Sisters Guild

Once Upon a Week - Not in a million years!

2012-03-02T18:58:00.000Z

So, despite the fact that your washing machine has been in constant use for the past 3 days, the laundry pile is still as tall you. Your youngest is still not sleeping through the night even though theoretically she should be, and there's no amount of concealer that can disguise it. Your morning beauty regime consists of washing your face whilst answering an onslaught of questions that seem to begin upon waking even though your own head isn't switched on until your first slurps of morning caffeine have kicked in, and applying mascara whilst getting the breakfast ready before the school run. Which seems to be all you do - as though you're on a yo-yo! You wear whats easiest to find and the days of trying on countless outfits before leaving the door have long gone, despite the fact you swore they never would. The beautiful shoes (mainly high heeled) that you once drawled over, the ones that became the lust haves you saved for are now teetering on the edge of the children's dressing up box and 'practical' flats are the norm. Your hair hasn't been washed and brushed simultaneously in days and the stylish-messy-side-ponytail that's now in vogue is already a bore. Your childrens social life has now taken over yours and the last romantic meal you had was a sandwich from pret-a-porter whilst the children slept in the buggy. Despite the fact you do occasionally get forgotten in the whirlwind of everyday life as mum. Would you ever change it?

Not now. Not ever. Not in a million years.

Of all the things you once were, you are still, only now you are so much more. You are a mother. Your heart journeys with your children and there is nothing in the world more wonderful, more beautiful more satisfying than that!

This is part of our 'once upon a week' collection. We also have other stories and features including our 'Monday Makery', 'I Spy' , 'The Art of Living', and our weekly 'Wedesday Woo'.
If you'd like to receive our weekly newsletter to receive offers and news and find out the about our new collections sign up below.

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The Art of Living - Yayoi Kusama

2012-03-01T13:51:00.000Z

We are lucky enough to live and enjoy London and for those of you who are close enough to the Tate Modern here in London we highly recommend Yayoi Kusama's exhibition.

We have gone dotty for Kusama's exhibition. Using a variety of media including painting, sculpture, film, and drawing. The exhibition takes in the largest showcase of her work ever seen in the UK and its a must for both fans and those new to Kusama's art.

Sophia was fascinated by the installations and with 14 rooms to explore, map in hand, we absorbed and marveled each piece.

I left the 'obliteration room' as a surprise and wow what a surprise it was! An interactive room designed for children it was wonderful to be able to go crazy creative. Given a sheet of spotty stickers that can be placed anywhere in the room.

picture Mark Sherwood/Natasha Harth/Rex Features

The obliteration room began as a blank canvas. Furnished as a monochrome sitting room. Everything in the room began as white. The room has since transformed itself into an explosion of colour. With children and families leaving their spots on every surface, Yayoi Kusama's philosphy of 'self obliteration' can be experienced and the fascination with dots enjoyed by everyone.

Visit the Tate's website here for opening times. Tickets to Yayoi Kusma exhibition costs £10 per adult. Children under 12 go free. The Obliteration room is free to all.

We're going back again this weekend!

This is part of 'The Art of Living' collection. We also have other stories and features including our 'Monday Makery', 'I Spy' and our weekly 'Wedesday Woo'.
If you'd like to receive our weekly newsletter to receive offers and news and find out the about our new collections sign up below.

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Wednesday Woo - I am me. I am mother

2012-02-29T09:30:00.000Z

I am eclectic. I am soft. I am inventive. I am fun. I am giddy. I am brave.
I am happy.

I am ingenious. I am giddy. I am stylish. I am beautiful. I am loved.

I am mother.

For all the mother you are

Sisters Guild

Above left to right: Moyenne locket pendant £55. Candelabra - dusty blue by Rice DK £49.00, Fabric purse with satin trim £15.00, Round leather hand painted bag £126.50 by Rice Dk , Secret man pillow - by Lucky Boy Sunday £43.00, Mummy bag £32.50 by Bobo Choses, Mini nuage bracelet £39.00, Year 1983 Swedish Doll necklace £119.00, Fabric hanging butterflies £3.10, Melamine bowls - Fuschia mix £38.00 by Rice DK.

This is part of our Wednesday Woo collection. We also have other stories and features including our 'Monday Makery', 'I Spy' and 'The art of living'.
If you'd like to receive our weekly newsletter to receive offers and news and find out the about our new collections sign up below.

sistersguild.com

I Spy - Nina Chakrabarti

2012-02-28T10:07:00.001Z

I spy with my little eye something beginning with Nina Chakrabarti!

Falling in love with someone for the first time can be an intoxicating affair. My daughter and I are utterly obsessed with Nina Chakrabarti's 'My wonderful world of fashion'. We've spent countless Sunday afternoons sitting together with pencils, crayons, felt tips and the occasional pot of glitter and glue as we enjoy being the unfinished artist. But of course now we’re smitten we want to know more about the artist behind the book.

Nina Chakravarti was born in Calcutta, India where she spent her early years. Moving to the UK in her teens ‘carrying her stamp collection under her arm and little else’. She studied illustration at Central St. Martins and later The Royal College of Art.

Chakrabarti’s work is loose, bright and fun characterised by its enthusiastic 'effervescent compositions'. Using different media Nina Chakrabarti draws with ballpoint pens, pen and ink, Rotring pens, and Apple Mac software.

Nina’s work is child-like in its bubbling unrestrained method and gives her work an approachable feel. She has worked and collaborated with big names such as Vogue, Marks & Spencer, I Want You Magazine, Mazda, CowShed, Topshop and Harpers Bazaar magazine to mention but a few. I know we'll be seeing more and more of her work as she continues to gain worldwide recognition and adoration.
Nina Chakrabarti lives and works in London.

This colouring book aimed at fashionistas of all ages is so much more than a colouring book suggests. Its interactive pages are full of wonderful sophisticated illustrations that encourage creativity; creativity set forth by some of the best designers throughout the world all brought together with the fantasious vision and imagery of Nina Chakrabarti. The book is a celebration of the fashion world or as Nina says; "My book on fashion is just an enthusiastic response [to fashion]," "I'm just a fan; I'm not an expert. This is just a personal take on it... I'm just an enthusitastic illustrator.

Covering clothing, bags, shoes, jewellery, embellishments, pattern and accessories the book lets us discover both vintage and contemporary designs turning its reader into the art student and the designer.

It also renders as an historical guide through the manner, mode, style and trend of fashion. Teaching its reader about the artistic world of design with comparative drawings of the then and now. Introducing designers :

‘Dress by Finnish company Marimekko’….But Where is the pattern?’……Marimekko are known for their graphic patterns. Choose one for the dress opposite.’

