Peonies and lilies

The Best Duty Free Beauty Purchases

2018-07-31T08:30:00.000+01:00

There's nothing more exciting than the feeling of going on holiday and after clearing security I always like to go for a browse in Duty Free. From skincare to perfume there's always a beauty bargain or travel exclusive to pick up, and so today I thought I'd share a few of my favourite Duty Free finds:

The best duty free beauty purchases

MAC Smoky Metallic Times Nine Eye shadow Palette (Duty Free Exclusive)

Having recently cleared out my make up collection it was love at first site with this MAC eyeshadow palette. I rarely experiment with colour anymore, instead preferring to stick to neutral tones and with a selection of shimmery champagnes and matte taupes this is a great one for every day wear. It's just the right size to take traveling and as you'd expect from MAC all the colours are pigmented and with minimal fall out.

Top Tip: You can now reserve and collect Duty Free purchases online to guarantee that you won't miss out on the day.

Benefit The Porefessional Pearl Primer

It took me a long time to get into primers but now I wouldn't be without for special occasions. Benefit Porefessional Pearl Primer has a light silicone texture which just glides onto the skin, minimises the appearance of pores and gives it a nice smooth base for foundation. It's got a subtle soft pink focus too which helps to add just a touch more radiance and glow compared to the original Porefessional.

Jo Malone Colognes and Body Care

Perfume is one of my favourite Duty Free purchases and I love the idea of associating a scent with a particular holiday. There are so many fragrances and brands to choose from but recently I've been gravitating towards Jo Malone. There's just something so beautiful yet classic about their colognes and you can always guarantee a good saving compared to the high street.

The 2 shown above are actually my wedding perfumes (I'd totally recommend the Jo Malone Scent Your Wedding service by the way) but next time I travel I'm planning on picking up the matching body cremes and maybe a diffuser or summer perfume too.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream

Another daily staple that's worth stocking up on in Duty Free. From dry lips to cuticles and cracked skin, Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream is one of those multi purpose products that I like to have in my collection at all times. It comes in particularly handy when traveling long haul to help protect against the dry cabin air, and I've come to find it's familiar herbal scent really comforting and soothing.

Top Tip: Eizabeth Arden do some great travel exclusives and I love this particular set which comes with a hand cream and lip balm for just £29.

Have you tried any of the products featured above? What are your favourite Duty Free purchases?

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Twinpalms Phuket Resort Review - The Perfect Tropical Paradise

2018-05-23T12:50:00.000+01:00

From the moment R showed me some photos online, I knew that Twinpalms Resort in Phuket would be perfect for our honeymoon. With it's gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, luxurious rooms and beach side lounge bars it was exactly what we were looking for. The hotel was soon booked and luckily it wasn't too long before we were stepping off the plane and able to enjoy the stylish resort in person:

The hotel
Stepping out of a taxi from the airport a glass of sparkling cold wine was soon brought over along with some cold towels and the most fragrant floral jasmine garland. Such a welcome treat after a hot and rather stressful experience at the airport and this pretty much set the tone for the duration of our stay. Every little detail was considered and nothing was too much trouble for the friendly and welcoming staff.

Soon we were shown to our room and it was pretty much love at first sight. The whole hotel had a luxurious but natural and eco-friendly vibe and I loved the simplicity of the dark wooden furnishings against the contrast of the crisp white linen. Not to mention the fact that the room was absolutely huge and opened onto a terrace which led directly to the outdoor pool.

The bathroom was modern and beautiful too with a huge walk in shower, his and hers sinks and Twinpalms Phuket's own brand of toiletries. I really wished I'd asked if they were available to buy in a bigger size as the blend of tropical fragrances was so lovely and it'll always remind me of our amazing honeymoon in Phuket. The only thing to mention is that the bathroom isn't separated into it's own room, instead it's divided off by sliding wooden shutters (like the ones you'd find for windows) which we both found rather weird.

Knowing that we were on our honeymoon the staff had kindly arranged for a bouquet of red roses to be left in our room. There were other fresh flowers dotted around the room too and in true 5 star style you could even choose from a selection of different ones along with your choice of room fragrance and pillows.

The terrace may look rather unassuming but that little bed/couch was so comfortable and with a perfect view of the swimming pool it was great for relaxing and hiding away from the afternoon sun or to enjoy an after dinner drink, something which we definitely took advantage of.

The view from our Twinpalms room balcony - I seriously wish I could wake up to this view every morning and being a keen swimmer I loved how close it was to the huge 50m pool, especially for those midnight dips.

Without a doubt the stunning palm tree lined swimming pool was the main attraction of the resort. No matter what time of day it was always popular with the guests but luckily it never got too crowded to sunbathe or to swim in. Sitting with my toes in the water and sipping on a fruity cocktail on our last day is one of my favourite memories of the entire honeymoon. It genuinely felt like paradise and I never wanted to leave. The pool is open 24 hours too and having gone for a few midnight swims there's something truly magical about the whole experience.

Everyday at 3pm there's a tropical fruits experience in the wine room where guests are invited to dine on the freshest tropical fruits. A lovely touch from Twinpalms Phuket and the perfect snack after a few hours of exploring or swimming.

Twinpalms Phuket beach side lounge bars and clubs
Since the change in Thai legislation a few years ago Twinpalms Phuket doesn't have any facilities on Surin Beach (the closest one) but there are 3 lounge bars and restaurants on nearby beaches. We actually quite liked this as there's a regular shuttle bus service during the day and it forced us to explore other areas of Phuket, otherwise we could have easily spent all our time around Surin Beach.

HQ beach lounge and restaurant was the first one we visited. Located on Kamala Beach it's a short 15 minutes drive away from the main hotel. Kamala Beach itself is much bigger and busier than Surin Beach but with it's cool huts and relaxed dining area HQ beach lounge was the ideal location to hide away from the crowds whilst still enjoying the tropical sea view.

With temperatures of up to nearly 40 degrees during our stay evenings were one of my favourite times in Thailand. Without the strong glare of the sun it was much more bearable and we made sure to take advantage by going for golden hour strolls along the beach as well as romantic drinks at some of the other Twinpalms bars and clubs.

For casual evening drinks Palm Seaside was our bar of choice. I mean just look how picture perfect the venue looks. We didn't end up eating dinner there but can you imagine how amazing it would have been to dine on one of the central tables, surrounded by the stunning water feature and a gentle sea breeze. The bar is located right next to the rocks so you're about as close to the Andaman Sea as you can get and it was so lovely to watch the sun set over the waters with a glass of mojito in hand and some spicy prawn crackers to munch on.

Just a short distance away is Catch Beach Club. Compared to HQ Beach Lounge and Palm Seaside this has much more of a vibrant club atmosphere and is open till the early hours of the morning. We arrived here after late night dining on the beach and loved the delicious selection of cocktails, many of them with a unique Thai twist. The photo above makes it look empty but even on a weekday when we visited it was relatively busy and is a good choice if you're looking for a fun night out.

Overall as you can probably guess we both loved our stay at Twinpalms Resort in Phuket. Knowing that it was a member of the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels group we had high expectations which the hotel more than met. Not only was Twinpalms Phuket absolutely beautiful, contemporary and stylish, the staff there were great too. Nothing was too much trouble and everyone was so friendly and welcoming during our stay. In fact I'd go so far as to say that Twinpalms Phuket is my favourite hotel that I've stayed in to date. Highly recommended if you're looking for a luxurious break or romantic honeymoon destination.

Twinpalms Phuket, Surin Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Have you ever been to Phuket or Thailand? What's been your favourite hotel stay?

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Life lately - April highlights and what I'm looking forward to in May

2018-05-02T18:30:00.000+01:00

How are we a third of the way through 2018 already? It feels like only yesterday that we were excitedly planning for our honeymoon and now here we are at the start of May! April was a bit of a mixed month for me - having just returned from our trip to Thailand and Singapore it started with the worst case of jet lag and post holiday blues but then ended on a lovely note with a trip to Somerset. Here are some of my other highlights:

The beautiful Blenheim Gardens in Minehead, Somerset

Blog branding workshop with Anna Hart and Currys/PC World

Like a lot of bloggers recently I've been feeling rather lost with Peonies and lilies so an invite to attend a workshop with influencer Anna Hart couldn't have come at a better time. Over prosecco and nibbles we learnt all about what it takes to be a pro blogger, from influencer marketing, the importance of personal branding, social media management and how to pitch for collaborations. Currys/PC World have written a post all about the event but let me know in the comments below if you'd like me to share the key lessons in a blog post.

Source - 1 Rebel

Health and Fitness

Since my gym membership ran out I've been pushing myself to try new workouts, including Barry's Bootcamp and 1 Rebel, which I've really enjoyed. The Rebel reshape class in particular has been a real hit as it combines 2 of my favourites, namely cardio and weights. It's only 45 mins but the instructors really push you and I always leave feeling pumped and on a real post exercise high.

