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London Property Match : Your London Property Finder

Don’t they say death, divorce and moving house are the three most stressful events in your life (hopefully you won’t experience all!) So when it comes to avoiding unnecessary stress, it makes emotional sense to bring in some assistance. The experts in the ‘moving house’ category are the girls at London Property Match.

What Is London Property Match?

London Property Match is a property finding service that assists buyers secure houses and flats in South West, West, and North-West London.

They often have properties before they have gone online so they are a great company to get in with if you are looking for that elusive property!

Areas They Cover

When It Started

The company was created in 1999 through the deep experience gathered by founding members, Suzanne Emson and Sarah Snow, in their personally buying and renovating property in London over several decades.

Who Runs It Now?

They were joined by Sarah Dixon and Tamara Colton and have since retired although continue to support when needed.

Sarah & Tamara

Who Is It Perfect For?

They work with all types of buyers from young people who just left university for people looking to buy an investment property.

We very much enjoy working with all age groups (from the early 20s to the late 80s) and with all nationalities. Whether it is a buy-to-let investment clients are after or a “home” we are happy to help and guide you through the process from start to finish, always working for you and not the seller and never taking on two specs that at the same time that might clash.

So if you are looking for a property in London, who you going to call? (Ghostbusters!)

Sarah’s Favourites

Website : Pinterest – it gives me arts and craft ideas to do with the children on the weekends, educational games to support my daughters’ learning, birthday cake ideas and provides inspiration for home improvement.

Hotel : Easy question this, Anassa in Cyprus. I tingle just thinking about the times we have spent there as a couple and with the girls. The service is out of this world, the food unbelievable, the cocktails (!) better, the weather warm when it isn’t in the UK, an outstanding kids club and a fabulous spa…

Shop : Difficult this as I hardly get the time to shop! I do love a bargain and this answer probably isn’t going to portray me in the best light but…H&M!

Restaurant : Chez Bruce in Wandsworth. It is very close to where I live and in all the years I have been there it has never disappointed. Simply amazing food, reasonably priced in a relaxed but appropriately smart atmosphere.

Holiday Destination : Cape Town, South Africa. With the Christmas period usually being a very quiet time for the property market we try and escape to South Africa for at least 2 weeks then. An overnight flight, yes, but only a 2 hour time difference so ideal for young children.

Parenting Tip :

I have found parenting at times, impossible. What helped me navigate the very early years was a routine. Not only did I know what I was meant to be doing and when, the girls did too. A few years on my tip would have to be “you can only do your best” and that “you know your child best” so trust your instincts and go with what you feel is right.

londonpropertymatch.com

Contact Sarah Dixon on +44 (0)7884 433 059 or email enquiries@londonpropertymatch.com

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Fashion Interiors Spotlight

Up Close with Georgie Coleridge Cole

If there is one lady in London who has her finger on the pulse, it is Georgie Coleridge Cole, Founder and Editor of SheerLuxe. For those of you who aren’t familiar with SheerLuxe (and I don’t imagine there are many of you) it is an online lifestyle magazine with an informative and fun podcast, online boutique, calendar of readers events (including a digital conference for budding entrepreneurs and a fashion day after LFW – can’t wait!), The Daily Brief (a daily email with an outline of things you need to know that are going on in the UK and the world), fashion updates and interior inspiration. Wow, I”m exhausted even writing that all and there is so much more that they cover too! (read here) Today though, I want to get to the brains behind this fantastic brand and get ‘up close’ with Georgie.

Let’s start with the one burning question we want to know – how DOES she do it…

What’s your secret to working whilst raising a family?

Help that’s consistent day to day or week to week. Whether that’s a really great nanny or a really good granny – you need regular committed help that is consistently there or you and your children don’t know whether you’re coming or going. Without it, you’re just making life even more chaotic and then everyone is left feeling crap.

What’s your advice for women with a business idea?

Do some research to ensure it’s a good product and a viable idea; then get on and do it.

What are you most excited about for SL at the moment?

The potential of different medias like video, podcasts and articles on a page and how they all work together to enhance your brand and engage with the reader. This autumn we relaunched our fly on the wall / behind the scenes youtube series and it has been really well received. It’s full on because we film all day every day but it’s also really different to what the competition are doing and adds another dimension in terms of how people connect with SheerLuxe. And also our podcast which we launched in April and has been really well received.