Mapping the notable influences in the fashion world and paying homage to some of the greatest names in fashion and their influences ‘My wonderful world of fashion’ possesses an immediate connection to the influence in the fashion world. Inciting a fun perspective of pattern and shape and form.

The pages are a mix of elaborate patterned lined drawings and some less complex graphics that encourage with stimulating prompts the artist to elaborate and detail as they feel. With great ‘how to…’ pages that show how to create simple accessories and embellishments such as button bracelets, safetly pin charms, and pom poms, it shows how to get creative with everyday objects and advocates that inspiration can be found in all that’s around us.

There are games such as find the matching pair and pieces to cut and stick, reference's to the nascence of objects throughout the ages, and shows how some of the best and most beautful of creations can be sourced from both the obscure and the ordinarily unremarkable objects about us. Its only a matter of taking the shape of .....for example a shoe and showing how its shape could also be used to create an altogehter different object like that of a....... hat.

The message that fashion is about making yourself feel good is clear. By becoming the artist and designer Nina Chankrabarti encourages the readers own creativity and thoughts. The idea that clothing and accessories are more than their practicality bounces off each page. Conveying the notion that no matter what you wear, wear it if it makes you feel wonderful.

Wether it’s Marc Jacobs or a favourite home-made button bracelet, its creativity, its colour and its design is made for you to enjoy.

Nina Chakrabarti justifiably concludes the book with a note.....

Just remember one thing girls......

Absolutely smitten! We now have two copies and we love them. The word Marimekko means something to Sessi now and she can see for herself the ideas of designers played out in the illustrations. I have to admit too that whilst Sessi colours in Coco Chanel's pearls of wisdom I feel a sense of joy that she has begun a journey into the wonderful world of fashion design and is beginning to create her own view and idea of it albeit without realising. She enjoys all its eclectic ideas, its origins and its playfulness.
Besides heaven knows as her mother I have NO chance of teaching her anything about fashion! Until i'm passed the stage of putting on whatever's clean atop of the fresh laundry pile and putting on my mascara as i'm hunting for their coats in the morning and back to the 'me' BC (before children) and looking more the lover of good design, beautiful fabrics and to-hell-with-practicality I used to be! Because no matter what your age dressing up is fun.

further images taken from Nina Chakrabarti's work. You can see more deatils of her work via her website:
ninachakrabarti.com

For a full view of all Nina Chakrabarti's work and to learn more visit her website below

Nina Chakrabarti

'My wonderful world of fashion' is available in most bookshops you can buy it here, here and here!

If you already have the book then why not try 'My even more wonderful world of fashion book' or if you'd like to use the pages to frame or send to friends as note cards or perhaps just for some more portable carry-in-your-bag-ready-to-entertain-the-kids version try 'My wonderful world of fashion postcard book'.

And if you're a super fan and have fallen in love buy all three but be sure to save a copy for yourself or you'll end up taking over the kids colouring in!

Nina Chakrabarti for; above Cowshed and below Marks & Spencer

This is part of our new 'I Spy' blog features where we bring you a view of something we've fallen in love with. We also have our Monday Makery with ideas for things to make, bake and create.
Our other popular blogposts include 'The story behind our collections', 'Tell us its Tuesday' , An A-Z of Sisters Guild, a collection of images that depict the words we feel celebrate all that is Sisters Guild. The Art of Living posts bring you all the things and places we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas, and our 'Once upon a week' gives you a glimpse into life behind the scenes at Sisters Guild.
If you would like to contribute to our blog by guest blogging a makery or a place or event of interest please do contact us we'd love to share your voice too.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

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Monday Makery - Keepsake Treasure Boxes

2012-02-27T14:35:00.000Z

Moving house from an adults point of view is without doubt a monumental exhausting task. But, seeing it from a child's point of view turns it into an adventure. Its a journey of re-discovery and finding new shelves and toy boxes to put their beloved belongings is like a game. And then there's the fun on of the empty cardboard box and all its possibilities!
We discovered along the way paper bags full of memories of places we have been, countries we have visited and outings we have enjoyed. It seemed unjust to simply return them to their nondescript paper bags to be hidden in a drawer and forgotten about and we couldn't put them into our scrapbook as they didn't belong to the adventures of this current year.
So, we've been busy making keepsake boxes. These boxes are like catalogues of memories we can revisit and enjoy much like a photo album only filled with the ticket stubs, postcards and the paraphernalia we've collected with each experience.
They're easy to create and you can personalise them in any way you wish, making each one your very own treasure box of memories. They would make great gifts too and making them in advance of a trip would make the awaiting adventure all the more exciting as you collect things to put inside. I think they would make a great alternative to the plastic party bags and you could personalise them for each guest with a initials or a picture of the guest who'll receive it. If you really want to elaborate further why not cover your card with fabric.

Here's what you'll need:

Card
pencil
ruler
scissors
glue stick
decorations e.g map, stamps, labels

Here's how:

Begin by marking the outlines of your box: The size of the box you make will of course depend on what you intend to keep inside. Here the boxes were made to include a large postcard so the base of my box needed to measure 8" by 6".
To use the same measurements used here begin by drawing a rectangle 8" x 6". Then along each edge draw a further rectangle 2.5" deep and following the length of each side. Finally add on the flaps.
In order to make the lid you first need a rectangle measuring the same as you base adding on a tiny amount to allow to fit over the box edges without squeezing. 8.1" x 6.1". Then as before measure and mark a rectangle along each edge. The ones here measure 1" deep. Finally add the flaps.
Cut out your templates
Score along each marked line to fold up each side to give the card its box shape.
Do the same for the lid.
Glue the back of the flaps so they stick to the inside of the box pressing firmly and making sure each edge is at its 90 degree angle. Repeat for the lid.
Now to finish it off with your chosen labels, dates and pictures.

If you would like to create a 'pull out album' concertina strips of card using the same measurement as the base of your box. To make the concertina longer add a flap that can be folded and adhered to the end of each concertina end. As a delicate finishing touch punch a hole in the top piece of your folded album and tie a ribbon through.

Fill with memories and enjoy

This is part of our Monday Makery; a weekly craft or recipe to make or bake.
Our other popular blogposts include 'The story behind our collections', 'Tell us its Tuesday' , An A-Z of Sisters Guild, The Art of Living posts bring you all the things we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas, and our 'Once upon a week' gives you a glimpse into life behind the scenes at Sisters Guild.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

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New collections arrive - I love gorgeous

2012-02-24T15:10:00.000Z

ilovegorgeous has arrived made with rainbows and moonlit fairy dust sprinkles its has us dreaming of the summer days ahead.

Inspired by the long carefree days of summer festivals, lazy days playing in the long grass and retro summer parties.

The collection carries everything a girl dreams of. Beautifully finished party dresses, skirts in pretty and unusal prints, vintage inspired fabrics, and bouncy swirly carnival skirts with matching tops and the classic everyday dresses that have become synonymous with each ilovegorgeous seasonal story.

