James Argent has given The Mirror a grand tour of his dazzling festive home. The 36 year old is all set to spend his first Christmas with new love, 31 year old Nicoline Artursson, and shared a glimpse into their Christmassy Essex retreat.
"This is my Christmas tree - as you can see it is slightly wonky," he shared with a chuckle. "I actually cut this down myself with my bare hands believe it or not but I can't take credit for the decorations. That was my girlfriend Nicoline and my mum Patricia. They made it look beautiful. I am proud of it."
The couple's romance blossomed after they first met in July on his way to a gig in sunny Marbella, and things have been looking up ever since. James, affectionately known as Arg, is now integrating Nicoline into his world, complete with her own stocking hung by the fireplace.
"This is the first Christmas me and Nicoline are going to be spending together," Arg beamed. "We are going to make it a real special one to remember. I can't wait to make some amazing memories."
Their home boasts a quirky yet stunning Christmas tree decked out with oversized red bows, luxury Christmas crackers and twinkling silver and white baubles, all set off by gleaming gold lights. Amid the backdrop sits an elegant white and black grand piano and a chic turquoise electric guitar.
The dining table echoes the festive opulence with arrangements of gold, green and white floral displays amongst glass goblets, awaiting guests at the four-person setting.
Beaming with pride, Arg shared: "The number one wedding singer and party event man in the country, this is where the preparation and magic happens."
But Arg's home has even more unique touches. His beloved garden features a cosy hot tub area for those chilly evenings, which James admits is a personal highlight: "There is nothing better. It is like being in a roasting hot bath."
Not just a winter retreat, his backyard transforms into a social hub in warmer weather, complete with chic outdoor furniture reminiscent of Love Island settings.
He expressed his affection for this space: "The garden is probably my favourite place in the house. I love spending time out here especially in the summer months."
Following his departure from The Only Way Is Essex, the TV show that brought him fame, Arg embarked on a transformative journey that included rehab and a gastric band surgery, resulting in an impressive 14-stone weight loss. Keeping fit is now more convenient than ever with his outdoor home gym.
Reflecting on his lifestyle changes, Arg stated: "I'm three years clean and sober. I've managed to maintain a healthy weight and a good relationship with exercise and food. Nicoline is really good at tennis so we want to play doubles. She's going to get me into mindfulness and meditation."
Radiating happiness about his current life, he said: "I'm feeling great. I have a job that I love, an amazing girl by my side – life couldn't get any better. I'm no longer embarrassed or ashamed. I'm proud that I've come through the other side."
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