Liv Purvis's Blog, page 3

The Cosy Winter Playlists

  It’s January, Heart/Gold Christmas have stopped playing festive songs on the 26th of December- you’ve forgotten what your music taste is outside of anything featuring the delicate tinkling of sleigh bells and Murder On The Dancefloor has infiltrated every other thought and mundane chore you’ve done since the beginning of the month, and let’s be honest- maybe you need a little more variation to your daily soundtrack?

So- rather than share my ‘Winter Playlist’ in one big chunky listen (although you *can* listen to my monthly playlists throughout the season on my Spotify over here), I thought I’d round up my favourite listens of the past couple of months in two (loosely) themed wintry playlists for your comfort listening. The first being ‘The Hunker Down Cosy Playlist’ which I’d say is perfect for dark warm nights indoors. The type of ones where you’re favourite candle is ITCHING to finally be lit, and your pyjamas are freshly washed and you just want to feel a little bit like a main character when you realise all you have in your fridge are five carrots and a half opened tub of yoghurt (me last night, ladies and gents). 

Anyway- that playlist can be found here and below!

The Hunker Down Cosy Playlist

The second of the two, with some of my other favourite tracks from the last few months is titled ‘The Winter Kitchen Dancing Playlist’. This playlist is for the afternoons (or evenings), in the kitchen wearing your favourite bed socks, perhaps with a glass of your favourite something and time on your hands to cook something you love. Pasta preferable, but definitely not essential.

That playlist can be found here!

The Winter Kitchen Dancing Playlist

Anyway, I hope you enjoy listening to these! As always I’d love to know what you’ve been listening to too!

x

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AD / 24 Hours in Stratford-Upon-Avon

  Post in collaboration with IHG Hotels & ResortsThere’s something about Stratford-upon-Avon that encapsulates something so quintessentially British at this time of year.

Cafes with golden glowing windows, steamed up from the cold and brimming with people congregating for fresh cakes and something warm to drink. The chance encounter with actors as you queue for a sandwich- catching them in-between rehearsals or matinees, cheeks flushed pink with stage make up and feeling like you’ve spotted a magical creature out in the wild. There’s something particularly special and antiquated about seeing that here too; in the home of theatre.

It could also be a crisp morning walk along the river; where every other corner seems to humbly boast a particularly special Tudor historical landmark, higgeldy-piggeldy beamed houses and a cosy pub, or swans showing off on the banks; even the ordinary feels quite beautiful here. Plus, even though we were only visiting for whistle-stop day and night, there’s so much to soak up in the centre, making it the perfect place to escape to for a mini wintry break.

 

 

 

Staying

Hotel Indigo: When staying somewhere steeped in so much history, it feels particularly special to feel part of it, and as soon as you walk into the Hotel Indigo, with its striking beamed facade (that matches perfectly with Shakespeare’s schoolroom across the road) and wood panelled insides, it’s clear to see why the IHG Hotels & Resorts pride themselves on being sympathetic with the neighbourhoods they’re situated in.

With half of the property located in the original Tudor building and overlooking beautiful internal courtyard gardens (which I’m sure would be even more magic in the summertime)- you’re truly immersed in the town as soon as you check in. And that’s before you get into the room- which boasts cloud like beds, a deep bath which was positively asking to be filled with bubbles and a very welcome selection of tea and chocolate which, unsurprisingly, was inhaled. Downstairs, there’s also the most warm and welcoming communal sofa and reading areas which would be perfect for an afternoon tea, or cosying up with a good book. As well as a traditional pub-like bar for an evening pre-theatre drink and locally acclaimed restaurant, The Woodsman, for creative British inspired fare.

 

 

 

 

  Seeing

RSC Theatre: Going to Stratford without seeing a play feels a little bit like going to Paris and not trying a pastry; it’s absolutely not impossible but feels a little bit like a special, and quite necessary rite of passage. Thankfully, there’s always so many to choose from, and naturally the RSC always has a pretty stellar selection (with very reasonable tickets too). We caught The Fair Maid Of The West, but it’s always worth checking to see what’s on before you go.

All things Shakespeare: One thing Stratford is very good at is history (understatement of the year, but you catch my drift), and being the birthplace of Shakespeare, you’re pretty much sure to stumble across a significant historical location around every corner, which makes a meander around the centre feel a little bit like you’re winning 16th Century bingo. For a real insight into Shakespeare’s life, the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust look after his birthplace and family homes, with his schoolroom also making for a brilliant visit. During Spring, a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage also looks beautiful, and I’ve heard makes for a very pretty walk too. We also visited the beautiful Holy Trinity Church, which also makes for a beautiful walk to along the River Avon.

