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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

AD| If you're looking to upgrade the lighting in your home in a more eco-friendly way, whilst saving money on your energy bills, and having full control over the design of your home, LED lighting might be the best solution for you. 

LEDs or light emitting diodes are a perfect lighting option for a number of reasons, as they have such great benefits. Not only can they help to improve the look and ambience of any room, they are also incredibly environmentally friendly, long-lasting and extremely energy efficient when it comes to lighting options. 

LED LIGHTING

The number one benefit of using LED lights in your home is for their energy efficiency. "In fact, according to a 2016 Goldman Sachs report, “the rapid adoption of LEDs in lighting marks one of the fastest technology shifts in human history.” LED lighting emits very little heat in comparison to a traditional light bulb, resulting in far less energy to produce the same amount of light. Making sure to purchase good quality LED lights use around 90% less energy, and last around 20 times longer than traditional light bulbs, making them one of the smartest options to choose when it comes to indoor or outdoor lighting!

Another huge benefit of opting for LED lighting in your home is that there are a wide variety of different styles to choose from, to suit your own personal interior design preferences. Most electrical stores have everything from LED bulbs and strip lights to LED panels, as well as neon lighting if you're looking to inject some serious colour into your home. As well as indoor LED lights, outdoor lighting is also available with many products being both weather and water-resistant. So for those upgrading their gardens with the use of fairy lights or festoon bulbs, LEDs are definitely something to consider.

LED light sources are a sustainable and eco-friendly option due to their durability, longevity and low-maintenance. LEDs last much longer than older types of lighting, with the average lightbulb lasting anywhere from 25,000 - 50,000 hours. The longer lifespan of LED lighting options has a positive impact on the environment, resulting in less waste and preventing electrical items being thrown away due to poor quality. A longer lifetime of these lighting options means less time wasted on continuously purchasing and changing bulbs. 

Something we all strive for is saving more money, and LED lighting is a great alternative lighting option for those wanting to cut costs of their energy bills. Although LEDs are probably one of the most expensive type of lighting you'll find in the shops, over a long-term period, they'll definitely be a more of an investment, as well as a more sustainable and budget friendly option due to their power saving properties. LED lights require much less electricity than both traditional incandescent or halogen light bulbs, helping to keep your energy bills down over a long period of time. LED lights are super easy to install into existing sockets in your home and you will notice significant savings straight away from the first use.

Are you looking to upgrade your homes lighting? Have you considered switching to LED lights?
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AD - GIFTED | If you’re looking to switch up and expand the products in your skin care routine but are unsure of what exactly you need, incorporating a facial oil or serum may be the answer you're looking for. It's always important to make sure the products you are using on a daily basis are suitable for your skin type and are giving the results that you want. 

Many people struggle to find their perfect skincare routine and are often worried that adding too many products may complicate their routine and ruin their skin. However, both skin oils and serums have some amazing skin benefits, and I would definitely recommend doing some research into them before adding them to your own routine.

facial skincare

Benefits Of Oils
Skin oils are a product that many people shy away from, as they think they will be too heavy for their skin, clog up their pores, and even make your skin more oily. However, facial oils have some amazing benefits that definitely shouldn't be overlooked as they could be the product you are needing in your routine. 

First of all, they're extremely good for dry skin. Oils are usually extremely rich and hydrating, providing your skin with extra moisture and hydration - perfect for the colder months of the year. Oils help to really protect your skin by being able to penetrate deeper into the skin due to the lipophilic properties. Also, oils are very calming on the skin and can be used for a number of skin concerns, including rashes, acne and blemishes, helping to cure and prevent future breakouts.

Benefits Of Serums
Designed to nourish, protect, and hydrate your skin, a facial serum is a product worth looking into and adding into your skincare routine as another step after cleansing and before moisturizing. Serums are usually extremely lightweight, allowing them to absorb quickly into your skin and help lock in hydration. 

Also, serums are usually formulated with some great natural oils and ingredients that help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, making serums great for those looking into anti-ageing skincare.
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Introducing Velvet Bio

Recently I was kindly gifted a duo of skincare products from Velvet Bio, a company who's goal is to "to help you live a healthier and stress-free life", through the use of 100% natural and organic products and promote how beneficial essential oils can be to your health. 

I was sent two skincare products that come together in a skincare bundle set, packed with essential oils that are perfect to encourage healthy, happy skin. The packaging of both Velvet Bio products is simply stunning. I really love the minimalistic yet luxury feel to the glass bottles, and the simplicity of the gold text design on a white background really helps the products stand out. 

