From making dumplings from scratch, to spending hours laughing in the kitchen, to sitting around the table for a traditional Chinese homemade meal, our team member Danni talks to us about her fondest memories from when she goes home for the holidays.

What does coming home for the holidays mean to you?

Coming home for the holidays means recharge and reset to me, as it allows me to reconnect with loved ones and reflect on the year gone by.

What do you do for the holiday season?

During the holiday season, I like to embrace a blend of relaxation and celebration. I spend time decorating my home, creating a cosy and inviting space that reflects the festive spirit. It’s all about slowing down, appreciating beautiful surroundings, and spending quality time with loved ones.

Do you have any special traditions when you return home for the holidays?

When I return home for the holidays, I love to help my mum prepare a special holiday meal, gathering around a beautifully set table with family to share stories and enjoy the festive atmosphere - these small but meaningful rituals make the home feel even more special during the holiday season.

What’s a holiday memory that brings you the most joy? 

A holiday memory that brings me the most joy is when my family would come together to make traditional dishes like dumplings. Everyone had a role – rolling dough, folding dumplings, or preparing the ingredients – and we’d spend hours talking and laughing in the kitchen. Even as the aroma filled the house, it was the shared experience of preparing the meal together that brought the most joy. That sense of togetherness and tradition, paired with the beautiful setting of a warm, welcoming home, is what truly makes the holiday season special.

 What’s on your dining table for the holiday celebrations?

During the holiday season, our dining table is a beautiful mix of traditional dishes and seasonal favourites. We usually have fish, beef, pork or lamb as the centrepiece, surrounded by homemade dumplings, stir-fried vegetables, and delicate seafood dishes. There’s always a warm soup, like Pork Rib Soup (with Reddish or Winter Melon or Lotus Root or Carrot and Corn), or Chicken Soup (with Jujube, Goji and Chestnut) to start the meal. For dessert, we enjoy sweet rice cakes or tangyuan (sweet dumplings with black sesame).

What gift did you choose from the Jardan Holiday Gift Guide? Who are they for and why did you choose it for them?

The Nelly Table Light and a beautiful fruit bowl from Alex and Trahanas. The fruit bowl is for my close friend who truly appreciates design and values functionality in their home. They love hosting gatherings, and I can envision it as a beautiful centrepiece. I also know they prioritise healthy living, so a fruit bowl encourages that lifestyle while being a lovely decorative piece that reflects their taste. The Nelly Table Lamp is for my cousin, who has an eye for design. She often hosts friends and family, and I know this lamp will enhance the ambiance of her living room, making it feel even more welcoming.

What is your favourite thing about the holiday season?

My favourite thing about the holiday season is the joy of traditions and the magic they bring. Whether it’s decorating, preparing festive meals, or exchanging heartfelt gifts, each tradition adds a layer of warmth and nostalgia. I also love the opportunity to reflect on the past year and express gratitude for the people in my life. The holiday season creates a sense of anticipation and excitement, and it reminds me to appreciate the beauty of togetherness and the little moments that bring us closer.