Discovering new restaurants and bars

Since coming back from our honeymoon we've been making more of an effort to discover hidden gems in London and the newly refurbished Battersea Power Station is full of trendy restaurants and bars. After dinner one night we popped into No 29 Power Station West and I loved the relaxed but trendy atmosphere and the yummy selection of cocktails.

Also not a new discovery as such but we were introduced to a few new dishes at Tukdin. Located in Paddington the restaurant is small and intimate but has a real homely feel and all the dishes are so authentic. A must visit if you're ever in the area and on the lookout for good Malaysian food - I'd recommend the Beef Rendang, Ayam Masak Merah (chicken in spicy tomato sauce) and Daging Bakar Asam (grilled beef with spicy tamarind dip).

Sunshine and our first BBQ of the year

Call me stereotypical but as soon as the sun comes out and the temperature rises I just want to be outdoors making the most of the weather. Luckily we were treated to a glorious few days of sunshine this April and it wasn't long before we were enjoying our first BBQ. There really is nothing better than dining al-fresco, especially if there's a stunning view too.

Visit to Somerset and The Bloggers Retreat

Ending the month on a real high I was able to spend a few days in Somerset for The Bloggers Retreat. It was so lovely to meet other inspiring bloggers and we all learnt so much from all the workshops. Plus we got to stay at the seriously dreamy Unique Home Stays Boheme property, ride on a traditional steam train and explore the beautiful town of Minehead. It was my first time in Somerset and it definitely won't be the last as I couldn't help but fall in love with the stunning coastal views, rolling hills and fresh countryside air. Look out for a full blog post and more photos soon!

What I'm looking forward to in May:
- Restarting my personal training sessions and getting back on track with my diet
- Hopefully warmer weather and more outdoor BBQs
- Planning for our next holiday to Los Angeles and Las Vegas
- Celebrating our 10 months wedding anniversary
- The Royal Wedding, anyone else excited to see the dress and wedding decor?
- A few exciting blogger events, friends birthdays and meetups

You can also follow me on Instagram for more highlights and behind the scenes photos.

Did you have a good April? What are you most looking forward to in May?

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Holiday skincare essentials - 5 products to pack for your next beach/city break

2018-04-30T08:30:00.000+01:00

Having recently returned from our honeymoon to Thailand and Singapore I thought I'd share a few of the beauty essentials I used to look after my skin when on holiday. Knowing that we were going to be in a hot climate and that I'd be wanting to wear minimal make up I wanted to make sure my skin was well hydrated and looking it's absolute best with these 5 products:

Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm (£47 full size from M&S)

This has been my go to cleanser for the last few years and the balm texture makes it ideal for traveling. It's packed with essential oils and as it washes away with water I love how quick and easy it is to use at the end of the day. The fragrance is really calming and no matter how heavy the pollution or however much sunscreen I've used during the day this always leaves my skin feeling deep cleansed afterwards.

Alpha H Liquid Gold Rose (£37 full size from Cult Beauty)

Since introducing this as a twice weekly treatment in my routine I've noticed a huge difference in the texture of my skin so made sure to pack a bottle of this for our honeymoon. The glycolic acid gently exfoliates, sweeping away any dead cells to reveal a more radiant, brighter complexion. Only thing to remember is that a high SPF is a must with this product, especially in a hot sunny climate like Thailand or Singapore.

Elemis Pro Collagen Marine Cream (£82-£145 from John Lewis)

Another daily essentials - if you're worried about anti-ageing or suffer from dry/dehydrated skin then this moisturiser is good one to pack. It's rich enough to hydrate but without being too heavy for the 35 degrees heat. It makes for a good base under make up too, although next time I think I'll go for the mini travel size rather than taking the full 100ml supersized pot.

Alpha H Essential Hydration Concentrate (£29.99 from Cult Beauty)

After a day of sunshine and chlorine my skin would be in need of some serious pampering which is where the Alpha H oil comes in. Like most oils it can take a while to sink in so I wouldn't recommend using this during the day, but as an overnight treatment the luxurious oil was just what my skin needed. I tend to use about 5-6 drops and by the next morning my skin would always feel more nourished and plumped up, ready for another day in the sun.

Piz Buin Ultra Light Dry Touch Face Fluid (£9 from Boots)

Knowing how strong the sun can be in Thailand and Singapore sunscreen was an essential for our trip, and for as long as I can remember Piz Buin has been my go to brand. There's nothing worse than a thick sticky feeling on holiday which is why I always gravitate towards the Ultra Light range. I'd say it's about similar thickness to a light lotion and unless we were going swimming an once daily application of SPF 30 was enough to protect our skin from burning.

Have you tried any of the products above? What are your hot holiday skincare essentials?

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Our honeymoon - highlights from an incredible trip to Thailand and Singapore

2018-04-16T11:00:00.000+01:00

Where do I even begin with this post? If you follow me on Instagram you might have seen that we've just returned from our amazing 3 week honeymoon in Thailand and Singapore. It was honestly an once in a lifetime trip filled with some incredible memories and experiences. It's been so hard to narrow it down but off the top of my head these are just some of the highlights from our trip:

Admiring the view from the infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Bangkok

That first dose of sunshine and heat
Considering it was still snowing when we left London it was a bit of shock when we stepped outside to 35 degrees heat. It was so nice though and now that we're back I'm seriously missing the sunshine and warmth.

Street food in Bangkok

Would it be wrong to say this was one of the thing I was most excited about pre-holiday? Bangkok is known for it's street food and wherever you go there are stalls selling everything from BBQ skewers and steamed buns to soup noodles and sometimes even a full restaurant menu.

CRU champagne rooftop bar

Located on the 59th floor this was the highest open air bar that we've been to to date. As darkness fell the views were absolutely stunning and sipping on our cocktails it was the perfect way to celebrate our last night in Bangkok.

Visiting the Grand Palace

Probably the most famous historic site in Bangkok. As a former residence of the King Siam and his royal government the complex was huge and each building beautifully intricate in detail and design. A must visit if you're ever in Bangkok.

Phuket

The incredible swimming pool at Twin Palms
I mean just look at the photo, need I say more?! The pool literally took my breath away as we walked into the hotel complex. It was great for cooling down during the afternoon and as it was open 24 hours we were able to enjoy a few midnight swims too.

Sunset drinks at The Palm

This was one of the restaurant/bars that was part of our Twin Palms Hotel. It's a short shuttle bus ride away but the bar is located right next to the rocks so you're about as close to the water as you can get. As the sun set there's a gentle sea breeze and it felt truly magical to be enjoying a mojito right next to the Andaman Sea.

Swimming in the sea
Surin beach is probably one of the calmer more family friendly beaches in Phuket and we both loved climbing the rocks and going for a swim the water. Even now as I look through our photos I still can't believe how blue and crystal clear the water was!

Dining on the beach at midnight
After drinks at The Palm we were in need of some food and walking around we found several open air restaurants on the beach. It was honestly such an incredible experience and I'll never forget being able to eat the most delicious Thai food then just running a few meters down the beach for a post dinner dip.

Singapore

Swimming in the infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands
Staying at Marina Bay Sands has been on my bucket list ever since that BBC amazing hotels program and I'm glad to say that it didn't disappoint. As soon as we were checked in we made our way up to the infinity pool - it felt surreal to be there in person looking out to the city and I could have stayed there taking in the view forever.

Exploring Sentosa Island

Because Phuket was so incredible I had a touch of the holiday blues in Singapore so it was lovely to be back in a beach environment again, even if it was all artificial and man made. Our day exploring the island was one of my favourites and seeing in the sunset from a beach bar was just the most romantic and perfect end to our day.

Have you ever been to Thailand or Singapore? What have been some of your recent highlights?

For more photos and daily updates make sure to follow me on Instagram here.

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A romantic date night at The Balcon, St James's

2018-03-29T08:30:00.000+01:00

I'm a big believer in making the most of every day and sometimes after a particularly long day at work there's nothing better than a romantic dinner or drinks with friends to look forward to. Which is how one cold Monday evening we found ourselves sharing a bottle of wine and enjoying a delicious 3 course meal at The Balcon:

Located within The Sofitel Hotel near Trafalgar Square, The Balcon specialises in French and British cuisine and upon walking in we both fell in love with the luxe elegant decor. There's a stunning spiral staircase leading up to a small balcony and the whole restaurant had a cosy romantic feel with dark wooden furniture, plush velvet chairs and striking gold accents.

As we perused the menu a glass of Viognier white wine was soon poured and a selection of breads brought to the table. Usually I'm more of a cocktail or prosecco drinker but despite this I really enjoyed the crisp refreshing taste. In fact it went with our meal perfectly and I made sure to make a note of the bottle so we could enjoy it again the next time we visit.