VELVET BIO SKIN CARE BODY OIL

SKIN CARE BODY OIL*- SCARS & STRETCH MARKS, VITAMIN C & E

The first skincare product I received is the body oil*, which is formulated with both Vitamin C and E. Vitamin C is used for helping to thicken the dermis and to diminish fine lines. Whilst Vitamin E helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and helps reduce hyper-pigmentation. It also helps retain moisture to skin and nourishes your skin - adding a glow and smooth feel to your skin.

This skincare body oil is simply luxurious. The texture is non-greasy, but feels so rich and hydrating on the skin, and absorbs within seconds - you don't need to wait around for hours for the product to sink into the skin before getting dressed! It's perfect for those suffering with scars and stretch marks, but also those who have extremely dry skin, as the nourishing oil really helps add extra moisture to the skin. Also, the oil has such a light, subtle lavender scent, which isn't too overpowering and smells very 'spa-like', which would be perfect for those who aren't keen on strong fragranced products.

VELVET BIO FACIAL SERUM

FACIAL SERUM - ANTI AGEING, VITAMIN C & E

The facial serum* is another product that I have been testing out, and is a product I currently use in my skincare routine once a week, as some oils can be too heavy for certain skin types. This serum is targeted towards having anti-ageing benefits, which helps naturally ease fine lines, smooth and wrinkled skin on the face.

Again, this serum is enriched with both Vitamin C and E, which are essential for firm, youthful skin improving wrinkles on the skin, and helps reduce wrinkled skin. The fragrance of this product is extremely similar to the body oil, a light and fresh lavender scent, which isn't too strong. I like to use a few drops of this oil before bed, as the lavender scent really helps you relax and feel calm. After application, my skin is left looking extremely glowy and radiant, and I know the ingredients will work overnight leaving me with fresh, plump skin in the morning.

Do you currently use skin oils or serums in your daily routine? What products would you recommend? Have you heard of Velvet Bio?
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AD - GIFTED | Is there anything better than new lingerie? Whilst you certainly don’t need a reason to upgrade your collection by buying a new lingerie set, it's definitely a good excuse to treat yourself, whether you're single or with a partner. 

Lingerie doesn't need to be ridiculously uncomfortable or expensive! There are so many brands out there who offer gorgeous sets are an affordable price, it would be silly not to freshen up your collection and add some new pieces. Just like you would update your clothes wardrobe when fashion trends change or things don't fit well anymore, you should update your lingerie collection regularly as well.

women's lingerie

5 REASONS TO UPDATE YOUR LINGERIE COLLECTION NOW

1. Improves body confidence
Wearing a beautiful, well-fitting set of lingerie is bound to make you feel good and look good too! Building your self-confidence is the first step to feel comfortable with your body and in your own skin. Simply choosing the right lingerie styles for your body type could be all that's needed to help you feel 10/10.

2. Try new styles to flatter your body type
Right now there are so many styles and shapes of lingerie, with bras running from small-cup sizes to fuller-bust and bottoms in a range of styles from thongs, shorts and high-rise knickers, there is always something for everyone! By choosing lingerie from affordable brands, this will give you the chance to try a whole range of styles and shapes, so you can work out with ones you prefer and which ones flatter your body type.

3. Improves fits of clothes
Sometimes you might not feel confident in the outfits you put together for work, to see friends, or even just to chill at home, and that could just be down to your lingerie choices. Pieces that are too small or too big can alter the way clothing fits on the body and make them appear uncomfortable and unflattering, so it's important to wear the right lingerie pieces with the right outfit!

4. Try new colours
When you open your lingerie draw, is it all just a bunch of discoloured and over-washed items you've had for ages? Well now could be the perfect time to have a freshen up. Out with the old, in with the new! Lingerie comes in so many beautiful colours these days, it's definitely hard to make your mind up whilst your shopping. From beautiful bold shades to delicate pretty pastels, as well as your basic black, whites and nude shades, the choices are endless!

