● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

GUEST POST| Do you find yourself wanting to write down your feelings, thoughts and anxieties, but you are not sure where to even begin? You are not alone, but journaling prompts can help you build your confidence.

When you live with anxiety, you can have a million and one thoughts monopolising your brain, and it can be incredibly hard and intimidating to think about writing them down and making them real. Journaling can be a valuable practice that can help self-care and support your mental health. Moreover, journaling can be an effective tool in combatting anxious behaviour because you can only write one thought at a time, so this practice forces you to physically and mentally slow down and work through them one thought at a time. It can also help you to identify patterns in your thoughts, which can help you find ways to cope. Studies have also shown that writing about how a person feels has the potential to ease anxiety in people who have suffered from traumatic events.

Journaling has always been incredibly cathartic for me, and it is something that I have loved doing since I was a young girl. Remember that your journal is for your eyes only, so be open and honest. If you want to start journaling, but are unsure where to start, I have compiled a list of 50 journals prompts that work on taking control of these anxieties and help you to focus on loving yourself.

1. What are 3 positive things that happened to you today?

2. How does your job affect your mental health? Do you find that environment an anxiety trigger?

3. What do you love most about yourself?

4. Describe some skills you have, or skills that you would like to develop.

5. What are your anxiety triggers?

6. Why am I feeling… right now?

7. The biggest lessons you have learned from anxiety are…

8. List 10 things that make you happy.

9. What are some obstacles that you have overcome?

10. Who truly loves you for you?

11. What brings you peace and why?

12. Describe one of your biggest accomplishments.

13. Where do you feel safest and why?

14. Write down your most re-occurring negative thoughts and why you feel that they keep repeating.

15. Write 4 positive affirmations that inspire you.

16. Make a list of 3 things that you would like to change about yourself. How do think you can accomplish this?

17. What are 5 moments in your life when you can say you were truly happy?

18. List all the things that you’re worried about right now.

19. What are 4 ways you can calm your anxiety that actually work?

20. List 4 things that scare you the most and the reasons why.

21. Describe a time when you felt fulfilled. What were you doing? What about that moment felt gratifying?

22. What’s a quality you love about yourself?

23. What is something you need to let go of?

24. When was the last time I said no to something? When was the last time you wish you had said not to something?

25. Do you notice signs of your anxiety? If so, what do you feel when you notice them?

26. What are 5 things that you are currently accept about yourself?

27. Do you allow yourself to accept compliments from others?

28. What do you struggle to love most about yourself? What can you do to begin to love that part of yourself?

29. What are you grateful for?

30. What is your biggest dream? What can you do today to start making one of those dreams a reality?

31. What is one thing you can, do today, that will make you feel great?

32. What do you love about your mind?

33. What do you love about your body?

34. How can you support yourself today?

35. Are your worries rational and realistic?

36. Who are you grateful for?

37. How can you let go of some of your negative and anxious energy in your life?

38. What makes you feel alive?

39. What do you think self-love looks and feels like?

40. What is a commitment you can make to yourself that will show you love every day?

41. Have you ever had a chance to meet your brain's off button?

42. How do you know when it is time to let go?

43. On a scale of 1-10, how peaceful are you today?

44. Write a letter to your anxious thoughts….

45. List your coping mechanisms when you are feeling down.

46. What quotes inspire you?

47. What are your important values?

48. Write about a moment in your life when you felt in control.

49. The last time you were worried about something, what helped you to stay calm?

50. Write a letter to someone who contributes to your anxiety.

—Benefits Of Using Journaling-

There are so many benefits to writing in a journal that is not just about taking control of anxiety and improving self-love, including:

Reduces stress
Improves your memory
Improves your concentration
Can help you achieve your goals
Gives you the opportunity to track your progress and growth
Improves your writing and communication skills

These are just a handful of reasons why starting a journal today will improve your life, and your mental and physical health. If you want to start journaling, just start! You don’t have to write anything perfect, inspiring or profound. It is about putting pen to paper and writing what comes without judgments.

Do you write in a journal? Do you use journal prompts?

17:00 No comments

With Valentine's Day only a short time away, it's time to treat and invest in yourself by choosing some gorgeous, luxury lingerie pieces. Whether it's a single girl's night in, or you're in a happy, healthy relationship, selecting new lingerie can be extremely confidence-boosting, empowering and sexy – especially if your current underwear collection isn't too great.

Nowadays, there are so many brands out there who offer a whole range of stunning lingerie sets in a variety of styles and at affordable prices. Valentine's Day is a great opportunity to take the plunge and freshen up your lingerie collection, by adding some new styles or colours to your collection. You can never, ever, go wrong with a matching set. One of my favourite places online to get my hands on something new is Lounge Underwear. Not only do they have a great size range available, but they have a number of incredible designs, in a wide variety of vibrant colours – it's incredibly hard to not buy everything from the website!