The menu at The Balcon is small but refined and with a selection of meats and vegetarian dishes on offer there's something for everyone. For starter I wanted something light so choose the steak tartare where as R went for a hearty lamb wellington with pea puree and girolle sauce.

Both came beautifully presented but I personally thought the steak tartare was the star of the show. You could tell there was a lot of knife skill as the beef pieces were perfectly even and the balance of flavours just right with the artichoke crisps adding a lovely crunch to the dish. I believe the tartare can also be ordered as a main and they'll even mix it up at the table so you can customise the dish exactly to your tastes.

Between starters and mains we were able to enjoy some more of the delicious white wine and catch up on our day together. By this time the sun had set and it was so lovely to look out into Central London from the warmth and comfort of our little corner.

Mains were soon brought over and with our impending honeymoon in mind I'd chosen the sea bream as a slightly healthier option. I was particularly impressed with the crispiness and cooking of the fish and enjoyed the samphire and salsify as an accompaniment, although I would have preferred slightly less of the beurre blanc.

R on the hand had gone for a confit duck leg. We were both impressed with the depth of flavour that was packed into the lentils and thought the sausage and bacon pieces were a nice addition.

If I had to pick just one course which really stood out then without a doubt it would have to be the desserts at The Balcon. The presentation was so pretty and both dishes tasted just as good too. If you ever visit then make sure you try the vanilla and passion fruit mousse with walnut cake and caramel. Fruity, soft and refreshing it was the perfect end to a delicious meal. The chocolate fondant was such a classic too, although with an interesting twist of the pear ice cream.

Overall we both really enjoyed our meal at The Balcon. There's a lovely relaxed but romantic atmosphere, staff couldn't have been more helpful and the delicious hearty food perfect for warming up after a long day.

The Balcon, 8 Pall Mall, SW1Y 5NG

Have you ever been to The Balcon? What are your favourite date night restaurants?

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*We were guests of The Balcon

Cambridge city guide - 10 fun things to see and do in a weekend

2018-02-21T10:00:00.000+00:00

Cambridge may be best known for it's university and colleges but there's so much more to the city and as we discovered it's a great location for a UK staycation too. If you're also thinking of visiting then here are my top 10 fun things to see and do in Cambridge:

1. Climb up the tower at Great St Mary's Church

For the best views of the city I would start with a visit to St Mary's Church. Located in the center of Cambridge it offers a great panoramic view of the city. It's a working church so you can have a quick look around before climbing up the narrow staircase for an overview of the local colleges, markets and architecture. Tickets are £4 for entry to the tower with a small discount for concessions.

2. Visit a university college

Once you've climbed down from the tower have a wander around the city center then make your way to one of the local colleges. King's College is one of the most famous and the Chapel is just stunning but I'd also recommend making a short walk to Selwyn College for it's beautiful gardens, especially in the Spring or Summer. Whatever college you choose, soak in the atmosphere and if you're anything like me it'll no doubt take you back to your own university days.

3. Browse Market Square

For a quick snack our favourite was Market Square. A decent sized market with stalls selling everything from dim sum and burgers to artisan breads and cheeses. I'd recommend having a walk around, sample some of the delights on offer and if you can stock up on some local produce to take home too - the cheese stalls in particular have so much choice on offer.

Source - Wikipedia

4. Marvel at the Mathematical Bridge

Officially called the Wooden Bridge, this is the most famous bridge in Cambridge. Despite the arch shape it's actually built entirely out of straight timbers hence the nickname. Popular myth is that there are no nuts and bolts holding it together and although not true it's still worth a visit, especially as the surrounding area is so picturesque too.

5. Enjoy afternoon tea at Fitzbillies

Another Cambridge institution - Fitzbillies has been serving sweet treats to locals and visitors since 1921. There are now 2 branches serving afternoon tea and their famous Chelsea buns. In particular I loved the traditional feel of their Trumptington Street branch and they have some of the prettiest window displays around.

6. Go punting

If the weather allows then make sure you book in for a punt along the River Cam. If you're visiting in Winter like we did then make sure you have a hot tea/coffee or enjoy a glass of Pimms in the summer as you're taken on a scenic tour of the city. It's a great way to explore and discover more about Cambridge, taking in the stunning architecture, bridges and hidden views of the some of the most famous colleges.

7. See the Corpus Clock
Another quick site to go and see. Officially unveiled by Stephen Hawkings the clock is made up of an striking 24 carat gold plated disc with no hands or numerals. Instead it displays the time by opening individual slits within the three rings which are lit up with blue LEDs to tell the hour, minutes and seconds.

8. Warm up in a pub with a hearty meal and pint
When you're visiting a city as steeped in history as Cambridge you can't not enjoy a traditional English Pub. There are so many to choose from but we stopped off at The Granta which had a nice view and an outdoor balcony for the Summer. It seemed popular with the locals too as there were a good mix of university students and families. My top tip would be to avoid the burger and instead go for a hearty bangers and mash, all washed down with a pint or G&T.

9. Visit one of the many Cambridge museums

For a dose of culture and education why not visit one of the many museums that Cambridge has to offer. We stumbled upon Fitzwilliam Museum which is the most famous and offers a large collection of art and antiques. There's also the Whipple Museum which houses scientific model and instruments as well as The Centre for Computing History to name but a few.

Image source - Tripvisor

10. Explore Cambridge University Botanic Garden

Sadly we ran out of time to do this but judging by the photos the Cambridge University Botanic Garden is well worth a visit. Think stunning floral displays, pretty rock gardens and exotic greenhouses all set with 40 acres of land - the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city

Have you ever been to Cambridge? What are your favourite things to do in the city?

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Valentine's day gift guide (for her and for him)

2018-02-13T12:15:00.000+00:00

Anyone else notoriously last minute when it comes to picking up presents? Whether it's for a partner, friend or even yourself Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to treat that someone special in your life. And if you've yet to find the perfect gift then I've got a some gorgeous beauty and food treats for tomorrow:

Valentine's Day Gifts For Her

Charbonnel et Walker milk sea salt billionnaire's shortbread truffles

Chocolates may be one of the more traditional gifts but you really can't go wrong with a box of Charbonnel et Walker truffles. A really delicious combination of smooth chocolate truffle, crunchy biscuit pieces and salty caramel sauce. One of the best chocolate truffles I've ever tried and the perfect after dinner treat, especially with a bottle of my favourite prosecco or champagne.

Monica Vinader siren small stacking ring
Monica Vinader make some of the prettiest jewellery pieces and for Valentine's day I think her Siren small stacking ring would be perfect. It's so dainty and delicate and I love the combination of the rose quartz and rose gold. I like to wear mine by itself as an everyday piece but it would look lovely stacked up with a few of the other colours too.

Latest in Beauty date night box
As a little treat for yourself or for a beauty obsessed friend I'd recommend the Latest in Beauty date night box. It's packed with products including a relaxing Sanctuary salt scrub, luxurious Dr Botanicals rose facial oil and a pretty Kiko blush stick. Everything you need to pamper and get ready for a night out and at a bargain at a fraction of the price too.

Vera Wang photo frame and LSA mini table vase

For a more home inspired gift what about this really gorgeous Vera Wang photo frame and LSE mini vase from Amara? The photo frame comes in the most beautiful presentation box and the brushed silver design is so classic yet stylish. You could even print off a photo of the two of you together for a more personalised gift.

As an alternative to just flowers I'd also recommend getting a beautiful vase too. That way she'd have something to keep for after. I love this mini table vase from LSA as the shape is just so perfect. And thanks to the small size it can be used for other items like make up brushes and pens too.

Valentine's Day Gifts For Him

Metaxa 12 stars

Over the years I've brought the Mr pretty much every brand of whisky but for something a bit different why not try Metaxa 12 stars. Originating from Greece it's a spirit which combines aromatic Muscat wines with fragrant May roses and Mediterranean herbs for a toasted fruity spiced flavour. Serve on a rocks or mixed with apple juice for a refreshing drink. It comes in a lovely presentation box and is a great alternative to the more traditional whisky or brandy.

Jo Malone perfume and toiletries

I remember when we were planning our wedding and so many people told us to pick a special wedding day fragrance so that you'd always have a scent to remember the day by. If your husband did something similar then why not pick up a bottle of his perfume or matching shower gel/body lotion for a really memorable gift. Jo Malone also do matching candles and reed diffusers too so the options are endless.

Braun series 7 shaver (currently on offer at Boots)

Finally for the gentleman who likes to look his best I'd recommend the Braun series 7 smart shaver. Not only does the sleek silver design look great, it also comes with 5 shaving modes and can be used both wet and dry for the ultimate convenience. Other features include autosense technology and adaptive shaving foils for a close shave and an advanced clean and charge station for easy cleaning in between uses.

