DECEMBER NEWSLETTER
More inspiration and recommendations!
In my monthly newsletter I share current projects, inspiration and recommendations of things I loved reading, watching and listening to recently. P.S If the whole newsletter doesn't display on email, it's because it's jam packed with goodies! Open on your desktop, in a browser or on the app for everything in its full glory!
Oh hey, December! Wasn’t it just November? Another month has vanished! It's been super busy over here as I’ve been working on my new online offering—I’ll fill you in more about that below. Plus, I’m helping Luke with his business; I’m currently in charge of the wrapping department (which is just me!), and I’m busy sending out his beautiful wooden pieces all around the world. It’s wonderful to see! Amidst all this, I’m still enjoying the usual day-to-day activities: bike rides, pickleball, and, of course, cups of tea.
I’m gearing up for a well-earned break over the festive period. Our eldest son is with us at the moment, and the other one will be arriving in a couple of weeks. We’re also welcoming a group of friends to Hoi An so we can celebrate together—I can’t wait! But before all of that, there’s still much to do. I’m sure you’re the same!
As I mentioned last time, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is now open for registration! It’s similar to this year’s membership, featuring the same 12 projects but delivered in a different order. You’ll have the opportunity to join for the entire year, gaining access to all the monthly projects throughout 2025—something many people have been eagerly requesting. Prefer a shorter commitment? No problem! You can also opt to join for just four months at a time, perfect for dipping into different seasons of creativity. I’ll be offering 1:1 sessions as well, which have been a wonderful success throughout 2024. It’s been fantastic to witness the amazing progress from participants, and I can’t wait to support even more of you. Come and join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB and let’s make videos together in 2025!
If you’re looking for some inspiration and ideas of what to capture over the festive season, I’ve put together 10 FESTIVE VIDEO IDEAS to spark your creativity and encourage you to gather your memories at this time of year.
My focus in November was -
Shooting in horizontal to shift my perspective.
Uploading to YouTube to try something different and tick off one of my goals for 2024, as I’ve been wanting to get back into YouTube all year.
Create 10 Slice Of Life videos as part of the MAKE VIDEOS membership.
I did it! I’m happy with the 11 videos I created, as they tell stories of my life right now, offering great memories for years to come. I’ve loved returning to my first love of seeing the world in widescreen and creating in this horizontal format, and I plan to continue this into next year as I formulate some new goals.
Uploading to YouTube has been a new challenge—not in terms of practicality, but due to how quiet it is over there for me regarding views, comments, and subscribers.
I’ve never been into creating just for reaction of likes or follows, but I’ve been doing this for so long on Instagram, I’ll be lying if I said it didn’t matter a little bit. But Instagram hasn’t really been happening for me this year. My videos don’t seem connect with people in the way they used to. With so much noise and content to consume over there, it’s no surprise that my slightly slower, more personal content isn’t grabbing attention. So, if things are quiet on Instagram, I might as well give YouTube a go without worrying about reception. I just have to remind myself that I’m making videos for my future enjoyment. I love the process and how this creative outlet helps me appreciate the beauty in my everyday life. Ultimately, my goal has always been to inspire YOU to tell your own stories through video.
Here are a few of my November videos and rest of them are over on YouTube. I’m committed to continuing with YouTube in 2025, so if you find yourself over there, please come and say hello—I’d really appreciate it! Throughout December, I’ll also be uploading some of my videos from last year, as I’ll be creating at a slower pace this month. I’m not entirely sure what my end goal is with YouTube, but I’m enjoying starting fresh. I’m investing my energy in a space that feels creative, full of people sharing their own stories rather than trying to sell something. Could I potentially get monetised there? Perhaps? Can I build a community of storytellers and discover new creators who inspire me? I hope so! And would I love to be sponsored by my favourite companies to make videos? Of course! But for now, let’s just see how things unfold.
Of course, the one consistent project each month is the year-long 24TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. I’m always inspired to show up no matter what’s going on or how I’m feeling. Here’s my November offering -
And there’s just one more left for this year! On Christmas Eve! Will you join us and create your DITL on December 24th?
This monthly DITL project will continue into 2025, but don’t feel like you have to wait until the start of the year to begin. Just jump in with one Day in the Life video on the 24th—I’m cheering you on!
Head to 24TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for resources and inspiration to help get you started.