When it comes to Valentine's Day, the first colour that comes to mind is red. Red is typically associated with love and romance, making it a great colour option for new lingerie. Red is a great option for all skin tones, and will make an incredibly bold, yet sexy addition to your collection. A new style from Lounge includes the Sustainable Liberty Balcony Bra & Thong Set in Red. Red lace is just absolutely stunning, and, the dainty rose gold ‘L’ charm detail just adds that extra little sparkle.

If red isn't your colour, then black lingerie is definitely a universal lingerie collection staple. Black is such a powerful option when it comes to lingerie sets, it's undoubtedly a confidence boosting colour, whatever your size or shape. It evokes a feeling of authority, elegance with some added sexiness. What's not to love? I opted for a new style from the website, and chose the Sustainable Vogue Balcony Bra & Thong Set in Black – featuring silver Lounge engraved hardware for that added sparkle, and a Soft stretch lace with Lounge jacquard mesh for added fine detail.

The next few lingerie sets I have selected are going to add some bold colour and vibrancy into your underwear collection, you will really be spoilt for choice here. First things first, cobalt blue – literally one of the most stunning colours I have seen in a long time. Sustainable Liberty Balcony Bra & Thong Set in Cobalt Blue. This set features some intricate floral stretch lace with scalloped edges, again, finished off with the rose gold Lounge engraved hardware and ‘L’ charms will definitely help you make a statement with your underwear choices.

My second super colourful addition to my Valentine's lingerie guide is green – a colour that will absolutely suit all skin tones, even from the very pale tones to the deep, rich tones. It's bound to be a winner with everyone, and that's why I had to add the Sustainable Vogue Balcony Bra & Briefs Set in Emerald to my basket. Lounge never miss out any details with their lingerie sets. The double Lounge branded banners adds quite a simple, sporty element to this lingerie set, but the lace really elevates it, to make it something really special.

Finally, something a little different, but still incredibly beautiful. Purple lingerie is very hard to come by in my opinion, but again, it's a very bold, feminine colour. When you mix both silk and lace within one lingerie set, it just gives off such sophisticated, classy and elegant vibes and that's exactly what you get with the Sustainable Silk Balcony Bra & Briefs Set in Purple. The intricate floral detailing on the lace panels of the underwired bra and briefs is super cute and girly, and will just make you feel incredible once you've put it on. The rose gold Lounge engraved hardware and 'L' charms really complement the purple shade, and give it that extra little something.

Have you tried out Lounge underwear yet? What are your favourite colour and style choices for new lingerie?

10:00 No comments

AD – GIFTED| Hosting a Valentine's Day dinner date at home for your partner? Or having the girls round for a single girls Galantines get together? Need home Valentines decor ideas but don't know where to start? Don't worry, this post has you covered!

Valentine's Day doesn't need to be super expensive or super fancy. You should use this day to spend time with your loved ones, and enjoy each other's company. However, if you do want to throw a cute surprise, you don't need to be spending lots of money. If you're hosting something special at home this Valentine's Day, and are looking to decorate in a romantic, cute way, and hopefully set the mood for the event, without breaking the bank, you're in the right place. As long as you plan well and have a creative mind, you'll be good to go! Here are 7 easy, affordable home decoration ideas for Valentine's Day.

Flowers

If you're looking to include some real floral displays in your home, why not opt for the typical, romantic red roses. Roses are usually a tradition when it comes to Valentine's Day and are typically used as a classic symbol of love. If roses aren't your thing, why not create your own floral arrangements with some of your favourite flowers, in a range of your favourite colours. Not only will your room smell incredible, but you'll have a bright atmosphere, bursting with colour. Another thing to note, if real flowers aren't for you, or you can't find anything that you like, why not opt for some faux flowers for a more affordable, long-lasting option.

Balloons

Balloons can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, designs, and colours, making them a perfect affordable decoration idea for Valentine's Day. Balloon decorations have become a traditional part of any special celebration or occasion, and Valentine's Day is not an exception. They can help to brighten up your surroundings, they create a fun, light-hearted atmosphere and create a lasting impression. For Valentine's Day, there are a number of options you could go for – love heart shaped balloons, red or pink coloured balloons, confetti filled balloons or even balloons that spell out words. You could even check out the Dallas Balloon Company, who specialise in balloon arches, walls and bouquets, complementing your event’s colour theme/palette and to help create a perfect photo opportunity. There are so many options, you'll be spoilt for choice!

Lights

Lighting is the perfect way to set the mood of your event. With Valentine's Day in mind, you'll want to arrange something super fun, cute, and romantic – I'm thinking soft lighting or colourful, twinkling fairy lights to help put together a warming, welcoming ambience.