 

The Courtyard & Razzle Dazzle: If like me, you can’t visit somewhere new without sniffing out the nearest vintage and antiques shops, a little nosy around The Courtyard is well worth it. One of my favourite stops was a little vintage jewellery and accessories shop called Razzle Dazzle which was absolutely dripping with beautiful (and incredibly reasonably priced) treasures. The owner was also absolutely lovely and truly knew her stuff when it came to period pieces and their history- we could have chatted for a very long time!

Eating

MOR: I think I can confidently say I had one of the best sandwiches of my life here (the Christmas sandwich, with turkey and all the trimmings, in case you’re wondering). MOR also had a very impressive cake and fresh bread selection, and I shall be campaigning for them to open one near my house very, very soon.

Red Hot Mamma: In my opinion, anywhere that has scissors on the table to cut pizzas with deserves a mention, and this place (with interiors seemingly inspired by the joyful Big Mamma restaurants) is a very fun spot for a great pizza and cocktails.

York’s: York’s is the kind of cosy café you walk past and wish you had half an hour to sit down with a book in. Maybe it was the mince pies in the window winking at me, or maybe it was the steamed up windows- who knows! It also looks like they do a delicious brunch menu too, so well worth noting down.

The Dirty Duck: A bit of an institution next to the river, The Dirty Duck (now known as the Black Swan) is the pub where actors used to (and still do) go for a drink after a show at the RSC, making it somewhat of a legendary watering hole. Make mine a lemonade, please!

 

 

Other spots of note we didn’t get to visit, but would keep handy for next time!

Box Brow Coffee / Butterfly Farm / Four Teas Tea Room / The Opposition / Lambs / Loxleys / Hooray’s Gelato / Corte Campana Pizza / Chaucer Head Bookshop

x

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23 Lessons I Learnt In 2023

It’s here! I was wondering if I’d get around to sharing my annual old-school diary attempt at summarising a year in a blog post (a.k.a getting a bit deep both via my scanner and in my drafts), and despite the fact this time of year can often go one of two ways (acute anxiety about the year gone by stemmed from too many Quality Street and TikToks, or a renewed sense of hope and promise that feels heady and almost Joe-Wicks-like)- my gravitational pull to oversharing has conquered once more and I find myself opening up a blog post on the eve of 2024 with a few little takeaways (or ‘in/out’s’ if we’re adhering to the zeitgeist).

Admittedly, as the years go on I’m definitely finding I’m repeating a few of these (I just read a blog post from about a decade ago where I talk about people pleasing less and yet HERE WE ARE), but maybe there’s something in a yearly reminder to be more gentle to yourself, switch off to the noise of opinion and comparison and look after myself a little better that holds a little weight, too?

It feels like this year I’ve slightly unconsciously shared a little bit less of life and what’s been going on in it. My life has changed immeasurably in the past year, and at times it has felt safer and a fair bit easier to pull back a bit, namely to look after myself and others. Losing people, finding yourself (wooah there is that you Elizabeth Gilbert?!), co-parenting, dating (for the first time as a nearly-30 year old- more on that one day I’m sure), falling in love, career crossroads, and being an adult woman with hormones is a lot for 12 months and a virtual soapbox. I’ve also realised, relationships online are a funny old frog to contend with. Soft launches/hard launches/breakups/the lot are a funny line to tow whilst navigating the tightrope of privacy and wanting to shout things from the rooftops. Plus, when sharing your life online is largely all you’ve known (MySpace girlies where u at), it’s definitely an adjustment doing things differently. There’s a quiet power in acknowledging that being honest comes with a certain level of vulnerability, and is very much something that’s more than okay to step back from if you want to. I’ve had to navigate lots of really challenging firsts in the last 18 months, and have learnt that when you’re in the throes and weeds of it, sometimes it’s simply too tricky to talk about them- especially when you’re talking to lots of people.

But I want to get that back, the freedom of talking from the heart and the community that comes with it. If there’s one thing in this life you can’t do- it’s go through the days, months and years obsessing over what other people think of you and tying yourself in knots trying to iron out creases of others opinions of you (accurate or not).  It’s been a messy, wobbly, exciting, strange, and everything in between sort of time. But one of my weird fundamentals seems to continually be to capture and share the joys in life and the people in it that make it so, and I know I’ll get back to that comfortable place soon. Over the last (nearly) 15 years, the community and wonderful relationships that have stemmed from conversations, posts, and discussions beginning on this blog have felt like some of the most special things I’ve experienced, and there isn’t a moment that I take that for granted, there truly isn’t.

Anyway, waffling aside (and crikey, I’ve done a good bit of that)- I’m excited and apprehensive for the new year. So much can change in the blink of an eye; and I’m learning to lean into change and try and not always see it as something to be feared. I want to learn to look after myself better, find my joie de vivre again and dig a bit deeper for the drive and love that has gotten me this far in this funny, unpredictable industry that I know has waned a little. I know that’s because I need to step back and look after myself for a little bit. To switch off comparison, rest a little and catch my breath a bit.

