HIDING SECRET CHRISTMAS GIFTS IN THE CRACKERS!

[@janjohansson9495]

We need a split screen of Amaury working in the grand salon and the others making crackers next door.

[@Kerrin77JIH]

I had NO idea you could decant cologne into little atomizers!! Where have I been?!? Lol!! Thanks!!!!!

[@kaywells7809]

Love, love, love the suit Stephanie is wearing. It looks absolutely gorgeous on her. Oh cracker construction great too. 👍🤩

[@Motherhubbard170]

If my memory serves me correctly, Stephanie received it as a gift , even though its utterly amazing how well it fits

[@lauramclaine504]

Everyone on Xmas is going to feel so special. It’s not just the gifts they are getting but a real feeling of love and Laughter .

[@lisalarosa4546]

Beautiful and unique idea! When I was a child, back in the 60's, we would make these out of construction paper. We used yarn for the ribbon. I can remember cutting the mid-ends in different shapes. We put Christmas pictures, we colored, inside. Then on Christmas we presented to our parents! Your vlog on this Stephanie, brought many memories back I had forgotten. Thank you for that. Your family and friends will deeply appreciate this!

[@leighannemcdonald6887]

I love this so much!! Keeping the spirit alive

[@carolinepalmer6428]

You are so sympatico with Philip. Perfect match x

[@rose-marie7351]

What beautiful gifts! Parfum and bath salt from that place, its truly magical and wonderful idea to make many mini individual spray bottles (these were pretty as well!) . Beautiful wrapping on top of that! Your guest are spoiled! :)

[@lolascruz]

I can't help but be really appreciative of every detail in each advent calendar vlog. The fact that in summer time you were already thinking of gifts for the crackers, and filming for the future! I can't even think past tomorrow!!! Wonderful work and thank you for allowing us, the viewers, an inside to your home❤❤

[@cathytilghman]

The Christmas Crackers are glorious! What a lovely gift for all of your guests. This Christmas team is a great team, we can see the love and friendship abound in each vlog. xx

[@MissQuite]

I love the thoughtful attention to detail in absolutely everything you do 💗

[@karleinegraham446]

I followed to the end to understand this "cracker" project. Learned something new! Thanks for taking us to Santa Maria Novella. One of these days, I will get to visit Rome, Assisi and Florence again.

[@Cenepk101]

I always wondered about those crackers. We don’t do that here in the USA.

[@lenoracooper7729]

@@Cenepk101 Same.

[@jennifercampbell7698]

For those unfamiliar with Christmas Crackers the ‘snap’ is a special cardboard strip inserted inside which is pulled from each end by two people to create a ‘bang’ sound as the cracker ends are pulled off to disclose the gifts inside. Sort of an individual piñata!

[@karleinegraham446]

@@jennifercampbell7698 Thank you for the explanation of the "cracker". A lot of thought went into the gifts chosen by Stephanie & the "noise maker part" adds to the fun of opening gifts. I hope that at least one "cracker" opening will be demonstrated for us who are not familiar with the custom. Thanks again from New York 🇺🇸 USA.

[@jennifercampbell7698]

@@karleinegraham446 I hope so too! I’m from Australia and we’ve inherited the idea from our British ancestors. I have fond memories of opening the crackers at the Christmas dinner table, hearing the lousy jokes which resulted in lots of heartfelt groans, putting on the silly paper crowns and wearing the plastic rings or blowing the plastic whistles inside the cheap purchased crackers.

[@marleyburkhardt3714]

Those crackers turned out beautifully!

[@Fubs_the_queen]

I’ve been to Florence countless times and never knew about this place! Because of you guys I have a rolling list of places to go!

[@eamonnohalloran2254]

Stephnie and Lalanders, I am so enjoying your Advent Series this year . You are the best storyteller in word and film . You engage us is crafts wlhile wisking us off to Florence to experience its beautiful history . This time of fragrance. I can almost smell the roses in the plaza of the church. Then you bring us to the kitchen at LaLande where more magic is created in the secert gifts for the crackers. Never missing a beat, By videos end you have left us heady by what we have just experienced, wondering by we cant finish our christmas card for posting.. Oh and yesterdays video of your room decorating just shows why your a wonderful Chatalian . Your attention to detail is amazing , Your choice of books , drinks ,soaps and sweet treats just shows your genuine and keen interest in the people in your life. People must be very flattered by your thoughtfulness.. I am excited to see what little adventure 15 has to offer today.