We've put together this seasons must haves for you.

View the collection here

Come see our Monday Makery with ideas for things to make, bake and create. Our other popular blogposts include 'The story behind our collections', 'Tell us its Tuesday' , An A-Z of Sisters Guild, The Art of Living posts bring you all the things we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas, and our 'Once upon a week' gives you a glimpse into life behind the scenes at Sisters Guild.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

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Wednesday Woo - Love is in the air

2012-02-22T10:05:00.000Z

There is a wonderful burrow behind a tiny hill-top where there lives a magical world of bunnies and rabbits. There are sisters and brothers, nephews, cousins, princes and princesses, a whole family.

Today, if you listen very carefully you may even hear the bells ringing. For today all the bunnies and rabbits on the tiny hill top are busy with wedding preparations.

The bride will be dressed in vintage lace and she'll wear a pink floral crown, a gift from her sister.

Tonight the bunnies will dance under the pale milky moon and the sparkling starlit sky before waking up the sun for a new day and new adventures together.

Congratulations to the bride and groom!

bride - medium £36.50, Groom - medium £36.50, Prince - medium £36.50, Princess - medium £36.50, princess - small £17.75 , baby bunnies in christening gowns £12.50.

Maileg bunnies and rabbits from £12.50

Come play on the tiny hill-top and dance with bunnies, tell them your favourite bedtime stories and
share your adventures.
They love to run and skip and hop about, they love to be held but most of all they love to be loved

Hanging fabric hearts, butterflies and flowers by Maileg from £3.10 , pram £19.50 by Maileg,

small princess rabbit by Maileg £17.75

Take a look at the wonder that is Maileg in all its charm and beauty.

You can read 'The Story Behind Our Collections - Maileg' here.

This is part of our Wednesday Woo blog post series where we present a selection of our favourite things from the Sisters Guild Boutique.

We also have a Monday Makery with ideas for things to make yourself. Because everyone can be creative.

The Art of Living posts bring you all the things we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas as well as tips on events and whats on for families

www.sistersguild.co.uk

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-14T21:41:00.001Z

My Valentine's evening has consisted of eating a big heart shaped chocolate brownie with my 4 year old son and reading 2 of our favourite bedtime stories: Penguin and Lost & Found. Both stories happen to be about the friendship between a boy and a penguin, and have the perfect combination of humour and heart-warmingness!

Full of love...

'Everything' Penguin, Polly Dunbar

When all hope seemed gone, the two friends finally found each other. Lost and Found, Oliver Jeffers

Celebrate LOVE with 20% off all things full of LOVE

2012-02-10T16:22:00.000Z

With Valentine's Day next week it gives us even more reason to celebrate LOVE with friends & family. We have gathered together a collection of things that are full of LOVE, things that make us ooohhh & aahhhhh, bring a smile and a twinkle to the eye!

Maileg have some little sweetheart tins to hide sweet sentiments (only £2.00 each) , Rice DK have some decor gifts to add joy to your home, Belle & Boo is all about capturing the love and innocence of childhood, whilst the jewellery from Renaissance Life and hop hop hop, with secret hearts and lockets, is full of pure romance. We are sisters who enjoy spreading love far and wide...so, for a long weekend dedicated to love we are giving you 20% off all things full of LOVE in the boutique.

Enter TOLOVE at checkout for 20% off

(valid until midnight Tuesday 14th February 2012)

Wednesday Woo - Blue skies on the horizon

2012-02-08T12:02:00.000Z

featured above: Beach ball in gingham print by Rice DK £3.50, Check baby dungarees by Little Duckling £34.90, Voile yellow dress by Little Duckling £40.00, Felt Caterplillar by En Gry & Sif £43.00, Felt car bag by En Gry & Sif £36.00,

Ok, so the weather outside may be pretty cold and the sky a little heavy with grey cloud but you can be sure that when the sky turns blue and the sun shines we'll be ready! With our new collections arriving we're already excited about the adventures we'll be having this spring. There are blue skies on the horizon.

This is part of our Wednesday Woo blog post series where we present a selection of our favourite things from the Sisters Guild Boutique.

We also have a Monday Makery with ideas for things to make yourself.

The Art of Living posts bring you all the things we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

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Monday Makery - tea-towel pencil case roll

2012-02-06T09:49:00.000Z

We're been packing our things as we're moving house and one of the last things to pack was the girls baskets of creative bits and bobs. I didn't want to pack everything and thought that we should at the very least keep some essential pencils and paper to hand. I knew once they were packed I'd have so much trouble finding them when it was called for and, I know I'm going to need them to have some sitting-still-and-keeping-busy-moments! This way I could encourage them to keep their pencils tidily all the while keeping themselves busy drawing at the table whilst I continued to pack everything else.

Thankfully my sewing machine had not yet been packed and I found a scrap of felt and an old faded tea towel that would make a perfect pencil roll. These are great for travelling, make great gifts and they took (once I'd found all the things I'd need) 15 minutes to make!

The girls of course love them and as it didn't take very long to make I made one for each of them. I might make another batch to use in party bags for Oona's upcoming 3rd birthday too. But not now..... I've got a lot more packing to do!

Here's what you'll need:

Fabric
ribbon or ric-rac
pack of pencils
scissors
needle and thread or sewing machine
tailors chalk or fine pencil

pic 3 & 4 show the second pencil roll I made but on this fabric shows more clearly the guide

Here's how:

Cut your fabric to size. You'll need a rectangular shape that measures 13" by 15" (the larger length will depend on how many pencils you want in your roll). For each pencil you'll need an inch of fabric and then 1/2 and inch either side of the row. The one created here was for 14 pencils. Which means, 14 inches + 2 x 1/2 an inch = 15".
You'll now need to stitch along the top and bottom of your fabric to prevent any fraying. The sides will be stitched last. As the tea towel I used to create this had no pattern or colour on the reverse I added some felt to the back to give the inside some colour. If you are doing it this way too then pin the fabric together making sure the colour you want to show is on the outside/facing out.
Fold up the bottom of the fabric to create a pocket measuring 4" from bottom to top and pin the edges together to prevent it from sliding.
Now, make your measurements for the pencil pockets. Measure 1/2 and inch in from the left and mark a vertical line up and down the pocket. Then mark a vertical line in one inch intervals leaving you with another 1/2 inch margin on the left side.
Sew vertically up your marked lines to create each individual pencil pocket.
Now sew the entire vertical left and right side edges to finish off and to prevent any fraying of the sides.
Finally Flip over the fabric left to right as though turning a page of a book so that the outside is now showing. Take a length of ribbon and fold in half. Sew the mid point to the left hand side of your pencil roll half way up the side. This will allow you to tie the roll up and keep the pencil secure inside when you're out and about.
Load with pencils and its ready!