5. Better health
You may be wondering how updating your wardrobe can improve your health. But did you know a lot of women actually wear the wrong size bra? Wearing the wrong size bra can be incredibly uncomfortable but it can also damage your health. From causing breast/back pain to premature sagging, poor posture and skin problems, an incorrectly fitted bra can cause a number of issues that can affect your day-to-day-health. So with all this is mind, it's extremely important to get measured regularly and update your lingerie collection accordingly.
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Introducing Tutti Rouge
This year I've definitely been getting rid of some lingerie pieces that either I don't like anymore, things that have been worn a few times too many or just pieces that don't fit as well as they used too. I was very kindly gifted some pieces from Tutti Rouge to add to my collection and I am extremely happy and impressed with what I have received. Tutti Rouge began its work in the summer of 2012, and are recognised by supporting/promoting fuller busts, with expertise in sizing from a DD and upwards, by helping those who have struggled to find supportive and comfortable bras in their sizes.

Tutti Rouge Lingerie Lace Bralettes
Tutti Rouge Lingerie Lace Bralettes

The first piece I chose from the website was the 2pk Duo Lace Bralettes*. These bralettes come in both black and white, which are ultimate lingerie collection staples. For me, triangle-style bralettes are a must have for everyday wear as they are so comfortable, yet flattering on the body, whatever shape and size you are. These bralettes feature adjustable straps which enhance the support levels and make for a better fit. The attention to detail on these bralettes is incredible, the delicate lace is just so feminine yet sophisticated, the thick bands help with support, and the gold heart detail on the straps just adds something cute and finishes of the bralettes so effortlessly.

Tutti Rouge Lingerie Lace Briefs

Of course, updating your lingerie collection means you must have matching sets, so I also picked up the 2pk Duo Lace Brazilians*, again in black and white. This style of brief is perfect for everyday wear, as they are super flattering, super comfortable and super sexy! These briefs give a good amount of coverage and really help flatter your bottom half. I opted to pick these up in one size bigger than my usual size as these will feel more comfortable and flattering on the body. No one likes tight underwear that digs in and suffocates you!

Tutti Rouge Lingerie Lace Bodysuit

Finally, the last piece from Tutti Rouge is this gorgeous black lace Hallie Bodysuit*. I don't usually opt for bodysuits but this one is simply stunning. One of my favourite bodysuits! This bodysuit is very pretty, the black lace gives of very sexy, sophisticated vibes, and this piece can definitely be worn as both lingerie or as a more dressy styled top. Featuring an elasticated middle panel that pulls in your waist, and makes you feel so supported, secure and comfortable. Similar to the lace bralettes, this bodysuit also features the gold heart detailing on the straps that just add that luxe feel to the lingerie, and make it look incredibly expensive!

When was the last time you updated your collection and bought new lingerie? 
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AD| Let's be completely honest, there's probably a million reasons why you should be thinking about travelling to Greece, especially in the summer months, as there is just so much to see and do here. With around 6,000 islands located in both the Aegean and Ionian Seas, with over 200 of these inhabited, you'll be spoilt for choice when deciding where to go for your next getaway.

Whether you opt for a holiday to the mainland or to one of the islands, Greece simply has it all, from stunning beaches, mouth-watering cuisine to spectacular scenery. Not to mention the warm Mediterranean climate and the abundance of culture and history, it's definitely a holiday destination worth thinking about as the country has so much to offer visitors.


Santorini
Santorini is probably one of the most iconic Greek islands and a location that is instantly recognisable. Santorini is known for it's 5-star luxury hotels, spectacular restaurants, and high-end shopping, making it a great destination for a romantic getaway. The best, most popular places to stay on the island include Fira, Imerovigli, Firostefani and Oia, as these offer some of the the best views of the volcano, the caldera and of course the stunning sunsets.

If you want to truly discover the island without paying expensive fares for each taxi ride, or taking a trip on the local buses, maybe you should consider renting a car whilst in Santorini. The idea of renting a motorbike or a four-wheeler sounds fun, but are typically not the safest way to drive around a busy island like Santorini. On the other hand car hire will offer the flexibility and freedom to enjoy the islands beauties.

Corfu
Corfu is known as Greece's emerald island as it is one of the greenest islands in Greece, with the vast combination of olive and cypress trees making up the landscape. Corfu homes some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, featuring such crystal clear waters, pebbled beach fronts and golden sands, it's definitely one not to miss out on.

This island is probably one of the best to explore if you are looking for a family holiday. Corfu’s famous Aqualand water park is a great family day out and will give you hours of fun and excitement, and the Corfu Aquarium is also a great spot for those with children. 


Mykonos
For those seeking amazing nightlife with a vivid party scene, Mykonos might just be the perfect island for you. Mykonos island is part of the Cyclades, and is basically Greece's answer to to the famous party island of Ibiza. You can enjoy the cosmopolitan nightlife with a huge selection of restaurants, bars and clubs to go to located all across the island. 