[@nancycowan6109]

Said thousands of times from so many, thank you again for taking us to places we never knew we needed to go. You are a like a brightly wrapped Christmas gift with every single video. Love from my simple Minneapolis home. ❤️🎄

[@lealou1092]

I haven’t watched yet because I’m catching up right now but thought I’d pop into the comments to say I think we need a book recommendation video! I’ve found 2 gems in the past two videos I’ve watch and would love for you to share your favorites!

[@susanphillips3631]

Thank you Stephanie, Philip and all the La Lande family. This Vlogmas was glorious and brought so many memories of our family’s visit to Farmacia Sante Maria Novella. I worked for Penhaligon’s, in London for many, many years. At my time the company was part owned by the marvellous Franco Zeffirelli, what a great man. Having visited the Farmacia in Florence , I realised what had inspired him. He bought the original Penhaligon formulae from Trufitt and Hill, a St. James’s, London, a traditional barbers shop. Penhaligon’s were By Royal Appointment, and we made special fragrances for HRH The Prince of Wales and other members of the Royal Household. Our staff used to love to deliver to the London Palaces. Heady times indeed, especially at Christmas.

[@chrissih4046]

How absolutely wonderful!

[@lavonnemountain6133]

Love your flower print suit, the pink everywhere on the tree, table, paper, lips, tea set. clever to make your own Crackers from my favorite place in Florence for lovely fragrance and beauty all around. delightful vlog!

[@andreacatzel8259]

Another beautiful vlog. The thoughtfulness and love that you, Philip and all the lovelies infuse into your cracker making, is inspirational! Much love to you all. ❤️

[@ehpeachylove]

Growing up we had Christmas Crackers and they were always fun, love the paper hats. What wonderful looking crackers, such thoughtful gifts inside, just beautiful. Thank you for the history’ lesson Stephanie. Loving this years Advent Calendar. Such a warm and loving group. Excited to see the complete Christmas table and everyone hoping in the fun. 🙏🎄😘🥂✨🎁🥰🇺🇸

[@lorrainel2314]

On my next visit to Florence I will be buying perfume! What a fantastic idea for bespoke Christmas crackers 😍 So many great Christmas ideas from La Lande, thank you.

[@donnastevenson6700]

Stephanie Jarvis: I am living Christmas through you and your friends. I use to love doing Christmas, but pain from Lupus too much now to do a tree or decorations. Your vlogs bring me absolute joy. We are living Christmas through you and all your friends and Iam completely satisfied. I do wish it was possible to pass some of that wonderful food and Christmas drink through the vlog into my hand though lol. Sending massive hugs to you from NY. Your vlogs bring me complete happiness.!

[@TheChateauDiaries]

I’m so sorry about your pain, I hope you find relief, and I’m happy you’re enjoying these vlogs 😊

[@kellyhawes8901]

@DonnaStevenson My sister also has Lupus, I do understand how painful it can be. If you are comfortable private messaging me your address, I would love to send you a wee package of Christmas goodies, and a fabulous salve for your discomfort. I'm close by in NH. ♥️

[@lukehartman9386]

Donna, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Keri💜

[@lukehartman9386]

@@kellyhawes8901 it’s a horrible illness to deal with. You and your sister are in my thoughts and prayers. My mom had lupus. Keri💜

[@donnastevenson6700]

@@lukehartman9386 thanks so much. Thanks for taking this time out of your bus day today wishing me well.I really appreciate it sending big hugs from upstate Ny

[@denisemarle4141]

Very special Christmas crackers, they are beautiful! Philip reminds me of me... I remember back to my first job, 1971 when I would cut special shirts for my boss (and he was Dutch!) ...one fabric, crepe with an abstract cloud design, I can see it now! I cut it myself matching the print down the front placket, the girls (remember the Rag Trade - a British TV show..) sewed it and I cut and made a matching tie. The tie in place matched the front of the shirt... so Philip, I understand! 👍🦘

[@helenbugg2195]

I visited that old pharmacy when I went to Florence a few years ago and bought an amazing hand cream! I can't wait to go back - especially now!!

[@KrisanthiaMum]

I absolutely love your bits of history when you go places. I have an essential oil necklace. It’s like a locket with a small volcanic rock in it. You dab a drop of the oil you need or prefer, close it up and it’s with you all day. The Christmas cracker making look fun!!!

[@TheSchkings]

Angeli di Firenze is one of my favorite perfumes! My dear friend treated me to a bottle of it for my birthday several years ago, and I'm still using it. Love it! What fantastic Christmas cracker treats!

