As a millennial parent, Christmas shopping has become one of my favourite rituals, though it looks vastly different now than it did when I was a child growing up in Australia. Back then, Christmas was all about hot weather, poolside barbeques, and cold cuts—not exactly the festive dream I saw in movies. Those early years left me with a longing for the kind of cosy, wintry Christmas that now feels so perfectly at home in London. 

Fast forward to today, and I’m a parent of three (26, 17, and 11), fully immersed in the magic of the holiday season. London, with its twinkling Christmas lights, festive markets, and beautifully adorned high streets, feels like the Christmas I always imagined. But while the atmosphere is timeless, the way we shop has transformed completely. The catalogues of my childhood have been replaced by online wish lists, social media gift guides, and quick TikTok-inspired purchases. And honestly? I love it. 

These days, Christmas shopping for me is a mix of practicality, tradition, and a little sprinkle of wonder. While I rely on online shopping for the big-ticket items—beauty gadgets for my eldest, gaming accessories for my teen, and something creative for my youngest—I still carve out time to walk through Oxford Street, admire the dazzling displays, and wander the Southbank Christmas Market with my husband. It’s as much about soaking in the season as it is about finding the perfect gifts. 

It turns out I’m not alone in balancing these two worlds. In the UK, consumers are expected to spend an impressive £46.4 billion over the holiday season, averaging £923 per person. With such significant spending, brands are catching on that it’s not just about having products on the shelves but about creating a meaningful connection with shoppers. This is particularly true for parents like me who want gifts that resonate with our families while also delivering convenience and value. 

Interestingly, my younger Gen Z parent friends have taken a more digital-first approach to shopping. TikTok is their personal Santa’s workshop, where viral trends and influencer recommendations guide their gift choices. Within seconds, they have gone from a 15-second video to clicking "Add to Cart." Their curated, hyper-personalised approach is inspiring—it’s Christmas shopping but turbocharged. According to recent reports, 29% of parents rely on social media platforms for gift inspiration, underscoring just how influential digital spaces have become in shaping shopping habits. 

What’s fascinating, though, is how much overlap there is between millennials and Gen Z parents. Both groups are intentional in their buying, focusing on gifts that feel meaningful and thoughtful. Sustainability, too, is a shared value. I find myself leaning into gifts like subscription boxes, eco-friendly gadgets, or unique finds from local artisans. It’s not just about filling the space under the tree; it’s about choosing gifts that align with our values and create lasting memories. 

At the same time, convenience is everything. As much as I love the magic of London’s festive streets, the ease of sitting on the sofa late at night, scrolling through options, is a lifesaver. My kids’ wish lists are more tech-focused now, so I spend my time comparing gadgets, gaming accessories, and those "must-have" items they’ve casually (but strategically) mentioned over the past few months. 

For businesses, it’s clear the holiday season is about more than just sales—it’s about creating experiences that resonate. Parents like me want the best of both worlds: the ease of online shopping with the magic of in-person festive experiences. Whether it’s click-and-collect services, personalised recommendations, or beautiful in-store displays, it’s the combination that keeps us coming back. 

This year, I’m also dipping my toe into new shopping trends. I’ve been exploring TikTok Shop, partly out of curiosity and partly because, let’s face it, it’s impossible to resist when everyone’s talking about it. And while it’s all very modern and digital, one of my favourite finds this year is ironically a throwback—a retro handheld gaming console. It’s loaded with 60 old-school games from the ’80s and ’90s, and I couldn’t resist the charm. Somehow, this blend of new shopping methods and nostalgic gifts feels like the perfect metaphor for Christmas in 2024: balancing modern conveniences with timeless traditions. 

As I wrap up my holiday shopping, I’m reminded that Christmas isn’t just about what we buy—it’s about the moments we create. Whether it’s watching the kids light up as they open their presents, enjoying a festive walk with my husband, or simply soaking in the magic of London at Christmas, it’s these experiences that make it all worthwhile. And if a retro console and a little TikTok magic are part of the journey? Well, that’s the Christmas spirit for you. 

Recommended