What’s your fashion style?

Simple, timeless and functional. I tend to wear jeans most days or cigarette pants with flats (white trainers, ankle boots, pumps) and then a blouse of some sort and a jacket or knitwear. I drop my eldest two children at the school, go straight to work, often have to pop back to school for something and then back to the office so it has to be relatively easy. My wardrobe is almost entirely black, white, grey and blush. With a bit of navy and a touch of coral.

3 items that make you feel a million dollars

A pink Raey shearling coat. My new Jacquemus top and an Isabel Marant dress (black and gold with an off the shoulder ruffle) my husband gave me for my birthday. I wore it two nights in a row.

1 item that everyone asks where you got it from

My Gesutz leather biker.

Biggest purchase mistake ever
Too many to mention.

Best return of investment
Always coats.

Boots or trainers?
Probably Golden Goose trainers.

Favourite fashion bloggers

Hannah Strafford Taylor (below) and Laura Wills.

Interior style

Grey with a touch of pink.

Interior tip

Paint your woodwork and ceiling the same colour as your walls.

Where do you get your interior inspo from?

I adore Porter – they make the best bathroom vanity units and I love their aesthetic. I’m a big Turner Pocock fan too.

Bare faced or full face

As my mother once said to me ‘we need makeup darling’.

Best beauty buy on the market

Right now it’s an Origins tinted moisturiser. It’s one colour that adapts your skin tone and it gives you the best glow.

3 items in your make up bag

By Terry Ombre sticks,
Charlotte Tilbury Penelope pink,
Nars Laguna & Orgasm Blush (sorry that’s 4).

Hair tip

Go to George Northwood and spend money on a good haircut. Think how much you spend on a top and we wear our hair ALL the time.

Life-saving hair product

Oribe texturizing spray. It’s horribly expensive but nothing beats it to liven up your hair before a night out.

Silver or gold jewellery?

Gold

Favourite Jewellery brand

Annoushka

Keep fit activity

Cardio. 5 times a week

Most romantic restaurant in the world?

The restaurant at the top of the hill, Sense on The Edge, at Zighy Bay in Oman.

Best hotel with kids?

Anassa in Cyprus.

Last supper meal?

My mum’s spag bol and a chocolate fondant. I’m not huge on puddings but a chocolate fondant…

Your default kids supper

A prawn stirfry. I’m determined my children won’t be fussy about fish.

Hangover cure

A bloody mary.

Beach or pool?

Pool, sand irritates me.

Swimsuit or bikini?

Bikini. But you need to know when to call it a day.

Looking to update your wardrobe, buy a gift or treat yourself?

You will find a gorgeous range of jewellery, accessories and clothes on TLM Edit, all hand-picked by The London Mummy.

What you do to relax

Strictly with my daughter.

All time favourite film?

Working Girl.

Last book you read?

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine. Unlike everyone else, I didn’t love it. Not a lot happens.

Favourite box set

Is Narcos a box set?

The song you pelt out on your own in the car

Anything by The Chainsmokers

Most evocative smell

Estee Lauder’s Knowing. My mother used to spray it on my teddy before I went back to boarding school.

Most bonding family game

For us right now: UNO or Children’s Monopoly. Silly Sausage is fun too.

A quote you try and live by

You make your own luck and if you work hard enough good will prevail.

What tests your patience?

Sickies.

3 words to describe yourself

Fun, impatient, loyal.

I have loved watching SheerLuxe grow exponentially over the years and I will follow with continued interest. Next up, I would love to see her hosting a program on TV – have you thought about that Georgie?

sheerluxe.com

Looking for more fashion? You might also like:

10 New-In Hush Pieces I Couldn’t Resist

13 Activewear Pieces That’ll Motivate You To Actually Get Active

10 Fashion Picks To Brighten Up Your Autumn

And of course, don’t forget to visit my online shop: TLM Edit 🙂

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Fashion Spotlight

Up Close With Dolly Alderton

When my parents discussed certain journalists and were able to recall who wrote which columns over their corn flakes, I was always impressed as I didn’t even know what the newsreaders were called, let alone a ‘faceless’ writer. Fast forward 10 years, when I was trying to feel like an adult in my twenties (the specific age escapes me – it was all one big blur) finding a few journalists to follow seemed like a grown-up thing to do, that might help me feel like an adult.