[@laurettadimmick6399]

Merry Advent! I'm delighted to see you make such lovely use of your Italian adventures last summer in your Advent theme. Wine, Farmacia SMN, etc. I live in Florence and would love to show you around the next time you are here! Buon Natale!

[@mariak9727]

😍Lucky you! Florence is such a delightful city!!💖

[@roannecampagnolo4629]

Christmas at Lalande is going to be so wonderful!!! 🎄🎄💛🦔

[@sindysimms4001]

The Christmas crackers were lovely, and the gifts were sweet and thoughtful. You are all so creative.

[@SaraLovesYouNC]

Stephanie, that suit is absolutely gorgeous and it looks wonderful on you. So stylish!

[@MrGent-er3pk]

Stephanie, this new holiday opening is so beautiful...

[@lauralaladarling3775]

I spent 4 months in Florence to learn Italian and have funl. The artistry and luxury of their hand-made paper notebooks with soft leather covers, superb leather accessories, perfumes and jewellry was a most magical shopping extravaganza! Plus exilerating but exhausting museum tours of Florence's magnificent history. Xxx Thank you.

[@amyschneidhorst1384]

Thank you for this thorough tutorial. I have long been aware of Christmas crackers (and that they make noise) but had never seen how they were constructed, that they can hold presents, or what they looked like close-up as a finished product.

[@myownlittlehouse471]

Is it okay to note that Stephanie and Phillip fuss at each other like an old married couple? hahahaha! Constant entertainment.

[@kellyhawes8901]

Oh what fun it is to .....watch you all make Christmas crackers ! Is it me or does Christmas at LaLande just keep getting better every year!! 🎄♥️🍾

[@Tracy_R]

LUV the tea pot! My oh my!! FABULOUS! I'm super excited & adore your pink tree. I've wanted one for at least 10 years but unable to achieve so Thank you STEPHANIE & PHILIP for such a lovely tree & sharing. Hugs from Ohio

[@moonchild1518]

I love the rich snippets of history you share and interweave into this experience. I am an astrologer and to watch you embody Leo so beautifully is a delight to me. You are a star Stephanie.

[@kimberlymoore9776]

I had never heard of Christmas crackers or Advent calendars until I started watching KZbin videos from UK several years ago. Now I want them at our tables as well here in USA. I love your videos btw and I get the warm and cozy vibes which I love from them!! Merry Christmas to everyone!! Biggest hugs from Jonesboro, Arkansas

[@antonellasakurai]

I had never heard of Christmas Crackers before, they look fun! And these in particular with the perfume look great and I bet they smell beautiful 👃🥰

[@chrissih4046]

We also call them bonbons :-)

[@janegendreau484]

I've got a headache just from watching the construction of the Christmas crackers!! Yikes!! LOL. Very detailed and intense process, but quite beautiful!! And, everyone working so well together, so jovial and industrious!! Well done all!!! USA

[@88lakeshore]

When I was in high school in 2014 I went to Florence on a school trip and i bought the Aqua Della Regina Cologne, I loved it so much - i love that shop!!!!!

[@CarolChillsCasually]

Those crackers look so fun, wish we did something like that for my family Christmas. It’s been weirdly warm in my home state this winter. So seeing you flash back to summer doesn’t even feel weird. Lol. Been wearing shorts and tanks this December.

[@lvmitchell1]

You should do it! Most families dont make them, we just buy them from the supermarket. You can get ones to suit every budget. It's not a christmas dinner in the uk without crackers, paper hats, and bad jokes.

[@tinaoneill6746]

wow,i could never imagine facing such beautiful, luxurious things, all around me, day in and day out. How magical and unbelievable life must be for you all..All of the work and love that goes into everything you touch

[@letitiahansford307]

You are the best Stephanie. You thought of all these places to go in summer so we could still have travel vlogs at Christmas time. Thank you so much.

[@okienana11]

My family started the tradition of Christmas Crackers and I never thought about making on my own. Thank you for the lesson.

[@jeanoliver3784]

Rose water perfume. Everything you mentioned sounds divine. And I loved the cracker gifts.

[@pamkullman8839]

I never made it into the apothecary! Thank you for filming in there and sharing, it will go on my list to visit next time!

[@afolsom685]

I am so enjoying these wonderful advent videos. Merci!

[@AutumnBottomBrown]

That suit is INCREDIBLE. I'm obsessed.

[@lyettecool2223]

Even though it was not in our Christmas traditions, my grandmother made crackers some time in the 50´s or 60´s out of construction paper, wrapped it with tissue paper and decorated with Christmas stickers and pretty ribbons to close it. She filled it with candies for us... the grandchildren. She was a very creative person and I still miss her a lot. Happy Advent to all!!!

