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Spotlight

New Brand Spotlight : Field + Frolic

Set up by gorgeous Berkshire based mum, Georgie, Field + Frolic is an online shop and blog. The blog consists of articles categorised into style, travel, food and home, based upon her own discoveries and recommendations. (Thrilled to see the red swimming costume from Next made her May cut!!)

Georgie’s shop sells items from her collaborations with various small brands. It is a magpie’s heaven as not only does Georgie share a love of metallics and pink – she also has an eye for what’s slightly different, and each collaboration has enabled her to put her own twist on it.

Here are my top picks from her shop and she has very kindly offered 20% to The London Mummy readers!

Use TLM20 at checkout.

Lime ‘n Soda ‘Magic Rainbow’ Key Ring £59.95

It’s all about rainbows this summer in case you hadn’t noticed, so give a little nod to a very big trend with these unusual key ring.

I would add it to my bag as it’s too cute to be kept hidden!

Striped Giraffe Neon Pink Hibiscus Sweatshirt £35

I love the shape of these slim fitting sweatshirts. As you can see in the first photo, they are very wearable with a gorgeous pop of colour (the Hibiscus is Field + Frolic logo – subtle eh?)

Willow Cashmere 100% Cashmere Chunky Knit Colour Block Wrap £199

How many times in the last fortnight have you dashed out the door in nothing less than a flimsy top or dress, only to be absolutely stung by a chill once the sun has gone down. I won’t be making that mistake again and think this cashmere wrap is just the ticket.

Gift Pop Cow Hide Belt £35

A belt for all seasons with a suitable amount of embellishment on it. Love the studs and as it is cowhide, it’s durable and will last forever.

Field + Frolic Luxury Scented Diffuser £45

The smell of this diffuser is heaven, very floral, not sickly and the best thing is – it lasts a very long time unlike usual diffusers.

Georgie plans to add new lines with other brands too, so once these are gone they are gone!

Have a lovely day and don’t forget TLM20 at checkout

Lots of love

Lucinda x

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Family Life Spotlight

Up Close with Marina Fogle

When I was first pregnant, one of my first missions was to decide which pre natal course to do. As it wasn’t obvious which to go for, I went on 3. Yes 3… hospital, private and NCT. I was certainly keen that’s for sure, but it was purely as I hadn’t been given a good recommendation so took it upon myself to investigate. Had Marina Fogle’s antenatal ante natal classes been around back in 2010, it would have been a no brainer to go with The Bump Class.

Their Eight Week Antenatal Course are tailored to meet the needs of mothers to be who want to learn about the practical elements of pregnancy, child-birth, breastfeeding, parenting from a supportive, pragmatic and unbiased point of view. They also have a fathers evening so you don’t have to drag unwilling participants to every class – just the part that involves them.

With classes all over South & West London, you will meet other mothers who are expecting at the same time, whilst also learning about everything from labour to weaning from experts.

If you aren’t able, or the moments passed and you have had your little one, Marina and her sister (Dr) Chiara Hunt have a new podcast covering topics that will suit parents of all age children. I particularly liked the podcast when & how to discuss sex with your children.

So, let’s get Up Close with Marina and hear her recommendations.

What’s your secret to working whilst raising a family?
Being mega organised. I buy as much as possible online so I’ve got more free time to hang out with the people who really matter.

What advice to you for people who have a business idea?
Be prepared to sacrifice things to get it off the ground.

What do you work wise?
I run The Bump Class that prepares women for the birth of their children.

We’ve written a book; The Bump Class; An Expert Guide to Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond and we’ve just launched The Parent Hood, a podcast that gives expert advice on all aspects of parenting delivered by professionals.

What’s your favourite aspect of your business at the moment?
The Parent Hood! I’m having such fun getting together with experts and chatting about everything from whether dummies are good or evil to who to talk to your child about terrorist attacks.

What’s your fashion style?
I try to be smart in my working life but it’s got to be practical.

3 favourite small clothing brands
– Wiggy Kit for beautifully cut summer clothes that I end up wearing all year round

– PB 0110 for exquisite bags that get better and better with age

– North Sea Clothing for knitwear that’s made for men but looks great with skinny jeans.

3 favourite high street shops
– Zara always seems to nail it
– MiH for jeans
– I love Me+Em’s trousers which are cut beautifully

Top 3 go to items in your wardrobe when you are in a rush
– a wool midi skirt from JCrew
– simple cashmere crew neck
– a statement necklace and some boots

3 items that make you feel a million dollars
– an ancient pair of gold Louboutins that add another 3 inches to my already quite substantial height
– a traditional Austrian hat (my mother is Austrian)
– an onyx and diamond ring I inherited from my grandmother.

1 item that everyone asks where you got it from
A simple white Wiggy Kit shirt that always looks amazing

Biggest purchase mistake ever
A second hand Chloe coat – it was a bit small. Never buy clothes that you have to lose weight to fit into.

Best return of investment
A pair of JCrew loafers that smarten up any trousers.

Boots or trainers?
Boots – trainers are for working out

3 Instagram accounts you enjoy
– Dee Caffari – she’s skippering a boat in the Volvo Ocean Race, around the world. I love this little window on to her challenge.
– Bert & May I love their reclaimed interiors

– My husband Ben Fogle. He used to be a picture editor and his eye for interesting photos from around the world I love.

Interior style
Quirky!

Interior tip
Good lighting is essential

Bare faced or full face?
Full face that looks like bare faced beauty!

Best beauty buy on the market
Rosehip oil – great for eczema

3 items in your make up bag
– Shisedo foundation
– No7 eyebrow pencil
– Shu Umera eyelash curlers

Hair tip
It’s easier than you think to create a bed head wave using a cheap hair tong!