Are you also a last minute shopper? What will you be buying for Valentine's day?

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Life lately - My January highlights

2018-02-06T08:30:00.000+00:00

It feels like only yesterday that I was writing up my 2017 highlights and now here we are at the end of another month. Unlike previous years January seems to have been surprisingly busy with birthdays, anniversaries and blogging events as well as a lot of time researching and planning for our honeymoon in Singapore and Thailand:

January de-clutter and shopping

January started with a much needed de-clutter and I've dug out my trusty Marie Kondo book for some inspiration. Her method may be a little extreme but it's certainly very motivating and I'm glad to have cleared out part of my wardrobe. Over the last few years I've gotten into a real style rut so it was good to throw out the old and to make some space for some exciting new purchases. Speaking off which I took advantage of the sales and treated myself to a gorgeous new navy Kate Spade Wallet and sparkly peach H&M jumper.

Treatment and blow dry at Rush hair salon
As a little treat I was booked in for a blow dry at Rush Westborne Grove just after New Year's. A relatively new salon I loved the sleek modern decor and the fact that the salon uses Kerastase products. There's magazines to browse whilst you wait and refreshments are complimentary too, with the Lindor chocolate going down particularly well. We started with a personalised Fusidose treatment which was designed to soften and add shine to my hair. As I was going out later that evening my stylist Jo then used a hair straighter to create a tighter look so that they could drop yet still maintain a curl.

Fitness and personal training
After a month of overindulgence and 2 weeks off at Christmas it wasn't the easiest getting back to the gym but as always having a PT really helped. If nothing else it forces me to go to the gym and once I'm there I'm usually happy to work out. We're continuing to work on my strength with a mixture of cardio and weights although with our honeymoon coming up I'd like to focus more on fat loss this month. I also did a park run in January and managed to achieve my fastest 5-10k speed to date.

Batch cooking with John Lewis

Towards the end of the month I was invited to a batch cooking class in association with John Lewis. Held at the Waitrose Cooking School in King's Cross, we made a simple but tasty tomato sauce, learnt how to use it to make a pizza and Shakshuka before putting our cooking skills to good use by making fresh pasta and Puttanesca sauce. I've never made pasta before but it was surprisingly quick and simple and tasted absolutely delicious too. For more batch cooking tips and all the recipes check out their blog post here.

Visit Madeira and meeting new bloggers
Since returning to blogging last year I've made an effort to share more travel content and last week I attended my first Visit Madeira event. The Barbican Conservatory made for a beautiful backdrop and we got to sample some delicious Portugese food as well as some Poncha cocktails which were strong but very yummy. We also learnt all about Madeira wine and how it was traditionally fortified on long sea journeys when the excessive heat would transform the flavour of the wine. Safe to say it's a new favourite and I've picked up a bottle from the supermarket already! It was lovely to meet some of the other travel bloggers at the event too.

6 months anniversary and honeymoon plans

And finally my favourite highlights this month - celebrating our 6 months anniversary. It's crazy to think that we've been married half a year already. I still remember the stress of planning a wedding and it really doesn't seem like all that long ago! We celebrated with a really lovely meal at London Steakhouse Co. as well as lots of prosecco and truffles at home. On a related note we've also finally decided on some dates for our honeymoon and I can't wait to explore Thailand and Singapore later this year.

For more photos and daily highlights you can also follow me on Instagram here.

Have you ever been to Thailand or Singapore? What have been your highlights this January?

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Payday beauty treats - 5 of the best products to buy this January

2018-01-30T11:30:00.000+00:00

Anyone else find themselves looking forward to payday and making a mental note of all the things that you'd like to buy? January in particular gets a bad reputation for being one the most depressing month of the year but as it's been payday recently I thought I'd put together 5 of the best beauty products to treat yourself to as a little reward for getting through the month:

L'occitane shea butter hand cream

How gorgeous is the collaboration between L'occitane and stationary brand Rifle Paper Co? L'occitane hand creams are somewhat of a cult favourite thanks to their moisturising shea butter and coconut oil formula but this January they've been updated with a beautiful hand illustrated print. Both designs are inspired by the natural beauty of Provence, although I think the pink rose one is particularly lovely and in addition to being a great hand cream it'll also add a fun pop of colour to any desk.

The Ordinary hyaluronic acid

Since it's launch The Ordinary has earned a reputation for being highly scientific and always delivering on results - not surprising really as it's owned by the same company behind Deciem and NIOD. There's a whole range of products to choose from, but if you're not sure I'd recommend starting with The Ordinary hyaluronic acid. It's a lightweight serum which helps to draw water into the skin and thus help with winter dehydration. A good dupe for the much loved Hydraluron and a great one to try if you're on a budget.

Olay Regenerist 3 point age defying cream

Since discovering the Olay Regenerist range a few years ago this cream has been a firm favourite. It's designed to hydrate and improve elasticity as well as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which is definitely something I need now that I'm in my late twenties! It's a good one to use under make up as it's not too heavy but at the same time still rich enough to protect against the elements and keep any fine lines at bay.

Bobbi Brown pale pink blush

Since discovering Bobbi Brown cosmetics for our wedding I've been a big fan of the brand and I think this blush is one of those gorgeous suit all shades. It may not look like much in the pan but applied onto the cheeks it transforms into the most pretty rosy pink flush. A great one for everyday wear, especially for work as it just looks so natural and really helps to perk up the complexion.

Essie vanity fairest nail polish

Another office favourite - over the years I've found myself shying away from bright colours and instead favouring pretty pinks and subtle nudes. Described as a shimmering sheer pastel pink Essie Vanity Fairest adds just a hint of colour as well as the most subtle soft glitter which you can only see when it catches the light. A good alternative to the usual nudes for a French Manicure or if you want something that still polished and pretty but without being too eye catching.

Have you tried any of the 5 products? What's on your payday wish list this January?

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A romantic and tranquil stay at Hotel Felix, Cambridge

2018-01-26T12:15:00.000+00:00

Looking forward to a weekend of relaxation and exploring we booked into Hotel Felix, a luxury boutique hotel just on the outskirts of Cambridge. Work had been particularly busy in the weeks before and we couldn't wait to check in, relax and enjoy all that the hotel had to offer:

Hotel Felix
Keen to stay somewhere modern and luxurious it was the impressive Victorian architecture and modern contemporary decor which first caught my eye and I'm glad to say that Hotel Felix looked just as nice in person. As soon as we walked in it felt cosy and stylish with it's rich colour scheme, soft fabric furnishings and beautiful floral decorations.

There are a few lounge areas and hidden alcoves and had we not wanted to explore more of Cambridge I could have easily whiled away a whole day relaxing in the hotel and treating myself to their indulgent afternoon tea.

The hotel is also surrounded by pretty greenery. Sadly it was too cold for us to really enjoy during our staycation but I think it would have been lovely to wander around in the summer and to dine outside on the terrace. The only downside is that it was perhaps a little further then we could have liked from Cambridge town center (we were hoping for somewhere really close so we could pop in and out during the day), but the half an hour walk was easily manageable and we were happy to compromise for the amenities and luxury of the hotel.

Our hotel room

After our long journey it was so nice to just check in and relax before getting ready for dinner. Our king size room was spacious and modern with stylish dark wooden furniture and a much welcomed armchair and footstool to relax on. I don't know what it is about hotel beds but they are always so comfy and we both slept so well the entire weekend. As a blogger I was glad to see that there was free wifi throughout the hotel and I loved the little extra touches such as the freshly baked shortbread biscuits and The White Company toiletries.

The bathroom is absolutely gorgeous too although my favourite feature though had to be the heated floor. As someone who is always cold it was amazing to come back after a long day and it certainly made getting up out of bed a lot easier in the morning.

Hotel Felix Graffiti Restaurant

We'd booked in for dinner at Graffiti the onsite restaurant on the night of our arrival. As an award winning restaurant serving modern European cuisine we were both impressed with the quality and choice available. The menu changes seasonally depending on the ingredients available, but if you can I'd highly recommend the beef tartare which was so fresh and melt in your mouth. I also really enjoyed my seabass risotto which was perfectly cooked with the fish flakey and the rice having just the right amount of bite and creaminess.

Like the rest of Hotel Felix the restaurant is beautiful and I loved the warm romantic atmosphere. My only complaint was that service could sometimes be a little slow although they seemed short on staff so perhaps it was just our particular weekend.

Breakfast is also served at Graffiti restaurant where there's a good selection of fruit, pastries and cereals available to help yourself to as well as a small hot food menu which can be ordered a-la-carte. I can never resist a full English, especially when on holiday and combined with the hot tea was a perfect start for a day of exploring in Cambridge.