India Knight, Bryony Gordon and Dolly Alderton were very easy to ‘get into’ with their self-deprecating humour and easy way and are subsequently still the names I drop when I want to look well-read. (Yes, I know I am sad!)

Claudia Winkleman’s column in the Stella Magazine is also up there…

When I spied Dolly at a Boden drinks last month on the Kings Road, I shamelessly beelined over to her and introduced myself. (It didn’t take long, not in a Madonna – I only need one name as everyone knows me kind of way – but as in my bio doesn’t take long)

After a brief natter, I cut to cut to the chase and asked if I could interview her for my Up Close series.

It was a ‘yes’, of course!

I feel like I have bagged a mega slebrity…

Dolly is a journalist, an entertainer with her hilarious podcast The High Low with Pandora Sykes (which you must download now) and an incredible editor of newsy & informative newsletter that I DEVOUR as soon as it lands in my inbox. Unfortunately, it’s no longer running, but you can read the archives here.

The latest string to her bow is her newly written book ‘Everything I Know About Love‘. Having followed her tales during adulthood, I know it will be gripping, touching and a hugely witty read.

“I loved it so much, I wanted it to go on forever, Dolly Alderton is so gifted at making people care. A rare talent”

– Marian Keyes

If it’s good enough for Marian, it’s good enough for me!

So, let’s crack on and delve into Dolly World…

What’s the latest string to your bow?

My first book, Everything I Know About Love, is published in February 2018 and I’m also in the process of trying to adapt the story for TV.

(Umm pick me – please can I have a walk-on part Dolly?)

What’s your favourite aspect of your work?

Telling stories.

Fashion style?

Christ, I have no idea. I love the 60s. But then I also love bed socks.

Looking to update your wardrobe, buy a gift or treat yourself?

You will find a gorgeous range of jewellery, accessories and clothes on TLM Edit, all hand-picked by The London Mummy.

3 small clothing brands

They aren’t small, but my favourite more boutique-y brands are Rixo, Ganni, Coco Fennell, Stine Goya and Lily and Lionel (sells stunning scarves)

Top 3 go-to items in your wardrobe when you are in a rush

A Boden Margot jumper, skinny indigo jeans, a big woollen scarf.

3 items that make you feel a million dollars

A sharp black blazer, a LBD, a woollen mini skirt with knee-high boots.

1 item that everyone asks where you got it from

Either of my afghan coats (both Ebay)

Biggest purchase mistake ever

The year 2009 in which I only wore bodycon dresses.

Best return of investment on an item

Mulberry handbag.

Boots or trainers

Boots. I live in boots. I only wear trainers when I run.

3 Instagram accounts you seek out

Luke Edward Hall, Every Outfit on SATC, and writer & illustrator Mari Andrew.

Interior style

Eclectic, feminine and warm are what I aim for.

Interior tip

Be creative. Get things upholstered, have textiles and curtains copied by a seamstress, try painting canvases yourself, use interesting materials and papers for mounting pictures, make your own headboard using your favourite fabric. It’s satisfying and it saves so much money.

Barefaced or full face?

I truly love both.

Best beauty buy on the market

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream and Sisley’s Black Rose Face Mask

3 items in your make up bag

Loreal lash architect mascara
Clarins Instant Concealer
Estee Lauder Pure Colour Envy Lipstick in Desirable

Hair tip

If your hair is fine and shapeless, try a fringe.

Life-saving hair product

Dryspun Texture Spray by Bumble and Bumble – the best root volumising that isn’t heavy.

Silver or gold jewellery?

Gold

Favourite Jewellery brand

I very rarely wear jewellery, I don’t know why.

You should!! Have you seen TLM Edit? 🙂

Keep fit activity

I’ve just got into pilates, a decade later than everyone else

Romantic restaurant

I was pretty wooed in Le Grand Colbert in Paris.

Last supper

Spaghetti Vongole.

Great choice…

Hangover cure

Sparkling water, carbohydrates, a hot bath with Olverum oil, sex…

Beach or pool

Beach. I adore swimming in the sea and hate chlorinated pools. Not least because they turn my hair green.

Swimsuit or bikini

One-pieces are so chic but I always end up in a naff bikini.

What do you do to relax?

Read, bathe, make quiche, eat cheese, walk, wild-swim, play guitar, drink too much wine.