If you're looking for a unique decor idea, you might want to get your hands on some letter lights. I was kindly gifted a selection of personalised Lumiletters - letter-shaped wire frames, wrapped with soft white LED’s. You can pick these up in the shape of your initials and your loved ones as a cute way to decorate. These lights are freestanding, portable, and battery powered, making them an ideal accessory for featuring in your living room or bedroom. I picked the "L" light up, obviously for myself, and the "S" light for my niece as a special little gift.

Candles

From the bright, twinkling light to the feeling of warmth they give off, candles are a great way to make your living space feel more romantic and welcoming. Not only can you have them dotted around your room for the ultimate cosy night in, but they can also make the perfect centrepiece for your dinner table – just imagine yourself enjoying that candle-lit dinner for two!

Cute DIY Banners

For those of you who like to get artistic and creative, making your own cute banners could be the perfect affordable DIY project for you, this Valentine's Day. For this little creation, you'll probably have most of the materials and supplies at home. You can use products such as scrap papers and coloured cards, string, pompoms, glitter, faux flowers, and ribbons, to help you create your DIY home decor.

Photographs

If you're looking for the ultimate way to be romantic, why not print out a selection of your favourite photos of you and your partner, and use your Valentine's Day date to reminisce about your memories together? The quote, “a picture is worth a thousand words”, is very relevant here, as your past photographs can help you remember some amazing memories, and can take you back to certain special times in your life. Whether you have a photograph of the first day you met, your first holiday or even your wedding day, spending the evening reliving these memories will definitely be something special.

Rose Petals

Finally, is there anything more romantic and Valentine's Day themed than scattered rose petals? Rose petals are typically symbolic of love, passion and romance, and could be a great addition to your Valentine's home decor ideas. You can scatter them over the floor or your bed, spell out messages with them, use them as dinner table decor, or even add them to your hot bubble bath for that added bit of luxury.

What are your plans for Valentine's Day?

19:00 No comments

AD| If you are unhappy or deeply concerned about a specific part of your body, your face, or even your hair, there is a possibility that considering cosmetic surgery can help you restore your happiness.

Nowadays, cosmetic surgery is becoming quite the norm, and is something that is continuously growing in popularity, with both men and women opting for a variety of procedures and treatments that are currently available. Cosmetic surgery can now be performed on pretty much any part of the face or body, in order to typically improve a person's appearance. But, this is just one of the many benefits you can receive from cosmetic surgery. Listed below are a number of reasons why cosmetic surgery can help build your confidence, health, and self-esteem.

Improves Mental Health

When a person doesn't particularly like a part of their appearance, it can heavily influence how they feel about themselves overall. For those who have suffered with mental health issues such as body dysmorphia, depression, low self-esteem and anxiety, cosmetic surgery can boost your mental health and help you view your body in a better way. Cosmetic surgery could hopefully improve your mental health by helping you feel more relaxed, more comfortable, and more confident in your own skin.

Enhanced Appearance and Better Self-Confidence

Cosmetic surgery is simply done to change your overall appearance for whatever reason you have. There are such a variety of cosmetic surgery procedures that both men and women can choose these days, to help them feel more confident and comfortable with their appearance. Your appearance is the first thing that people notice about you, and if there are certain things you don't like about yourself, it can make you feel embarrassed, upset or anxious being around new people. Any improvement to your overall appearance, even if it's a small or big thing, will lead to greater self-confidence.

Once you are happier with the way that you look and the way that you feel, your confidence levels will improve dramatically, and you'll enjoy having more social interaction. Over the last few years, Hair transplant surgery has become a very popular cosmetic procedure, especially for men. This type of surgery can help rebuild receding hairlines, prevent baldness and renew hair growth, as well as helping those suffering with alopecia.

Improves Physical Health

Another advantage of undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure is that in some cases it can actually enhance your physical health. Examples of this include undergoing a rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job, in order to breathe properly, or having liposuction/excess loose skin removed to help improve mobility and be more physically active in their everyday life.

We are constantly bombarded with photos and videos via social media on a daily basis, sharing what is deemed to be the “perfect face or body” of celebrities and content creators, but this isn't a 100% realistic view of these people. Online content can be edited and altered to give the illusion of a perfect face or figure, and we shouldn't compare ourselves in this way.

If you're considering surgery, then ultimately, make sure you are doing it for yourself and for no one else. Undergoing a cosmetic procedure should be researched and thought about realistically, carefully and properly – especially for factors such as the cost of the surgery and the recovery time following your procedure, as it's not something that should be decided upon overnight.

Would you consider having any cosmetic surgery procedures to improve your appearance or overall health?

13:00 No comments

AD| Have you begun planning your summer holiday? Do you ever consider renting a car to help you get the most out of your destination? If not, you could be seriously missing out.

