Inside Jaana's Christmas Home

When we bought this house nearly five years ago, the bar was one of the first things we noticed.

My son, bless his quick wit, burst into laughter the moment he saw it. “Mum, a bar? Really?” he snickered, his face full of disbelief.

I couldn’t blame him — I’m not exactly the cocktail-shaking, margarita-blending type.

Truth be told, I couldn’t picture myself in a house with a bar either. But now? I can’t imagine living without it!

We named it Kultainen Kulaus (The Golden Sip) and gave it a transformation, turning it into a coffee, tea and wine bar that caters to every beverage whim.

Whether you’re in the mood for something hot, cold, or somewhere in between, my bar has it.

It’s not just the drinks; it’s the array of mugs, teapots, cups, glasses, and quirky little extras I’ve collected over the years.

Somehow, it all fits into that space, like a puzzle where every piece fits just right.

Christmas is when the bar truly shines—it becomes the heart of the house.

Out come the fairy lights, mini Christmas trees, and my beloved Finnish elves, tontut, who perch mischievously amongst the decorations.

My collection of Christmas mugs sees more action than the reindeer on Christmas Eve!

And the drinks?

Oh, we go all out—Christmas cocktails, mocktails, spicy chai, coffee, wine, soft drink, fruit juice, hot chocolate, port and even glögi (Nordic mulled wine).

And did someone mention tea?

I’ve even got syrups for the coffee lovers—gingerbread, hazelnut, you name it.

What started as the house feature I was least excited about has become my favourite little corner.

It’s where we gather, chat, laugh, and experiment with festive flavours.

Who knew a bar would bring so much joy to a non-drinker?

Turns out, it’s not about what you put in the glass—it’s the memories you make while filling it.

Cheers to that, whether it’s with tea, coffee, or mulled wine!

My favourite Christmas things in this bar? One would have to be my Disney Christmas mug with Mickey, Minnie and Pluto on it and a candy cane handle. My friend Dana bought it for me from Disney Springs in Florida.

Another is an old-fashioned Christmas serving tray that was one of my fantastic op-shop finds. I love the picture on it.

And thirdly, a snow globe lantern — another lovely gift from my friend Dana.

Here, in this bar corner, flavours mingle, laughter flows, and every sip feels like a little moment to savour.

ps. If you would like to see a video of the bar corner and have access to Instagram go to my page @naturallynordic