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Small Business Gift Guide : Women

General as this title may sound, I promise there is something for all the women you are buying for in this post. Whether it is Granny who has everything, an Auntie who you don’t know what she likes or you are a guy reading this for wifey ideas, I have it covered.  Lots of women at the recent fairs I was at, told me that they buy their own presents and then give them to the husband to wrap. That is RUBBISH guys. If you are reading this, one thing you can’t do wrong at Christmas is buying a gift for your other half that they haven’t asked for! (as long as you also get the item they have asked for!) It will pay dividends and everyone will be happy!

Below are some wonderful ideas that I have been saving in a Christmas 2017 file since January, so let’s go…

FOR THE FASHIONISTA

Rose Gold Monmatre Watch from Auree Jewellery £130

I am currently running competition to win this stunning watch over on Instagram but if you can’t wait for the results (Friday night) head over to Auree with code AUREEANGEL2 for 15% off all watches. Be warned, you will also be sucked in by the stunning jewellery too.

 

Rose Gold Watch

Bucket Bag with Detachable Aztec Strap from TLM Edit £55

Gorgeous bucket bag. Comes with plain strap too and smal zip up purse as well as detachable Aztec strap. Roomy and a perfect size to carry a laptop amongst other things!

Bucket Bag

Fur Cross Body Bag from TLM Edit £55

It speaks for itself. If the recipient is bold, bright, confident and likes to be different, this across body bag is for them.

fur clutch

Red Lips Tee from Bricks & Stitches £25

Worn with a blazer and jeans, this is cool. Also comes in aubergine lips or gold on black. Lush.

 

Lips Tee

 

Liberty Initial Sweatshirt from Mary & The Guys £36

I love a bit of personalisation and coupled with Liberty print and a comfortable sweater, its quids in. Order now though for personalisation!

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Gold Diamante Hoops from TLM Edit £22

No mistaking that hoops are in at the moment and with cubic zirconia encrusted throughout, it would be hard for the recipient not to appreciate these gorgeous earrings.

Gold Hoops

 

Personalised Family Tote in Navy & Neon from Marloe London £65

Speaking of personalisation, this bag from Marloe is so useful, sturdy and smart. The navy makes it work int eh winter and the neon trim makes it perfect for the summer too. Win win!

Marloe Family Bag

 

Velvet Cactus Wallet from TLM Edit £32

Super soft and sturdy wallet that’s a bit different from the leather ones that are doing the rounds at the moment.

Velvet Wallet

 

Pony & Gold Foldover Clutch from Sarah Bailey £175

Sarah’s clutches are a magpie’s heaven. I love the silver and pink on this one…
Bobby Foldover

My Year Sweatshirt from On The Rise £70

If you think your recipient is proud of the year they were born this is a pretty cool present. Choose the colour sweat and the colour date.

On The Rise

Personalised Polo Belt from pampeano £65

I was the lucky recipient of one of these last year and despite wearing it alot, it is still as good as new. Super smart and loads of colours and fabrics to choose from too.

Pampeano

 

Leather & Glitter Cuff from The Alex Edit £25

Filled with gorgeous sparkly goodies, my pick from The Alex Edit this Christmas is one of her fab cuffs.

Glitter Cuffs

 

Electric Blue & Leopard Print Messenger Bag £80

So funky, I can’t handle it. Have you ever seen anything like it? Definitely not for the retiring amongst us!

Leopard Messenger Bag

 

Slogan Sweat from FWP by Rae at The Alex Edit £45

The newest top from FWP BY Rae is another must-have. Thicker than the best-selling Premier Cru tops, these are incredibly soft and so comfortable to wear (the cut is fabulous), the logo references Cru Bourgeois wines from the Medoc region of Bordeaux that didn’t quite make the official Classé certification of 1855.

Premier Cru

 

4 in 1 Bracelet from TLM Edit £30

If you have ea rock chick who wants to pack a punch with her wrist candy, this bracelet is for her. Pick and choose which ones to wear, but if you are like me- where all at the same time!

Bracelet Cuff

FOR THE STATIONARY LOVER

A Year of Cards from Ellie Good Illustrations

Never be caught out by the ‘Oh, sxxt, it’s tomorrow’ card-shopping-panic ever again! Lasting you a whole year this economical pack of 40 greetings cards includes 17 different designs for as many different events. The cards have been lovingly illustrated, printed on recycled card and are a snip at only 88p each. Envelopes are included. This is absolutely genius – I love them and every busy women in the world should have a box.

A Year of Cards

Insect Note Cards Set from Ele Grafton

These beautifully drawn insect cards are perfect to write a quick thank you note on and would make a lovely stocking filler.