All-time favourite film

When Harry Met Sally. Or The Apartment.

Last book you read

Valley of The Dolls

Favourite box set

Transparent

The song you pelt out in the car

I don’t drive but you’ll hear me singing Carly Simon in the shower most mornings.

Evocative smell

Tomato vines (was overjoyed to find recently that Daylesford sell a candle of this exact fragrance)

3 favourite websites for passing time

What tests your patience?

Slow walkers and pushy salespeople on high commission (I was one once, I know their game)

3 words to describe yourself

Tall introverted extrovert.

I have an inkling we have a lot more to hear of Ms Alderton and I can’t wait to follow (#stalk) her. I cannot wait to read her new book… It’s on my Christmas List!

Ps. I have never written about a journalist/writer/author and I am very conscious of my ‘noviceness’, so excuse the typos – I am too excited to publish this to keep checking!

Visit Dollyalderton.com

Nov 2020: An update

Since this interview, I’m excited to announce that Dolly has released her latest novel, Ghosts. Click here to buy it now.

For more interviews, click here.

Looking for something else? Take a peek at my ultimate directory for the best parent, style and business recommendations.

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Events Spotlight

Up Close with Lexi Heriot Maitland

Lovely Lexi is TLM Up Close interview this week. Lexi is an inspiring bohemian power house whose aim is to give a platform to unique small children’s business through her engaging website Place Of Little Dreams. She has recently moved to Edinburgh from London with her husband and three young sons but does back to London to arrange Pop Ups and Networking events.

What is pold?
Place of Little Dreams is a lifestyle website for anyone with young children in their life. Including a creative blog, a beautifully curated directory of unique brands, products and boutiques, Pop Up Fairs and #dreamup meetings.

Quick plug for Lexi’s wonderful Christmas pop up that is on 11th and 12th December in Barnes…

What is your dream for pold?
I’m a dreamer and a wanderer, always having creative ideas up my sleeve…some possible, some not so possible!!!

The growth Place of Little Dreams has seen over the past year, has all been an organic process and I think my main priority now is to consolidate everything I have created, as it has literally gone whoosh, from a small idea to a business!!! So who knows…I’m always open to suggestions from my clients and where possible love to support their forward thinking ideas where I can…the most important thing for me is that my business remains a fun and happy place where I can inspire, support and grow, following the needs of all those amazing individuals out there.

What’s on the horizon for pold?
We are really excited about our up and coming Pop Up Christmas Fair in Barnes, SW London, this December, bringing families a fabulous opportunity to source beautiful gifts for Christmas from a selection of some of the very best small brands. In January we will be hosting our 3rd #dreamup London, a networking meeting offered to those brands on the directory.

How do you juggle 3 kids and pold?
No idea, I’ve never had any childcare help at home!!! I juggle – full stop.

What are your advice for women with their own business?
Follow your dreams, don’t be disheartened by those that don’t share your passion, because it’s the ones that believe, that will support you, and it’s those unique beings that will enable you to make a success of something!!! Patience is important too…don’t expect everything to happen immediately, we are all learning, and your journey to what you are wanting to achieve is the most rewarding part of it all.

Instagram tip
Don’t get too hung up on it, it’s not the be all and end all especially when it comes to how many followers you have – you want the real followers who appreciate the hard work you do…

Favourite new kids clothing brand
Goodness me, that’s a hard one…there are so many fabulous new kids clothing brands out there that I absolutely adore, every single one on my directory wouldn’t be there if they didn’t make my heart sing but I have to say, Waddler is one of my absolute favourites. Run by my husband’s magical cousin Marina Thompson, whom we adore and miss dearly as she lives so far away. Her love and zest for adventure and how that is promoted in the stunning clothing collections she designs is truly incredible!!!! She is a true inspiration…and her whole family are such beautiful beings.

Women’s clothing brand
Tarifa Soul

What’s your fashion style?
Boho Chic, if you catch me on a day where I’ve had time to find my clothes!!!!

Who’s style do you like?
Sienna Miller

Who is your favourite fashion blogger?
Well The London Mummy of course, always spot on with useful hints and clothing advice for those on the hoof racing after the kiddies but wanting some added style to their wardrobe!!!!

(Umm interjection – #blush – you are too kind Lexi!!)