[@deniseburgess.5082]

Wow 🤩 what a treat for everyone, Stephanie such a beautiful idea and great job done by all the Christmas elves 👏🏻🎄🍾

[@jackiesisson2375]

Love the suit Stephanie. What a wonderful vlog, especially like the idea of decanting the perfume into smaller bottle. Thank you and stay safe. X

[@caroleharden3055]

Stephanie you look absolutely beautiful! What a lovely idea of the atomisers & Bath salts for the crackers, really special ❤️

[@jadejohns3107]

The travel ban has been lifted! I really hope you can see mummy and Percy sooooon! Wouldn’t it be a wonderful Christmas surprise. xxx

[@janetg1691]

Merry Advent! I love Stephanie's pants and jacket.

[@paigepooler9036]

I love the Christmas Diaries Advent Series! I especially loved popping into Florence to learn about the Apothecary and its rose water/ perfumes today. You are such a natural at finding and sharing such interesting tidbits, Stephanie. And everyone at LaLand brings something special to the stories you share. I just love it all and look forward to each new advent!

[@normamurray4450]

What a great job you're doing and the gifts are superb!

[@Marykguise]

Wow! Your attention to detail is incredible!! I would have loved to help you with the crackers! I am a crafting queen!! I’m so excited to see the Christmas table all laid out! What blessed LaLanders you all are! Stephanie, you have created a beautiful life for so many people including yourself!! Thank you so much for sharing!! Merry Advent everyone!! 🎄💝

[@jacquelinemako637]

You are the most amazing and inspirational woman I've ever seen. I'm so glad to have found you. Hope you and your sweet family are having a wonderful holiday and that your family are happy and healthy. Thanks for sharing your life with us.

[@goldyshergill5968]

Loved the episode and appreciate that you share the history of places you visit. Just a minor correction, Persians are credited with invention of Rose water.

[@carolinejobe9346]

what an absolute sweetie you are Stephanie, and your crew too, fabulous crackers, everyone will be delighted

[@lorrainel2314]

2 seconds into the vlog and I have to say…Stephanie, your pant suit is divine 🥰

[@barbaraoshea8639]

Isn’t it just! I’ve been admiring it too. So pretty, so Stephanie, so covetable!

[@paigepooler9036]

I might be wrong but I think it may have been a cadeau from a subscriber. Which makes it even more amazing! Again, might be wrong but I seem to have a (little foggy) memory of it. Regardless, it is gorgeous on her!

[@PleaseBeOurGuest]

This is the second time this week I've seen something about that pharmacy and I definitely want to go one day. Absolutely beautiful!!! Merry Christmas. Xx

[@wendy-moore]

Hugs right back to all of you.

[@christinevr7698]

I get such a happy thrill when I hear/see the Advent opening sequence. It’s so beautiful and makes me feel sooo Christmassy.

[@Helen-us1ly]

I love how you live in a castle ,yet you improvise ways of saving money.

[@TheChateauDiaries]

It’s because I live in a castle that I have to - they’re money pits 😂 Luckily I have no financial worries at the moment because of my amazing patrons, so I’m able to move forward with lots of renovations! But all of the Patreon money goes to an association for the renovation of Lalande and its gardens, so it obviously doesn’t go towards our Christmas celebrations. We all enjoy being creative and finding treasures in charity shops, etc, it’s fun!

[@Helen-us1ly]

@@TheChateauDiaries It's a huge responsibility for which you are the uniquely best suited. We are only custodians leaving our mark ,and up- keeping to the best of our ability. You deserve all the support you get: patrons, gifts and other. I spread the word of La Lande to anyone who will listen. If I met you in the street I would feel I was meeting a friend, your blogs are so well put together.Tender thoughts Helen

[@Helen-us1ly]

@@TheChateauDiaries 💌

[@MicheleLRid]

The lovely surprises for your Christmas guests get better and better! So much fun!

[@liskofod8711]

What a lovely vlog 💞 Thank you 🙏

[@foretb1162]

Wow! Never thought of dividing perfumes and colognes in such a way! Thank you! Gives me juicy ideas of my own now....

[@mariannewinkelman7255]

Very interesting back story to the perfumes, thanks for sharing

[@annaibarra3447]

I love when Stephanie wears that suit! How fantastic she looks. Everything fits her perfectly! I love the crafting but do Christmas. How do you do such a nice and un messy areas! Neat and tidy!

[@lisanewell2780]

The Advent vlogs are amazing! I’m loving it!