But Mykonos isn't just about great parties, this island offers much much more. Visiting Mykonos offers a well-rounded travel experience; there are an enormous range of activities for everyone. With a range of museums, churches and windmills, and over 20 gorgeous beaches to visit, there are plenty of sights to keep you busy during your stay on the island.

Crete
 Located in the Aegean Sea, Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands, and is also the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean, homing over 600 miles of coastline full of beautiful beaches, cliffs, mountains and hilltops, it's one of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever encounter. This island is an ideal getaway for couple, friend or family style holidays as there is so many things to see and do here, you'll be spoilt for choice everyday!

Crete also has two major airports; Chania and Heraklion, making it easily accessible from many European cities, making it a perfect holiday destination to travel to. I was lucky enough to visit Crete a few years ago, spending my holiday in the town of Hersonissos, located in the north of the island. It's one of the most modern places on the island, with an array of restaurants, bars and clubs, similar to those found in the neighbouring town of Malia. With golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, amazing food and Instagram-worthy sunsets, it's a must visit place for everyone.

Greek Islands Landscape View

Rhodes
Rhodes is the largest island in the Greek Dodecanese, the fourth largest Greek island and is known to be the sunniest place in Greece! Not only does the island have the perfect climate, the island is extremely rich in history as it is the oldest inhabited medieval towns in Europe. If you're a lover of Greek history, then a trip into Rhodes Old Town is a must!

Rhodes boasts such a variety of picture-perfect, breath-taking scenery, from ancient towns and picturesque villages to amazing beaches and natural landscapes. As for the beaches on the island, they are some of the best beaches in Greece, especially those located at Lindos and Faliraki!

Zakynthos
Located in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos is a well-known summer resort that offers plenty of activities for all ages, making it an ideal location for families, couples or groups. Whether you're into water sports, hiking and visiting museums, or taking day trip excursions like boat parties and turtle spotting, Zakynthos has it all.

The iconic, world famous Navagio Shipwreck Beach lies on the island of Zakynthos. This locations is tucked away in a small cove in the north of the island, boasting a beautiful beach and crystal clear waters, it's probably one of the most recognised, photographed and most famous beach in Greece and can only be accessed via boat. It's definitely something not to be missed when visiting Zakynthos.

Have you visited Greece before? Which islands are you looking to go to?
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AD| There are so many different interior design trends out there, each offering something different for your home. Many of these are new, modern takes on classic styles, but some trends are so timeless that their influence can be seen across countless interiors. The industrial interior is a classic look for any home, offering sharp features and deep colour contrasts full of character. Despite its traditional roots, the industrial look feels right at home even in a modern interior, offering depth to any minimalist design. 

So, how do you pull off the industrial look in your modern interior? 

Here are some key points to consider for your space. 

modern industrial kitchen interior
 
Cold Walls 
One of the fundamentals of an industrial-style home is the use of colder walls, such as exposed brick, metal or flat concrete. If your house isn’t blessed with these features, a cold stone pain or wall-effect wallpaper can help you achieve the look. Having cold walls is the first step to creating the deep contrasts associated with the industrial style. If you’re concerned that it might be a little too unwelcoming for your space, don’t be - you can easily negate that feeling by adding fabrics and bright industrial wall lights available here in the UK. 

A modern industrial kitchen interior

Strip Your Interior 
The industrial style can work alongside a range of different designs. However, for a modern look, industrial interiors work best in minimalist spaces. Try to strip your interior back to its bare essentials to achieve a truly efficient, industrial-style home. Not only does this step help bring more focus to your space’s most important features, but it can also quickly and easily make your home feel brighter and bigger! 
 
Expose Edges 
Another key trait of the industrial style is being slightly rough around the edges. While a modern industrial look can be more refined, it still benefits from having defined corners and angles on show. If you have older, bulkier furnishings (such as a dining table or TV cabinet), position them so their edges become more prominent. This look is particularly powerful for older pieces, allowing their character to flow through the room. 

An industrial-style wooden table with metal chairs
 
Natural Elements 
While the industrial style is commonly associated with cold, rough metals, it actually has a much wider scope. While metal should play a part, the industrial look can also benefit from the use of natural woods and fabrics to create a warmer home. Metal pairs wonderfully with the textures and depth of woods and high-quality fabrics. Contrasting the industrial look’s cold tones with pops of colour from warmer features is a great way to create a cosier living space. 