Favourite 3 items in your wardrobe?
Ebay brought, Zara blue and white summer jacket
Sequin glitter converse trainers, now a good 12 years old, but my love affair with them will last a lifetime despite the holes!!!
Coral pleat Midi skirt from Oliver Bonas (Sadly now out of stock!)

Shop
Anthropologie always

Boots or trainers
Trainers never fail

Favourite Interior accounts
Annie Sloane Home

What’s your interior style?
Not sure there is a name for my interior style!!! My husband would probably say, stuff everywhere!!! Which is kind of true in a ‘colourful me’ kind of way. I’d like to think I’ve decorated my home with the history of my life, and share the love with fairy lights, bunting, painted furniture, indoor plants, photos, cards from loved ones, clutter!!! I’m a collector of eclectic things, and they seem to end up out rather than in a cupboard neatly tidied away.

Any interior tips?
To live a decorated life and not to be afraid of bright colours

3 items in your make up bag
Mascara always
Under eye concealer a must
Bronzer – even if you can’t see the sun, makes you feel it could be near!!!

Hair tip
Love a half-up-top-knot!!!

What do you do to relax?
Go for a walk on my own!!!! Gives me time to breath, reflect and feel inspired all over again

Favourite film?
About Time – gets me every time, and one day I dream of living in an old dilapidated house overlooking the sea….

Favourite book?
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert, but very close second would be ‘The Magpie and the Wardrobe’ by Sam McKechnie and Alexandrine Portelli

Favourite box set?
Queen of the South

Favourite band?
Passanger

Favourite song for driving on your own in the car?
Crazy Love, Vol ii by Paul Simon

Favourite hotel?
Le Mirador, Lake Geneva

Favourite smell?
A peony flower…can’t beat it

Mine is peony too!!

Favourite flower?
Foxglove – reminds me of my sister and the Cornish lane she lives along

Favourite board game?
I never play board games, I can’t sit still for long enough!!!! But snakes and ladders is a good one if I had too…

What do you want for Christmas?
For all my boys to be happy and healthy, they are always ill at Christmas time!!!! new coffee machine , and clothes!!! Can a girl ever have enough!!!

Go and meet Lexi at her pop up in December and see all the gorgeous children’s brands she represents in the flesh!

www.placeoflittledreams.com

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Family Life Fashion Spotlight

Up Close with Leonora Bamford

Continuing on my Up Close series, I am delighted to be interviewing the lovely Leonora Bamford, founder of My Baba THE parenting website. I first met Leonora (or Leo as her nearest and dearest call her) her when our sons were doing football (or chasing a ball like drunk toddlers) together. I pretended I didn’t know her (come on, we all do that with high-profile peeps, don’t we?) even though I knew where she had been the night before from her tweets!

I had been following her blog since it started (originally called My Baba Blog) and have watched it grow exponentially. My Baba now boasts an online Magazine and videos as well as the daily scoop on food, family and lifestyle for all your parenting needs.

Leonora has also collaborated with Zita West to develop a range of children’s multivitamins so if your kids are sniffling at the moment, this multi biotic powder is for them. (They love sprinkling it on their breakfast).

My Baba is also supporting the charity Child Bereavement UK. Leonora is hosting an event at the Tory Burch store on Bond Street this week, so follow my Instagram to see photos and lots of instastories! (So excited!)

So, let’s start with most people’s favourite topic. Fashion. What’s your fashion style?
I would love to say I’m a fashionista but really I’m not. I have 5 minutes to pull a look together in the morning and if I’m organised I do it the night before. If I could have a Fashion Style it would be Olivia Palermo but I have a feeling that might take some time!

3 favourite small clothing brands
She’s not small any more but I LOVE Zoe Jordan for everything but particularly her knitwear.
I lived in Clare & Peg when I was pregnant and for kids I’m crazy for Love My Smalls.

3 favourite high street shops
Zara, M and S and Sandro

Top 3 go to items in your wardrobe when you are in a rush
Dare I say Leather trousers – they’re from Ralph Lauren and fit like a glove. Worn with a crisp white Bamford shirt and a bright red handbag.

3 items that make you feel a million dollars
A great pair of Tom Ford sunnies
My mothers old fur coat or my grandmothers old Chanel blazer.
A killer pair of heels can also have the same effect.

1 item that everyone asks where you got it from
A pair of Joseph hight waisted suede trousers I got this year.

Biggest purchase mistake ever
Head to toe Burberry!