Overall we both really enjoyed our stay at Hotel Felix. With it's luxurious modern facilities, delicious food and tranquil surroundings it was the ideal weekend getaway and we both left Cambridge feeling much more refreshed and relaxed after our little staycation.

Have you ever stayed at Hotel Felix? What are your favourite luxury hotels for a UK staycation?

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Postcards from a beautiful weekend staycation in Cambridge

2018-01-23T12:00:00.000+00:00

As much as I love to travel abroad one of my goals is also to explore the UK and to take more staycations throughout the year. So far I've managed to tick off Bath, Bristol, Market Harborough and Torquay and with it's rich history and proximity to London, Cambridge seemed like the perfect location for our next staycation:

Arriving late in the evening we soon checked into our hotel, relaxed and got ready for a delicious 3 course meal in the hotel restaurant.

With a long history of education and excellence there were so many beautiful university buildings in Cambridge and we loved wondering around, soaking up the inspirational atmosphere, reminiscing about our own university days and discussing our hopes and ambitions for the future.

The town is absolutely beautiful too with it's own winding river, intricate bridges and stunning architecture.

There's pretty much every type of cuisine available and we were spoilt for choice during our short weekend staycation in Cambridge. Particular highlights were the modern European cuisine at our hotel, authentic dim sum in Cambridge town center and a cosy hearty meal at a pub near the university.

I'll be putting together a full hotel review and Cambridge city guide so look out for the blog posts over the next few weeks!

Have you ever been to Cambridge? What are your favourite places for a UK staycation?

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Sky high dining with a view - A review of Hutong at The Shard

2018-01-19T08:45:00.000+00:00

It's no secret that I love oriental food - combine that with delicious cocktails and the most amazing views of London and it'll come as no surprise that Hutong at The Shard has now become one of my new favourite restaurants:

Having heard so many good things about Hutong at The Shard I was really excited to experience the food and atmosphere for myself. Upon arriving we were seated right next to the window giving us the most beautiful views of The City and St Paul's.

Water was soon poured and we were left to peruse the extensive food and drink menu, all whilst admiring the beautiful views and feeling grateful that we had the day off to enjoy London in the sunshine.

As we were celebrating my birthday we decided to start with a round of cocktails. Unfortunately I didn't write down the names but both were absolutely delicious, refreshing and sweet but still with a good kick of alcohol and I loved the additional touch of the mini ice cream cone on my drink.

As it was our first time at Hutong we weren't sure what to have so we decided to try the Experince lunch menu which turned out to be a really good introduction to the restaurant and the Northern Chinese style of food from head chef Fei Wang.

To start there are a selection of dumplings elegantly presented and served traditional style in a wooden steamer. We were both really impressed with these - it's easy to go wrong with dim sum but these were cooked to perfection with just enough bite to the skin and filled with the most delicious meat and vegetables inside. The Xo sauce crystal dumplings and rose champagne shrimp dumplings were particular highlights which really stood out.

Before main course there's a palette cleanser of classic poached monkfish in lamb broth. This was light and refreshing but at the same time packed with flavour and umami richness. I was so pleased to see it served traditional style with a light stock base and it really reminded me of my mum's home cooking - the ultimate compliment to the restaurant.

Time for another round of cocktails and again you could tell a lot of care and attention had gone into the choice of ingredients and they both turned out to the the perfect accompaniment to our main course.

Mains were a delicious mix of sauteed cuttlefish with gong vegetable, enoki mushroom and sichuan chilli, crispy beef tenderloin, bell peppers, dried garlic and black bean and wok fried pak choi with garlic sauce, served with a generous portion of chef's picked vegetable fried rice. Like with the previous courses we were so impressed with the complex layers of flavour. Each dish was so authentic and with a mixture of crispy meat, soft fish and light vegetables it was nicely balanced too.

Despite the luxurious location Hutong at The Shard had a really nice relaxed vibe, and with dark wooden decor and hanging lanterns it wasn't hard to imagine we were somewhere far more exotic than London. Staff are attentive but happy to leave you to talk too and we were able to enjoy a leisurely long lunch without feeling rushed or in the way.

Finally to end there's a mango pudding with fruit salsa. I'd describe this as similar to a set custard or panna cotta - creamy and smooth with a delicious burst of mango flavour running throughout. After the intense flavours of the main course this was the perfect dessert and a lovely end to the meal.

Overall we were both so impressed with Hutong at The Shard. There's a great selection of cocktails to choose from, the food is authentic and delicious and you really can't go wrong with the beautiful view. A great restaurant to visit for any special occasion and we'll no doubt be back to try more of the menu before too long!

Have you ever been to Hutong at The Shard? What are your favourite restaurants in London?

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Yoga and brunch at Dalloway Terrace - a gentle and mindful start to the day

2018-01-16T08:45:00.000+00:00

Having really gotten into fitness and healthy eating last year I was determined to keep it up in 2018. So when the opportunity came up for a yoga class and brunch at the beautiful Dalloway Terrace it seemed like the perfect chance to reset and get back on track after an indulgent Christmas break:

The Yoga Class with Lululemon

The yoga class started bright and early at 7am and our particular session was run by Kate Lister - a singer turned yoga teacher who was so friendly and great at motivating the class despite our early start. Yoga mats are provided by Lululemon and our session was a good mix of breathing exercises, flexibility and specific body postures.

I'd say it was suitable for both beginners and intermediates but if you're more advanced then you may prefer something more challenging. Now I must admit I'm not the most flexible and am usually more of a weights and cardio girl but despite this I still enjoyed the yoga class and came out feeling more relaxed and inspired.

Dalloway Terrace

Located in the heart of Bloomsbury Dalloway Terrace is one of the most beautiful venues in London and having seen it so many times on other blogs and Instagram I couldn't wait to see terrace for myself. It's decorated with the most beautiful hanging plants and greenery and as soon as I walked in I felt like I was in the most enchanting secret garden.

There's elegant marble decor, overhead heaters and cosy blankets to keep warm with during the winter. And with food and drinks served throughout the day it's the perfect place to escape from the outside world. I know I definitely want to go back to try the afternoon tea and for some after work cocktails.

Dalloway Terrace brunch

Straight after the yoga class we were led up to the beautiful Dalloway Terrace which was all set up for brunch and as it was so early we had the whole terrace to ourselves too which was lovely. To start with there's a tea or coffee plus your choice of a juice, followed by one of 4 freshly prepared brunch bowls.

I've included a photo of the menu above so you can see the choices available but I'd highly recommend the London Greens Juice and Rainbow Acai Bowl. With a mix of seasonal berries, banana and assorted nuts it tasted as good as it looked and along with the cup of steaming hot tea certainly helped to set me up for the day.

Brunch is a relaxed affair - something to bear in mind if you need to run off to work after. There were only about 8 or so of us in the class and most people we happy to stay and chat after so it turned out to be a relaxing and gentle start to the day.

Overall both me and my friend really enjoyed our yoga class and brunch at Dalloway Terrace and it's a lovely way to reset and be inspired for the new year. The class runs every Thursday morning till the end of January and you can find more information and purchase tickets here.

Have you ever visited Dalloway Terrace? What are you favourite exercise classes and brunch locations?

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Five all time favourites - my top beauty discoveries of 2017

2018-01-11T08:45:00.000+00:00

A new year new beauty refresh and having had a de-clutter and clear out of my beauty stash recently there are 5 products which have really stood out as favourites from 2017:

1. Burberry eye colour contour in 02 pale nude

These days I'm all about make up products which perform and are quick and easy to apply and this ticks both of those boxes. It's a twist up eyeshadow pen and comes in the most gorgeous shimmery golden bronze. It's so pigmented and creamy to apply - you can blend it out for a softer look but once dry it'll stay in place and won't budge till you remove it at the end of the day. A great one for mornings when you're in a rush or to keep in your handbag for those last minute after work dinner/drinks.

2. No 7 stay perfect long lasting volume mascara

As someone which short straight eyelashes mascara is always a struggle but No 7 stay perfect long lasting volume is a new favourite. The thin brush manages to catch every eyelash, coating them with dark black pigment and subtly lengthens and volumises for a more sultry wide eyed look. What I really like about this mascara though is that it's a 'tubing' formula so it never smudges when I'm out and about but is so easy and mess free to remove with water at the end of the day.

3. Alpha H Liquid Gold

This was a game changer for my skincare routine. The key ingredient is glycolyic acid which gently exfoliates and brightens the skin, leaving a more radiant flawless complexion. Since discovering this I've stopped using manual exfoliators completely and now only use this about 2-3 times a week. My skin tone looks more even, any scarring disappears quicker and my skin just generally looks more bright and youthful.

4. Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream
Like the Alpha H liquid gold this as become somewhat of a cult product and I think it's an absolute essential if you suffer from dry winter skin. A thick balm similar to that of Vaseline (but with much better ingredients) it warms up on contact with body heat and just melts into the skin. It takes a little while to sink in so I find it's best used at night on the face although it also makes for a great lip balm and cuticle softener too. A really versatile product and a great staple for any skincare obsessive.

5. Babyliss curl secret

Along with the Burberry eye colour contour this was another wedding discovery from when I was considering doing my own hair and make up last year. If you're someone who loves the look of natural curls but struggles to do them with a traditional curler then you need Babyliss curl secret in your life. Similar in shape to a pair of straighteners it has a curling mechanism at the end, which takes in the hair and curls it to a soft wave or defined curl depending on your temperature and time setting (there are 3 of each and it beeps at the end to let you know when the hair is ready for release).

I must admit it was a little scary at first seeing my hair being 'swallowed up' by the curler but as long as you brush through first and do thin sections at a time there's very little chance of it getting tangled and even if it does you can just release the curlers to free the hair. It takes about 30-45 minutes to do my medium-fine long hair and I like that Babyliss curl secret automatically alternates the direction too so that the overall look is much more natural.

Have you tried any of these 5 products? What were your favourite beauty discoveries of 2017?

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Looking back on 2017 - my personal highlights and goals for the new year

2018-01-03T08:30:00.000+00:00

Happy New Year everyone! I can't quite believe that that another year is over and now here we are the first few days of 2018. I've always thought of the new year as a chance for a fresh start, rather like turning the chapter of a book and as is customary this time of year I thought it would be nice to look back on the last 12 months and to make some plans for the new year:

Health and fitness

This was probably my biggest achievement last year. I've always had a love hate relationship with exercise but in a bid to tone up for the wedding I signed up with a PT and it's been such a game changer. We do a combination of weights and cardio which is always such a killer but very effective and for the first time ever I'm actually enjoying going to the gym 3-4 times a week and seeing the results.

Work/Career

I must admit I've been feeling somewhat lost since leaving medicine but in 2017 I was proud to have been offered a promotion, pushed myself to do a live TV interview, had articles published and completed several difficult projects at work.

Towards the end of the year I felt like I had a clearer understanding of how I wanted my career to progress and started taking steps towards my dream job something which I plan to build upon in 2018.

Cambridge staycation

Around February we enjoyed a much needed staycation in Cambridge. It was a perfect long weekend filled with romantic walks, delicious food and lots of exploring in one of England's most historic cities. Having graduated a few years ago it felt strange to be in such a university town but there was such a sense of hope and ambition and I certainly left feeling more refreshed and inspired!

Weddings

We had 2 weddings in 2017. A really beautiful reception for a friend then just weeks later our very own at Kew Gardens! It was a day filled with so much love and laughter. We were blessed with the most perfect heart felt ceremony and we were lucky that so many of our friends from all over the world came to celebrate with us.

Mini moon in Italy

Straight after the wedding we hopped onto a plane for a week of sunshine and pasta in Italy. We loved the beautiful scenery and relaxation in Sorrento and it was so nice to enjoy the all delicious food and world famous sights in Rome.

Blogging

Admittedly 2017 wasn't my best year blogging but despite this I've been lucky enough to be offered some amazing opportunities and continued to make great friends within the community. Highlights include multiple beauty launches, reviewing a steak restaurant in St Paul's, a festive cooking class and most surreal of all attending an intimate gig with the boy band Blue to celebrate nPower going green in December.

It's funny because 2017 didn't feel like my best year but looking back it's made me realise that it was surprisingly eventful and I've achieved more than I originally thought.

The biggest highlight was definitely getting married but I guess with the wedding and all the planning being such a big part of our lives in 2017 everything else ended up taking a bit of a back seat. And so despite some positives I don't feel like I've progressed as much as I would have liked to with regards to my career and blogging.

As a result as I've spend much of December figuring out my plans for 2018 and I'm looking forward to starting the year on a high and hopefully achieving all these goals:

- Build upon the steps I've already taken to find and land my ideal job

- Be more organised and productive with blogging, create more lifestyle content and hopefully work with some of my dream brands

- Continue with the gym and personal training to maintain my health and fitness

- Travel more. So far on the bucket list is SE Asia for our honeymoon, LA to visit a friend and hopefully a short weekend break somewhere in Europe too

- De-clutter and invest in some new wardrobe pieces

- And finally to purchase and move into a new flat/house together

What were your 2017 highlights? Do you have any goals/resolutions for the new year?

The luxury Christmas gift guide for her

2017-12-18T10:40:00.000+00:00

December always seems to go by in the blink of an eye and with Christmas fast approaching I've been turning my attention to all the best gift sets and festive treats this year. And if you're also a last minute shopper or need some inspiration for your own wish list then I've put together a guide of the best luxury gifts for her this Christmas:

Jo Malone perfume - from £45
Jo Malone is always the first brand that comes to mind when I think of luxury fragrance and for a Christmas gift you really can't go wrong with one of their beautiful perfumes. There are so many gorgeous fragrances to choose from but my top 3 recommendations would be English Pear & Freesia, Orange Blossom and Peony & Blush Suede. They also have lots of luxurious gift sets and home fragrances and I'm really hoping I'll find one of their iconic boxes under the Christmas tree this year!

Alpha H skincare set - £39.50
As the brand behind Liquid Gold Alpha H is known for quality skincare which delivers results. And for Christmas they've brought out this lovely Essentials Collection. With a travel sized cleanser, moisturiser and face oil it covers all the basics and is a great way of introducing someone to the brand or for a friend who regularly travels.

Elemis skincare - From £82
Elemis Pro Collagen Marine Cream has achieved cult status amongst beauty fans and having used the moistuiser since my early twenties I can definitely see why! A light weight cream with anti-ageing properties it's super quick absorbing yet hydrating and always leaves my skin feeling plump and radiant - a great gift for any skincare obsessive. This particular one was a October special for Breast Cancer Awareness month but you can still buy the supersized 100ml in the usual turquoise packaging.

Crabtree and Evelyn foodie treats - From £12
Foodie treats always go down well at Christmas and this year I'm loving the biscuits and gingerbread men from Crabtree and Evelyn. There's a delicious assortment of flavours to choose from including butterscotch and Christmas pudding and with such a generous portion it'll last all through the festive season. The gingerbread men is lovely too - crunchy and moreish with just the right amount of heat and spice.

Lancome cosmetics - From £21
I always think cosmetics are an exciting gift and this year Lancome have brought out some new lip colours. The L'absolu velvet mattes are a great alternative to the traditional matte lipstick and offer a more comfortable creamy finish without compromising on colour intensity. For a more collectable option there's the collaboration with Olympia le Tan and I'd highly recommend the highlighter just for that gorgeous packaging alone.

Amara treats for a cosy night in - From £45
As someone who's always cold and enjoys a cosy night in I love this stylish hot water bottle and scented candle from Amara. The ombre silk cover elevates a practical gift to something more luxurious and with notes of fig and pine the scented candle is perfect for injecting some Christmas fragrance into the home.

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? What are some of your favourite gifts this year?

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Life lately - six November highlights

2017-12-06T11:35:00.000+00:00

Another month over and I can't believe that Christmas is now less than 4 weeks away! As it's our first one as newly weds I'm looking forward to all the festivities, food and fun, but first a look back at a few of my favourite November highlights:

Blogging

After a patchy start this year I've finally been able to dedicate some proper time to blogging this November and I'm really enjoying the whole process of writing posts, taking photos and being part of the community again.

What started as a place to share my love of all things beauty has evolved into more of a lifestyle blog and it's been so nice to relive the day and share our wedding and mini moon as well as my favourite bottomless brunch in London.

Afternoon tea with the girls

One of the best things about blogging is the friendships that we've made and in November I was able to catch up with the lovely Aysha and Safira. We had a really lovely afternoon tea at Amba Hotel and chatted away for hours over endless cups of tea, sandwiches and scones. You can see more photos of the amazing food on my Instagram here.

Christmas cooking class

This year I've been feeling uncharacteristically festive in November so when an invite to a Christmas cooking class landed in my inbox I jumped at the chance. Using state of the art AEG ovens we made our own mince pies and a super easy but delicious vegetable pastry parcel, before being treated to our first Christmas roast of the year. With free flowing prosecco and all the beautiful decorations it was such a lovely way to kick off the festive season. Currys PC World have also put together some of their top tips so if you're cooking this Christmas then check out their blog post here.

Taste of London

We were also given tickets to Taste of London and we both loved going around all the food stalls and restaurants. As a celebration of the best that London has to offer, there were so many great restaurants to choose from and as all the dishes are on the small side we were able to try quite a few. Highlights include the chicken bun from Bao, scallops from Les 100 de Taillevet and the most amazing waffle and ice cream from Rok. Sadly Taste of London has now finished but it'll be back next summer at Regent's Park.