[@jennifercampbell7698]

What a wonderful Christmas cracker for everyone! The time and effort you are putting into preparing for Christmas at LaLande is amazing! And the history behind each decoration is fascinating and adds to the sense of occasion. Everyone on Christmas Day will feel very special and spoiled as they should! I’m enjoying your Advent series immensely. I’m sure everyone watching will, like me, feel part of the journey towards an exciting Christmas Day! Well done Stephanie and Philip and all the Santa helpers involved!

[@eileeng2492]

Sabina and Maria are wonderful help. So great!

[@carolinedecastro4171]

Thanks for sharing this very educational information the perfumes are beautiful.

[@dianegriffith3006]

That was fun thank you Stephanie and everybody!

[@birgittvanwijk9646]

Oh how I would love to remove my “extra bits”! Wish it would be so easy 🥰 Speaking of which, Dresdener Stollen is a traditional enriched German Christmas bread filled with raisins and nuts. Germany being Germany - I am half German so I can say - quality control is paramount. Stollentester is a legit profession, there are about a dozen. They travel throughout Germany and test between 500 - 700 each season. Side effect is that the tester gains 5 - 7 kg/11 - 15 lbs each season. It’s tough but somebody’s got to do it…..

[@judithschatunowski6273]

What a wonderful apothecary that was - I’m already feeling envy for the recipients of the beautiful crackers! Looking forward to tomorrow’s advent diary!

[@ibeboydo4653]

Seriously. The joy watching you all make things so perfect for everyone. ❤️

[@sandiebell1676]

A beautiful effort made by all. Wonderful Christmas crackers!💕

[@Elise-bh4rg]

This years advent calendar vlogs are great!!

[@beverley1539]

Great creation, a little gift that will last well after Xmas. Blessings to all the Elves of La Lande Ontario Canada 🐝

[@sidrashirazi2458]

What a joy to watch you guys daily Thankyou for this the crackers look so beautiful 💖💖💖💖💖

[@rnggall9640]

Well that's one day in Florence sorted! I did not know it existed the last time I was there!

[@mariellaxuereb2967]

Your advent vlogs evoke so much happiness. Thank you for sharing this special time with us. 🎄

[@borge2014]

Love S M Novella, the essential oils go a long way, to quick refresh a room put a dab of the oil on top of a lightbulb, it will work as a diffuser for a bit. The crackers are fantastic inside and out!!!

[@donnawilliams6680]

Stunning what a kind and thoughtful gift. I like everyone of your advents before I have watched it they are so lovely. Thank you x

[@blakehahn-atlantaga8510]

Love the cologne idea!

[@marcellejosephine9119]

Really enjoying the Christmas advent vlogs!! What a great idea to make such Christmas crackers, beautiful outside and with amazing gifts inside! 💖🌿🎄

[@--Valentina-]

Merry Advent! 🕯✨ Just when I thought I couldn't be more impressed by ya'll, you create absolutely gorgeous toile de Jouy inspired Christmas crackers with historic Italian perfumes and bath salts inside!

[@jodeneantonson985]

Steph, not only do you come up with fabulous handmade gifts, etc... but you make it a cozy and fun for those who are helping you. Brilliant!

[@susanwoodward7485]

Fascinating! As usual, your vlogs are a level above all others for content and cinematography.

[@jenniferrayhill2000]

Beautiful

[@frankiegurnick6241]

Im absolutely loving this Christmas vlog series. So festive so colourful so christmassy!!! So many great ideas! Love it!! ☃️⛄🎄🎊🎉🎄🎁🎁🎄

[@suejefferies8995]

They are beautiful.!! I love your trouser suit too, Stephanie...xx

[@Cenepk101]

Oh my Lord !!!! Patchouli & pomegranate & musk & oak moss & cloves & lavender…. WHAT A GIFT !!!!! Fantastic!!!!!!! I love that !!!!!

[@ladyonlay7802]

My favorites as well - too bad we won’t be at their Christmas table this year. Do you think we can buy this fragrance in the US? If anyone knows please share - it sounds divine! Of course Steph has a way about describing things, don’t you think? Merry Christmas to all

[@deedeed6853]

Such a wonderful idea!!! (I mean the fragrances) Your guests will be pleased indeed to receive something so generous! Merry Christmas!

[@estherquezada9054]

What a wonderful vlog!!! So informative and interesting and full of thought and love!!💗💗 Thank you!

[@lorrainegatzke1048]

Stephanie, you are a special gift, thanks for all the Christmas inspiration. 🤗😘💖💖💖