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Tinkerlink Phone Cover from Giftpop from £32.50

These have swarmed Instagram this year. Super fun and with the ability to choose your own finish, colour and charm – each one is unique – unless you are really unlucky!

Tinkerlink

Letter Writing Set by Anna Wright £12.50

Encourage old school letter writing with this lovely poppyhead paper and envelope set.

Letter writing set

FOR THE BEAUTY LOVER

El&So Luxury Face Care Gift Set £27

Take it from me, El&So works. It gently takes off the rubbish accumulated on your face from the day and rehydrates and nourishes. I love it and highly recommend it. Once you try it, you will become hooked and it is so mice to think this is made by hand.

El & So

LANAIBLO Personalised Professional Hairdryer £99

2400 Watt is a high power hair dryer putting professional power in the hands of you with a super fast drying ability. Ionic Technology gives a benefit of this is that the cuticle of your hair becomes smooth, giving you a gloriously smooth finish.

Hairdryer

Radiance Boost Duo from Caudalie £45

With dry weather and dehydrating activities (cough cough) this December, this would be a very welcome present for someone who likes looking after their skin.

Caudelie

FOR THE FOODIE

Sea Salted Caramels from Caragh Chocolates £13.99

Nestled between Guernsey and Jersey, Caragh make all their chocolates by hand, in their kitchen surrounded by breathtaking vistas, coastal paths and secret bays. The chocolates are exquisite – buy yourself a box too. Just because…

Sea Salt Chocolates

Make Me Blush Rose £13.99

Swimwear designer Veronica joked to her wine-producing Italian father that the only way she’d get into the wine business is if he made her a Rosé – so he did. This sophisticated style from Piemonte, Italy is good fun – I can certainly imagine enjoying a bottle (or two) with the girls next time the sun is shining or not shining – it doesn’t matter. The handy bottle top makes this a great option for picnics too.

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FOR THE HOUSE PROUD

Lumitrix Gift Box starts from £25

Everyone loves a piece of art – but best to let them choose it. A beautifully presented gift box from Lumutrix would be a wonderful gift to enable freedom of choice to your recipient. There are so many wonderful photographic prints to choose from, that may be the hard choice!

Lumitrix Gift Box

Home Declutter Kit by Helen Sanderson £39

Helen’s Home Declutter Kit offers a simple, easy way to detox your living space and clear clutter from your life – fast! If you’re into healthy living you’ll be familiar with the notion of detoxing or purging the body, so consider this a handy tool to help you do the same on the home front.

Brilliant if the recipient needs a little nudge in the right direction!

Declutter Kit

Liberty Print Pillow Cases from Poppy & Honesty £57 for a pair

So pretty and all handmade to an excellent seamstress with fab taste. I love these – they would make a spare room.

Betsy Pillow Cases

Glad Tidings Scented Candle from Tussie Mussie £32

It was hard to choose which candle to include as they all smell delicious but seeing as it is Christmas this one seems most appropriate, although if you are buying for a loved one ‘Love Story’ would be lovely too. All handmade by Natasha at her home, they are lovingly made and packaged beautifully.

Glad tidings scented candle

I hope this has given you some ideas. Please let me know if you have any other recommendations!

Lots of love

Lucinda x

Gift Guides

Small Business Gift Guide : Men

After handing over the realms of my Gift Guide for Godchildren last month, I thought why not ask another small business owner to guest post a different group. Patrick who started the fun and upmarket mens lifestyle clothing brand Reef Knots, after being made redundant from his job in the City  – two days before his wife had twins (!), is taking the helm today. It is a fantastic website to cater for men of all ages and styles. I love the funky fabrics he uses!

Patrick Reef Knots

So, let’s start with a few ideas from Reef Knots…  Take it away Patrick!

flamingo

Boats & Sharks Silk Tie £69

Men that wear pink, tend to like it and it is the perfect accompaniment to a light blue shirt. This tie was recently featured the Vogue Christmas gift guide for men and comes in six different colourways

Silk Tie

Flamingo Turquoise Silk Tie £69

Everyone seems to love flamingos and men seem to be no exception. This is our Christmas best-seller (and selling out fast!) so you know you’re on trend. The tail of the tie features hammerhead sharks, so very suitable for any lawyers or boardroom sharks!

Flamingo

Lobster Swim Shorts £79

Lobsters are our perfect subject matter because they represent both the ocean and luxury.

These swim shorts have been our fastest selling product this year and are already sold out in the navy colourway. These will all be gone soon too!

Lobster

Blue Stripe Oxford Shirt £59

A classic shirt with a contemporary twist. All our shirts feature a flattering (slightly tapered) fit, Oxford weight cotton, and contrast colour detailing within the collars and cuffs. Also available with button down collar, making them the perfect shirts for both the office and the weekend.