If you're currently planning your summer holidays, whether you are opting for a UK staycation, or maybe a European getaway, you may want to consider car rentals as a way to explore your chosen destination to the fullest. Renting a car on holiday can be extremely easy to book, and gives you so much control and flexibility on the places you want to visit, and things you want to do whilst you're away. So if you're considering hiring a car for your next holiday, here are 5 reasons to rent a car whilst on holiday…

When researching and booking your next trip, many people are usually put off renting a car whilst on holiday as they think it’s too expensive and not something they budgeted for. However, renting a car on holiday can actually be an affordable way to explore your destination – here's how. Once your holiday plans are booked, you are then able to scan the internet to find a bunch of great deals and quotes for car hire. This in turn will be an easy way to save some money whilst on your holidays. Many car hire companies will offer exclusive deals and special offers, as well as airport pick-ups, making it so convenient whilst travelling, it's worth taking a look. If book your car rental early enough, you are then aware of the total costs for your transportation upfront, and can factor this in to your holiday budget or savings. Plus, you’ll then save a ton of money on buses, trains, and taxis whilst you’re away, as you'll have complete control of your journeys.

Renting a car whilst on holiday can ultimately save you time on your journeys, even before you have arrived. Beforehand, you can arrange for your car to be ready and collected at the airport – an extremely convenient factor, meaning no airport transfers for you! As well as this, you will be saving time on your daily trips and activities as you don't have to wait for public transport or taxis to arrive. You also don't have to keep stopping and starting when you reach bus stops or train stations, and if your rental car has a built-in sat-nav, you can find diversions from any long traffic queues.

Renting a car on your holiday gives you the freedom to explore wherever you want to go. You don’t need to waste time searching for the local bus and train timetables or schedules, or waiting for that taxi to, finally, turn up. Renting your own car on holiday gives you ultimate control of your travels, and means you can plan your daily schedule around your own times and routine. Whilst you're on the road, you can change your plans as you're travelling, allowing you to have a spontaneous, and fun-filled trip.

Renting a car whilst on holiday can be probably the most comfortable way of travelling. Using public transport whilst abroad can be hot, stressful, and uncomfortable, and a lot of the time, commuters are packed into buses and trains. By opting for car rentals, you can travel in style and enjoy your holiday that little-bit more. You'll also have access to all your personal belongings, making it extremely convenient, as well as having the opportunity to pull over for rest breaks, food and toilet stops, or even to capture a photograph.

Finally, car rentals give you the opportunity to hire a suitable vehicle, tailored for your needs. This could be depending on your budget, the amount of passengers or luggage you have, whether you require additional features or even the type of holiday you are on. All of these requirements can be factored in during the booking process, and can be the perfect way to begin your holiday, as the car will be ready for you, as soon as you get there.

Have you booked any holidays for this year? Have you ever rented a car whilst you are away?

10:00 No comments

AD – GIFTED| Are you looking at ways you can begin to have a more sustainable period? Did you even know there are more eco-friendly period products on offer?

The term 'sustainable periods' simply means you're actively changing the products you are using and making a conscious effort to reduce the amount of waste that your periods produce, especially plastics and single-use items. For those who menstruate, and deal with regular periods, the products we choose to use during this time is completely individual, and ultimately, what works for some people, might not work for others. Sanitary pads, followed closely by the use of tampons, are probably the most frequently chosen period products that are used by consumers, but did you know there are other options too? Listed below are 4 sustainable and eco-friendly period products worth trying now.

— Reusable Sanitary Pads —

Reusable sanitary pads are a great way to begin your switch over to having a more sustainable and eco-friendly period. There are a number of reasons to make the switch to reusable pads;

Reusable pads decrease the amount of plastic waste that is created.
Reusable pads are a much cheaper, and more long-lasting period product compared to regular disposable sanitary pads.
Reusable pads are typically much safer to use than regular sanitary pads, as regular pads can sometimes cause skin irritation and contain chemicals.

I was recently sent a box of the Trade To Aid Reusable Sanitary Pads to try out and see if they could help me change up the products I use and to have a more sustainable period. The pack of reusable sanitary pads include a variety of different sized pads, depending on your period flow and the absorbancy that you require. You receive 2 light flow, 2 medium flow and 2 heavy flow reusable pads along with 1 waterproof wet bag to store them in after use. These sanitary pads are suitable for both day and nighttime use, leak-proof and are super comfortable to wear.

The 6 pack of reusable sanitary pads are retailing at £29.97 for 6 – this may seem like a lot of money, but by using them time and time again. These seem to be a more affordable option as you are not constantly buying disposable period pads. As a bonus, for every pack of reusable pads that are purchased from Trade To Aid, they then donate a pack to a refugee or those in desperate need of sanitary. This campaign is in place with the aim to end period poverty to eliminate the taboos surrounding periods.

