We have a rule at the Store that no christmas cards go out on sale until October and decorations aren't put up until the beginning of December. That way we try to keep Christmas special and still full of magic.
Our shelves are bulging with Pannetone, sloe gin truffles, Lubeck marzipan and other indulgent treats for the festive season. We have little wicker baskets or hessian bags to house three jams or chutneys of your choice for £12.75. These make excellent gifts for all sorts of people, especially neighbours, grandparents and work colleagues. We can make up trays of goodies for you to your own specification including a bottle of wine, cheese biscuits, condiments, chocolates, preserves etc. One of the most popular gifts for the sweet tooth is a hessian carrier with a bottle of dessert wine and a finger box of chocs.
Don't forget your Baby Stilton. We also have a lovely selection of other individual cheeses: the famous Mont d'Or which is only available in the winter months, Chaource, Gres de Vosges, Black Bomber to name a few.
Make Christmas easier by having in a good selection of salamis, parma ham and wild boar prosciutto. These make a simple starter with crisp salad or pick up nibbles if you have friends round.
Our Garden Cafe is now open on Friday and Saturday nights from 6.30 until 10.00 (last bookings at 8.15) Customers are enjoying the food and the ambiance with chilled out jazz. Our slowed cooked beef is full of flavour and the Lamb with Madiera sauce is sweet and succulent. Starters include roasted tomato soup or pea, mint and goats cheese tartlet and the desserts can be apple charlotte (fruit from our own trees!) ginger pudding or creme brulee. Everything is homemade and the price is fixed at 2 courses for £16.50 and three for £20. Our shop is also open on these evenings and Maria will have a range of wines for you to taste before you buy. Make a date with us in the New Year.
The gifts in the Store look gorgeous. We have recycled lanterns, boxes and table mats for the planet conscious, diamante and pearls for the glamorous, teapots, fruit bowls and storage jars for the homebird. Then there are stunning hairbands , bracelets and purses for the nine year old (going on 19!) and funny coasters, Simon Drew calenders and puzzle books for the men in your life... open every day from 15th. Dec., come and see for yourself. We make a much more civilised destination than Nottingham in the weeks leading up to Christmas and you'll find present ideas that will delight your friends and family.
Fast tracking to 2010 I want to tell you about a workshop we are holding in Garden Cafe on Monday 15th. February. Bev Beattie will be showing you how to make knit and felt bags.
As you can see from the photo, the yarns are fabulous and the colours irresistible. There is a huge interest in knitting at the moment and Bev's new book is an inspiration. This a new departure for us but as there are no daytime classes for adults who want to enjoy learning something creative anymore we may come up with a programme of events. More in 2010....
It just leaves me to thank you all for your support in what has been a very difficult year in retailing. Our lovely customers who make us laugh and are so enthusiastic often brighten up a slow day.
Below are our opening times during the festive period:
Shop:
Christmas Eve close at 1.00 (don't forget to pick up your turkey!)
Reopen: Tuesday 29th. Dec 10.00am
New Years Eve. close 1.00pm
Reopen: Tuesday 5th. Jan 10.00am
Cafe:
Christmas Eve closed (unless you're an oven ready turkey!)
Reopen: Tuesday 29th. Dec.10.30am
New Years Eve. close 1.00pm drinks and cakes only
Reopen Friday 8th. Jan 10.30 - 4.30 (daytime only)
Bookings available Evening Sat. 9th. Jan
Wishing you a happy Christmas and a sparkling New Year from all of us at Colston Bassett Store and Garden Cafe