Blue Oxford Shirt

Redcurrent Chunky Socks £13.50

All our socks are Made in England and feature our signature green heals and toes. Chunky and lightweight knits available. Mix-and-match any 3 pairs in a gift box for £35, or £13.50 each. The perfect stocking filler.

chunky red socks

And from other businesses…

Slim Red Credit Card Wallet £59

Sage Brown make beautiful leather goods at reasonable prices. I use this wallet everyday and it’s perfect. Small, smart and holds 6 cards, plus notes.

Sage Brown

Cucumber Gin Black Bottle £35

The gin revolution continues and I found these guys during the Spirit of Christmas show at Olympia and picked up a few bottles. A really refreshing tasting gin, which is fast becoming my favourite.

Black Bottle Gin

Tom Ford, FxxxxxG Fabulous EXPENSIVE! C £500

This is expensive, but the boldness of the branding gets this one onto the list. Available at Selfridges and Tom Ford Covent Garden (online it’s in dollars so not sure whether they send to UK)

Tom Ford

Gertie Backpack £185 

Will Bees Bespoke make fantastic quality products and I’ve recently started wearing a backpack everyday for camera gear and laptops etc. Personalised with your initial too! (Order by 18th Dec for personalization)

Will Bees Bespoke

Liberty Boxer Shorts £20

Sir Plus was a business founded on the principle of using surplus fabric from other manufacturers to produce clothing. These are a classic pair of liberty print Boxer Shorts

Liberty Print Boxers

 

Thank you Patrick! Great ideas and lovely to see so many other ‘small’ businesses included (not you Tom Ford 😉  I feel very inspired.

Hope this has inspired and have a great day,

Love

Lucinda x

www.reefknots.com

Beauty Gift Guides

Restock Your Make Up Bag!

It’s Cyber Monday and the online world are going nuts and offering up to 60% today. I am giving my depleted make up bag some love today and diving in to buy the classics and a few novelty treats to experiment with (that I wouldn’t buy unless they were reduced!)

Nars Blush in Orgasm Was £24 now £19.20

This was the first blusher/bronzer I bought one I had left the confines of boarding school. It was definitely a turn up from the Bourgeois one I was packed off with (I literally channelled Coco the Clown during my teens) and I Have been a faithful follower of Nars blush and bronzer since. JUST DON’T DROP IT!!

Nars

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Beauty Light Wand £29 – £23.20

The highlighter to end all highlighters. Simply squeeze a smidgen of the highlighter onto the sponge and blend it on the top of your cheekbones, centre of your nose, under your brows and voila, you have a sun kissed radiant glow.

Remember light colours advance (i.e. your cheek bones) and dark colours recede (which is why you put bronzer under your cheekbones to give you the illusion of high cheekbones!

Highlighter

YSL Touche Eclat £25 – £22.90

Ah the classic. Just go easy and watch that flash at the Christmas parties to avoid the Panda look.

Touche Eclat

Bobbi Brown Caviar & Rubies Eye Shadow Pallette £55 – £44

This is your Christmas palette sorted. If these large palettes terrify you – here is the 101.

1) choose three colours from light to dark
2) put the light colour all over your eyelid
3) put the middle depth in a sideways triangle from your eyelashes to your eye hood but not past the pupil.
4) put the darkest just all your eyelashes
5) blend

Bobbi Brown Palette

Lancome Hypnose Gift Set £24 – £20

Whenever I chicken out of trying a new mascara, I always revert to this one. It’s ace.

Lancome

Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturiser £34 – £27

I have waxed lyrical about this product before and it is time to do again, especially as now you can get £7 off!

When my skin feels a bit dry and sallow, I whack this on (usually the lightest Bare but it’s sold out and so I am braving the next one up) and it gives you that red carpet glow.

laura mercier

There are literally thousands of discounted products from all the top brands on House of Fraser, so if you need to do a sweep this is the only place to look at for serious discounts!

Gift Guides

Small Business Gift Guide : Godchildren

OK, let’s start this year with a group I didn’t touch on last year. Godchildren. Don’t you love them! But it’s one thing getting your own kids presents for Christmas, extending that to God children and it can become a headache. You don’t know what they already have, what they deserve (joke) and are they into vehicles or is it sport… (Ok you should know THAT, but you get the picture).

Really keen to champion as many small businesses in my Gift Guides as possible this Christmas so I have asked Victoria Wren, owner of the wonderful website Crafty Wrens, that specialises in crafts for kids.

Move away from the thought of pencils and a colouring book – Crafty Wrens has the most enticing products that I guarantee you may put something from her website on your Christmas list!

Take it away Victoria…

The best thing about buying for Godchildren at Christmas is that you can give them something their parents wouldn’t necessarily buy and something that you would probably have liked to have had yourself.