Not every year will be a vintage year, with big band bells and whistles, fireworks and fabulousness. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t pockets of little loveliness to take from it either. Some years are a good for being ordinary and cosy and just getting through them, and what an enormous privilege that is too. For a long time I subconsciously put a lot of my self worth on CV-worthy ‘achievements’ and this year has truly been a year of slowing down, taking stock of the little things, making sense of a new direction and what truly fills up my cup. Naively I thought finding my footing after turbulence would be quite easy (there’s a weird ‘girl boss’ ~YOU GOT THIS~ mentality one can jump to when in crisis for brief bursts), but I’m definitely still getting there- but it will happen.

Anyway, if you’ve had a bit of an interesting year to navigate, this is just a little note to say you’ve made it. You’ve gotten through all of your trickiest days, and there are so many more joyful, little and large unexperienced moments yet to come. I hope you have a really gentle start to the new year (possibly rung in by either Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal or Jools Holland), and a very happy and healthy 2024. Thank you, as ever, for sticking around here and coming back again and again. I have the kindest, most supportive people reading and following along- and I know how lucky I am because of it (especially when I know there are so many wonderful people to tune in to), so thank you. You’re really the best.

x

P.S It’s not lost on me the triviality of this all, and the immense privilege I have to be sitting here writing from my home, at a time where there are so many horrific things going on in the world and people needlessly suffering complete atrocities. It’s been tricky to find value in writing about personal things when there are so many more pressing and important things happening minute by minute, and everything else seems ridiculous in comparison. I hope 2024 finally brings peace and resolution to these horrors.

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The Festive Knitwear Edit

  Photos by Beatrice Granados, post includes press samplesWhen it comes to Christmas, I’ve been known to embrace a good bit of themed dressing. Anything that has me resembling a Gibb brother, Miss Piggy in a Muppet’s Christmas Carol (niche, but the tartan is not to be sniffed at) or a misplaced bauble are all references that won’t be lost on my festive wardrobe. And what’s December without the sparkle? The sequins that catch the light, shake and move as you put on Shakin’ Stevens for the 4th time in a row and the dresses that seemingly come out of retirement for one month only.

But what about the cosies? The clothes that will truly feel like a warm blanket when you’re horizontal reaching for the Radio Times? The knits and the blouses paired with check skirts that echo a stay at Balmoral? Admittedly, I’m more Bromley than Balmoral, but there’s something about a classic knit and some tartan that feels like Christmases gone by (or my secondary school uniform, but maybe that’s coming back around too). Anyway- in the spirit of an after-lunch Boxing Day walk, these photos were taken on a blustery afternoon in Deal- sharing some of my favourite things in my winter wardrobe, for Christmas and beyond…

 

  Highland Fling

(Dress: Hill House Home, Jumper: Yan Tan, Boots: L.K Bennett)

When it comes to everything from tartan, rich winter florals and tulle, look no further than Hill House Home. With classic feminine shapes to their iconic Nap Dress style (which is not only *the* most comfortable but loves layers just as much as it does worn solo), they’re the perfect brand for pieces that will carry you from a Christmas Day playing hostess to a New Years’ bundled up on the sofa watching the hootenanny.

On top of that, festive dressing isn’t complete without a traditional aran cable knit, and the ones from my pal Jules’ Yan Tan Revolution are the best (I’m currently dreaming about adding the Camille Rouge to my festive wardrobe). All sustainably made in the U.K, these are knits with a difference and will go with literally anything in your wardrobe; pyjama bottoms, leggings, sequinned flares- the LOT.

  Coastal Grandma

(Cardigan: Zara, Skirt & Blouse: Vintage, Coat: BA&SH, Trainers: Superga)

Maybe change coastal to Christmas and here we have it! After falling into a continuous jeans cycle over the last few months, it’s been nice to reintroduce skirts into my day to day, and thanks to seeing a *lot* of checks and tartan on the girlies (and nanas, who have arguably been doing it just that bit longer)- it’s been nice to have a go at styling my favourite everyday items (e.g this blouse and cardigan) with something a little bit more unexpected. This would also look so fun with a chunky heel too (being wary of anything *too* delicate which could make it a bit ‘proper’) and some fun chunky earrings and socks, to make it a great fancy dinner outfit too.