Best return of investment on an item
Chanel bag!

Boots or trainers
Trainers, my husband is a big trainer buyer.

Favourite fashion bloggers
London Chatter, Fashion Mum Of 40, The Frugality, The Fashion Bug Blog, SheerLuxe, Wardrobe Icons

Interior style
CLJ Home, Turner Pocock

Interior tip
Spend time at antique stores.

Where do you get your interior inspo from?
Pinterest, I get totally sucked in!

Bare faced or full face?
Bare with a touch of powder

Best beauty buy on the market
Charlotte Tilbury anything!

3 items in your make up bag
Pommade Divine, Tom Ford red lipstick and a palette from Charlotte Tilbury

Hair tip
Always have dry shampoo!

Life saving hair product
Dry shampoo and a Tangle Teaser.

Silver or gold jewellery
Both

Lustful Jewellery brand
i’m crazy about Rebecca de Ravenel earrings.

Keep fit activity
Walking and pilates

Best exercise that works for least amount effort
Does a massage count?

Most romantic restaurant in the world?
The one in Hotel Costes in Paris

Best hotel with kids?
I hear the best things about Borgo Engazia in Puglia

Last supper meal
Baked potato or my grandmothers chicken noodle soup

Your default kids supper when you can’t think
Pasta with secret tomato sauce that’s loaded with everything.

Hangover cure
Paracetamol and lots of water and salty crisps.

Beach or pool?
Beach for the kids

Swimsuit or bikini?
Loving both at the moment

What you do to relax
Meditate or Yoga, doesn’t happen very often!

All time favourite film?
Romeo and Juliette, Baz Luhrmann

Last book you read?
The Bump Class: An Expert Guide to Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond.

I’ve got a stack of books from my favourite shop, Jaffe and Neale in Chipping Norton but I’ve yet to read! Christmas is around the corner.

Favourite box set
Gilmore Girls

The song you pelt out on your own in the car
Aerosmith Crazy – I feel like I’m 16 again.

Evocative smell
Sun cream – Anya Hindmarch has launched a range of candles and that’s one of the scents, takes me back to very happy times.

Bonding family game
Certainly not Monopoly! My husband and son have just started playing chess which is adorable.

3 most useful apps
My taxi, Calm and The Mail

3 websites for passing time
Cool Hunting, Food 52 and Matches Fashion

Best tip for building Instagram following
I’m not very good at this but they say, posting regularly and engaging with others.

A quote you try and live by

Treat others how you would like to be treated.

Always expect the unexpected

What tests your patience?
Bad internet

3 words to describe yourself
Honest, Reliable and Loving

What do you want for Christmas?
A Votary silk pillow case, apparently it takes years off!

So many lovely great tips, I am off to investigate her website and app recommendations!

www.mybaba.com

Follow Leonora on Instagram

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Beauty Fashion Spotlight

Up Close with Chloe Samwell-Smith

Country air and a little break from the blog (well only 2 weeks) has given me a chance to think about what I would like to read on The London Mummy. As you know I love recommendations and like hearing about other people’s, so I am kicking off a new blog series Up Close. It will consist of a quick fire questions with influential women in business.

Chloe Samwell-Smith from the highly successful London-based Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle Blog Chloe Loves To Shop is kicking off the series today! I love her natural style and all her insights into new brands and how to wear certain items.

Hope you enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed thinking up the questions!

What’s your fashion style?
Classic, relaxed and feminine.

3 favourite small clothing brands
Miranda Dunn London (of course!) Wyse London and Scout Cashmere.

3 favourite high street shops
Zara, Topshop, Mango

Top 3 go to items in your wardrobe when you are in a rush
In winter, a cashmere knit, my favourite jeans and my golden goose trainers

3 items that make you feel a million dollars
A faux fur coat, my Chloe Susanna boots and a silk blouse

1 item that everyone asks where you got it from
My fur coats!

Biggest purchase mistake ever
A pair of brown Gucci sandals. I hate brown. What on earth was I thinking? Needless to say I sold them…

Best return of investment on an item
My Chloe boots or my red Gucci disco bag (which has gone up in price by £250 since I bought it)

Boots or trainers
Trainers

Favourite fashion bloggers
Emma Hill,
Jacqueline Mikuta
Audrey Lombard

3 instagram accounts you seek out
The above!