Of the two pencil rolls I made I much prefer the one I made using an inner layer of felt. Not only does it give it a quilted feeling and avoids the feel of the hard pencils once rolled up but I also love the flash of bright colour on the inside. If you would like to use only one piece of fabric to make them - I'd suggest using felt over a heavy cotton. If you love beautiful fabric like we do then do use it........it doesn't have to be a tea-towel!

Happy Making xx

This is part of our Monday Makery where each week we bring you a recipe to bake, a craft to create and simple ideas for fun things to make with children. We know that sometimes the craft isn't about the final finish but having created something together and we want to encourage everyone to have a go. I am certainly a 'newbie' when it comes to making things and trust me I'll leave all baking recipes to my sister, you see the thing is my girls love it, they feed me with inspiration and I love that our home is a constant and evolving state of creating and creations.

Our daily blogs offer you a sneak preview in our 'once upon a week' where we give you an insight into a week with Sisters Guild, a guide to whats on, with places to visit and things to do with all the family in our 'Art of Living', on Tuesday we bring you a little closer to our designers and why we chose them with 'The Story behind Our Collections' and a little closer to the bloggers, crafters and friends of Sisters Guild with our fun 'Tell us its Tuesday', whilst on Wednesday we show you new arrivals and inspiring discoveries in the Sisters Guild Boutique. To find where we get our inspiration from take a look at 'An A-Z of Sisters Guild' ; a collection of images inspired by the words which express the meaning of what we believe.

Once Upon a Week - Are the bears coming too?

2012-02-03T13:09:00.000Z

Oona walked into the sitting room where it was starting to look quite stark. With her favourite bears tucked under her arms she says; "Are the bears coming to our new house"? "Yes, of course they are" I said before sitting down and talking through what will be coming with us and all the fun of making a new home together.

"We can't have a home without the bears, and the bears can't be without a home! With all our belongings being boxed up and their things slowly 'disappearing' there's an air of curiosity and puzzlement for Oona as the house is stripped of its character. "I think the bears might like to help us pack things to take to our new house. Why don't we pack a suitcase of all your most important things you'd like to carry with you."

So, we're moving house again! Though I've envisioned how each room will look, what will go where, what pictures will be hung, Oona the younger of the girls has needed some help in understanding it. So, with the all important suitcase packed (with the help of her bears) which is a mix of books, clothes and an eclectic mix of loved possessions, that makes me wonder what is going through her head the idea of moving has taken on a new excitement.

It is now, for the girls another adventure, its more boxes to make dens in and bedrooms to arrange as they please. Tours with the bears of each room and a chaos that invites them to be wild as we're busy re-juggling our lives.
For me its a nightmare of packing and labeling our lives into boxes and bags and living with stack upon stack of our possessions as we ready for the moving day. All whilst trying to maintain a sense of order. Discarding the feeling of being a little lost, exhausted and annoyed with the inconvenience of it all.
Perhaps I would be better able to see it as an adventure too if it was not the fourth property I'll be making a home in since Oona was born. She isn't yet three and I crave the stability of a family home. As a woman and a mother I feel I just want to nest and though we have never moved from the area we live in I'm a little tired of feeling as though we're in waiting. Waiting for our lives to begin...... again...... and again.......and again!

So, as ever you turn things around to see its positive. So now, I'm using this time to remove the clutter from my life. The clutter that sits in each drawer, nook and cupboard. The things you supposedly need but in actual fact had forgotten you had it! It feels as though I might too be starting a new adventure now. And for the first time I feel excited. A new home will be born and we will fill it with our chaos of love, laughter and Oona's favourite bears!

This is a new series - Once Upon a Week - where we give you a glimpse into the lives and times behind the scenes of Sisters Guild.

We also publish other series in our blog including our Monday Makery, Tuesday brings the closing of our series 'The Story Behind Our Collections' inviting you to take a closer look at the designers we house and the beginning of a new series 'Tell Us Its Tuesday'. Wednesday we show you our favourite seasonal pieces and Thursdays is dedicated to the 'Art of Living' in which we share ideas and inspiration from places to visit, things to see and articles about things that enrich our lives.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

The Art of Living - Lost in a book

2012-02-02T10:24:00.003Z

From The Incredible book eating boy - by Oliver Jeffers.

This week Sophia has been celebrating reading week at school; there has been a school assembly, a book swap and tomorrow a dressing up day where all the children dress up as their favourite characters from literature.

It got me thinking about all the books we have enjoyed over the last (almost) 6 years. The stories I have read and reread, the ones I still know off by heart and the ones we revisited from my own childhood.
I started to feel a little nostalgic in remembering our early bedtime reads, the books that Sophia devoured, sometimes quite literally, the books that helped to give her a voice and the books she now reads to her little sisters Oona.
There are books on our shelves that are worn and tattered through their lives lived in ours and so many that almost feel alive, as though the words are still heard without being opened.

We're going on a bear hunt by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury

Some books seem to me like a right of passage, a milestone in a child's life, memories made and adventures enjoyed together. Here are some of the books I would recommend for any bookshelf. Books that may begin the love of reading, books with great imaginings but more importantly books that can be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere, every day.
Though I've given a rough age guide for the books it is only a rough guide and only you know your child, so follow your own instinct - it'll always prove you right.

First books

Guess how much I love you - by Sam McBratney, Peepo! - by Janet and Allan Ahlberg, Each peach pear plum - by Janet and Allan Ahlberg and The very hungry caterpillar - by Eric Carle I would recommend all of the books by Janet and Allan Ahlberg and also those by Eric Carle; The illustrations are always wonderful and the stories focus on the simplicity of everyday and more often the humour and pattern found in it. They are reassuring, wholesome whimsical stories told with clarity and satisfying sounds.

Great books for 2 year olds

ABC - by Brian Wildsmith, Goodnight moon - by Margaret Wise Brown, Rosie's walk - by Pat Hutchins and The Gruffalo - by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler The images in Brian Wildsmith's book are so incredible that when I discovered a second copy in a charity shop I decided to create a framed picture with them all for the girls room. They are images we could never tire looking at. We have loved goodnight moon and we could spend so much time looking at each individual page and their cosy intimate illustrations. I think this book will stay by our bedside forever!

Wonderful books for 2 year olds

Brown bear, brown bear, what do you hear? - by Eric Carle, Lost and Found - by Oliver Jeffers, The Shirley Hughes Collection - by Shirley Hughes and The tiger who came to tea - by Judith Kerr. Its funny how some children's books almost become theme tunes to the day, We'll often be bobbing along through our day reenacting these stories and almost singing their words. All of these books have great rhythm to them and are great for helping with children's language.