— Menstrual Cups —

In recent years, the menstrual cup has quickly become a popular sustainable period product to use as an alternative to regular tampons and sanitary pads. The majority of menstrual cups produced now are made from either silicone or rubber, making them reusable, durable and long-lasting. Menstrual cups typically give you longer lasting protection on your period's heavier days, and can usually hold 2-3 times more than a regular tampon or pad. Reusable menstrual cups are a great option for those looking for affordable, safe and effective period products, as they can typically last for between 6 months to a number of years with proper care and use.

— Washable and Reusable Period Pants —

Another sustainable option includes washable and reusable period pants. Over the last few years, many well-known menstrual care brands have been launching period-proof underwear for sale – including online brands like WUKA and Flux Undies, as well as high street brands, Primark and M&S. Most brands have incorporated a variety of styles of period underwear into their production line, including high-waisted briefs to boxer style shorts and even thongs. By having a range of different styles, this allows you to pick styles according to your preferences, and to test and try out multiple products, in order for you to find what is most comfortable and most effective for you. Typically, period pants are manufactured to be leak-proof – perfect for those suffering with heavy flows, as they are designed by using a super-absorbent fabric which is often odour-eliminating too.

— Reusable Tampon Applicators —

Reusable tampon applicators are something I only discovered towards the end of 2021. A reusable tampon applicator is a great alternative to single-use applicator tampons, and are perfect for those who are looking to reduce their use of plastics. Reusable tampon applications are extremely easy to clean and sterilize – you simply rinse with warm water and soap during your period, and sterilize them with boiling water for 5 minutes between your periods. They are also typically made from medical grade material, making them extremely durable and long-lasting, allowing them to be used again and again. They take a little while to get use to, but once you are confident with using them, it's incredible quick and easy.

Last year, Lil-Lets made the decision to cease production of all their plastic applicator tampons – saving over 11 tonnes of period waste from landfill or the oceans each year. The new Lil-Lets reusable tampon applicator comes with a money-back guarantee – and will be sold at the introductory price of £12.99 until March 31st, 2022. From then on, they will retail at £17.99. So that's another good reason to make the sustainable switch for a more planet-friendly period.

What period products are you currently using? Would you begin to use a more sustainable option?

10:00 No comments

AD – GIFTED| The thought of getting married is considered to be one of the “best days of your life”, but it can also be one of the most expensive times too. Saving enough money for your wedding day can take months, even, years to finally have the financial stability to fund your big day. But everything you want for your wedding doesn't have to be extremely expensive, as there are many more affordable options for those on a lower or tighter budget.

Many people opt for more affordable, low-cost ways when planning their weddings for options such as decorations, food and drink, flowers and photo booths. This allows you to be more creative, more money-conscious, and can really help you decide on exactly what you want, whilst helping to cut the costs of your dream wedding. Listed below are 7 creative, low-cost ways you can personalize your wedding day, and make it one to remember.

Send Personalised Save the Date Cards

When it comes to weddings, there’s an awful lot of planning to do, but one aspect of this that may actually be the most exciting and creative part – designing your own Save the Date invitation cards. Sending these out to your friends and family to formally announce that you’ve finally set a date for your big day is extremely exciting. It can also give your guests something to look forwards to and ensure they have enough time to plan their outfits, get the time off from work etc. Creating your own personalised wedding Save the Date Cards allows you to have complete control of the design, by letting you to fully personalize your invitations by choosing your own colour theme, layout, and fonts etc.

If you're looking to get some inspiration, Aura Print offer a number of printing options for those looking for creative ways to personalise their wedding day. The website offers a wide selection of designs for products such as Save the Date cards, invitations, RSVP cards, as well as wedding sample packs to help you get select which options you like the best and get organised for the big day ahead. Aura Print offers a fast turnaround for deliveries, which is perfect for those who have either forgotten to order something, or those who are extremely last-minute and in a rush. As well as this, the quality of the products you will receive are 10/10. So professional and luxury, without the heavy price tag.

Create DIY Wedding Centrepieces/Name Cards for Tables

Something that might be forgotten when it comes to decorating your wedding venue is table decorations. DIY Wedding decorations can help you save time and save money – you just need to be creative. Table decor ideas such as filling old jars with candles, flowers, rocks, marbles etc, is a simple and effective way to put a finishing touch on your wedding guests tables. You can also design your own name cards and seating plans for your guests, by selecting matching colours, fonts, and designs, that co-ordinate with your decor theme.

Make Your Own Wedding Favours

The traditional idea of distributing small wedding favours to your wedding guests is hundreds of years old, and many couples still make something special to help guests remember your wedding day and why you got married. Putting together your own wedding favours can be a quick and easy task, which can save you money, as well as allowing you to give a small gift as a gesture of appreciation to those who attended. Things such as chocolates and sweets, homemade baked items, thank you notes, wooden plaques and name tags, are all great examples of low-cost wedding favours.