 

Tomato Girl Winter

(Jumper: Vintage, Cardigan: Sézane, Scarf: Mulberry, Skirt: Vintage, Trainers: Wales Bonner x Adidas)

Although I have yet to dabble in the red tights and phenomenon (I think there’s a part of me that worries if I look down my legs will transport me straight back to 2008), I have always been partial to a tomato or a cherry knit (or three)- and paired with a white skirt, I’m quite into this modern take on Mrs. Claus and a bit of ever-so-subtle Christmas cosplay. It’s no secret Sézane are some of my absolute favourites for knits (I don’t think I’ve ever met a Sézane cardigan I didn’t like), and I’ve also quite liked using a cardigan or jumper as some sort of scarf stand in too when this Mulberry number or Amy’s TBCo bad-boy are absent (More! Warmth! Please!)

 

 

  Pastels for Winter

(Blouse: Vintage, Knit: Toast, Cords: Sézane)

And if checks, wearing three lots of red in one outfit and head-to-toe tartan all sound a bit too Little Women for you come Yuletide, there’s something about winter pastels that I love which truly transcend the seasons. A pop of yellow, a peachy pink or lilac all feel slightly less intentional (and ever-so-slightly spring like) and also happen to all look amazing with silver come evening time, without feeling too traditional (not that this girl minds, of course)!

 

x

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Save The Date! The Salad Days x Liv Purvis Christmas Market…

  photos by Beatrice GranadosIf you’re in London next weekend and in need of something to pop in your diary that can only be described as the perfect festive day out (and I’m not even biased, I promise), then you’ve come to the right place! Next weekend the gorgeous Liv and Daisy of Salad Days Market and myself will be hosting their last market of the year (and our second together) at the beautiful Beckenham Place Mansion, and we would love to have you there! 

After hosting our first market together in April, and the huge success of that weekend where thousands of you joined us (I think it took me about three days to come down from the high)- I was giddy and absolutely jumped at the chance to partner with the girls again on another very special weekend– and all the better to tie it into the most wonderful time of the year. Working with Liv and Daisy has been an absolute privilege- there is really nobody else that champions small businesses so brilliantly and creates such beautiful spaces to shop, celebrate and discover independent brands across London. Watching their ideas and business grow is truly inspirational. So, being able to work with two women whose values align so closely with mine (be it shopping small, dresses with pockets or just general cheerleading for south London)- has been so very special. 

 

 

Anyway! Next weekend (Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th December, from 11-4 on both days), we will be taking over the ground floor of the stunning Beckenham Place Mansion for a joyful festive shopping weekend, and the perfect place to discover things you won’t be able to get anywhere else. With over 60 brands across the weekend (that’s 30 each day including new brands to the market), you’ll be able to browse and discover thousands of magical products. That’s everything from festive finishing touches for the hostess-with-the-mostess, sustainable fashion to take you from dancefloor to a sofa viewing of Little Women, handmade jewellery you’ll treasure forever, original prints and artwork as the perfect gift, greetings cards, decorations, as well as beautiful one-of-a-kind ceramics and so, so much more! I can guarantee you’ll fine last-minute gift ideas across all price points, as well as exclusive new products from the brands as well as cheeky discounts that you won’t be able to get online (although I can’t guarantee you won’t need to amend your Christmas list too)…

Plus, the mansion is also located in one of my favourite spots in the city, the beautiful Beckenham Place Park; where you can enjoy acres of beautiful park land (which makes for the most beautiful crisp festive walks) and pick up a hot chocolate to soak up the spirit too. There will be plenty of homemade treats and food stalls to buy from- as well as  the mansion’s Sunday food market out the front too. The event is dog and child friendly (naturally) and in case that wasn’t enough there’s also a playground, huuuge sandpit and arguably the the best bacon and egg brioche buns in the land from the café! Christmassy walk and vintage shopping? Hopefully we can tempt you! (I’m not suggesting a roast afterwards, but *definitey* get a roast afterwards too)! 

  And all the details!

The dates: Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th December 11am – 4pm.

Location: Beckenham Place Mansion, in Beckenham Place Park.

Free entry, no ticket needed!

Getting there:  Beckenham Hill and Beckenham Junction Stations are a short walk from the park grounds and go across South East London to Blackfriars, London Bridge, and Victoria. The Victoria train goes via Brixton you can switch on to there from the tube. You can also get the tram which goes through Wimbledon and East Croydon. There’s also limited parking available in Beckenham Place Park’s car park. We would strongly recommend using public transport, cycling or visiting us on foot, as the car park fills up quickly on a first-come, first-served basis. 

There are a number of cycle racks around the Mansion perimeter, and will be space to leave a buggy inside too. 

The venue is also accessible with no stairs on the ground floor with the building also having a disabled toilet. 

Save the date and hopefully see you there!