Recycle and Upcycle 
The industrial look is the perfect way to breathe new life into older items. Once-loved furnishings can have heaps of character, making them right at home in a dynamic industrial interior. If you have an old table or cupboard, consider giving it a light touch-up (without hiding that much-loved character) and making it a centrepiece of your new interior. If you want to get super creative, you could turn something old into something completely different - quirky furnishings, particularly using metals or woods, can work wonders in an industrial space. 

"Industville is an award-winning designer and manufacturer of industrial lights and furniture. Using high-quality raw materials, they pride themselves on bringing authentic, hand-finished products to customers. Industville has worked with a variety of homeowners, interior designers and distinguished retail, leisure and hospitality companies around the world, such as Tissot, Watchfinder, Next, Costa Coffee and Café Nero."
 
What is your favourite aspect of the industrial style? 

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AD| The COVID-19 pandemic completely changed the dating game, making it extremely hard for singles to navigate their way into new relationships and meet others. Trying to keep in touch with others can be quite difficult during the current lockdown, but hopefully with the easing of restrictions, dating will feel much easier and more normal once the lockdown period is over. Dating sites like Tinder, Bumble and Surrey Dating Site have become increasingly popular over the last year, as a way meeting new people and seeking out new friendships/relationships.

Throughout the last year or so, many people have used facetime, video chats and even had virtual dates to keep in contact with friends, family and people they've met through dating sites, as a way to keep in contact. Video calls are extremely handy for everyone as they can happen anytime and anyplace, making them extremely popular and you can connect with others any time of day. It's also a less formal way of getting to know others, so less nerves and anxiety as you can chat comfortably in your own homes. But soon enough, we'll all be able to get back outside, meet up with others and enjoy exploring the world around us in real life.

couple on a date

But as lockdown restrictions are beginning to ease, we will be able to meet up with others outside and start having some fun. There's a huge variety of adventurous activities and beautiful locations in the Surrey area, that are bound to make your next date extremely memorable and will definitely help you to bond closer with that someone special. If you're looking for some Surrey Dating locations that would be perfect for an afternoon date post lockdown, keep reading!

- Box Hill - 
Based in the North Downs in Surrey, Box Hill is a National Trust site that is the ideal location for those who enjoy scenic walks and stunning views. With a number of woodland paths and hikes to enjoy, and a walk down to the stepping stones, it's a lovely location for those who love the outdoors, love to keep fit, and enjoy being surrounded by nature. It's also a perfect spot for a relaxed picnic with some delicious food and drink! 

- Mercedes-Benz World - 
If you're a lover of cars, Mercedes-Benz World could be a great alternative date location for those who want to experience something new. Located in Weybridge, offering thrilling Driving Experiences for all ages, plus 3 floors of amazing attractions and displays, it's the perfect day out!

- Virginia Water - 
Virginia Water is an extremely popular place to visit all year round, as is know for  its beautiful glittering waters, its peaceful atmosphere and the abundance of wildlife in the area. It'd make a lovely afternoon date, especially in the warmer months of the year, to go on walk around and chat with each other in a more relaxed, comfortable environment.

- Thorpe Park - 
Thorpe Park is the ultimate date destination for thrill seekers who love rollercoasters, rides and attractions. This exciting theme park is located near Chertsey, Surrey, making it extremely accessible from London. With more than 30 incredible rides here, you're bound to have the most fun and exciting date, which will be one to remember.

- RHS Wisley Gardens - 
Enjoy a calming day out at this beautiful location near Woking, Surrey. These gardens house one of the largest plant collections in the world, with spectacular displays all year round, with something new for every season. RHS Wisley Gardens is the perfect date location for those who want to enjoy the fresh air, be surrounded by beautiful scenery and enjoy a much needed break from reality.

Have you got any dating plans for after lockdown? Which locations would you visit for an afternoon date?
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AD| Has lockdown got you dreaming of your next holiday once current travel restrictions are finally lifted, but are unsure of where you want to go? UK staycations are bound to be a more popular holiday choice this year, mainly due to the travel restrictions put into place as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, as many of us are desperate to get outdoors and explore places we can for a change in scenery.

Going on holiday abroad might be the first thing on your mind once the pandemic risks decrease, but sometimes it's so easy to forget how many amazing places are in the UK. With some absolutely incredible locations to visit that are extremely accessible, affordable and breathtakingly beautiful, there is somewhere for everyone and your holiday preferences. 


