As the year winds down and the holiday festivities take over, everyone seems ready for the season of love, and celebration. From relaxing breaks to putting a spin on holiday culture, find out how the incredible women of Marie Claire Nigeria plan to spend the holidays.
Recover, reflect, align
Everyone can agree that 2024 has been a roller coaster and for most people, like our Editor-in-Chief, Chidera, it has been overwhelming. “Typically, the holidays mean hanging out with my family and friends, but this year feels different.”
For the holidays this year, Chidera is taking a much-needed break. . “I genuinely have no plans for the holiday except to recover, reflect and align on my purpose for the next year.”
Holiday wish: I’d like a 1-month all-expense paid trip to São Tomé.
Happiness comes first
For Esther, our Copy Editor, happiness is key. This holiday, Esther is intentional about having a memorable time with family. “I don’t stay with them, so the Christmas holiday is the time for me to bond and share good memories with them.”
For a bit of outside fun, Esther also says she will be attending the Choc Party with friends.
Holiday wish: My ideal gift for this holiday is an iPad Pro 11
Hanging out with friends for the holidays, via Adobe Stock
An unusual holiday
After experiencing an unexpected loss, our Content Editor, Tobi, expresses uncertainties about the holidays this year. “I always spend the holiday with my family, but I’m dreading this year’s because it’s the first one without my mum. I already know it will be difficult.”
Even with no desire to be outside or to party, Tobi is determined to stay positive, and has activities planned, “I have a friend’s bridal shower and wedding coming up, and I plan to spend time with friends.”
Holiday wish: I want a pair of pink AirPods Pro Max and $5k for Christmas. Also, a new car.
Cuddles + 1,000 kisses
While Denise may have been enthusiastic about the holidays and being “outside” for Activity Fest, Rema’s concert, and Lady Donli’s, plans have changed. “The closer it gets, the more I just want to curl up and SLEEP.”
The brain behind our social media says “Everything is extremely dry and dusty, there’s traffic everywhere, and cocktails are the prices of mid-level wine bottles in 2020.”
Instead, she has chosen to enjoy the holiday sleeping, eating, and cuddling with her husband(s).
Holiday wish: My ideal gift is 1,000 kisses from my husband(s) and $5,000,000
Making memories with family is a great way to spend the holiday, via Dano Milk Nigeria
Spending quality time with family
Prioritising family is how our Feature Editor, Inem, plans to spend the holiday. “I turn my family home into a bootcamp and work with my nieces and nephews every morning, then spend the rest of the time spending quality time with my family.”
Aside from being with family, she also expresses intentions to spend time with friends as well.
Holiday wish: My ideal gift is a new phone and/or money.
Horror movies can be holiday movies
This holiday, our Fashion and Beauty Writer, Oshorena, is leaning into full indulgence. “Resting, recharging, and hanging out with my nieces will take centre stage.”
Putting her spin on festive norms, Oshorena will be on a movie marathon, “not the syrupy Hallmark holiday movies—think spine-chilling horrors and thrillers instead.”
“I’m also planning to eat everything. It’s the season to unwind, eat to my heart’s content, and embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing productive.”
“I will be hiding from the world”
My plan for the holiday is simple, count me out on anything that requires getting dressed.
I have no intentions of being adventurous this holiday, I’m committed to doing only what I love: reading. My goal is to read at least five books.
When the holidays are over, I will be open to hearing about your holiday escapades. Until then, Marie Claire Nigeria’s Lifestyle and Culture Writer will be in hiding.
Holiday wish: My ideal gift would be a kindle and a gift box filled with junk—white chocolate please. I like money too.
Happy Holidays!