ALL AGES

Best kit of all time for all ages, Boys & Girls is the Den Kit. There is a small one and large one, a pirate themed one and a girly one with a cosy blanket. They advertise it as ages 3-83 because it really is something all the family can get involved with. I gave one to my daughter last year which stays at my parents house so whenever we or the cousins go there we get it out and all 7 are entertained for the weekend.

AGES 2-7

Ages 2-7 you can’t go wrong with a Unicorn Garden, a new and improved version of the Fairy Garden. Just brilliant and only £20.

Unicorn Garden

 

AGE 8+

 Dragster, Stunt Buggy & Hovercraft are 3 kits which keep Dads and kids super happy on Christmas day. Something to build, play with and race! Prices £12-£22

Dragster

STARTER KIT

Best starter sewing kit I have found is the Molly Rabbit which has pre-punched holes and a plastic safety needly which makes it a very achievable project for ages 6-9.

Molly Rabbit

CREATIVE

If not into sewing I don’t think you can beat Pom Pom Galore’s Pom Pom Lights. But if you want to make your own why not try the Pom Pom Making Kit.

Pom Pom Kit

A really fun present for creative children are Pixie Dixie’s Paint your own PJs

BOOKS

You can never beat a good book. I love all Usborne Children’s Books which if you can buy through one of their reps at a charity fair you are not only supporting a worthy cause but helping a small business too. If your in London Daunt Books is just a haven for great ideas as the staff are constantly reviewing new releases. Two books with a twist which are two of Crafty Wren’s bestsellers are Build The Human Body and Build a T Rex.

Build the human body

SCIENCE

I love all museum and art gallery shops. All the kits from The Science Museum are a winner – I love this Top Secret Intruder Alarm

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A really good starter science kit which is educational but fun is the Stars and Planets for ages 5 + and for older kids the Neon Light Writer is something fun for their bedroom.

Neon Light Writer

OUTDOORS

A present which I have bought all my godsons which is going to amuse them and seriously annoy their parents is this horn from Five Boys Clothing for a bike or scooter which has over 25 sounds on it.

CLOTHES

If you want to be a cool Godparent of teenage Godchildren you can’t go wrong with any of the T Shirts From Mobs. London 

OLDER GODCHILDREN 

If you want to keep it crafty, older kids love Make Your Own Lampshade and the Ultimate Solarbot where you build 14 Solar Powered Robots.

Lampshade

They always say a good present is something you want yourself. I love helping people find the right present for the right child which ends up giving them as much pleasure as it is for the lucky crafty kid to open on Chirstmas Day.

www.craftywrens.co.uk

I am so inspired and can’t wait to crack on and buy now! If you want to receive all my Gift Guides, sign up here 

Happy Friday and don’t forget to keep TLM Edit in mind if you are in need of presents or just a treat for yourself!  xx

 

Activities Events Gift Guides TLM Monthly Edit

TLM Monthly Edit : September 2017

Slightly early monthly Edit as have quite a few events that need to be flagged! It should really be entitled ‘What’s On For Us This Autumn’ but I have so much scheduled for The London Mummy over the next couple of months, both on the blog and events – I have put it under my monthly Edit!

ENTER THESE FABULOUS AWARDS

Firstly, the fabulous Good Web Guide – my go to on all web related businesses and recommendations – is hosting their annual awards and YOU can enter. It is perfect if you are a web based business, a new business or just want to raise your existing profile. They are well respected and a great way to get your name out there.  This will answer any questions you have!

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MY FIRST FAIR

I am so excited to be participating in my first ever fair selling my TLM Edit goodies. It is for a fabulous cause – the victims family and friends of the Grenfall Tower.

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I will be selling hats, scarves, jumpers, belts, gifts and jewellery so please come and say hi (and no pressure to buy anything!) from TLM Edit including the below.

It is next Friday 29th Sept at St Mary’s Church, the Putney end of Putney Bridge. Would be so fab to see you there.

Follow the progress on Facebook Bring little ones as the Fire Brigade are visiting too!

I am alongside some other fab stalls including –

Ambersouk – Jewellery
Arbonne with Bronwen
Blabar – Nordic Interiors
Cece & Me – Children’s Shoe Fitting Service
City Paws Club
Florence and Frog
Harry Rocks – Unique Personalised Jewellery
Jewell Junkie Design
Marie & Lola – French Fashion
The Naked Olive
Pats Vintage Cartoons
Postive Sprit Massge
Rude Health
Serendipity Bakes
Tussie Mussie – Candles

NEW POP UP ON KINGS ROAD

My pal who runs Five Boys Clothing is hosting a pop up on the Kings Road 24th – 30th September so if you are cruising, do pop in and say hello.