 

x

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A magical stay at Lime Wood

  AD – press stay, but all opinions my ownEarlier this month, as October crept into November and pumpkins were replaced with the promise of a weekend of sparkling fireworks, I headed for a couple of days at the magical Lime Wood Hotel. Nestled on the edge of the New Forest; where the roads are flanked by greens, browns and golden hues and wild horses stand parallel to passing cars- it feels like stepping into a dreamy bucolic novel (which I promise is still as special if you’re in a little rumbling Toyota and not on in a floaty gown on horseback)…

This funny old job of mine affords me a handful of very lovely perks. I get to create fun shoots, work with brilliant brands that trust me with ideas and storytelling and meet some of the most sparkly, bright and creative people doing imaginative and exciting things. But the opportunity to travel and the pleasure of staying somewhere as special as the Lime Wood will never be something I’ll take for granted. And I’ll be honest, Lime Wood is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever stayed. Having visited in 2017 on a press trip, I remember feeling as completely blown away then as I do now, so the chance to come as the seasons were changing felt like a complete treat. 

 

 

I think the thing that strikes you about Lime Wood is that despite being a five star hotel (with a front drive often laden with parked cars you’d expect to see in a Bond film), there’s a real softness and cosiness from the moment you walk in. It’s the kind of place where you become the kind of person who takes their morning papers to breakfast and feels like you could walk around with your in-room slippers just about anywhere. 

For a start, the bedrooms are the kind of rooms you’d imagine in a Nancy Meyers film. Sloped ceilings and printed wallpaper that gives you a heady rush of ‘I NEED TO NOW WALLPAPER MY OWN HOME IMMEDIATELY’. The sort of beds you’d expect to see Cameron Diaz in her bobble hat in in The Holiday tucked up in, and the kind of feel that whether you wake up to bright sunshine or blustery winds with a seasonally named storm- you’d be very happy to be holed up here. So much so, one of my highlights of the stay was an evening in front of University Challenge, wood burner lit and room service from their delicious Hartnett Holder & Co restaurant, (which I’d argue was just as delicious in room, but maybe that’s my pyjamas talking). 

 

 

Outside of the room, the spa is one of the real stars of the show. Boasting a hydro-pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor hot pool, jacuzzi and treatment rooms- you could easily spend your stay hopping from one to the other (my fingers were positively raisins by the time we left). There’s also a handful of walking routes printed out in-room, so you can take your wellies out for the afternoon and even venture across to The Pig for a cuppa, which is just around the corner too (admittedly a lovely neighbour to have)!

Undoubtedly, Lime Wood is a special occasion place. It’s somewhere where you might potter around using hushed tones as you ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ over cosy corners. Where you want to dress up to the nines for a nightcap in the sitting room (and then use that kind of sentence, ‘darling, shall we have a nightcap??’), indulging in the kind of sophisticated chatter you’d probably reserve for impressing new in laws or employers (peppered in with some ‘hang on- have you seen this Girls Aloud TikTok??’ talk too). 

 

 

 

 

Additionally, I also love the fact they offer a very cosy afternoon tea and deliciously indulgent spa days which means you can enjoy so much of what there is to offer without having to book a room either. It’s truly a hotel where every detail seems to have been thought about and nothing feels like too much, and if you’re looking for somewhere that would make the most beautiful mini-moon location or special celebration destination, truly look no further (just remember to pack a floaty gown for some Pride and Prejudice moments during one of your walks)…

 

 

 

 

x

 

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Giftmas Gift Guides 2023: Day 7, The Pal That Needs Some T.L.C

(Record, Elemis Pro Collagen Icons Set, Elemis Jet Setters Edit, Elemis Afternoon Tea candle, Good Squish scrunchie, H&M Pyjamas (similar here), Alma Frame, Cult of Youth necklace)

*post contains affiliate links and an integrated AD from Elemis It’s the final day of Giftmas, and today we’re wrapping up (pun intended) with your pal who needs a pick me up…

Let’s face it, there are some years that are just categorically not what you’d call a vintage, and some seasons which are undoubtedly sunnier than others. Some years where you’re counting down the moment you can sing auld lang syne and raise a glass with the pals that rode alongside the bumps with you. So if you’re looking to pick up something for a pal who’s maybe had a bit of a stinker, needs a bit of a pick me up (or a big ol’ blanket wrapped around them for a big Christmas cuddle) or, actually, just deserves a real treat- I’m hoping I can help. Obviously for things like this spending a lot really isn’t important (which goes for every category and situation, too). Often a thoughtful card filled with kind words says so much, but if you’re looking for a little indulgent treat for someone special that needs it, I’ve definitely got some ‘can’t go wrong suggestions’ too.