Great books for 3 year olds

The Incredible book eating boy - by Oliver Jeffers, Where the wild things are - by Maurice Sendak, The heart and the bottle - by Oliver Jeffers and The enormous Crocodile - by Roald Dahl I'm a huge fan of all the books by Oliver Jeffers and of course no childhood could go by without a dose or rather a huge dollop of Roald Dahl.

books for 4 year olds

The Giving Tree - by Shel Silverstein, Leon and the place between - by Graham Baker Smith, The Little prince - by Antoine De Saint Exupery and Charlie and the chocolate factory - by Roald Dahl The giving tree is a story of the relationship between a tree and a boy and is perhaps the first book that brought tears to Sophia's eyes. It started a long conversation about love, selfishness and sacrifice and remains a firm favourite. Leon and the place between is a book who's story leaps off the page through its words and illustrations with such effect it is almost overwhelming. It was an instant hit!

books for 5 year olds

Alice's adventures in wonderland - by Lewis Carroll, The Lion the witch and the wardrobe - by C. S. Lewis, The magic faraway tree - by Enid Blyton and The sheep pig - by dick King-Smith I don't think I could count the number of times we have read Alice's adventures in wonderland. We have dozens of copies this way, that way and the other way all over the house and it has inspired birthday parties and our own made up stories and pictures too. Discovering Narnia with Sophia has been amazing and now hiding in wardrobes and cupboards in games of hide and seek has taken on a new meaning!

There are so many books I am looking forward to reading with the girls as they get older, these are (for us) the ones whose stories remain silent, whose adventures have not yet been told. They are our part of our future adventures together.

books for 6 years and up

The secret garden - by Frances Hogdson Burnett, Swallows and Amazons - by Arthur Ransome, The happy prince - by Oscar wilde, Treasure Island - by Robert Louis Stevenson, The Hobbit - by J. R. R. Tolkein, and Watership Down - by Richard Adams,

Reading is without doubt the best free thing to do with children. The words we read have the magic to create worlds, people, creatures, legends, they feed our imaginations and help voice our own lives. With local libraries supplying us with row upon row of free adventures be it knights fighting dragons, Big friendly giants, a wardrobe that acts as a portal to another world or a caterpillar who spends an entire week feasting before his metamorphosis as a bright butterfly, there's a whole universe of words and pictures to discover. So, hop along to your local library, grab an armful of books and give them a go.

"By words we learn thoughts, and by thoughts we learn life"

- Jean Baptiste Girrad

Oh and 4th Februray 2012 is

NATIONAL LIBRARIES DAY

So its the perfect time to become a member of your local library!

I know there a thousands and thousands of books that could/should/would be on the list.... tells us your favourite books too.....

This is part of the Art of Living series of posts that bring you all the things we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas.

In our Wednesday Woo blog post series we present a selection of things from the Sisters Guild Boutique.

We also have a Monday Makery with ideas for things to make yourself.

Monday Makery - Fabric covered books - 'my autobiography'

2012-01-23T09:31:00.000Z

These are our new fabric covered scrap books. Our own personal books, covered with our chosen fabrics we love. Made to fill with our memories of the year. Be it flowers picked on a journey home, pressed and stuck inside, favourite drawings, photo's, stories, postcards of places we go and all sort of things we begin to treasure.

This is such a simple craft to put together and one I had intended to start at the very beginning of the new year. Its a tradition that I've kept going each year since the girls have been born, but they've been more my involvement and choreography and enthusiasm than theirs. Now they're a little bit older I feel as though this is something they could now 'write' and enjoy as much as I have and it'll be all the better because this time for the first time they are their books; not the flowers I pick on the way home and stick inside or the ticket stubs from a theatre trip I chose. They are now the authors of their lives and so this should be the their autobiographies.

Here's what you'll need:

Scrapbook - you can find these very cheaply in pound-shops and supermarkets
Fabric - you can find old fabric in charity shops even if its just a nice print on a T-shirt or pillowcase
'Heat 'n' Bond' - an adhesive for fabric projects in principal double sided sticky tape.
Scissors
An iron

Here's how:

Spread your piece of fabric right side down so the pattern faces the table and open out your scrapbook on top.
Measure the size of fabric needed to cover the front and back of your scrapbook. I wanted the books to have a truly luxurious feel and so covered the inside of the front and back pages as well as the front. If you're intending to do it this way too fold over the fabric into the book and cut it where it meats the inside spine.
Next you need to secure the fabric to the book. This is where 'heat n bond' comes in handy! Put the book to one side leaving your fabric (now cut to size) right side down. Place the sheet of 'heat n bond' over the top of the fabric and iron over the top to adhere. (instructions are clearly written on the packet).
Peel off the paper backing and line up your scrapbook in the centre. Fold the fabric over the front cover and on to the inside cover page.
Iron over the fabric to adhere. Repeat the process on the other side.
Trim the edges of the book and you're done.

I'm looking forward to all that this year brings and now the girls can keep a record of the changing seasons and their ever blossoming selves. It'll be interesting to see what they choose to put inside, the things they deem 'treasure', the things that make an impression upon them and the days they don't want to forget. This is the beginning of a new chapter, a new year and a new adventure about to begin.

I love the feel the fabric gives to each book and how instantly it cheers me up see them. With more notebooks to cover (I never have enough pretty notebooks) and no more 'heat n bond' I went on to cover some notebooks using fabric glue. Though the finish wasn't as professional looking as it was with the magic 'heat sheet' they look just as beautiful.

I think I've discovered a new habit and am now searching for more books in the house to cover.... any excuse; battered spines, gruesome covers, photo albums with faded covers they're all going to get the fabric treatment.

Happy Making

2012 - a year of new discoveries

2012-01-09T20:56:00.000Z

Happy New Year to you all. We hope you have enjoyed some good holiday time with friends, family and places you love. We had a busy December, which involved a trip to New York for Carla and a relocation from Sussex to Somerset for Bekka. Whilst London will remain a creative hub for Sisters Guild, the practical operation of the business will now be happening in the lovely little town of Frome. We shall be introducing a new 'sister' to you next month who will be learning the ropes and getting to know you all. AND March will bring a new baby for Bekka. So, 2012 looks set to be a year of new discoveries for the sisters and family.

It is with much excitement that we give you a glimpse of the pattern, colour and detail of collections that are coming to the Sisters Guild Boutique in 2012. It is such a pleasure to look at these images, especially in the grey of January. For SS12 ilovegorgeous is full of delicious colour and playful design, whilst Maileg brings us a new collection to oooh and ahhhh over, En Gry & Sif has some Easter delights and Rice DK has extra zing for your home....with many more collections to be revealed in the coming months!