Also in the shop –

Mobs – teenage and young men clothing
Five Boys Clothing – boys clothing and gifts
Pixie Dixie – children’s pyjamas w
Crafty Wrens www.craftywrens.co.uk – crafty kids for children
My Mia – girls clothing
Willow Cashmere – cashmere
Hermosa London – ladies handbags
Maimie London  – Luxury Silk Womenswear
Pom Lampson – silky shirts and underwear
Lucy Simmons – jewelry

FUNKY EXHIBITION

Emma Van Zeller is having an exhibition of her wonderful jovial exhibition at The Corner House from 26th October. Do pop in and have a look.  The Corner House is a perfect place to visit with little ones and allow you to have your coffee (excellent btw) in peace whilst they play on the gorgeous play equipment or do a class.

 

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HUGE CHRISTMAS FAIR

The Daisy Trust is hosting their annual fair at Hurlingham on Monday 2nd October. With a full list of excellent stalls I urge you to come down!

Check out the sellers…

Anna & Louis – Spanish Baby Clothes
Little Leggies – Cashmere and Neon
Pepa & Co – Spanish Children’s Clothes
St Bert’s Clothing – Boys Clothes
Facets
KC Collection
Laurie and Jules
Law & Co
Marie & Lola – French Clothes
Milliemanu – Childrens Clothes
Octavia Hix – Resortwear
Pom Lampson Ltd – Underwear & Lingerie
SLW
Susie Pringle – Cashmere & Pearls
Tessa Maynard – Scarves & Jackets
Vishana Ltd
Wingfield Digby – Accessories
Wyse – Cashmere
Banana Boxer – Boxer Shorts
Illann Cashmere
Indigo Island – Mens Shirts
Reef Knots – Mens Swimwear
Beau Britches – Activewear
Harper Scout – Beachwear
Philippa London – Clothes
Sister Design Ltd – Resortwear
Snow Finel Ski Wear – Ski wear
Toosh Clothing – PJ’s
The Holiday Shop – Holiday Accessories
Avanti
Happy Hats – Hats
Peachy Belt – Belts
Manyatta – Masai Belts
My Fashion Tribu – Shoes

DAYLESFORD’S AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Daylesford’s new after-school activity hours should become a regular feature in your back-to-school diaries. They provide the perfect opportunity for children to wind down after a busy day at school, giving their parents or a chance to relax over a cup of coffee.

Hosted in all of the London Farmshops (Marylebone, Notting Hill and Pimlico Road) every Wednesday from 3:30pm-4:30pm, the activity hours are free to attend.

Each week they will be doing a different, fun, and educational activity that children will love, such as colouring, making jam jar posies, flower pressing and herb planting.

Locations:

Daylesford Marylebone, 6-8 Blandford St, Marylebone, London W1U 4AU
Daylesford Notting Hill, 208-212 Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill, London W11 2RH
Daylesford Pimlico, 44B Pimlico Rd, Belgravia, London SW1W 8LP

It’s free to attend and no booking required. Result!

Have great week and hope to see you at one of the events!

Love Lucinda xx

Activities Gift Guides Spotlight

My Pocket Money Toy & Giveaway – Plus Winners Announced

I dream about being that mother who remembers to give their children their pocket money on a Saturday morning and then we waddle off to the shops to choose something, most likely educational and great quality that my child doesn’t put down as soon as we get home…  Reality, when I remember, I chuck them the change that is floating around in the bottom of my bag and we rush to Londis  in between football and lunch to buy sweets or Match Attax!!

However, if things rings true, I bring you My Pocket Money Toy.

sample-6-7-web

Shirley is a mummy who has made a move from Financial Crime & Risk to children’s toys! She has just launched a new subscription box for children called My Pocket Money Toy.

The monthly box will be filled with 2-3 quality, durable, fun (and often educational/STEM) toys every month. In the first box, the child will receive an old fashioned style stamp book, a new toy sicker stamp each month (children can collect stamps for a free toy) and a themed colouring insert.

 

My idea has grown out of two main problems that I have faced as a mother. The first problem is a lack of time and the second problem is the increasing lack of availability of good toys.

 

Her son Alasdair is now 7 and his life is packed at the weekend with tennis, swimming and skiing as well as parties and play dates throw in from time to time. We all know that feeling of not having enough time.

 

If we factor in shopping, caring for ageing grandparents and spending quality family time together, we quickly find researching and finding good toys just falls off the list of things to do! I hope my box will fill a need and create some quality family time playing with toys and games in the box.

 

She is delighted to be working with great companies such as Brainbox (The Green Board Game Co), Brainstorm, Galt, Orchard Toys, Keycraft, Mibo, Rachel Ellen, Gibsons, Melissa and Doug, POM, Wicked Toys. The list keeps growing and will continue to grow as she researches, sources and tests the best toys.

