the Victoria & Albert Museum, introduced the concept of the Christmas card in 1843. Working with the artist J.C. Horsley they came up with a design for a festive scene got them printed with many being sold to the public. The idea snowballed!
Today Christmas is very much a home and family occasion, a 'staycation!' Everything the Victorians invented and cherished has blossomed and multiplied out of all proportion. Just make sure your Christmas is extra special this year. Gather your loved ones around you and go all out! Visit one of our pop up stores or order everything you need here online and remember we are here to help.