Interior tip
When decorating children’s bedrooms, think about longevity when it comes to dressing windows. We had roman blinds made for all three in age relevant fabrics. Guess what? They grow up, their tastes change!

Where do you get your interior inspo from?
Pinterest, Instagram and Magazines. (And from things I love)

Bare faced or full face?
Full face

Best beauty buy on the market
Revitalash – it’s basically given me lashes for the first time in my life!

3 items in your make up bag
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk (couldn’t live without) A good Mascara and my Hourglass highlighter

Hair tip
GHD Soft curl tong!

Most romantic restaurant in the world
Haute Cabriere or La Petite Colombe in Franschhoek, South Africa

Last supper
Fish and two veg

Default kids supper
Pesto Pasta

Hangover cure
Bacon buttie and a Diet Coke

Beach or pool
Eek Both.

Swimsuit or bikini
Bikini

How you relax
A big bubble bath and light all the candles.

All time favourite film
Dirty Dancing

Last book you read
I am just about to finish the Husband’s Secret (Lianne Moriarty)

Gripping box set
Breaking Bad

The song you pelt out on your own in the car
Adele – Someone like you.

Most evocative smell
Freshly cut grass in the summer. I used to mow the lawn when I was 10!

Most bonding family game
Dog Bingo (everyone can play, even Charlie)

3 favourite apps
Instagram, Pinterest and Maps!

Best tip for building Instagram following
Find a way of connecting with your followers and be yourself.

A quote you try and live by
Stay Humble, Work Hard, Be Kind

What tests your patience?
My children bickering!

3 words to describe yourself
Happy, Caring and Loving

And what do you want for Christmas?
A Liberty Advent Calendar which has probably already sold out! (I have just checked and am afraid it is!!)

Check out Chloe’s fantastic Blog Chloe Loves To Shop and follow Chloe on Instagram for laid back, elegant and attainable style inspiration.

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Big Fashion Spotlight

Gussie & Lou : A Neontastic Rebrand

As a staunch fan of anything neon, I have always loved ‘Little Leggies’ as it was known up until a month ago. The founders, Gussy & Lou wanted to build on the success of their predominantly childrenswear business and expand further into womenswear that was becoming more and more successful, so a rebrand and name change was in order.

Following a busy christmas period last year and an increase in sales in our ladies collection we knew it was time to re think our brand slightly. We’ve loved our little leggies days but it was definitely time to think of something bigger and better and to create something that reflected our brand as being equal ladies and kidswear.

So not only did they want to rebrand – a new name was needed. Appropriately & obviously they chose Gussy and Lou.

Coming up with a new name is tricky and we discussed loads of options but ultimately decided our own names were best suited for our brand. With Gussy and Lou having just launched the feedback we have recieved has been fantastic and we hope all our lovely customers and supporters like the new changes.

The new name works well and the shiny, easy to navigate website is fab too.

It is packed to the gunnels with lust worthy items for both your little ones and your self. So put on your Christmas shopping hat or if that makes you short of breath, invest in one of their top quality show stopping items.

Here are my top picks for the kids –

Neon Ruffle Playsuit £35

Pink Star Jeans with Silver Pockets £40

Neon Jacket £40

Neon Star Cashmere Jumper £78

Something for the lads…

Cashmere Jumper £78

And also for the babes…

Neon Green Cashmere Baby Pants £42

Now our turn..

Their signature piece (in my eyes) is the neon cuff and waistband trim cashmere jumper. In an array of stunning colour combinations, it is quite hard to decide which one to go for!

I am a very proud owner of the Oat colour design and absolutely love it! (I take a medium if that helps you with sizing…)

This jumper is also in the shopping basket…

Stripe Cashmere Jumper £150

They have a stunning range of Blouses with green/pink and orange stars (or hearts) not them.

I know, insanely gorgeous aren’t they! I love this one – it is super soft.

Neon Green Star Blouse £50

And to really damage your balance this month – you can also get prepared for the dip in weather that is bound to come any time soon with their cashmere scarves.

Dark Grey & Neon Orange Cashmere Scarf £165

If you are lucky enough to off to sunnier chimes this half term, the beach cover ups are gorgeous and so reasonably priced.

Neon Star Beach Dress £45

You can also buy a mini me one!

It is rare to lust after so many items on one site but Gussy & Lou have nailed it with their gorgeous designs.