Life saving hair product
Batiste Dry Shampoo

Silver or gold jewellery?
Gold

Keep fit activity
Sweat with Kayla This app has changed my body thanks for 30 minute work outs three times a week.

Best exercise that works for least amount effort
Plank

Best hotel with kids
Soneva Fushi in the Maldives. Not cheap but amazing…

Last supper
Ramen from Bone Daddies Japanese Soul Food

Default kids supper
Every week I poach a whole chicken which gives me tender meat and delicious broth. My kids love chicken soup which I pack with whatever veg I have in the fridge and add some noodles

Hangover cure
Extra strong mints – trust me, they’re amazingly effective

Beach or pool?
Beach, every time!

Swimsuit or bikini?
Bikini

What you do to relax?
Take my dog for a walk

All time favourite film
The Thomas Crown Affair

Last book you read
Homo Deus

Favourite box set
The Night Manager

The song you pelt out on your own in the car
If my daughter’s with me, anything by Ed Sheeran

Most evocative smell
Proper homegrown garden roses

Most bonding family game
Consequences

3 favourite apps
– Bubble which makes booking my favourite babysitters easy
– Ocado
– my podcast app

3 favourite websites for passing time
I don’t really spend much time online – I prefer to listen.

Can I give you my three favourite podcasts instead? (Of course!)
– The Parent Hood (obviously)
– Desert Island Discs
– No Such Thing As A Fish

Best tip for building Instagram following
You tell me!

A quote you try and live by
Add life to your days rather than days to your life.

What tests your patience?
Learner drivers

3 words to describe yourself
Busy, creative and happy

thebumpclass.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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Family Life Spotlight

Spotlight on Carla Monge : Family Photographer

Our first ever au pair, after 2 years with us moved on to become a nanny for a lovely Spanish family in Clapham. I drove her to her new job and met her wonderful new employers, one of which I discovered was a wonderful photographer. We stayed in touch through Instagram (her feed is beautiful btw) and was delighted when she asked if I would review one of her packages – relaxed family photos in your own house.

Any mother who tries to snap her kids will know how rare it is to get a good photo with the combination everyone’s eyes open, good light and happy so I was happy to give Carla the challenge of getting some photos of all of us.

As soon as she entered our home, the magic happened and she managed to get the children’s attention with a very cunning knack of asking them to look for the frog in the lens (I think it was a frog – I was so enamoured with the concept I can’t actually remember the exact tactic.)

She new the hardest shot is the ones of all the kids together so she got to work on that whilst they were still in post breakfast high. (She likes to start early at about 9 so she can get there best hours before they get tired and hungry).

She said then what would work best is if we just pretended she wasn’t there and get on with what we normally do (ok, not washing up breakfast) but playing in the garden, doing a puzzle etc.

We then moved around the house and she conscientiously made sure that every combination of child/child & child/adult was covered, which she achieved seamlessly and calmly.

I was so thrilled with the session. Carla is a lovely girl to have around and having two children of her own is very natural with kids. She knows about attention spans and distracting to get the best out of the children and her photography skills speak for themselves in her photos. She is a very talented lady!

GIVEAWAY

If you would like to win a 30 minute photo shoot in the park worth £130 including five prints and images, head over to my Instagram to win!

How did you develop your passion for photography?

My interest in photography goes all the way back to Dad’s old film camera as a teenager, I remember developing my first roll of film in the darkroom at school and being amazed at seeing my creations appearing on paper! I continued with some street photography during university, but as happens so often, life and work just got busy and I put my hobby to one side for several years.

It wasn’t until my first child was born that I really started shooting again to capture every single little detail, first smiles, tiny hands and feet, I didn’t want to miss a thing! During each of my maternity leaves I learnt everything I could about photography online, and I haven’t put my camera down since! I like to think that one day my children will see their childhood, through my eyes, in my photographs.

What made you decide to do it professionally?

As I started sharing my photography on Instagram in particular, family and friends started asking me if I could photograph their families. I really enjoyed my first few sessions and creating those timeless memories that mean so much to me for others, so I decided to take the leap!

What’s your style?

My style is very natural, lifestyle photography, capturing the beauty of natural family connections.

Who do you love to photograph?

All families really, families with newborns, young siblings, mornings with grandparents, I enjoy photographing it all!

What is your pricing structure?

I tailor each family session to each unique family and love seeing each family’s personality emerge in the photo galleries I deliver. I do newborn and family sessions where I spend 2-3 hours of a morning with a family either in the comfort of their own home or outdoors.

The booking fee is £175 which includes the photography session itself, a pre-shoot consultation to get to know your family a little better and tailor the session to your unique family personality, a styling guide and recommendations to prepare both parents and children for the session for best results.

My photography packages start at £150 and I offer a range of options of prints, digital packages, frames and albums. Finally, I firmly believe in displaying photographs rather than storing them on a hard drive where they will be forgotten and won’t be fully appreciated, so I always include a post-shoot consultation to give guidance on the different options to best display your images.

With such a reasonable price for such quality results, if I were you I would get booking!

Carla’s Favourites :

Restaurant : Cambio De Tercio in South Kensington, for when I start missing Spanish food!

Hotel : I have to say that with such amazing houses on AirBnB, I rarley stay at hotels with my family anymore!

Website : Amazon! (does that count? It’s a life saver for me!) 😉

Shop : I love shopping locally and there’s a little shop in my neighbourhood called Lizzie’s, it’s become my go-to for buying all sorts of thoughtful little presents for people.

Holiday destination : My best holiday ever was on Safari in Botswana, my husband and I vowed we would do it again, maybe for our 25 year anniversary? 🙂

Parenting tip : “Patience, patience and more patience….and remember to have fun!”

carlamonge.com

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