Have Your Guests Create the Music Playlist
Hiring a DJ for your wedding can be extremely expensive, and it can be a hard task to track someone down who plays your favourite styles of music. Why not consider allowing your family and guests to pick songs for your wedding playlist? You can simply ask your guests to submit their song requests to a group playlist. Once all the music has then been added, you will end up with a wide selection of music for your wedding day, and you know that all your guests will enjoy what's being played.

Use Fake Flowers for Bouquets
By opting for fake flowers, not only do they last much longer than fresh flowers and are a much more affordable way to create your floral bouquets, but you can probably find them in any colour that you want. You can personally pick exactly what types of flower you like, e.g., roses, tulips, lilies, and as they are fake, you can pick any colour to match your wedding theme and decor. Another benefit of using fake flowers is that they are unlikely to get damaged during transportation to your wedding venue, meaning you can buy them early and store them easily, without any problems. You can also make small bouquets for table decor using fake flowers to add some colour and vibrancy to your guests tables.

Decorate The Wedding Venue Yourself
Instead of looking at hiring an interior decorator for your wedding venue, you can opt for being creative and decorating the venue yourself, with help from friends and family, in a way that suits your personal tastes. This allows you to have 100% creativity as you can decorate however you like – with items such as balloons, lights, signs, banners, photographs etc.

Make Your Own Fun Photo Booth with Props
Finally, no wedding is complete without a photo booth – but these can be costly. If you have the budget for this, why not consider Photo booth rental Las Vegas. A company aiming to provide top-of-the-class service for all clients’ parties, weddings, and all types of events. Otherwise, why not set up your own photo booth in a corner of the venue, so yourself and your guests can take photographs to remember your big day. You can simply grab a digital camera or a smartphone and place on a tripod. Make sure to create an area in your venue with a simple backdrop or create your own flower wall.

To add a fun factor to this, you can put together a collection of props to use, that you may have in your home. Opt for items that might be fun to use – e.g., coloured sunglasses, fancy dress accessories, hats, inflatables, or you can buy things cheaply in pound shops or discount stores.

Are you getting married soon? What other creative ways can you personalise your wedding day?

10:00 No comments

GUEST POST| The romantics amongst you will undoubtedly say the only reason to get married is luuuuurve, baby. And you’re probably right. After all, getting married without being in love with each other is probably asking for trouble. And when I say ‘probably’, I mean, ‘definitely’. But there are many reasons to get married other than love. Reasons that aren’t good enough to be the only reason to get married, but reasons that are simply the icing on your wedding cake.

Some reasons in this article won’t apply to you if you’re already living together – which you probably are, seeing as it’s not 1950 and ‘living over t’brush’ is no longer frowned upon. But if you’re not living together yet, a couple of these reasons might edge you nearer the living together stage of a relationship.

You Get A Day Out At A Beautiful Venue

This is possibly a shallow reason to get married, but who doesn’t love a day out at a beautiful venue? You can of course simply have a quickie marriage at a registry office, then go home for a cup of tea and a Rich Tea biscuit in front of Emmerdale if that’s your idea of a perfect day. For those of you who like a bit of pomp and ceremony, though, you’ll need to get married. You could get married at a castle, a safari park, a field full of sunflowers or a beautiful wedding venue in Essex.

You Automatically Inherit Their Assets

People like to think they get married for love, not money, but inheritance is an important issue. For example, you could live with someone for thirty years but, if you’re not married and something happens to your partner, you’ll receive nothing. There’s been a long-held myth that common-law marriage kicks in after a certain amount of time, but there’s not actually any such thing as common-law marriage in the UK. (You can draw up a cohabitation agreement, but that’s something for another post.)

What this means is, if you’re not married and one of you dies, the assets will go to the next of kin. Whether that’s a very much-loved parent, a needy niece, or a greedy sibling you haven’t spoken to for decades. However, when you’re married, if one of you dies, the other automatically inherits everything. Yay.

Someone On Hand To Fix Stuff

Perhaps you don’t need anyone to fix stuff, and can fix a leaky tap or build a fitted wardrobe by yourself perfectly well, thank you very much. If you live on your own though and your DIY skills are lacking, marrying someone who’s good at that kind of thing will save you a fortune. As well as this, it's by far more convenient than waiting in for tradespeople to turn up (or not turn up, as the case may be). Even if you are good at fixing and building stuff, having someone around to help move the furniture out of the way when you’re decorating or putting a new floor down always comes in handy.

It’s Cheaper

Another financial reason, and another reason that won’t apply if you’re already living together, is that it’s cheaper. You may have heard the saying ‘two can live as cheaply as one’ and to a certain extent, it’s true. You’ll save money by sharing the utility bills and, although you’d think feeding two people would cost twice as much as one person, it doesn’t seem to work out like that and your weekly shopping bill will go down.