Despite the new addition of little Luna, this won’t prevent them from moving forward even further and I bet, continue growing rapidly. Well done girls on a triumph!

Watch this space I say!

Gussy & Lou’s Favourites

Shop : “Selfridges. It’s got everything a girl could want under 1 roof and we would love to stock Gussie and Lou there one day!”

Website : “Our own, of course!”

Restaurant : “It’s got to be the Chelsea Ivy Garden where we treat ourselves to our annual, VERY long Christmas lunch, a date we both look forward to for months!”

Holiday destination : “Anywhere hot and sunny really! Corfu is a special place for us both as we have spent many happy holidays together here since University days.”

Parenting tip :

“Not sure we are that qualified to give too many tips considering Lou’s baby, Luna, is not even 2 weeks old! However what we both strongly believe is that every parent should embrace their little ones style, its amazing how many mums say how particular their kids are about what they want to wear, although this must be frustrating its also great, that from such a young age kids can tell what they want to wear. We believe parents should feel proud of this!”

Find them on Instagram and Facebook or head to their website

Love

Lucinda xx

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Activities Interiors Spotlight

Bundle Beds : Banish Your Camping Woes

It is so exciting to introduce the founders of Bundle Beds. A friend recommended I visit their stand at Spirit of Summer, so off I went and was greeted by a very friendly James who told me the concept of Bundle Beds. The striking design and easy to store concept was what I was really impressed with, however I was eager to know more about these two young entrepreneurs…

What is a Bundle Bed?

A Bundle Bed is a self-contained, fully-bundled bed, complete with a slim, but deceptively-comfortable self-inflating mattress, built in luxury duvet and pillow with ultra cosy sheets to provide comfort, warmth and a great night’s sleep.

This is my bed awaiting its debut use on Saturday night…

[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfbvTzOvJsE[/embedyt]

It was so easy to use (and even easier to wash after the kids played in after a wet night!)

Please introduce yourselves…

We are the founders of Bundle Beds, James Clark (32) and Lucy Bartlett (31), also known as the ‘Chief Bundlers’. We met at a dinner party in 2013 through Lucy’s husband, Ben (James and Ben were great friends at school), and shortly after decided to set up Bundle Beds. We now run the business together, and at the moment run it as a 24 hour business as James is based in London.

Lucy is based in Brunei (although heads back to the UK for events for the Summer and festive seasons).

Why did you start Bundle Beds?

We love travelling, love camping, love adventures and most of all love being surrounded by family and friends… We wanted to change the fact that the only solution for sleepovers, camping and adventures was to take a mass of bulky or uncomfortable sleeping equipment which never delivered a good night’s sleep.

Whether it’s sleeping over, camping out, ‘putting up’ guests, festival fun or overnight adventures, we created Bundle Beds to provide the ultimate sleeping alternative to a conventional bed – a roll out bed that is easy to carry, simple to use and provides a great night’s sleep.

Who are Bundle Beds idea for?

Bundle Beds are ideal for all ages. The Bundle Bed is the ultimate solution for anyone who intends on sleeping over, from kids going on sleepovers, to festival goers or someone who just needs an extra bed to house guests. Bundle Beds are the first choice option when no beds are available and in fact, some of our customers now prefer a Bundle Bed to their own bed!

Well, it has certainly revolutionised my camping life!

Lucy’s favourites :

Restaurant – The Shed, Notting Hill

Website – Sawday’s Canopy & Stars

Hotel – Mesa Stila in Central Java

Campsite – Middle Ninfa

Shop – West Elm

Holiday destination – I’ve been super lucky in the last few years to be able to travel to lots of amazing places in Asia from Brunei (where I live). I can’t choose, so top three are Sri Lanka, Nusa Lembongan and Pamilican Island, just off Bohol.

Parenting tip –

Give yourself a break and don’t ever expect to get the perfect work, life balance. Unless you are superhuman, that’s not going to happen, so just work it out as you go along!

James’ favourites :

Restaurant – Le Relais De Venise

Website – AirBnB, what a great idea – the gateway to awesome travel worldwide

Hotel – The White Pearl, Ponta Mamoli, Mozambique

Campsite – Embers Bentley. Just awesome!

Shop – Selfridges

Holiday destination – The south of France in general, especially in the Var, near Cotignac and Entrecasteaux

Parenting tip –