The story of Christoff: a new tradition
As the festive season approaches, many of us turn to traditions for comfort, joy, and a sense of continuity. For some, these traditions are deeply rooted in family customs, cherished decorations, or the familiar rituals of the season. For others, like our Managing Director, Nicki Kavanagh, it’s an opportunity to create something new while honouring the past.
That’s where Christoff, a Christmas tree in a pot, comes in – a small yet meaningful addition that has grown to symbolise so much more than a seasonal decoration.
A new tradition begins
A couple of years ago, Christoff was picked out at Homebase, and carefully wheeled through the car park on a trolley. The decision to bring him home was a reflection of changing times – Nicki, a very keen gardener, was moving to the coast without a private garden and looking for a suitable way to celebrate the season.
Christoff spends most of the year “living out” (to borrow an equestrian term) in a communal garden, but when the festive season approaches, he’s brought up to a covered balcony and transformed into a glowing centerpiece. Adorning Christoff with lights and decorations has become a new and cherished tradition, symbolising the joy of the season and a connection to nature.
A tree that grows with you
One of the joys of having a living tree like Christoff is witnessing his growth. Each spring, new shoots sprout from his branches, their vibrant green a striking contrast to the more established parts of the tree. These tiny spurs, resembling little hands, are a visible testament to his resilience and vitality.
When winter rolls around, Christoff is brought up to the covered balcony again to take centre stage, dressed in lights and decorations. Adorning him has become a welcome ritual, a time to pause and celebrate the season. His fresh pine scent fills the air, evoking memories of woodland walks and a connection to the natural world. Christoff isn’t just a Christmas tree; he’s a reminder of what makes this season special.
When the festive season ends, there’s often a sense of wistfulness as the decorations are packed away. But Christoff remains, standing tall in the communal garden, a year-round reminder of the joy, warmth, and love that the holidays bring.
A sustainable choice
Choosing a tree in a pot, like Christoff, isn’t just a meaningful decision – it’s also a sustainable one. Unlike a cut tree, which lasts only a few weeks, a potted tree continues to grow and can be enjoyed for years to come. It becomes part of your family’s story, evolving alongside you and bringing a little piece of the outdoors into your home each year.
The Joy of the Season
From his fresh pine scent to his growing branches, Christoff embodies the spirit of Christmas and the comfort of tradition, both old and new. Whether he’s on the balcony decked out in lights or quietly thriving in the communal garden, he’s a reminder of resilience, joy, and the enduring power of nature.
If you’re thinking about starting a new tradition this year, consider a living tree. Like Christoff, it might just grow into something truly special.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Juniper – and from Christoff, too!
Do you have your own holiday traditions that bring you joy? We’d love to hear about them.