So lets begin with their favourite record (or a 12” that reminds you of them)- one of my favourite places to begin. If you’re after something where you can flex your creative DJ skills, curating a Spotify playlist and generating a QR code to sit inside their Christmas card is always a special touch (and an excuse to play some serious bops whilst ‘making’ their present). Gig tickets are always great, and something lovely to look forward to whilst making the gloomy winter a little more fun. If they’re into their beauty, pampering or skincare- may I also point you in the direction of the Elemis Christmas gift sets? Being a die-hard Pro Collagen Cleansing/Marine Cream Stan, I can fully attest to how brilliant these products are- and any opportunity to get them in a set (be it their Icons collection, or the Jet Setters which includes some adorable minis)- would make for the biggest treat. There’s a reason Elemis skincare is so well loved, and whether you’re picking up something for a friend, parent, in-law or aunty- I can assure you these will be very, very kindly received. Additionally, I also l o v e their candles (I have one next to my bath for serious 5* hotel room vibes), and this Afternoon Tea one is absolutely delicious (if you wanted a big joint gift, this paired with an I.O.U for an IRL afternoon tea in the new year would be very lovely and trés fancy too). Other fail safe ideas include some classic piped pyjamas (because I genuinely can’t think of anything nicer than fresh pjs on Christmas Day evening); and a pair like this from H&M are a great reasonable option (I also love Uniqlo for similar sets too). For something heartfelt, there’s nothing lovelier than a framed favourite snap- with FreePrints doing amazing printing options, and Alma Frames making the most beautiful frames (I often like to wrap a few photos too as extras- especially as we all often forget to get photos printed)! Finally, for a particularly special present there are so many beautiful jewellery brands making extra-special things, but Cult of Youth have to be one of my absolute favourites. Their engraved lockets and ‘mama’ jewels are truly heirlooms to treasure, and would make an unforgettable gift.

 I’ve also added links to previous years guides for pampering and pick me ups (with some other picks below too)!2018 / 2020 / 2021

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Thank you so much for coming by and tuning in this year- I really hope these gift guides have helped you a little bit with any ideas for presents for your loved ones this year! As always, everything is just here to act as just a guide, because I hope you know it’s never about how much you spend, but the thought that counts. 

x

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Giftmas Gift Guides 2023: Day 6, For Their Home

(Table for Two, Elizabeth Scarlett hot water bottle, Slow Seasons, TBCo at Quinn Says coasters, KS Creative plate, Heather Evelyn candle, Superfluities candlestick, Woven Rosa glass)

*post contains affiliate links and press samples It’s day 6 of Giftmas and today it’s all about the home…

… and whether that’s buying for a pal who’s just moved into their new place (and new coasters are about as far down on their ‘to buy list’ as watching Nigel Farage eat spiders in the jungle), or your mum who loves a ceramic as much as the Great Pottery Throw Down- this year I feel like I’ve come across some really special crafters and creators (as well as small businesses) creating beautiful objects and items for the home, no matter what their interiors taste.

But let’s begin with books. I actually included a cookbook for Day 1; but one recipe book I have loved this year (for both the dishes and beautiful foodie storytelling too) is Bre Graham’s Table for Two. The perfect book packed with ideas for cooking for a person you love; it covers every meal and occasion- minus anything too complicated (and again, would be a lovely one to pop some ‘thought you’d like this one!’ post-it’s in). Another beautiful read is Rosie Steer’s ‘Slow Seasons’, which is the most magical cosy book that makes you truly appreciate (and look forward to) the change in seasons (arguably even January) and would be a gorgeous treat to unwrap. A couple of new brand discoveries for me this year include the talented KS Creative and her gorgeous creative pottery; whether that’s her chunky striped plates, platters or decorative face plates (perfect for bare walls and spotted in Liberty too)! I also came across Woven Rosa who do the most beautiful selection of homewares, including these confetti inspired ‘Figuera’ glasses which make everything from a cool glass of lemonade to a bedtime water feel exceptionally fancy. There’s also Quinn Says; one of my favourite one-stop lifestyle shops online, who curate the most stunning selection of brands; ranging from prints, homeware, kitchenware and children’s nursery items too. These gorgeous check coasters from TBCo (yup, they do scarves AND coasters) were found on there, and I promise that’s only the tip of a very impressive interiors iceberg! And on to tabletop adornments; this candlestick holder was picked up from Superfluities earlier this year, who also does other incredible ceramics for the home- be that egg cups to lamp bases- a talented lady indeed! Paired with these Heather Evelyn tapered candles (which are near enough a tablescaping essential by now)- you’ve got yourself a dream duo. Finally, in the same vein as dream pyjamas or socks; a hot water bottle as dreamy as this could never go amiss. Elizabeth Scarlett have got some of the most beautiful embroidered pieces and cosying up on the sofa with Mr Firth and Mr Grant on boxing day is a surefire recipe for success.