In the meantime, there's the Winter Sale to shop with up to 60% off. Pop along to the sale here

The blog will continue to bring more ideas and inspiration from all quarters. If you would like to do a guest blog or send in any ideas we would really welcome them....as you ARE all part of Sisters Guild too!
Discover the Monday Makeries here

Here's to 2012 and a year full of love, laughter, wonder and new horizons.

Carla & Bekka
xx

Have a wonderful festive holiday!

2011-12-24T16:52:00.000Z

We have had a marvellous year and we are very thankful for all the enthusiasm you have shown for the Sisters Guild Boutique & Blog. The New Year will bring many more exciting and inspiring collections. We look forward to discovering and sharing so much together in 2012.

Meanwhile, we shall be enjoying some time off for celebration, chatter, play, rest, relaxation & family time (not forgetting some yummy food and quality BBC Drama)

We hope you all enjoy the same with an extra sprinkle of magic!

With warm smiles

Carla & Bekka
xx

If you do feel the urge to shop the Winter Sale - with some relaxed browsing time it's always a pleasure isn't it! - you can still place orders & they will be dispatched after 9 Jan 2012

Holidays plans for 2012 with Baby Friendly Boltholes

2011-12-24T16:48:00.000Z

Baby-Friendly Boltholes is a website I go to when I have escape on my mind.. There are some seriously desirable family holidays that are firmly on my wishlist - a Tuscan Villa, a Greek Boutique Hotel or a Devon Retreat. Next year will take some extra planning for me with a 4 year old and a baby arriving in March, but I already feel quite relaxed at the idea of a holiday with all those thoughtful and family-friendly extras.

Here is a Christmas Wish from Baby-Friendly Boltholes:

Baby-Friendly Boltholes, the online little black book of stylish yet child friendly cottages, villas and boutique hotels, is a big fan of Sisters Guild and would like to wish all its users and their little ones a magical Christmas and a fun-filled 2012. To help with the fun next year BFB would like to offer everyone a £20 discount off a break booked online at www.babfriendlyboltholes.co.uk on or before March 15, 2012.

Simply enter BFBSISG when making a booking. One per booking. Not valid with any other offer.

Last Day for Christmas Orders TODAY!

2011-12-19T19:22:00.000Z

TODAY is the last day to place a UK order for Christmas - please place your orders before Midnight tonight! Then the sisters and elves shall be on holiday. You will still be able to place orders over Christmas & New Year, to make the most of the Winter Sale, but orders will not be dispatched until after 9th January 2012. Thank you.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

The Art of Living - Winter Wonderland

2011-12-15T15:26:00.001Z

Every year we've put on warmest winter layers and headed off to Hyde Park in London to enjoy the delights of Winter Wonderland in the cold crisp evening air.
Approaching the park is exciting in itself, seeing the twinkling lights in the distance and then the rich spicy aromas floating through the air of delicious warm food feels instantly like Christmas. There is something quite special about being out with the children after dark. This is especially true when headed out for an evening of fun, frolics and food in the park once the sun has left the sky.

First on our things to do will be some ice skating. This year both the girls will be old enough to put on some blades and dance across the ice rink so there will be our very own version of skating on ice. Well, perhaps it'll be more of a cautious crawl with a few tumbles but to them it'll feel like dancing! I'll be well prepared for the falls and will be sure to take some extra clothing or better yet some waterproof bottoms.

There's a 50 minute performance by Zippo's Circus with trapeze artists, jugglers and acrobats I know this is where i'll want to sit and enjoy my hot chocolate and watch the girls faces light up with the thrill of it all. Once home I think the girls will try to replicate their performance just as they did after cirque de soleil and having said they'd like to join the circus we had weeks of balancing acts and dancing through hoops. We've had to buy stilts and a giant hoop for their enthusiastic acrobatics!

There's also Zippo's Circus Extreme with dare devil acts and what looks like a whole lot of flames and 'The Motorbike Globe of Death' this might be one that the dads and the boys will be thrilled to see. I think i'll have to avoid this one for fear that the girls won't follow the 'don't try this at home' rule.

Whilst I'm quite terrified when it comes to heights daddy and the girls are sure to want to soar 60 metres into the sky to get a beautiful birds eye view of the lights over London. I'll happily watch from the ground.......

or.....time for me to enjoy another hot chocolate! Unless 15 minutes is enough time to do a little shopping at the Angels Christmas Market. Yes, there's shopping too. You'll find an array of stalls with little nic nacs and some delightful wooden toys too.

There are lots of rides to enjoy from the traditional carousel to the more heart stopping stomach in the mouth ones. The carousel is surely the ultimate of all rides. Nostalgic and beautiful horses riding and rising up and down whilst the riders imagine they might really take off and gallop across the star lit park.

If you can get there before 5pm you may like to go and say hello to Father Christmas. He'll be waiting to hear your Christmas wishes between 10am and 6pm. He's been very busy over the past years and so we've not often had the chance to see the magical man himself but even knowing he's there and getting a glimpse of his deep red coat seems to be a thrill in itself despite not getting any closer.

When tummies start to rumble, and with the smell of so many delicious choices rumble they will, there's a host of places to grab a bite. With real log fires at the 'the house of st nicholas' live bands at the famous bavarian village or cosying up in a booth at the spiegel saloon, you'll find something that'll satisfy everyones belly.

There really is something for everyone, every age. Though its best enjoyed once the sun has set for those of you who turn into pumpkins the afternoon will be just as magical.

So, grab your hat, your scarfs and your warmest gloves and come and join in the fun. See you there....

I'll be the one hugging the hot chocolate gazing up at the big wheel... or if that's not me I'll be on my bum (a lot) on the ice rink!

images courtesy of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Wednesday Woo: Clothing, Gifts & Decor all in one place!

2011-12-14T19:19:00.001Z

Little Duckling Knitted Hat WAS £24.80 NOW £12.40, PEACE T-Shirt by Dandy Star WAS £26 NOW £17, Little Duckling Denim Jeans WAS £36.25 NOW £18.13, Johnny Joe's Colouring book £5.99, Bon Bon Blue by Lucky Boy Sunday, £75 Teal Japanese Garden Hairband by ilovegorgeous £10, Skinny Sally Jumper by ilovegorgeous WAS £52 NOW £31.20, Sweet Party Skirt by ilovegorgeous WAS £38 NOW £22.80, Pink House Storage Basket by Rice DK £34.80, Diana & Daisy Bunny Rabbits by Maileg £36 each, Boucle Wool Hat by Hucklebones WAS £31 NOW £15.50, Lambswool Scarf by Hucklebones (only Blueberry now available) WAS £27.50 NOW £13.75, Babycord Gathered Shorts in Aubergine by Hucklebones WAS £45 NOW £22.50, Milk Carton Mouse House by Maileg £45,
Matchbox Mouse by Maileg From 16.99

What we are passionate about at Sisters Guild is bringing together children's clothing, gifts and decor pieces all in one place. It is a genuine pleasure to see shopping baskets full of such a lovely selection of things and knowing the smiles they will bring for Christmas and beyond - winter layers, scarves and hats, matchbox mice, toy baskets, bunnies and colouring books.

