Written by Marieke.
The smell of kruidnoten, hot chocolate and that cozy evening light... Sinterklaas will soon be back in the country! And whether you still have small children or, like me, teenagers around the table, it remains a wonderful time full of coziness, treats, and small surprises.
In our home, the strong belief has long since passed, but we still keep the spirit alive with something we call "shoe service". Everyone in the family takes turns buying a gift for someone else. Sometimes there's a chocolate bar or a pair of silly socks in the shoe, other times a small gift with a sweet message. Nobody knows whose turn it was, which makes it extra fun (and sometimes a little suspicious when someone looks very happy).
It's such a simple tradition, but precisely because of that, it's so enjoyable. A small moment of attention, a bit of suspense, and most importantly: laughing together about what's in the shoe now. And honestly? I enjoy it at least as much as the children.
Time for yourself
Between all the rushing, planning, and wrapping, we often forget one important person: ourselves. We're busy with lists, surprises, gifts for school, work, or family... but when do you buy something just because you deserve it?
Sinterklaas is the perfect moment for that. A kind of 'treat yourself' version of putting out your shoe, with color, style, and a touch of luxury. So fill your own shoe this year with something that makes you happy: a new bracelet, a bag you've been thinking about for weeks, or an accessory that adds just that little extra to your winter outfit.
In vanMauZ's Giftshop, you'll find plenty of ideas to give or to keep for yourself. From colorful keychains to handmade jewelry and small bags: gifts that bring an instant smile.
A tradition with a twist
What I love about the Sinterklaas season is that it's not about big gifts or busy plans, but about those small moments of attention. A handwritten note in the shoe. A scent that reminds you of the past. A package that's almost too beautiful to open.
Perhaps our shoe service is also something for your home. A cozy way to keep the magic of Sinterklaas alive, in an adult, cheerful way. Because admit it: everyone loves a small gift, no matter how old you are?
So my tip for this year: don't just fill someone else's 'shoe', fill your own too. Because even though Saint Nicholas gives out gifts... you deserve one too.
Discover all the colorful gifts in the vanMauZ Giftshop and make Sinterklaas a celebration full of color, style, and cheer.