And if you’re still after more to adorn their home… The one stop shops: When it comes to getting started with gift ideas two of my favourite places for the home are Quinn Says and Glassette . Both stock some of the most gorgeous small brands, and whether you’re after a small treasure or a dreamy mug to add to their (slightly unruly) collection, I can guarantee you’ll pick something up here.And the modern market traders: Additionally, I couldn’t mention one-stop shops without mentioning Liv and Dais and their epic Salad Days markets . With their next market being at Battersea Power Station on the 2nd and 3rd of December (and ours being on the 16th and 17th, but blog post with details coming next week)- they always curate the very best of indie businesses (and if you can’t make it along they share all the makers on their page too)!Cool from the kiln: Continuing on from some of my favourite spots to get excellent ceramics, I couldn’t not include Harlie Brown Studio who does some of the most beautiful hand crafted and painted plates- I’m obsessed with her foodie illustrations. Studio Peg is another favourite, and her ruffle plates and handmade sconces are absolutely stunning.A Merry Spritzmas: It seems I’m a sucker for a pretty bottle- but These Days drinks seem to excel in both great design and delicious drinks too. I think the bottle of Bucks Spritz would make an amazing gift, and the perfect tipple for the festive lead up.Coffee table champions: Would it be a home edit without an excellent coffee table book? Obviously the new Studio Ashby book ‘Home Art Soul’ would be a heavenly addition to any interior lovers collection- even the cover is a knock out!Seasonal Eating: Whether there’s space on the wall for a beautiful foodie etching or a new calendar that keeps you up to speed on what’s in season in the kitchen, Mainly Breakfast has you covered.  I’ve also added links to previous years guides for interiors and home ideas (with some other picks below too)!2018 / 2019 / 2020 / 2021

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Come back tomorrow for the last day of Giftmas, and perking up the pal who’s had a bit of a stinker of a year…

x

The post Giftmas Gift Guides 2023: Day 6, For Their Home appeared first on What Olivia Did.

Giftmas Gift Guides 2023: Day 5, The Not-Physical Gift

It’s day 5 of Giftmas, and today it’s all about the experience…

… which means todays guide is going to take a slightly different format as it’s not necessarily about the physical present. Whether it’s because you’ve found yourself buying for World’s Hardest Gift Recipient, or know someone that would rather cosy up in the cinema watching the latest release rather than unwrap another book to add to their bedside book tower- hopefully I can offer some ideas! I’ve categorised the different genres of presents to help point you in a loose direction, but have also added in some subscriptions too, because although it might result in a physical gift- means you aren’t necessarily the one having to wrap and deliver it! Plus, it’s the thought that counts!

The Art Gift:

If you know someone who loves nothing more than spending a Sunday afternoon perusing a new gallery or exhibition, the National Art Pass might be a suggestion. Not only does it grant free access to over 250+ venues across the UK (from galleries, museums and historic properties) but also offers up to 50% off major exhibitions too.

The Charity Gift:

There are *so* many amazing charities offering festive giving ideas, but two that continually stand out to me are both Choose Love and Oxfam. With Choose Love giving you the option to visit their physical store (or online) and select some of the most needed supplies for refugees and displaced people in the name of your loved one, and Oxfam offering gift cards to some of their most vital projects- both are doing invaluable work. I also additionally spotted Liberty offering a £50 donation gift to Feed London, which helps families in need during the school holidays, ensuring they reach children who need it most.

The Cinema Gift:

Depending on your local, there are so many amazing cinema memberships for film lovers out there. Whether it’s a cool Curzon, Picturehouse, Everyman or a classic Odeon and their Limitless offer– the gift of making sure your loved one is up to date on the latest releases (and fuelled on fresh popcorn) is a pretty lovely gift if you ask me.

The Foodie Gift:

Whether that’s a gift voucher for their favourite restaurant (largely available on their websites) or a Supper Club subscription on foodie haven Dishpatch (where your recipient can select their meals from some of the UK’s best chefs and restaurants and when they’d like them)- it’s the gift of a home cooked fancy dinner, without having the leave the sofa from the post-Christmas slump.  There’s also Pasta Evangelists for some of the finest Italian to your door- or even a Deliveroo voucher if you know someone very partial to a cheeky takeaway.

The Relaxing Gift:

Much like a cosy pair of pyjamas or a creamy bar of chocolate, opening up a voucher for a massage or spa treatment feels nothing short of brilliantly indulgent. One of the best presents I’ve received was a Lush Spa massage voucher; the kind of thing I’d never treat myself to but always, always appreciate. There are so many brilliant spots around the UK for a great massage (or a spa day out at a beautiful hotel), depending on your budget. I also love the idea of treating someone to a subscription to an app like Headspace, which offers at home and on the go mindfulness exercises to help unwind wherever they are. You could also buy them a series of classes or workshops (from pottery to pilates) if that helped them carve out a bit of time for themselves too.

