We went to Carluccio's late afternoon and I took a good look round their beautiful shop with a list in my hand. Then we had a leisurely and delicious meal while waiting for the special shopping event to start at 6.30.
Generous trays of beautiful freshly made food were carried out from the kitchens, mulled wine was served, hot chocolate to die for, and samples of tiny sponges in limoncello, panettone, and other delights. The staff were charming (Glasgow branch - they always are) putting our bags aside and sitting me down at the bar with more mulled wine while Barry fetched the car....
It was busy but not packed. There is a fabulous choice of beautifully presented good food and wine, from 50p for chocolate ladybirds and £2.50 for chocolate coins to hampers for £75. Things which you might not buy for yourself, and consumable, make acceptable presents for everyone I hope. (Do you think Carluccio's might sponsor me to write this? Only kidding!).
There is no need for a hard sell approach with this food - it sells itself.
Oh and there was 10% off..
So, next year, and perhaps every year, I think this will be the way we shop for Christmas. We might ask the family to join us for the meal as part of the Christmas treat....
Consider it done.
Are you considering doing anything differently this Christmas?