Cornwall has long been a popular holiday destination with many travellers, as it has some of the best beaches, dramatic cliffs and the most stunning coastlines in the entire UK. For those who like activity-based trips, Cornwall has a lot to offer from surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing, to name a few, you'll be stuck deciding which to try first! And of course, the trip wouldn't be completed without sampling the traditional Cornish pasty!

For those who enjoy real adventure and exploring nature, Snowdonia might be the perfect staycation spot for you. Located in Northwest Wales, Snowdonia is an area of outstanding natural beauty with the mixture of mountain ranges, lakes, rivers and forests, the views are just astonishing. Located in Snowdonia National Park, Mount Snowdon is this probably the most famous attraction here and is definitely well worth a visit. As well as this, Snowdonia also offers a range of other activities including ziplining, white water rafting, rock climbing and hiking, which would be perfect for those seeking an active outdoors adventure style trip.

The Scottish Highlands are known for their outstanding views, boasting beautiful landscapes and spectacular wildlife. The largest region of Scotland, the Highlands are incredibly beautiful to visit all year round, but especially during the summer months on the year as this is when you get the best weather. Top locations include Fort William and Ben Nevis, as well as Glencoe and Inverness. And finally, you can't leave the Scottish Highlands without visiting the infamous Loch Ness!

countryside landscape

England's largest national park, The Lake District is another destination worth researching for your next UK staycation. For those who love keeping fit and exploring, hiking is the number one outdoor activity here with trails for all abilities. The Lake District is also home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, could be worth a visit if you love a challenge to climb it, and be rewarded with such stunning views from the top.

Finally, who needs to venture abroad when you can visit Dorset, home of beautiful countryside views and an ideal staycation spot for the whole family. The coastal landscape is probably the highlight of the this county, with places like Durdle Door and Weymouth Beach ideal spots to check out. Visiting the famous spot of Durdle Door is an absolute must if you're exploring Dorset any time soon. Located on the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is probably the most photographed and most iconic landmarks Dorset has to offer, and will most definitely be the next feature to your Instagram grid!

Whether you are looking to plan your next family holiday, a romantic getaway or a special date to celebrate, a staycation this summer could be exactly what you need for that much needed break from reality. If you're planning a road-trip style vacation, it might be ideal to go online and get the best insurance quote for your motorbike here, or insurance for your car/caravan, and make sure to plan your journey ahead with some proper research! Not only will this save you valuable time and effort, you'll be able to enjoy your trip a lot more without any problems or added stress!

Are you planning a UK staycation? What UK destinations would you love to explore or have previously visited?
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AD| The reality of working from home has become recently much more popular over the last year than ever before. Due to the current global coronavirus pandemic, many of us are swapping the daily commute to the office, and instead making it a trip to the home office, dining table or lounge. It's definitely a massive lifestyle change for some people, but there are a number of things you can do to make this swap easier and more comfortable.

If you’re currently working from home and will be continuing this for a while, setting up the perfect home office space to work in can make all the difference to your working routine. It’s where you'll be going daily and will be spending a large part of your day there, so you want to make sure you’re going to be as productive as possible and get your job done without any distractions.

home office decor

One of the most important things you can do whilst working from home is to separate your work and home life. This can be extremely difficult for some people, but with the right mindset, a regular daily routine and having set rules put in place, you can still remain motivated and productive whilst you're out of office. Simple things like getting out of bed and getting dressed, working from your at home office or even a desk and not your bed, are just some easy changes to make to get you setup correctly for working from home. By making these changes, it helps you to keep your working routine without being too relaxed, and can help you get the right work time and home time balance.

If you sit in your chair all day for long periods of time, it is absolutely necessary to have a quality chair. Investing in a comfortable chair is probably one of the best things you can do, both for comfort and for health purposes. Having an uncomfortable and unsupportive chair will be causing you back aches and pains, leading to poor posture and slouching. Home office and executive chairs are probably your best option whilst working from home, as they are designed ergonomically to provide the best comfort and support for all day use, as they supports the lower back and promote good posture. Executive chairs are made to look good, helping to make your at-home office look more professional and chic.

Getting plenty of natural light into your office space is extremely important for various reasons. Not only does natural light help us to focus better, but it can boost concentration, alertness and productivity, enabling us to get more done during the day. As well as keeping you productive, natural light is extremely beneficial for the health of your eyes, as it decreases glare from your computer screen and causes less strain to the eyes.