Not forgetting some beautiful pieces for mama herself:

Year 1970 Freedom Horse Necklace by Renaissance Life £89, Swallows Wall Stickers by Love Mae £39, Knitted Alpaca Shawl by Waddler £90, Golden Nuage Bracelet by hop hop hop £35, Screen-printed LOVE poster by Dandy Star £100, Paris Brocante book by PAUMES £20.40, Painted Birds Candelabra by Rice DK in Fuschia £44

Last Posting dates before Christmas

Please place your order early if you need things before Christmas.
We will be at the mercy of the postal service so we cannot make any guarantees of delivery times I'm afraid.

These are the last dates to place your order :
UK: Monday 19th December

Europe and Rest of World: Friday 2nd December NOW CLOSED for orders.
You can still place an order but it will not reach you until after Christmas

This is part of our Wednesday Woo blog post series where we present a selection of our favourite things from the Sisters Guild Boutique.

We also have a Monday Makery with ideas for things to make yourself.

The Art of Living posts bring you all the things we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

Sign up for future news & offers:

The Story Behind the Collections: Waddler

2011-12-13T21:06:00.000Z

Discovering Waddler was like opening a magical storybook. When Waddler came onto the 'scene' we knew we had found something so special and so desirable! It made us remember the reason why we started Sisters Guild - to bring together collections from talented and imaginative designers, makers and mamas, those with an inspiring vision.

Carla & I were in awe of Marina when we met her with her collection of alpaca loveliness, along with her family - her newborn son contentedly wrapped in an alpaca baby blanket. We wanted to throw our arms around it all. And so we did!

Waddler is an important part of the Sisters Guild Boutique and we are full of excitement each time we send a piece of Waddler around the world. Our own children are now being enrobed with alpaca jumpers as the winter sets in. In March the new addition to the family is set to be wearing that amazing wolf & Bear jumper!

Waddler weaves (or knits!) a story of a creative family who adventured to South America, discovered freedom for their children and dreamt up a beautiful alpaca clothing collection. The inspiring couple behind the collection is Marina Scrymgeour and Philip Thompson who bring us something so incredible and unique - ethically made clothing in alpaca wool in playful designs that reflect the fun and adventure of childhood.

Waddler is here to remind us of how children love to run free in nature, become bears or wolves, any animal they choose, romp and play and let their imaginations soar. The clothing is innocent, nonrestrictive and designed to be played in, to climb trees and roll on the grass. The alpaca wool is very soft - it is one of nature's finest fabrics and it will last many winters for many generations.

Waddler for us expresses the wonder and the wide-eyed possibilities of being a child and embracing the world. Waddler is a celebration of a joyous time.

We are aware that the Waddler family are back in Bolivia developing their future collections, doing what must be an awesome photoshoot and enjoying new discoveries as a family. You must follow their blog here

We are so happy to share such a stand-out and beautiful collection in our online boutique.

Step into the storybook and discover Waddler here

This is part of our series of blogs where we share the story behind our collections; because the collections and their creators mean so much to us here at Sisters Guild we want to pass the story on.

We bring a new blog each day; other series of blogs include our 'Monday Makery' with ideas and 'how to's' to make and bake with all the family, Wednesday we woo you with our favourite pieces from the boutique and its new arrivals, Thursday is all about the art of living; discovering places and sharing new treasures and Friday we bring you the 'A-Z of Sisters Guild' a collection of pictures that convey the life behind the boutique

You can Follow us on Twitter here ,like us on Facebook here and visit our rather marvellous boutique here
Sign up to find out about new collections and future offers:

Monday Makery - Gingerbread Family

2011-12-12T18:57:00.000Z

Gingerbread Family

There's something so very festive about the smell of nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger. Their warm spicy aroma fills the house with deliciousness and making them is almost as good as gobbling them up. Especially with all the fun of decorating them with colourful button clothing and, if Sophia has anything to do with it, bright pink underwear!

These make great gifts for sharing at Christmas and there's a particular food lover in our family, Uncle Stu, who'll love to gobble these little people up! We'll wrap them up in a little box and hang a gingerbread man gift tag on top. Yummy!

Here's what you'll need:

biscuit cutters
greaseproof paper
180g unsalted butter (room temperature)
125g of soft brown sugar
1 medium egg
400g of plain flour
3/4 tsp of bicarbonate of soda
2 tsp ground ginger
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
125g treacle

Here's how:

Put the butter and sugar into a mixing bowl and and using an electric mixer whisk until light and fluffy.
When the mix is thoroughly combined add your beaten egg and treacle. Stop now and again to scrape down the mixture caught on the sides of the bowl.
Let this mix whir on a medium speed whilst you put together the dry ingredients into a separate bowl.
Sift the flour, bicarbonate of soda and your spices into a separate bowl. Turn the mixer down to a slow speed and spoon by spoon slowly mix in the dry ingredients into your sugar butter mix.
Once your mixture has made itself into an even dough remove from the bowl and begin to knead it a little on a flour sprinkled surface. Sprinkle more flour onto your surface and your dough if it starts to get sticky.
Take a sheet of grease-proof paper and roll out your dough on top until its an even 3-4mm thick. Place another sheet of grease-proof paper on top and place in the fridge for at least half an hour (its best to leave it overnight, but half an hour will do if there's not enough patience in the room!)
When your time is up take it out of the fridge and place on top of a flour sprinkled surface.
Turn the oven on ready for the delights to bake 170oC.
Start cutting out your desired shapes, if you don't have gingerbread men figures, stars and hearts are equally festive. Place your gingerbread family onto baking trays (I always line them with grease-proof paper) and bake for 10-15 minutes.
Once they're ready leave to cool for a few minutes on the tray before cooling on a wire cooling rack until they've cooled completely.

Now decorate away to your hearts content!

You'll have to wait til our next batch to see our decorations - they were literally all gobbled up before I could take pictures! Nom nom.

Christmas is coming and we've been busy putting together a little inspiration to help you through. We're helping Father Christmas with his lists and guiding you though our selection of gifts and decorations.

Bekka's Best pick of Christmas pressies

2011-12-11T18:12:00.000Z

Here's a round up of some fantastic pressies for all ages. I've nearly got my Christmas list sorted - how about you?

