When do you expect people to start Christmas shopping this year?
I've learnt never to be surprised by how soon people start Christmas shopping. We opened our Christmas shop on 1st October and sold four Christmas trees on the first morning.
What types of presents do you think will be particularly popular?
In gifts for the home, we think our retro inspired pieces will be popular this year. These pieces are all rather quirky and make great presents. I think cosy knitwear and slippers are always popular. For this Christmas John Lewis has taken slippers to the ultimate level -- we now stock slippers actually made from duvets!
What’s happening at in John Lewis this Christmas?
John Lewis is known for great service and we're all looking forward to offering a great shopping experience for our customers. That really makes a difference at this time of year. We are also holding an evening of masterclasses on 24 November demonstrating expert present wrapping, flower arranging and table decoration.
Any top tips for Christmas shopping well or for finding bargains?
Get organised! Make yourself a list and do some research before you hit the High Street. Go online to get some inspiration so that it doesn't become too overwhelming when you get into the shops. I also think it's important to remember that we give presents to friends and family at Christmas to show them we love them. In the stress of it all, we often lose sight of this and gift buying, sadly, can become a chore. Always think of what the person would actually want to receive and you'll enjoy shopping for it much more. It also means you can really look forward to giving your gifts on Christmas morning.
What are you hoping that Santa brings you this Christmas?
I'm embarrassed to admit this but I would LOVE the Sylvanian Family John Lewis department store!
What’s the best present you’ve ever received?
A tree people doll house that I got when I was 5. I think this explains my obsession with Sylvanian Families.
Why do you think Edinburgh sparkles during the winter?
I really love Edinburgh in the winter. I think the season suits the city. Everything looks so pretty with the sparkly lights on the trees and there are so many great bars and restaurants to head to when it's cold and dark outside. (That a city this size only has two beer gardens tells us we're so much better at having fun in the winter than in summer.)
John Lewis Edinburgh
