Carla Bellucci, a 44-year-old mother, has devised a unique strategy to alleviate the stress of Christmas by implementing a fee for her family members, including the children, to join her for a lavish four-course meal on Christmas Day. The cost for each person to partake in this extravagant dining experience at Carla’s residence is set at £250.
This is not the first time Carla has charged her guests for Christmas dinner. Last year, the fee was £200 per person, and this year she has increased it by £50. Even the children, including her own offspring, are required to contribute to the cost.
The decision has stirred discontent among her children, Tanisha, aged 20, and Jayden, aged 19, who express disappointment over the situation. Carla, from Herts, acknowledged their displeasure but maintained that if they wish to participate in the family Christmas celebration, they must comply with the payment requirement.
Carla intends to host a total of 10 guests, comprising both family and friends, for the holiday feast. The menu includes prawn cocktail as an appetizer, followed by main courses such as short ribs, wild mushroom Yorkshire puddings, sizzled sprouts, and rosemary scalloped potatoes. The meal concludes with a traditional Christmas pudding for dessert.
Upon arrival, guests will be treated to canapés and complimentary champagne. However, by 8pm, all attendees, including Tanisha and Jayden, are expected to depart, as Carla categorizes them as guests this year since they no longer reside at her home.
While acknowledging her children’s discontent, Carla justifies the fee by stating that it covers the expenses of preparation, cooking, and serving the elaborate meal, making it a reasonable arrangement. Additionally, should Tanisha and Jayden opt to stay overnight, they will be subject to an extra charge of £80 each.
Carla emphasized her stance by asserting that she values her time and efforts and expects others to appreciate the stress-relieving gesture she provides during the costly holiday season.