Twig trees have been a popular Scandi-inspired Christmas decorating trend for the past few years, and M&S has just dropped one of the best-looking ones I’ve seen. I’m talking about the Pre Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Tree, and it’s available in three different sizes.
This pre-lit twig tree is a brilliant alternative to one of the best artificial Christmas trees, and it’s just one of many examples of M&S knocking it out of the park with their festive collection this year. If you’ve been keeping up with the latest Christmas trends, you’ll be aware that the M&S Christmas shop is packed with festive gems this year. From theirXL bows to their paper stars and tinsel tree skirt, M&S has easily become one of the best places to shop for Christmas decor.
And now you can add their new Pre-Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Trees to your list of fabulous decorations. Here’s why I think these twinkling lights make a showstopper.
M&S
6ft Pre-Lit Abundant Cluster Christmas Tree
M&S
3ft Pre Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Tree
M&S
1.5ft Pre-Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Tree
M&S’s sparkling new twig trees are available in three different sizes. There’s a 6ft version, a 3ft version and a petite 1.5 ft version. First to catch my eye was the 6ft version. If a full-size Christmas tree isn’t to your taste, or you simply don’t want to spend hours decorating one, the M&S cluster tree may be better suited for you.
The 6ft tree is made up of hundreds of twinkling warm lights that bunch together in clusters. Illuminated against their dark branches, the lights create a beautiful silhouette of a traditional tree. It’s mains-operated, so it will need to be positioned near a plug, but you’d need this to plug in fairy lights on any other Christmas tree, so I don’t think this matters if you’re using the cluster tree as your main tree.
(Image credit: M&S)
If you plan to use the cluster tree as a secondary tree, such as in your bedroom, kitchen or hallway, I recommend opting for one of the smaller trees. The 3ft version is the more attractive of the two (although the 1.5ft tree is cute) because it retains a beautiful silhouette on a smaller scale.
I think the smaller trees are perfect for illuminating dark areas of your home such as under your staircase. In fact, the 1.5ft tree is small enough to be positioned on a dresser, a little like your own festive lamp.
If you want to evoke a cosy glow in your home this Christmas, the M&S Pre Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Tree is a sure way to achieve this. What do you say?
Estelle Manor opened in 2023 and is a new, luxury hotel and country club in Oxfordshire. We have now stayed there three times since then, so I consider myself a bit of an expert.
Estelle Manor is a 90-minute drive from Heathrow. Both trips, we flew on the one non-stop flight they have from Raleigh to London, arriving at 6:30am. It took 1.5 seconds to breeze through customs and our bags were already waiting when we arrived at baggage claim. We hopped in our rental car, taking a few minutes to adjust again to the wrong side of the car and wrong side of the road, and we were on property by 9:30am!
When we entered the private gates of Estelle Manor, I became Mary Lennox, living out my childhood fantasy from “The Secret Garden.” The manor house is grand—with high walled gardens, and bikes to explore the property. There are 108 hotel rooms, four restaurants, a workspace, a gym and an extraordinary 3000 sq meters Roman-inspired bath house and spa that opened three months ago.
Design legends Roman and Williams somehow managed to make the spaces feel Old World, yet contemporary, and taking in every single mind blowing detail became one of our favorite part of the experience. The vision is that of owner Sharan Pasricha, the founder of Ennismore (Hoxton hotels and others) with artistic direction of Sharan’s wife, investor Eiesha Bharti Pasricha. I seriously bow down. What they have created is astounding.
Throw open the doors, kind sir, your footman will escort you to your room. This is Estelle Manor, and it’s my next Stylish Stay.
What I Loved: The attention to detail at every turn was unsurpassed. From the design to the bar to the food to the rooms to the gardens—you would be hard pressed to find a flaw. We specifically wanted to return to visit the Eynsham Baths, the Roman-inspired spa. It’s worth every penny! Bath access is not included in your spa treatment, which was my only gripe. *I wasn’t allowed to take photos, but you can check it out here. The Warrior Massage with Manos, which I have had twice, was quite possibly the best massage I’ve had anywhere. And that’s saying something. We also LOVE the breakfast, and we usually have a package where that is included every morning.