Help With Pets

I’ve left the best reason until last. Anyone who has ever lived alone with a cat will know what I’m saying here. An extra pair of hands to help get a cat into a basket when it’s time to visit the vet is always welcome. Trying to get a cat in a basket by yourself usually only ends up in tears – yours and the cat’s. What is also welcome is someone to help out with the feeding, exercising and cleaning up of your pet’s various bodily functions.

Reasons to get married other than love – As I said at the beginning, getting married purely for reasons other than love is just asking for an unhappy marriage that will probably end in divorce. But there’s nothing wrong with taking other factors into consideration when deciding whether to tie the knot.

Are you considering getting married in the future?

10:00 No comments

GUEST POST| New figures suggest that one in three property sales will fall through before completion. That’s a scarily high figure for anyone in the process of buying a property, or hoping to do so in the near future. Danny Luke from Quick Move Now explains: “The UK property market is under a lot of pressure at the moment. The stamp duty measures put in place to stop the market stalling during the national lockdowns led to a stampede of people looking to move. This resulted in property prices rising at unexpected levels.

“A shortage of properties coming to the market has kept prices high and continuing to rise, with properties often selling at above asking price. There is also high competition for each property that becomes available. Some buyers are offering sky-high prices in an attempt to secure a property but then getting cold feet and pulling out of the sale, whilst others are not offering enough and then getting pushed out when a higher offer comes in. It’s a challenging market for all involved.” If you’re keen to keep your sale on track, these are our 5 top tips to stop your house sale falling through...

1. Make sure the offer you make is a ‘head’ decision, rather than a ‘heart’ decision. You want to ensure you offer a high enough price to avoid being gazumped by another buyer, but you also need to be happy with the price you’ve agreed when the initial buzz of having your offer accepted wears off. It’s important that you discuss any offer you want to make with the estate agent, and ask them what level of offer would take the property off the market and prevent any further viewings.

2. Make sure you choose the right solicitor (and estate agent if you’re selling a property). This will make a huge difference to the speed and success of your move. A good solicitor will be very responsive to any queries that come in and make sure all paperwork is completed in a timely manner. A good estate agent will keep everyone informed about how the sale is going and ensure everyone stays engaged in the process. Spotting any warning signs that someone may be considering pulling out of the sale and hopefully being able to address any issues to keep them on-board.

3. Prepare as best you can before putting your property on the market or making an offer. This will make a big difference to your move, avoiding any delays and helping the transaction to go smoothly. This means getting your finances in place, including getting an agreement in principle for any mortgage required, and ensuring you collate any paperwork relating to your current property.

4. Be flexible and keep lines of communication open. Moving house is a collaborative process which requires flexibility from all parties. When frustrations arise, it’s important that you are proactive in seeking solutions. Keep all parties informed of any challenges or set-backs, and you will be more likely to keep them on board with the sale.

5. Be resilient. Unfortunately, challenges and disappointments are often part of the house moving process. In England and Wales, a property sale or purchase is not binding until contracts have been exchanged, which typically happens just a week or two before the sale completes. That leaves a large amount of room for things to go wrong. When something does go wrong and a sale falls through, or a chain breaks down, it is hugely disappointing, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that your move won’t happen at all. Communication will be key in this situation. Appeal to your buyer or seller’s understanding and get another sale or purchase lined up as quickly as you can.

Are you currently looking to sell your home?

10:00 No comments

AD| University life is often like nothing students have experienced before – with a newfound freedom, managing finances, and a list of responsibilities to contend with, it can quickly feel overwhelming. While there’s no blueprint on making the most of university life, we’re on hand with some of our top tips to help you get the most out of your experience. So, if enjoying a fulfilling, rewarding and fun university experience is on the agenda, read on.

Embrace Freshers

University doesn’t have to be all work and no play – it’s all about finding a balance. When you’re first settling in, socializing is essential. Freshers’ week activities offer an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself into university life and make new friends. Ensure you pick out some freshers’ week opportunities to attend, either solo or with your roommates so that you can get used to student life without the pressure of your studies.

Get Your Priorities In Order

Once you’ve had some fun with freshers week, it’s time to find the balance we mentioned. When you’re juggling an intense study schedule, socializing, working, cooking, cleaning, and so much more, it can be easy to drop the ball. To get the most of the university life, understanding your priorities is essential. Take the time to consider what is and isn’t important to you. Whether it’s regular trips home, a part-time job or extracurricular activities, be clear on your non-negotiables.

Establish a Routine

It can be easy to fall into late nights and sleeping in, particularly during freshers’ week. However, establishing a routine that works for you early on can make a world of difference. Rather than falling into unhealthy habits, stick to a routine that enriches your experience. Whether it is regular trips to the library and gym or cooking meals in bulk and an early morning walk to start your day, a routine is a must. Even if your current schedule doesn’t require a strict routine, you’ll be glad that you have already found your groove when your workload increases.

Get To Know Your Tutors

Your tutors will likely offer open hours when you can lean on them for support. Whether you need advice, book recommendations or a private chat, your tutors are at your disposal. So, take the time to get to know your tutors and lean on them should you need the support.