Something to consider is adding some greenery and plants to your at-home office setup. Home office plants can offer a number of benefits from reducing stress levels, boosting your overall mood, and improving perceptions of the workspace. If your office looks calm and welcoming, you're bound to want to spend more time in there, helping to boost your creativity and productivity.

Keeping your desk clutter free and tidy allows you to be more productive allows you to fully concentrate on the tasks at hand. Having a tidy workspace will allow you to find what you need, when you need it, without added stress and with no more wasted time looking for misplaced documents. Keeping on top of any mess in your office should be a priority as it will lead to fewer distractions and fewer mistakes whilst working at home.

Are you currently working from home? What tips do you have for setting up your at-home workspace?

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AD - GIFTED | If your favourite thing about Easter is the chocolate, this post is perfect for you and you may want to keep reading!

Before we get onto the chocolate, it's important to look at the story behind Easter as it is the one of the most important festivals in the Christian calendar. This holiday is simply commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, and celebrated with meaningful traditions such as sunrise services and Easter lilies. As well as these, there are some other traditions that have been incorporated into this holiday, with things such as the Easter bunny and giving Easter eggs.


If you're looking for luxury Easter eggs or even Easter hampers for the whole family, Hotel Chocolat is definitely worth checking out for your next Easter egg delivery for your nearest and dearest. You simply wont be disappointed! The founders of Hotel Chocolat wanted to make the start of a revolution in British chocolate, and were on a mission to make chocolate exciting again, and that's exactly what they have done. With plenty of Vegan Easter eggs, luxury Easter eggs, personalised Easter eggs and even Easter hampers, there's so much choice, it'll be tough to decide to to get. With delicious Easter eggs and Easter themed treats suitable for the whole family, with amazing flavours and incredible designs at an affordable price, what more could you want?

FOR THE CHILDREN

Hotel Chocolat Easter Eggs

Hotel Chocolat offer a great variety of Easter eggs and sweet treats, perfect for the little ones in your family. The ideas and designs that are aimed towards a younger audience are simply sensational and add a sense of fun into the Easter celebrations. Whether you're looking for Easter eggs for your own children, younger brothers/sisters, or your nieces/and nephews, the products featured here would make amazing Easter gifts. 

Firstly, the Elizapeck Hollow with Tiddly Pot* is the perfect duo gift that any child would absolutely love. This boxed Easter egg features a hollow caramel-milk chocolate chick on top of a pot of mini milk chocolate drops. This adorable chocolate chick was "originally sketched, painted, then hand-carved to create this exclusive treat" - simply amazing! It's not your average Easter egg, it's just cuter and a lot more fun!

If you're on the look out for a couple of smaller gifts, Hotel Chocolate also offer products perfect for that. The Elizapeck Tiddly Pot - 40% Milk Chocolate* is the ultimate chocolate snack for on-the-go and definitely an essential for when there's a chocolate craving. Although small in size, our drops are big in flavour consisting of 40% milk chocolate. Another chocolate treat is the Egg on Toast Lick*. This is a super fun themed Easter treat that is bound to be a winner. A 40% milk chocolate Easter lolly, with a white-chocolate egg that will bring a smile to anyone's face, and is a great alternative to a traditional Easter egg. A child friendly snack that wont cause any mess and you won’t end up with sticky fingers!

FOR THE TEENAGERS

Hotel Chocolat Easter Eggs

As well as Easter eggs, Hotel Chocolat also offer a selection of Easter hampers designed to share and are suitable for the whole family, but they are also a great option to buy and share amongst your friends/family. One of my favourites from the site is the Easter Family Favourites Collection*, featuring a great selection of chocolate treats, perfect for any teenager in your family. The 40% Milk Chocolate Easter Egg* would be a firm favourite of mine. This Easter egg has a naturally-coloured decorative yolk, and features right amount of sugar and cream to make this a decadent treat but without detracting from the rich cocoa flavours. 

A slightly more special, yet fun item is the Chocolate Spread Easter Sandwich*. Made with 40% milk praline half-eggs sandwiched with 50% milk chocolate, it's not your average egg-sandwich! To finish off the perfect Easter treat for the teenagers are these adorable White Chocolate City Bunnies*. These 16 little bunnies are the perfect snack-sized chocolate that are deliciously creamy, with a sweet and velvety texture.