3-5-box-march-17

How does it work?

Choose 1 from each category below.

3 Age Ranges –

  • 3-5 years
  • 6-7 years
  • 8-10 years

Gender 

  • Boy
  • Girl
  • Gender Neutral

4 Types of Package

  • One-off box (perfect for Easter, Holidays or Birthdays)
  • 3 month subscription
  • 6 month subscription
  • 1 year subscription.

If indicated as a birthday gift, she will include a bespoke (oohKatieQ) birthday cards.

 

Shirley very kindly sent us two boxes, 1 for my eldest (6-7, boy) and one for my second son (3-5 box). She also included a little box for my 2 year old as she didn’t want her to feel left out!!

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I can genuinely say the presentation and of the toys was beautiful The box arrived with the toys individually wrapped and swathed in green tissue paper.

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Many of the toys were new to me – a mix of educational and fun. The quality was at the top end and none of the goodies were disposable!

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My oldest loved his so much, he carefully put everything back in the box and squirrelled it up to his room.

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I urge you to head over to My Pocket Money Toy to set up your subscription and also if you are looking for a present for child that you need to post – you won’t be disappointed!

 

GIVEAWAY 

To win a 3 Month Subscription for a box of your choosing, head over to Instagram.

 

WINNER OF THE 5 SPRING TIME GIVEAWAYS ARE… 

Pack of Time Tokens

Selina Ridsdale

Charlie Tattersal

Hollyhock Home Rabbit Bag 

Suzi Lloyd

The Little Art Collection Butterfly Swaddle 

Samantha Milner

Kiddiewinkles Grey Star Laundry Basket 

Mira Da Silva

Four Fairies & a Prince Ebbe Fleece 

Laura Thomas (On Instagram)

Congratulations! I will be in touch to organise delivery xx

 

 

 

Gift Guides Services Spotlight

The Mother’s Day Gift Guide with Sentebale

After a couple of months of planning and plotting, I am so excited that I am finally able to bring you a wonderful Mother’s Day Gift Guide from 6 wonderful brands.  The difference with this Gift Guide however, is that every purchase or booking you make will support the charity Sentebale!

Sentebale Logo

 

What is Sentebale?

Sentebale is a charity founded in 2006 by Prince Harry, together with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, that supports orphans and vulnerable children in sub-Saharan Africa, many of whom are victims of the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

 

Sentebale Children

 

Through programmes of education, psychosocial support, and care, Sentebale is supporting the mental health and wellbeing of these children so they can lead healthy, happy lives.

 

Prince Harry

Find out more about Sentebale here

 

Why Am I Involved? 

I am so delighted to be partnering with Sentebale as I spent 6 months in Sub Saharan Africa working with children affected by HIV in 2007.   My time spent in South Africa and Uganda really enabled me to see how vulnerable these children are.  Now that I am a mother myself, I understand even more how hard it must be for children who don’t have a mother and really want to do something to help.

 

 

I am sure you will love all the choices below, shopping in the knowledge that you are supporting the most vulnerable children in Lesotho and Botswana, many of whom are living without their mother.

You can make a difference by choosing a gift for your own mother or perhaps you can forward this onto your husband or partner who is choosing a gift for you on behalf of the kids!

So, here they are…

Any Items from Harry Rocks London

Runs Between 17th – 29th March, 2017

Harry Rocks is one of my favourite jewellery brands. She is so on the money with her pendants and bracelets, it is no surprise she is stocked in Harvey Nichols!

 

Lightning Bolt earrings

 

I am delighted with my new necklace – my 3 kids initials all on one pendant with a little diamond on it (representing whoever is being the best behaved that day!)

 

Pendant

 

Harry Rocks are offering 20% off their entire collection between 17th and 29th March. with the code . They will donate 20% of these sales to Sentebale

Buy here using code SENTEBALE20 at checkout.

 

A Beautiful Bouquet of fresh flowers from Moyes Stevens

Runs between 17th – 29 th March, 2017

My house if filled with faux flowers and so my husband doesn’t see the point of buying me flowers ‘as I already have so many’. However when he saw this bouquet, he had to agree that they were beautiful and a massive treat to have in the house.

 

Moyes Stevens Bouquet

 

Not only are Moyses Stevens the Royal florist, they have a flare for colour and the smell is sensational. Sentebale means ‘forget me not’ in Lesotho, so it is fantastic to see these represented within the arrangement.

What’s In The Bouquet?

White Anemones
Pink Tulips
White Hypericum Berries
Viburnum/ Guelder
Forget-me-nots
Sweet Avalanche Roses
Rosemary and Eucalyptus

Wrapped Bouquet

There are 3 different sizes for you to choose from –

Standard: £70.00

Large: £104.00

Deluxe: £136.00

This one is a large! Can you imagine a deluxe! Wow!