Large Acrylic Frames by Rice DK, £11.50
Matchbox Mouse Big Brother by Maileg, £21.95
Large Belle Dress Up Doll, £10
Recycled Cardboard House for Decorating by kidsonroof, £16
Mini Dinosaur Stickers by Love Mae, £15
Elephant Cushion by Zid Zid, £26
Airplane Rucksack by Zid Zid, £31
Playplax, £15.99
LOVE bag by Dandy Star, £15

Last Posting dates before Christmas

Please get your orders in early if you need things before Christmas.
We will be at the mercy of the postal service so we cannot make any guarantees of delivery times I'm afraid.

These are the last dates to place your order :

UK: Monday 19th December

Europe and Rest of World: Now closed for Christmas orders.
If you place your order now we can still deliver in Januray 2012

This is part of a new seasonal series where we bring you a guide to all things festive. We'll be decorating and preparing wish lists and gift guides for all the family and with some little treats and wondrous surprises along the way. You'd better be sure to come and join the festivities with us.

sign up so not to miss offers and news of what's in the boutique
Be sure to watch our Monday Makery- we'll be bring you decorations to make, recipes to bake, homemade gift ideas and new traditions to begin. The Art of Living will help guide you through what's on and what's great for families. And on Friday we'll be giving you sneek peeks into the houses of the sisters of Sisters Guild in our Once upon a Week.

If you would like to guest blog, have a craft, recipe or some great tips for family life we'd love to hear from you.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

Wednesday Woo: Kids love cooking

2011-12-07T19:20:00.001Z

The kitchen really is the heart of the home. It's a place where children can learn to cook alongside Mummy, Daddy or Granny. It's also a place from which children can take ideas for their own play and make-believe. We have gathered together some pieces for real cooking and play cooking together:

Belle & Boo Apron with the sweetest detail, £18.50
Boo cookie cutter for Bunny Shapes biscuits, £3.00
Melamine Mixing Bowl Jug with a 1.5litre capacity in Jade by Rice DK, £19
Fabric Patisserie cakes in a box by Maileg, £28
Flower Print Kids Apron with dress detail by Rice DK, £15
Mini Red Polka Dot Tea Set for parties with the bears, £12
Butterfly Cookie Cutters £3.00
Crochet vegetables by Rice DK £8.00 each
Childs Apron with a Gingerbread Cookies recipe by Maileg £17.50

And one of the most genius designs we have recently found...
Crepe Shop Play Set by the Japanese designers gg* £33

A cooking themed gift for Christmas is something that will inspire those budding chefs and is bound to be put to use in the kitchen and played with all year through.

There's more Christmas gift ideas to inspire young minds in the imagine and play section.

This is part of our Wednesday Woo blog post series where we present a selection of our favourite things from the Sisters Guild Boutique.

We also have a Monday Makery with ideas for things to make yourself.

The Art of Living posts bring you all the things we are passionate about and the things we discover in our lives as mamas.

www.sistersguild.co.uk

Sign up for future news & offers:

Tell Us it's Tuesday: Lesley of Leilalou

2011-12-06T17:02:00.002Z

It feels like a Christmasey 'Tell Us' this week as it's from the talented designer Lesley of Leilalou who is currently tucked away in the mountains of rural France - where somehow I imagine it's already snowing! I'm picturing a stack of logs at the ready, faces of dolls and angels at the window, a full larder and a Christmas feast planned. If we could magic ourselves there we would!

It was over a year ago when we were planning Sisters Guild that we found the Leilalou dolls on Etsy - it was instant adoration and so began a growing collection of dolls in the boutique and a growing friendship with our 'sister' in France. It's a lovely feeling that Lesley was there from the very start and was full of enthusiasm when the doors of Sisters Guild opened! We exchange tales back and forth and are always excited to see the new Leilalou creations - there's now custom dolls and a screenprinted range. Lesley taught herself screenprinting this year. I've got a feeling Lesley is a mama who can turn her hand to anything!

You can read more of the Leilalou story on the blog and see the exquisite Leilalou collection in the boutique - each doll is hand-made and unique with fine linen fabric and detailed embroidery. Many dolls are now in new homes, which is so exciting, but more will be arriving in the New Year. Otherwise do pop over to Leila Lou on Etsy.

Read more about the creative mama and maker behind Leilalou...

On waking the first 3 things I do are…turn on the computer, make a coffee, turn on “The Gruffalo” (my son’s latest obsession) while I read my e-mails and check for orders.

If I had a superpower it would be…the power to heal.

If I could trade places for a day with someone it would be…A star of a Broadway show.

If someone wrote a story about me the title would be...Just do it.

When I was seven years old…We moved from a town in England to a tiny fishing village in the Scottish Highlands….It might as well have been the moon for a seven year old in the early 70’s.

If you open my fridge you will see...more vegetables than I have room for and more chocolate than I need.

My favourite view is…my children hugging each other or any view from any window in my house. I’m lucky enough to see both often.

The 3 things I will tell my children are…You can do anything, be anything, go anywhere if you really want it enough.

The song or musical piece for the theme tune of my life is…Queen “Don’t stop me now”

I used to... be a very busy chef. Now I just enjoy cooking.

My biggest guilty pleasures are… Rod Stewart and chocolate.

My wardrobe is… full of pre pregnancy clothes which no longer fit and are most definitely no longer fashionable.

Never have I ever… been happier.

My kids taught me… life really is too short.

Life is like a… book in the writing. With the possibility of filling its pages with anything you want, but now and again, losing the plot.

My fondest memory of Christmas is...any of my childhood Christmases, they were all magical and I only hope I can recreate them for my own children.

My underwear drawer… is in shocking need of 500 pound spending on it. (My husband says doubles as a parachute drawer-I think his credit card might be short 500 pound in the morning.)

I feel like running for the hills when….the ironing has to be done. It’s like weeding, great satisfaction when it’s done followed by misery one week later when it needs to be done again.

On my teenage bedroom wall there was… Adam ant and Shakin Stevens. (The early 80’s had a lot to answer for).

Christmas isn't Christmas without...... children, “National Lampoon’s Christmas vacation” on the T.V, and your father asleep on the couch resting a half eaten mince pie on his belly.

Thank you Lesley. I love that genuine vision of Christmas! And you are so right about life being a book in the writing. Being a maker of fabric dolls it must feel like you stitch some magic into life too - with your dolls that fly off to new homes and are held by little hands across the world. Thank you for creating such treasures and we hope your talented hands have a rest for the Christmas holidays...and your birthday! Enjoy the family festivities. x

This is part of our new series of Tuesday blog posts where we ask you to tell us all. We wanted a fun way way to get to know the people behind the blogs and businesses we follow. We have more people lined up to reveal themselves and may be asking you too!

We also publish other series in our blog including our Monday Makery, Wednesday we show you our favourite seasonal pieces and Thursdays is dedicated to the 'Art of Living' in which we share ideas and inspiration from places to visit, things to see and articles about things that enrich our lives.

www.sistersguild.co.uk