The Outdoorsy Gift:

Is there a better way of spending a Sunday than mooching around a beautiful historic house? Re-enacting Pride and Prejudice in vast great gardens, or soaking up royalty in the homes of monarchs gone by? Arguably not- which is why an English Heritage or National Trust membership is a great gift for any history (or outdoors) lovers. I’m yet to meet someone who doesn’t love inhaling a jammy scone and tea at a National Trust café after a big stomp around their breath taking gardens- and a membership is the perfect excuse to truly go to town.

The Subscription Gift:

Finally, there are few things as lovely as receiving a bunch of flowers in the post and a flower subscription makes the surprise of a knock at the door all the more lovely. From UK based Petalon, to Bloom & Wild and Freddie’s Flowers– there are so many brilliant businesses offering year round blooms. I also love Uncut Stems for unarranged flowers, giving you the chance to play florist in your own home too. Additionally, there are so SO many subscriptions that I could be here all day; but for book lovers Daunt, Rare Birds Book Club and Persephone all offer brilliant book deliveries for the big readers which would also be the biggest treat too.

Come back tomorrow for day 6 of Giftmas, and gifting for the home!

x

 

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Giftmas Gift Guides 2023: Day 4, Little Luxuries Under £20

(Pleasing nail varnish, Baubles, Herboo seeds, Matches, Pump Street Chocolate, Knoops hot chocolate, Susanne Kauffmann minis, Scrunchie, Moth drinks)

*post contains affiliate links and press samples On the 4th day of Giftmas it was all about those little luxuries…

… and finding the gems which are both affordable and well, really lovely. Whether that’s buying for your work secret Santa (who just so happens to be Richard from I.T who you’ve never really spoken to except for a polite mumble in the kitchen), or your best pal who you know doesn’t *really* need anything but absolutely wouldn’t turn down a beautiful bar of chocolate (and when I say there are some beautiful bars out there) and her favourite magazine either. I think we’re often mis-sold the fact that some gifts under £10 fall into the largely novelty category, but there are so many small-yet-mighty gifts which I think make great presents, no matter what your budget is.

So let’s start at the top! Beginning with man of the moment (well actually, every moment) Harry Styles and these stunning nail varnishes from his beautiful brand, Pleasing. Not only are these great nail varnishes and would look very cool just perched on your bathroom sink but I’m absolutely certain they would score you ridiculously high cool points from any recipient too. On the topic of beauty- and more so skincare, Susanne Kauffmann do the most amazing little indulgent minis which I think are so thoughtful- and perfect for a fancy bath too. There’s also these delightful seed packets from Herboo which I love; they also do multi-packs depending on what kind of thing you’re after; whether that’s herbs for cooking or creating a little vegetable patch too. I also think treating someone to a fun novelty bauble which reminds you of them is a lovely gift idea, and I have seen *so* many places doing the biggest selection ever (whether that’s Tiger to Selfridges)- so they’re always worth a nosey. Additionally, who doesn’t love receiving something they can tuck into immediately? Pump Street Chocolate are not only ridiculously tasty but have an amazing festive selection, as well as Knoops for what I can only describe as the best hot chocolate I have comfortably ever had. For someone partial to a cocktail, Moth do the best tinned drinks (in my opinion) and also do their best seller pack of 6 for £20 too, which I think would be a great gift and perfect for a night on the sofa in the lead up to the New Year.

And if you’re still after more for a score (or under)… The gift of stationery: I worry I might just be talking for myself here, but there are few things as lovely to unwrap than new stationery. Give me pens! Give me a crisp new notebook! STICKERS! I go positively Violet Beauregarde for the lot! Anyway- a few of my favourites include (but are very much not limited to) Goose Glitters for the most epic collage sets and stickers, Canonbury Press for beautiful cards and notebooks and The Stationer for everything in-between, including the best organiser pads and pens too- dreamy!For the number one fan: Okay this is definitely more of a niche gift, but since spotting their merch earlier this year I got *very* excited about Pulp’s TEA . Imagine unwrapping that as a fan! I also think checking artists merch pages is a great gift shout because if you’re anything as creative as Jarvis (or Taylor Swift with her mammoth bauble collection) I think you could be onto some winners.Arthouse Unlimited: Finally, one of my favourite places and brands to pick up a thoughtful gift from are Arthouse Unlimited . Stocked in all manor of brilliant independent shops and also online- they have everything from beautifully scented washes, candles, chocolate, fudge, mugs and so much more. Plus, I love their ethos of ‘presenting artistic talents of adults living with complex neuro-diverse and physical support needs’, which means 100% of sales revenue goes back into supporting their work. I’ve also added links to previous years guides for shopping for stockings, Secret Santa’s and under £30 (with some other picks below too)!2018 / 2019 / 2020 / 2021

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Come back tomorrow for day 5 of Giftmas, where it’s all about the experience!

x

The post Giftmas Gift Guides 2023: Day 4, Little Luxuries Under £20 appeared first on What Olivia Did.