Vuelio blog awards

Just before the end of the month I put my party dress on and headed off to Bloomsbury to celebrate all things blogging at the Vuelio awards. With a sparkling drinks reception, 3 course meal and a chance to chat with other bloggers it was a really lovely evening and big congratulations to Menswear Style for winning Best UK blogger!

Personal training and fitness

I never thought I'd be someone that enjoyed exercise but I have to say getting a PT has completely transformed my routine. We do a mixture of cardio and weights which is a complete killer but you always feel so good afterwards and combined with a healthier diet I've really noticed the results this year. I'm now working towards doing 10 pull ups in a row and it's so satisfying being able to increase reps or to go up a weight.

Have you ever been to Taste of London? What were your November highlights?

*We were guests of Currys PC World

Other posts you may like:

2016 - the highlights
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Life - Summer memories

The everyday make up essentials - 5 products for a natural polished look

2017-11-30T08:30:00.000+00:00

As much as I like to experiment with make up and try out new colours, there are a few tried and tested favourites that I always find myself reaching for, especially during the week when I need to look polished and professional for work:

The everyday make up essentials

Base
I find a good base is key and as I prefer something more lightweight the Chantecaille just skin tinted moisturiser is perfect. It's so quick and easy to apply and adds just enough coverage to smooth over the complexion and even out my skin tone. I also like that has SPF and offers protection against pollution, thus avoiding the need for extra sunscreen and anti-antioxidant.

Concealer

Next I like to go in with a concealer for those dark circles and any patches of redness. I first discovered Bobbi Brown instant full coverage concealer at a bridal make up trial and loved how creamy yet pigmented it was. The doe foot application means you can be precise with your application and I find that it sits well on the skin without settling into any fine lines or creasing.

Blusher

A blush is always essential to lift the complexion and recently I've been reaching for Bobbi Brown blush in Apricot. Another bridal trial discovery this was actually the colour I wore on my wedding day and I just love how flattering and warming the pinky coral colour is on my skin tone. It's fairly pigmented so definitely one to build up the colour slowly, but it lasts well during the day and photographs beautifully.

Brows (and mascara)

I think it's safe to say that I fell in love with Bobbi Brown cosmetics in the run up to the wedding and another product that made it's way into my daily make up routine is the Bobbi Brown perfectly defined long wear brown pencil in Espresso. If you have dark brown/black hair like me then this is the perfect shade. The waxy pencil is also super easy to apply with it's slanted angle and the brow comber so handy for brushing through and correcting any mistakes.

(Also not included in the photo is a good mascara - I'm currently switching between Maxfactor false lash effect and Benefit Roller Lash).

Lips
Finally a slick of lip colour and I'm good to go. This time of year it's all about getting as much moisture as I can which is why I tend to reach for a Clinique chubby stick over lipstick. Mighty mimosa in particular is a really gorgeous pinky nude shade which is great for everyday wear, adding just a hint of colour and finishes the look off perfectly.

Have you tried any of the products above? What are your daily make up essentials?

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Esthechoc beauty chocolate advent calendar - a guilt free treat

2017-11-21T12:05:00.000+00:00

With Christmas just around the corner I've been on the lookout for an advent calendar and this year I've found a guilt free treat in the form of Esthechoc beauty chocolate advent calendar:

Esthechoc beauty chocolate advent calendar

Chocolate is one of my favourite treats anyway, especially this time of year but what makes Esthechoc unique is that it's been specifically designed for skin health with a blend of antioxidants, polyphenols and astaxanthin. So each morning I can enjoy my chocolate guilt free knowing that it's helping to reduce inflammation, boost circulation and promote a youthful looking complexion, which is definitely something I need help with as I tend to be quite unhealthy over the festive season.

Each Eschechoc comes individually wrapped and I like that the portion sizes are slightly bigger than what you'd get in a standard advent calendar. Quite often with 'healthier' foods I find that the flavour can be affected but these taste just like a good quality dark chocolate, not bitter at all and really enjoyable to eat.

It's also beautifully packaged in a luxurious gold and white box with 24 doors and a pretty snowflake design. At £60 Esthechoc beauty chocolate advent calendar is definitely one of the more luxury calendars but I like to think of it as skincare and food combined and I'm looking forward to seeing how my skin will benefit over the festive season.

Have you tried Esthechoc before? What are your favourite advent calendars this year?

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Jo Malone bridal consultation - how I chose my perfect wedding fragrance

2017-11-14T11:15:00.000+00:00

I've always loved how fragrance has this amazing ability to evoke memories and transport you back to a moment. So when it came to choosing my wedding perfume there was only ever one brand in question - the beautifully scented and luxurious Jo Malone:

Photos by Camilla Arnhold Photography

With over 25 perfumes there really is something for everyone, but I'd always found the choice a little overwhelming so I booked us in for a bridal consultation so we could really explore the perfumes properly.

Jo Malone Scent Your Wedding is a complimentary service designed to introduce you to the range and to help you to choose the perfect fragrance for your big day. Available at various boutiques and counters across the country, it starts with a lovely glass of chilled prosecco before we sat down to discuss our wedding plans and our fragrance likes and dislikes. I've always gravitated towards fruity floral scents so wanted something similar but a bit more grown up and luxurious for the wedding.

His choice of Basil & Neroli and Lime Basil & Mandarin

Based on this, the Jo Malone consultant brought over a selection of perfumes for us to smell and after hearing our comments she was able to narrow down the range to a few favourites. After this came the fun part of trying out different combinations to create an even more unique scent.

Now as anyone who knows me will tell you I'm super indecisive and it took me a good 10-15 minutes to decide on beautiful Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia as my main perfume. There were a few combinations which I liked, but ultimately the warmth and sweetness of Jo Malone Orange Blossom won and I soon had my perfect wedding perfume combination.

The Jo Malone Scent Your Wedding consultation then ends with a hand and arm massage using your chosen body creme and cologne which is such a lovely way to relax and be sure that it's definitely the right combination for you.

There's no pressure to buy but having tried it so many times before I couldn't resist picking up a bottle of the Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia cologne and it wasn't long before I was back for the Jo Malone Orange Blossom too. You can also buy certain perfumes in a beautiful bridal lace bottle and get it engraved too which is now top of my wish list for Christmas.

On our wedding day I absolutely loved the combination of the two perfumes together and received so many compliments too. Now whenever I spray either of the Jo Malone colognes I'm instantly transported to happy memories of our wedding and mini moon in Sorrento.

Have you tried any of the Jo Malone perfumes? Which fragrance did you wear on your wedding day?

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An indulgent Han Setto brunch at Roka Aldwych

2017-11-10T10:30:00.000+00:00

Is there anything nicer at the weekend than a long lie in followed by a lazy brunch? Over the years we've tried a lot of different restaurants in London, but with it's Asian inspired menu the Han Setto brunch at Roka Aldwych is one that we always find ourselves returning to:

The brunch starts a refreshing glass of Bellini each as you settle into the restaurant and peruse the menu.

Edamame beans and a selection of vegetable pickles

Soon a variety of starters are brought to the table. These are all designed to share and Roka regularly changes the menu too, so you are always guaranteed to try something new. Don't worry though as the favourites (such as dumplings and sushi) stay, although you might be teased with a new flavour.

There are 10 (unlimited) starters in total and of the cold selection I was particularly impressed with the sliced sashimi and tomato salad. Both very light and refreshing and the perfect start to a delicious meal.

Also included in the Roka Han Setto brunch are unlimited drinks for the duration of the meal. There's a choice of red, white or sparkling wine and naturally we went for the prosecco. The waiters were brilliant at topping up our glasses - in fact I don't think mine was empty the whole time and I definitely felt a little light headed by dessert.

Crunchy vegetable and prawn temperura with a dipping sauce. These were so moreish - the vegetables had just the right amount of bite, and the batter light and crispy without any hint of greasiness.

No Japanese meal would be complete without some sushi and we both loved this plate. Little bite sized rolls filled with salmon and avocado as well as a crunchy tempura.

There's one dish that stands out though and it's these delicious dumplings. Over the years we've tried both the beef and pork options and I think Roka are currently serving a chicken dumpling as part of the brunch. Think umami rich filling encased in a lightly fried skin, all served with a soy based sauce and lightly picked vegetables. So good that we ended up getting a second portion to share.

I always find it fascinating watching chefs at work and at Roka Aldwych the robata grill is located in the middle of the restaurant so you can see the meat being cooked right in front of your eyes. It was impressive the skill and speed they managed to cook all the dishes and I'd definitely recommend eating at the bar at least once.