Something to Know: We had a little snafu at check-in in that our amenities that were supposed to included didn’t show up. So on our third trip we didn’t get our room upgrade or our early check-in, which was brutal coming off an overnight flight with zero sleep. Since we first visited Estelle Manor, they have changed the day pass at the spa, which is a bummer. You used to be able to purchase a pass and then go and come as you please. Now, you purchase a 180 minute Thermal Journey at a set time for 155 GBP, which is not included when you book another treatment. Note: It is complimentary for club members, which is a wonderful perk! The Eynsham Baths are not open to the public. Only club members, their guests and hotel guests.
Suite Dreams: We loved our rooms every time! I love the Walled Garden Cottage near The Glass House. It has a large separate sitting area, which was perfect for my husband, who always wakes at the crack of dawn. It also had the most incredible amenities, such as a curling iron, that I tried to buy once we got back to the states, and they don’t ship outside the UK (boo hoo!). My hair stylist uses this similar one, though and it’s on my Christmas list! When you opened up the mini bar, it was anything but mini. It was so thoughtfully stashed with eye masks and craft cocktail mix and so many fun things—no detail was overlooked! I also loved the Commune products in the bathroom—which I gave as client gifts last year! I was told that staying inside the house is “magical,” so we plan to give that a try next time. I’ll report back on whether or not the noise is an issue (the have had DJs in the past, so I’m not sure how or if they can control the noise).
Stylish Sips: We often joke that it’s hard to mess up a Negroni, but it takes a very good bartender to make it something special. The cocktails were so good, that we called over the Drinks Specialist (that’s what they prefer to be called) to talk about their secret sauce. Don’t miss dinner in the Glass House! We’ve eaten there twice and it’s been so incredible both times Note: The Glass House is only open Friday-Monday for dinner (Which is why we couldn’t go on this last trip).
Cool Factor: A self-proclaimed “new school club with old school values,” they have succeeded in their mission to feel unstuffy. A membership gets you access to the members only areas, events, supper clubs and workshops, The Clubhouse workspace, 20% off a stay. If I lived in London, this would be a no brainer!
Hero Shot: From the end of the pool looking back at the house. Spectacular!
The sitting area in our room had warm and cozy vibes when we made a fire one night and watched the rest of the Beckham documentary.
Estelle Manor. Eynsham Park, Oxfordshire, OX29 6PN, England
The Best of Larchmont Village, A Neighborhood Gem in LA
Whenever anyone asks me what neighborhood I love the most in LA, it is without question the neighborhood where I lived and worked for many years—Hancock Park / Larchmont Village. We recently sold our house and moved to North Carolina, and walking to Larchmont is one of the things I miss most about living in LA. Bordering Hollywood, Hancock Park, and Korea Town, historic Larchmont Village is one of the most charming neighorhoods in LA.
While Covid meant a lot of closures and changes, it has seen a resurgence and now features 50+ shops and restaurants with the newly developed Mercantile on the south end of the street. A huge draw is the Farmers’ Market happening every Wednesday from 1pm-5pm and Sunday morning from 10am-2pm. Though Larchmont Village is considered the south end of the street, it’s been expanding further towards Melrose with the opening of Cafe Gratitude a few years ago.
For any out-of-towners, put this on your list for a local experience, and scroll down to see my favorite spots to eat, drink + shop.
But First, Coffee:
Go Get Em Tiger – If you’re into fancy lattes with homemade almond milk, this is the place! It is a true coffee “bar” where you order at the counter like you would a cocktail. It will set you back about as much too, but well worth it.
Groundwork Coffee Co – If you don’t want to wait in line at Go Get Em Tiger, they have amazzzzing coffee too!
Cakes & Ice-Cream:
Salt & Straw – A Portland transplant known for their unique flavor combinations like Rice Shrimp Sushi with Lime and Stumptown Coffee & Compartes Love Nuts.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – The newest addition to Larchmont, Jeni was one of the first of the artisanal ice cream shops using whole ingredients and no synthetic flavors.