Moyes Stevens will donate 20% to Sentebale from every ‘Sentebale Bouquet’ ordered

Order yours here

 

Any Items from Willa The Bear

Runs from 17th – 29th March

This is a perfect gift for a new mother or mother to be. Willa and the Bear is a lovely brand selling beautiful bedding and nightwear. It will last forever and become a keepsake for the next generation.

They are donating 100% of proceeds from the sale of all cot quilts sold between 17th and 29th March to Sentebale!

Quilts on Chair

Willa and The Bear are offering you 30% off any other product when you use the code SENTEBALE30, and will donate £5 to Sentebale for every sale that uses the code!

Quilt

Buy here  and please use SENTEBALE30 at checkout.

 

The Gallery Mess at The Saatchi Gallery

Runs from 17th – 29th March, 2017

Gallery Mess are adding a discretionary £1 donation in support of Sentebale to ALL diner’s bills between 17th and 29th March.

Set amongst a plethora of interesting sculptures and art works, the food is as good as the setting. Not only very generous helpings, utterly delicious.

Gallery Mess

Why not have a wander around the shops in Sloane Square and then stop here for lunch? It is a real treat and a favourite amongst the locals. And 2 year olds..

Saatchi Gallery Sculpture

Book your table here and they will donate £1 from every bill during the 17th and 29th March.

 

Mother’s Day Champagne Afternoon Tea at The Bulgari Hotel

Runs Between 17th – 29th March, 2017

What mother doesn’t need some time off once in a while? However, unless it is booked for you, it easy to feel guilty about leaving the little darlings, and you literally need to be sent.

With this in mind, I would love to be sent with a girlfriend into the centre of London to have an Afternoon Tea with Champagne. Where is more opulent and spoiling than the Bulgari Hotel?!

Afternoon tea

Set in pure opulence, you will be waited on hand and foot and actually have an uninterrupted conversation. Bliss!

The Bulgari Hotel will donate £5 to Sentebale every time a Champagne Afternoon Tea (47pp) is booked between 17th – 29th March.

Book online here and please be sure to reference ‘Sentebale Afternoon Tea’ in the ‘special requests’ section!

 

Any Items from ME+EM

Offer is on for 24hrs 22nd March, 2017

Fashion brand ME+EM are donating £5 to Sentebale for every sale over £50 on Wednesday 22nd March. I am so excited they are participating in this campaign. Their pieces are a great price point, beautifully made and uber cool. If you haven’t heard of them yet, take a look and I have no doubt you will find some great pieces for your Spring Wardrobe.

ME&EM

However, please hold off until Wednesday 22nd before you buy anything – don’t worry I will remind you in a post on Wednesday morning (including my top picks!)

Outside Shop

NO CODE – JUST SHOP ON THE 22ND!!!! (You can plan your purchase here)

 

I would be so utterly grateful if you dug deep and blessed a mother with one of these thoughtful gifts. Not only will it make them a very happy lady, but you really will be making a difference to the lives of children affected by HIV in sub-Saharan Africa.

Thank you so much and have a very Happy Mother’s Day

Love from

Lucinda xx

PS: If you’ve already got your gift sorted but would still like to show your support, you can donate to Sentebale here

 

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Gift Guides

22 Gift Ideas for Babies

Warning. This list may make you broody. It has only been 2 years since my youngest was a baby but I am sure there weren’t so many nice things around then. Whether I was in a fog (probably),  my eyes have been opened since starting this blog or there are actually more beaut clothes & toys on the market (probably a combination), you’re in luck if it’s babies presents you are after.

By the way, if you still need inspo with your present buying, have a look at my Gift Guides, where you will find Granny, Grandpa, Mum, Dad, Girl, Boy and Au Pair!

The London Mummy-9

Rice DK Melamine Set  – Indian Summer Start at £4.50

Why not get a little baby there first plate, cup and cutlery? I love the bright vivid colours from Rice DK. They are smash proof, dishwasher safe and  look very cool! (I didn’t know Rice DK had such an extensive range of homewares. To see more head to Sisters Guild.)

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Buzzy Bees – Bunny Bee Designs £40

The clever artist Mel (or Bunny as I know her!) behind these wonderful designs also painted the chair for my son in the photo above! (Christening Present!)  See her full range of paintings, treasure boxes and chairs over at Bunny Bee Designs. 

Back Camera

 

Ochre Yellow Dungarees – Dotty Dungarees £41

There isn’t much sweeter than a little one in dungarees.  Dotty Dungarees have so many gorgeous designs and colours to choose from. I love these Ochre Yellow ones – versatile colour to be worn throughout the whole year and also works on both boys and girls. Perfect if you have a Jack and a Gill as these will definitely be able to be handed down. The quality is second to none.