For mains you each choose a dish and on this particular occasion we went with the beef sirloin and ribs. The beef was grilled to perfection - medium rare and juicy but it was ribs which were the star of the show. Tender, melt in your month and smothered in a delicious sweet sticky sauce with just a hint of zinginess from the lime, these were so moreish and definitely worth getting your hands dirty for.

By this point we were pretty full but there was still one more course to come, and the dessert platter at Roka is seriously impressive. Again this changes regularly but there's always a selection of fruit, ice cream and desserts. I loved the chocolate mousse Budda and the green tea crumble as well as the selection of sorbets which rounded off the meal nicely.

All in all an absolutely delicious brunch with bottomless drinks, and I'd go so far as to say it's one of my favourites in London. Highly recommended and it's worth keeping your eye on the Time Out Offers website too as they regularly have offers for the Roka Han Setto brunch.

Roka Aldwych, 71 Aldwych, London, WC2B 4HN

Have you ever been to Roka Aldwych? What are your favourite restaurants for weekend brunch?

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Three skincare heroes to try this Autumn/Winter

2017-11-07T08:00:00.000+00:00

With the wedding this summer and now winter just around the corner I've been making more of an effort with my skincare, and after trying out various new launches there are three products which have really impressed:

Alpha H Liquid Gold Rose

The original liquid gold is somewhat of a hero product but I must admit the idea of an acid seemed rather scary. So when Alpha H launched their new Liquid Gold Rose I was instantly intrugued. The active ingredient of glycolic acid is the same as in the original formula but the addition of rose makes it gentler and more soothing on the skin, great for a first timer like myself. You simply apply some of the liquid onto a cotton pad then sweep over the face and the glycolic acid works by loosening dead skin cells and gently exfoliating the skin. There's a delicate floral scent and my skin definitely tingles on application but it's nothing too uncomfortable or burning. I then apply my night serum and cream as normal. Because of the hype I had high expectations and I have to say I was not disappointed. The next morning my skin was so smooth and radiant and even after just a few uses my skintone seems better and spots less problematic. Definitely a new favourite!

Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Cream

Now that I'm in my late twenties I've been reaching more for anti-ageing formulas and for day cream I've been loving Lancome Genifique Youth Activating Cream. It's rich and hydrating but at the same time non greasy and quick absorbing so ideal for using under make up. I can't seem to find much information about the ingredients online but it's designed to target the first signs of ageing, namely dullness, fine lines and lack of elasticity which is definitely something that I need help with! With continued use I've noticed my skin's hydration levels improving and it just generally looks more plumped up and healthier.

Garnier Ambre Solaire Hydrating Face Mist SPF50

With all acids it's important to use sunscreen to protect the skin and although I still love Piz Buin as my morning SPF I've been topping up throughout the day with Garnier Ambre Solaire Hydrating Face Mist SPF50. A relatively new concept you use it as you would a face spray and it's great for on the go applications, lunch breaks or in my case after a workout at the gym. I find the spray so light and it can also be used over make up, which is such an advantage compared to the more traditional sunscreen. To avoid any white patches I find it works best when sprayed from a distance and I also like that it contains glycerin for long lasting hydration.

Have you tried any of the 3 products above? What have been your favourite skincare launches this year?

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We got married - a quick catch up and life update

2017-11-01T18:35:00.000+00:00

Hello remember me?! It's been a while since my last blog post and it's safe to say that 2017 hasn't been my best year for blogging. There's been a lot going on behind the scenes though so today I thought I'd share a few highlights from the last few months:

Photos by Camilla Arnhold Photography

We got married!

After nearly 2 years of planning we got married this July at the beautiful Kew Gardens. In typical British summer style it poured with rain for most of the day but I can honestly say that it didn't matter. If anything it kept everyone together and we both had such a fun day. Our registrars were so lovely and and the ceremony felt so personal and meaningful. We both also loved the bubble confetti and whizzing around the gardens in a golf buggy afterwards for our photos during the reception.

I'm still debating about how best to share wedding content (we had some great suppliers and both learnt so much from the process), but for now feel free to check out my Instagram for more photos and a big shout out to Camilla for capturing our day so beautifully.

Mini-moon in Sorrento and Rome

Our main honeymoon will be next year but just after the wedding we hopped onto a plane for a blissful few days of relaxation and exploring in Sorrento and Rome. I've never been to Italy before but the country is so beautiful and a few days by the sea was just what we needed after all the stress of wedding planning. Wherever you looked the view was just so picturesque in Sorrento and the pasta and gelato unbelievably good. Highly recommended if you're ever looking for a short break or mini-moon.

Personal training and fitness

Like a lot of people I've struggled with health and fitness over the years but at the start of 2017 I decided I wanted to tone up for the wedding so signed up with a personal trainer and it's made such a difference.

We do a combination of strength and cardio which is always a killer but it's reassuring to know that I'm doing all the exercises correctly and getting the most out of every workout. I'm also constantly being pushed and it's surprisingly motivating being able to increase the number of reps or move onto that next weight. For the first time ever I can honestly say I enjoy exercising and I feel a lot happier in myself as a result.

Blogging and the future of Peonies and lilies

At the start of the year I became quite disillusioned with blogging and combined with a broken laptop and hectic schedule Peonies and lilies naturally look a bit of a back seat. I've missed it a lot though and now that the wedding's over and I'm looking forward to sitting down and writing posts again. There'll still be beauty content but I'm hoping to have lots more travel and restaurant reviews as well as a few wedding posts too.

Photo above from my birthday meal at Hutong at The Shard - look out for a review soon and let me know if you have any blog post requests!

Have you ever been to Sorrento or Rome? How has your 2017 been so far?

Other posts you may like:
Jo Malone bridal consultation - how I chose my perfect wedding fragrance
2016 - the highlights
Life - July/August round up
Life - a little update

A delicious steak and Sunday roast at Barbecoa St Paul's

2017-05-15T12:00:00.000+01:00

One of the best things about living in London is that there's always somewhere new to try and since I've been working in The City it feels like we've discovered a whole new area of bars and restaurants. And seeing as steak is one of our favourite treats, Barbecoa St Paul's seemed like the perfect location for a Sunday lunch:

As we were celebrating we decided to start off with a round of cocktails, me with the Jessica Rabbit and R with a Country-side Cobbler. The Cobbler was light and refreshing but the real star of the show was the Jessica Rabbit. A blend of vanilla vodka, strawberry puree, elderflower, lime and and prosecco, it was fruity and sweet, with just the right amount of fizz -probably one of my favourite drinks of all time.

With the wedding less than 3 month's away I've been making an effort to eat healthier and as I love the fresh zingy flavours of Ceviche this seemed like the obvious choice. The portion size was really generous and I loved the delicate balance between the scallops, sea bass and citrus fruit.

R went for the spicy chicken wings, which although heavier had a lovely crispy coating and smokey paprika flavour. Wings and blue cheese sauce is such a classic combination and the pickles on the side provided a nice touch of freshness.

Located at the top of One New Change shopping centre Barbecoa had a great view of St Paul's Cathedral and the giant glass windows ensured the restuarant felt light and airly at all times.

Time for another round of cocktails and I loved the Jessica Rabbit so much I couldn't resist ordering another one. We also tried Salty Dog's Gimlet which was an interesting combination of gin, salt & lime cordial, seaweed and explosive. A good one to try if prefer your cocktails a little less sweet.

On Sundays Barbecoa St Paul's only offer a set menu but with most if not all the a la carte starters and desserts on the menu we didn't feel like we were missing out too much. Plus it was great value, especially considering the location and portion sizes. The pork belly and loin was deliciously flavoured and tender with crispy crackling and a roast apple for sweetness.

Although there's sirloin included on the Sunday menu there's also the option to order a fillet at an additional charge. We asked for this medium rare and it came perfectly cooked with a delicious carmalisation on the outside, served with bone marrow, toast and rich Bernaise sauce.

All roasts come with a huge pot of sides, included potatoes, Yorshire pudding and vegetables as well as a little jug of gravy. For the steak we chose chips and broccoli although I have to admit we were also very tempted by the Mac & cheese!

Me looking very happy with my cocktail!

The restaurant has a chic modern decor which I thought suited the location perfectly and I loved that one side of the wall was a giant wine rack.

By this point we were feeling pretty full but upon seeing the apple custard brioche we couldn't resist ordering a portion to try. For a dish that could have potentially been very rich the brioche slices tasted surprisingly light and the stewed apples and raisins perfect after such a meaty meal. I'd also recommend the Mai Tini which was almost like the dessert in drink form.

Overall, a really enjoyable Sunday lunch and given that Barbecoa St Paul's is so close to work we'll definitely be back another day to try the a la carte menu.

Barbecoa St Paul's, 20 New Change, London, EC4M 9AG

Have you ever been to Barbecoa St Paul's? What are your favourite restaurants in The City?

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