Erin McKenna’s Bakery LA – This bakery can accomodate most food allergies including gluten, wheat and dairy. I have stopped by many times to accommodate vegan and gluten free friends (including myself!). It’s also insanely adorable.
Clark Street Bakery– One of four locations in LA, they are known for their sourdough bread, but you cannot go wrong. Their lunch is fantastic—don’t sleep on the Jamon Beurre!
Levain Bakery – Known for their bread and most famous chocolate chip cookies, Levain is a New York transplant. Great to treat yourself or take to your next dinner party.
Wine + Cheese:
Larchmont Wine + Cheese – While you go here for the obvious, the secret is hidden in the back. They make sandwiches until the homemade bread runs out. Go early as there is always a line. Pro tip: Call ahead for takeaway. Your sandwich will be waiting at the front when you arrive!
Shop:
Buck Mason – My husband’s favorite clothing store carrying a curated selection of high-quality men’s classics.
Catbird – The fine jewelery store made famous in New York has opened on Larchmont!
Shorthand – Honestly, my dream store, and I’m SO sad it opened after we moved. This is a wonderful stationery shop, complete with all sorts of fun notebooks, pens, cards, etc.—many from Japan.
Larchmont Beauty – Hands down the best beauty supply store in Los Angeles. From high-end skincare like Natura Bisse to every hair product imaginable, it’s a beauty lover’s paradise.
Blue Mercury – If you can’t find it at Larchmont Beauty, you are sure to find it here. A broad selection of high end makeup, skincare and hair products.
Credo Beauty – If you’re into clean beauty, this is the place for you. Selling such luxury brands as Westman Atelier, Ilia, and RMS, I found the staff super knowledgable last time I was in town and came home with a slew of new things to try.
Skin Laundry – A laser facials spa, where you can buy a membership or get a facial over lunch.
Malin + Goetz – All natural, gender neutral skincare products that will bring that luxury hotel feel to your home bathroom.
Diptyque – High-end intoxicating candles, perfect for a gift.
Velvet by Graham and Spencer – It’s a good thing this opened right as we were moving across the country! It’s one of my favorite places to shop for elevated basics.
Midland Shop – A gift shop that champions makers of well made goods—from unique home decor to jewelry and clothes, there’s something for everyone.
Chevalier’s Books – They have moved into a smaller space across the street from their old location. It is one of the oldest independent book stores in Los Angeles.
Eat:
Great White – This all day cafe from Venice opened recently in the old Cafe Parisienne space. With a focus on breakfast, which is greatly needed in our neighborhood, they offer a variety of comfort food and healthier options. It’s quite the hot spot now, so reservations highly recommended.
Bettola- This is in the old Vernetti spot…Italian by the group that brought you Terroni. Outdoor seating available.
Village Pizzeria – The closest you’re going to get to New York style pizza in Los Angeles. They are now open Wed-Saturday from 3:00pm-8:30pm. And Sunday 3:00pm-8:00pm. *Takeout available. Limited menu.
Le Pain Quotidien – They have finally reopened for limited indoor and outdoor seating!
Cookbook Market – This darling neighborhood market first opened in Echo Park, expanded to Highland Park and is now in Larchmont! Seasonal produce, wine, gourmet foods, as well as a restaurant. I’m so jealous it opened after we moved!
Sam’s Bagels – There are quite a few bagel places now giving Sam’s a run for their money, but it’s still a very good option. *Takeout only
Kreation – If you’re in the mood for a $14 smoothie or water infused with CBD, this is the place! And who isn’t, right?!
Cafe Gratitude – Located on the Melrose end of Larchmont, this popular vegan restaurant is one of the trendiest spots in town, but the food is also great (if you’re in the mood for something healthy).
A 3-day Hong Kong budget trip from Manila in pesos: 14 days visa-free, real fares from Manila and Clark, the HK$34.6 airport bus, where to stay, and what Alex Eala fans need to know about the Hong Kong Tennis Open.