Dotty Dungarees

 

One 4 One Toy Campaign – Finn & Emma £25.50

For every hand knitted toy that is sold in December, Natural Baby Shower will be donating a toy to mother and baby refuges this Christmas. Now that’s an inventive to buy a gorgeous hand knitted toy for a little baby!

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Garnet Bloomers – Pipkin Clothing £22

Not only are these bloomers pretty darn cute, they look very festive (and won’t show the dirt!) Pipkin have a gorgeous range of traditional children and baby clothes all lovingly handmade.  A lovely business that is going from strength to strength.

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Kiddy Music Bench – Melody Mix £39.99

This is one gift that has stayed in our toy cupboard for the last 5 years and continues to be used over and over. Well made and looks good too.

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Peppa Pig Muddy Puddle Mat – Bladez Toyz £12.99

I am sure this will be a great hit at Christmas, unless part of the fun of muddy puddles is it’s forbidden – but we will give it a go!

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Alternative Milestone Cards – Pudding & Chops £10.99

Not strictly for a baby but I am all for pushing the boundaries (i’m so crazzzzzy) this would be a fun stocking filler for a mum to be. I love the ‘Still No Baby’ card… great one to put on Facebook 6 days overdue to lull the questions.

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Rainbow Stacking Toy – Grimms £64.99

If these had been around when I had a baby, I would have snapped them up. Part of a good present is that they look nice too and these are stunning!

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Navy Moccasins with Liberty Trim – Lottie & Reu £10

So cute. Love the trim and tassel.

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Muslin Pyjamas – Willa & The Bear  £35

These muslin pjs are so versatile and comfortable. There is a vest and a wrap around top for extra warmth in the winter. Breathable, light, soft and cosy, I love this concept and so does my daughter who has a pair.

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Large Muslin Swaddle – Hullabaloo Prints £22

My 3 kids are huge fans of their ‘muzzy’s’ when they are little. When a friend has a new baby, my default gift is a large muslin as I know how useful they have been to mine. My favourite one  is this Hot Air Balloon one from Hullabaloo.  This large one also doubles up as a swaddle when they are newbies. They also sell two smaller ones in a lovely gift bag.

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Monogrammed Duck Baby Bundle – SARAHK Designs £61

This is a very reasonable price for a blanket, pillow and a monogrammed pillow case, either with initials or date of birth.

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The Messy Tunic – Messy Me £9.50

Every kitchen suits a bit of ‘griege’ and this tunic would work for both mealtimes and arts and craft.  Comes in lots of other colours too.

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Bebelux Pink Dolls Pram – Bebe’s Boutique £240

If your baby is showing a penchant for babies, why not get one good long lasting dolls pram rather than lots of little ones. Well, that’s what we have done. It is sturdy and well made that I expect we will be able to keep it for Grandchildren. (Did I really just say that?) Order by 16th December to have it in time for Christmas.  They also do doubles and traditional prams too. We obviously went for pink, but they do smart beiges and navy’s if demure is more your thing!  Here ours is in full use with her Baby Annabel sitting comfortably!

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Liberty Footmuff – Betty Bramble £79

Ok, perhaps this is more on the girly side but if you are a fan of Liberty prints this footmuff is gorgeous.

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Baby Polo Mallet – pampeano £19

Points for originality! Budding polo player? This is awesome and would double up as a fab ornament too.

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Coffee Maker – Hape £20

If your little one is anything like mine and barks ‘babychino’ every time we walk past a cafe, this may be for you.

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Silver Birch Tree Gift – The Present Tree £35

A silver birch represents new beginnings and protection so would make a lovely long lasting and meaningful present for a new baby on the block.  This would be a great ‘babies first Christmas’ present form a Godparent.

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Velour Angel Wing Onesie – Marie Chantal £68

Oh so indulgent but it’s Christmas – why not.  Well, at £68 that may be a reason not too, but for the person who has everything and the person who can afford everything, you couldn’t beat this. Adorable.  You could also box frame it afterwards!

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Personalised Muslin Squares – Fofolino £15

The muslin squares are available in a range of delightfully embroidered edges or lace trims. In addition, personalised baby name embroidery are available on request, really making these muslin squares one-of-a-kind. They are highly versatile and long-lasting. This is a super present for newborns & toddlers.

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Baby Romper – Panda & Ping £26

Award winning new brand Panda & Ping has a delightful range of colourful and comfy range of rompers, bedding and blankets. My favourite is the pram blanket in a bag

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This is my last Gift Guide until Valentine’s Day! If you don’t want to miss out on any or have just discovered my blog recently, why don’t you sign up to The London Mummy List?