Only podcast episodes recommendations for this month. I’ve been listening A LOT!
How Water Heals - The Science of Happiness - For me, water is a source of healing, both physically and emotionally. This episode delves into the science behind how water impacts our well-being, exploring its therapeutic properties and how we can harness its benefits in our everyday lives.
Die Empty - Daily Creative with Todd Henry. In this episode, Todd Henry emphasises the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones and confronting our fears. He encourages listeners to identify their passions and strive to empty ourselves of our best work by the end of our lives.
Prepare to be captivated by Jim Rogers’ remarkable storytelling in this episode of The Imperfects. He shares the three acts of his life, weaving a narrative that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. His insights into resilience and the human spirit will linger with you long after the episode ends.
*Trigger warning* This episode offers a raw and honest look into Emin’s life, touching on sensitive topics such as alcoholism and sexual assault. While it may not be suitable for everyone, Emin’s courage and vulnerability make for a compelling listen. I’m a long-time admirer of her work, ever since I saw her tent piece at one of her first exhibitions, which happened to be next door to my art college in the 90s. And then I met her when she had her own little gallery in Camberwell when I was still a student.
Dr. Emily - Resent Less, Live More - The Imperfects. In this insightful episode, Dr. Emily provides valuable guidance on acknowledging resentment and taking action with forgiveness.
In this profound conversation with death doula Alua Arthur, the importance of discussing mortality is explored - Don't Learn This Too Late: Make An Authentic Life Now, By Getting Real About The End - The Mel Robbins Podcast. It’s an open and inspiring dialogue that challenges us to reflect on our lives and priorities, ultimately enhancing the way we live today.
Todd Henry always serving up inspiration and weaving together interesting stories. Seize The Moment - Daily Creative - “Are you taking advantage of the opportunities in life? Or are you letting life happen to you?”
If you need something uplifting to listen to, look no further than Lovely Day by Bill Withers on Soul Music. This classic tune is sure to brighten your spirits!
As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!
I’ll continue with this monthly newsletter next year. I really enjoy putting it together, and I hope you find it useful—whether it’s enjoying my recommendations to watch, read or listen to. Perhaps drawing inspiration from my creations, or just feeling a connection with someone you’ve known online for a while. I hope you’ll stick around?
I’ll be shifting the delivery date from the 1st of the month to the 5th. I feel there tends to be a lot of deliveries in your inbox on the 1st, and I don’t want to add to the noise, so I hope that’s okay!
Thank you to everyone who stays in touch, sending me messages about what you’ve enjoyed and offering suggestions for inspiration. I love hearing from you, so please feel free to reply and say hello or leave a comment below.
Have a wonderful festive season, whatever you’re doing. Don’t forget to make videos!. Sending love and peace to you all <3
Xanthe xx
(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)
Someone asked me - What on your equipment wish list? While I firmly believe in minimizing overconsumption and making the most of what I already own. I haven’t purchased a new camera since 2017!, so I can’t help but dream a little! Although I’m not currently in the market for new gear, a few items have caught my eye.
I’m really drawn to the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 for shooting on the go. Along with a new Canon G7x III or a Canon R6 II - one day! Plus, I’d love the new AirPods 4, I use my AirPods every day and would love to upgrade!
I’ve also updated my blog post on GIFTS FOR VIDEO CREATORS, perfect for anyone looking for creative gift ideas for the video creators in their lives. Or if you’re a video creator yourself, you might want to consider adding some of these suggestions to your own wish list!
As always, you can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in other video or photography equipment I use and love.
Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!
If you’re looking for amazing copyright free music for your videos, my favourite music library is Epidemic Sound, I use them for all my videos. Each month I compile my favourite tunes that I’ve used in my videos or ones I’m saving for future projects into a playlist. Take a look at all my playlists this year! -
Soooo much Goodly Stuff here! I really want to check out that death doula episode… Did you listen to the one with James Doty, author of The Magic Shop? Love his stuff so much.
And I’m heading over to YT directly to subscribe…Magic surely awaits your nudgings to reignite the joy over there.🪄✨🚀🎄🤍
I’m just getting back into Substack reading & writing & love how varied your newsletter is. Lots of great podcast recommendations. And hopefully some motivation to create again. Although I’m finding I’m leaning into the writing side more. x