Find Your Tribe

Whether you team up with fellow students from your course, join a club or start your own society, finding your tribe at university will undoubtedly contribute to your experience. To find out more about societies and clubs at your university, check out your student union's website or join online forums. Trust us; there are some seriously weird and wonderful options to choose from!

Explore Your Local Area

They say the best way to discover a new place is to get lost, and we recommend doing precisely that. If you’re new to the area, you’ll want to explore. So, find a friend or two and explore your new home. From local bars and restaurants to attractions and shops, taking the time to discover all the facilities at your fingertips is a great way to settle in and meet new people along the way.

Take Care of Yourself

While university life is a lot of fun, it also comes with a lot of hard work and, at times, pressure. Therefore, taking care of both your physical and mental health is essential to getting the best out of your university years. If you’re struggling with anything at all, know what you’re not alone. Whether you lean on your peers, tutors, loved ones or a professional, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. From ensuring you’re eating well and getting enough sleep to exercising and watching your alcohol intake, make your health a priority throughout your time at university, and you’ll reap the benefits.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to experience university. Just work hard, have fun, and take care of yourself. It will be one hell of a journey, so enjoy the ride! Novel is home to quality student accommodation in Leicester with amazing facilities such as private bedrooms, social spaces, a gym, and a games' room in the heart of the city.

Did you go to university? How did you make the most out of your time there?

10:00 No comments

GUEST POST| After the glow of the honeymoon phase has faded, you may feel as though your relationship has got a little stale. You still love your partner, of course, but you may have fallen into a rut in the romance department. It’s completely natural for a relationship to shift over time, but you don’t have to settle for watching the passion slowly fade away. You don’t need a holiday or special occasion to add a little spark to your life. Here are 8 creative tips to renew the romance in your life.

1. Set up a self-care day.

When you’re feeling stressed and exhausted, romance is the last thing on your mind. Give your partner the gift of a day of rest and relaxation, and they may just thank you for it in a special way. Book a massage at your local spa, put together an at-home spa kit, or set them up with their favourite snacks and a stack of DVDs. However, your partner likes to relax, make it happen.

2. Share a homemade meal.

Nothing is more romantic than a candle-lit dinner, so throw on your apron and whip up your partner’s favourite meal. Pour yourselves a glass of red wine and spend the evening enjoying each other’s company. It’s the perfect time to check in with each other and to really focus on your special bond.

3. Write them a love letter.

When you’ve been with the same partner for a while, you develop a certain level of comfort. While it’s certainly a good thing to feel comfortable with your partner, sometimes couples find themselves falling out of the habit of really communicating. If you want to spark some romance in your relationship, write your partner a love letter. Remind them why you love them, recall cherished memories from the past, and maybe offer a little teaser of how you hope the night will end.

4. Upgrade your bedroom décor.

If things are feeling a little stale in the bedroom, switch it up – literally! Purchase some new pillows, upgrade your worn-out comforter, and add some soft lighting. When outfitting your bedroom, it’s important to consider both you and your partner’s personal taste, but really try to focus on making the space a cosy, comfortable place for the two of you to share.

5. Book a hotel room.

Sometimes it’s difficult to get in the mood at home, especially if your home is also your workplace. If you’re looking to rekindle some romance, book a hotel room for you and your partner to enjoy an overnight date. It’s the perfect chance to visit your favourite restaurant or order some room service and just enjoy the night together.

6. Surprise them with new lingerie.

Nothing sparks a little romance like new lingerie. Whether you’re donning it yourself or purchasing it for your partner, lingerie is a great way to shake things up in the bedroom. When choosing lingerie, the key to feeling confident is to find something that makes you feel good.

7. Show them how much you care.

Physical intimacy starts with emotional intimacy, and sometimes all someone needs to feel romantic is to be reminded how much their partner cares for them. Spend the afternoon tackling your partner’s to-do list, so they can spend the evening relaxing. Buy the groceries, wash the car, or do whatever it is they’ve been putting off, so they have the time and energy to enjoy a little alone time with you.

8. Address your own insecurities.

If things are lacking in the romance department in your relationship, take a good hard look at yourself to see if you can figure out why. Sometimes when our confidence is low, we distance ourselves from the people we care about, and it can create a rift in the relationship. Whether you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction, you’re dissatisfied with your bodyweight, or you have another issue entirely, do what you need to do to address it, and you may just see the results in the romance department.

Every relationship is unique, so don’t feel like the ideas on this list are your only options. Get creative, using these ideas as inspiration to come up with something your partner will appreciate. What matters most is that you care for each other, and you’re both wiling to work to keep the spark alive.

10:00 No comments

—Benefits Of Using Journaling-

About me

Follow Me

Kudd.ly

Contact Form

POPULAR POSTS