FOR THE ADULTS

Hotel Chocolat Easter Eggs

Hotel Chocolat also offer luxury Easter eggs and treats suitable for adults. The packaging looks more grown up and has that sophisticated feel to it. Starting with the 16 Milk Chocolate City Bunnies*, perfect for sharing if you're gifting this to parents or couples. The Salted Caramel Easter Egg* is one of the most gorgeous looking Easter eggs I have ever seen, and the combination of milk chocolate and salted caramel is a match made in heaven! Make your Easter egg gift stand out, not only with the incredible flavour combination, but with this sleek and contemporary design.

Finally, The Happy Easter H-Box*; an Easter gift box brimming with 15 chocolate tiddly eggs, perfect for those who aren't fussy and love to try new flavours. This is a truly special gift for your parents/grand-parents, with flavours ranging from sumptuous caramel to a tipsy fruit cake, from Champagne to strawberries & cream, this is an ideal luxury Easter egg treat for your special loved ones!

If you're looking to treat yourself, your family or someone special this Easter, Hotel Chocolat is the place to be! Offering a delicious range of Vegan Easter eggs, luxury Easter eggs, Easter hampers and even personalised Easter eggs, whatever you choose, it's definitely going to be a great chocolate surprise. Be quick and get your Easter egg delivery now!

What are your favourite Easter eggs? Have you checked out Hotel Chocolat?

10:00 No comments
AD| When it comes to beginning your wedding planning journey, there are so many things to consider, and it could become extremely stressful making sure you've got everything covered. But once you're ready to start planning, it's very important to take the process step by step, focusing on one task at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed by the wedding planning process. Multiple costs for different aspects of your big day can easily add up way past your initial budget and can come at a significant price that you simply cannot afford.

wedding dress

Firstly, as well as your total budget for the event, one of the biggest parts of your wedding is to consider the amount of guests you want to attend. This can play a huge part in amount of money you'll be spending, it's definitely important to have your friends and family to support you and celebrate your wedding day, but with more guests getting invited = more money will be spent. If you're struggling with the financial costs of your wedding, you could ask for donations instead of wedding gifts. It can be quite overwhelming receiving large numbers of gifts, especially if you know you'll not have much storage space for them at home. You don't have to put a certain figure on the donations, simply set up a donations page and you can just ask your friends and family to make a small contribution to help fund certain aspects of your wedding.

Another factor to consider on your big day is wedding photography. You obviously want to make sure you can collect a selection of great photographs from your big day. Whether you have a hired photographer, gather everyone's photos or have a photobooth available, all of these ideas can help you gather great memories, but can obviously come at a huge cost. However, something you could consider is the Wedding Photo Swap app. This could be an extremely beneficial way to share and collect photographs of your special day from all guests at the wedding if you simply don't have the budget for a professional photographer. Collect and share any photo taken by your guests on your wedding day with our easy to use mobile apps and web albums. It's as easy as that!

For those who are extremely creative, or love arts & crafts, why not get arty and create your own DIY table decorations with pieces such as homemade banners/menus, centrepiece displays and homemade name tags. This can allow you to personalise your decorations, and display your crafty work for all your guests to see. 

wedding plans

We all know that fresh flowers and beautiful bouquets can make a serious dent into your wedding fund. Why not consider using fake flowers and greenery, that can be re-used over and over again. Again, you can choose the plants that you love, create your own colour theme and also put together your own floral displays and bouquets. You'll end up with some beautiful and unique floral arrangements, that you can tell your guests you made it yourself!

Wedding dresses are another wedding expense that could definitely blow your budget dramatically. Not only do you need the brides dress, but you also need to consider the bridesmaids outfits too. One way in which you can save money on dresses for bridesmaids is by looking at prom dresses might suit the occasion. Prom dresses could be a good option for those on a smaller budget, as you can find a great selection of prom dresses for your body type, colour preferences and overall wedding theme.

Having an after-party or evening reception can add some costs to your wedding day that can be extremely expensive. However, there are a few ways in which you can save your money with some easy tips. Firstly, start by creating your own music playlist. This way you save the costs as there is no need for a hired professional DJ! This will ensure you've got all your favourite songs playing, and songs you know your guests will love! Secondly, ask relatives, friends and wedding guests to bring a homemade dishes/desserts to your reception. It's understandably expensive to feed a large number of people, but getting some help with the catering is not only a good way to save some money, but it can give yourself and your guests a chance to try new foods and new cuisines.

Are you currently planning a wedding? What money saving tips do you have?
16:35 5 comments
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