A love letter to Jellycat: ‘I know what I’ll be placing under the Christmas tree’

Whether I’m shopping for the perfect gift for a newborn baby, a friend’s birthday, or an anniversary of any kind, there’s one brand I always turn to. For years, Jellycat’s soft, joyful characters have been my gifting go-to – I’d go as far as to say there isn’t an occasion that isn’t enhanced by handing over a cheerful croissant or supersoft lamb. And with Christmas on the horizon, I know just what I’ll be placing under the Christmas tree, because who wouldn’t want to find two adorable squishy marshmallows waiting for them on Christmas morning? I know I certainly do. My Jellycat love affair began a few years ago, when my partner James and I were browsing a department store. We’d only been together for a month, and I declared that despite having bought dozens of Jellycat in my time, I was still without my own. That soon changed (thanks James) and for the first few years of our relationship, a new cuddly friend appeared every single month. I found Bodacious Beak Parrot on my car seat after minor surgery, Rose Dragon laid across my pillow to mark six months together, and Bashful Red Panda was placed into my outstretched arms after a stressful day at work. Each and every time I added a new Jellycat to my ever-growing family, I gave the character its own name and personality, and fell totally in love with its unique brand of joy. And now, at 28, I own dozens – dotted throughout my home, but mostly found in my bedroom. As my collection began to grow, there was one character I longed for – a basset hound. James and I were after a floppy-eared, toffee-coloured hound that would resemble our dog, Olive, and even sent a fan letter or two to the mastermakers at Jellycat. Last year, I was scrolling through the latest online selection, when I came upon Randall Basset Hound and let out a squeal – our wish had come true, complete with droopy lids and clunky paws. As dog lovers, a go-to gift I like to buy is the Black and Cream Puppy whose jumper can be personalised to make it that extra bit special. But the Personalised Snow Dragon will be the next one I buy as my sister (a convert thanks to me) has been dropping some serious birthday hints. Another favourite addition came last year with Jellycat Jack, who was released in conjunction with the brand’s 25th anniversary. He’s the curious cat visible on the Jellycat logo, an all-round ambassador and boss, who now sits proudly on my dresser, watching over all his friends. What makes Jellycat unmistakably special is the fact that its magic now comes to life through pop-ups in cities across the world. I recently visited the Jellycat Patisserie Experience at Galeries Lafayette in Paris and came home with two new companions – sweet Brigitte Brioche and Mia Macaron. Some may question whiling away hours queuing for cuddly bakery items when you could be exploring the Eiffel Tower but, for me, it was the perfect Parisian experience. Immersive from start to finish, we got to browse the menu, choose our “patisserie” and then help prep and garnish them. With a job that demands a lot of me when it comes to creativity and storytelling, I find comfort and jubilation when I see their happy little faces at the end of the day. And I’m not the only one. Jellycat joy is a well-documented gen Z phenomenon – a pocket of playfulness that brings lighthearted relief to our homes and weekends. They function as friends, decor, cuddling companions and storytelling buddies. And in a digital age where it can be tricky to know what to buy one another, they offer the perfect irresistible gift for everyone. While I’m definitely more team Loveables – the collection that includes a beautiful mix of both obscure and conventional characters from Romi Reindeer to Clyde Capybara – the Amuseables range brings everyday objects to life with love and an unmistakable Jellycat smile. Show me a kitchen shelf that wouldn’t be enhanced by the friendly presence of a smiling croissant or Pammie, the fluffy palm tree? Thanks to the sheer range of Jellycat, it’s always possible to decorate for the time of year – whether that’s a Bartholomew Bear hanging on your Christmas tree or a smiling football perched by the television for the World Cup. Fanciful characters with whimsical smiles, Jellycat can be relied on whenever I need a hit of something magical. As a treat for myself or a special gift, they bring me a slice of cosy luxury and a whole lot of joy. And that is always welcome. Which Jellycat will top your Christmas list? Find your festive favourite