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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

AD| Take a trip to Spain without leaving your kitchen! Spanish food is one of my favourite cuisines to recreate at home because of the amazing flavours and vibrant colours found in every single recipe, you'll be spoilt for choice!

Perello Gordal Pitted Olives

For a few little pre-dinner snacks, these Perello Gordal Pitted Olives* are perfect. Gordal olives are one of the finest Spanish olives – bright green, plump and crisp. These Gordal olives are canned in brine with Guindilla chilli – giving the olives a little kick. 

Torres Black Truffle crisps

Torres Black Truffle crisps* are also a great alternative when looking for some snack ideas. These luxury crisps pack an intense black truffle punch and will leave your guests wanting more and more. Either eat the crisps by themselves, with dips or as part of a meat/cheese platter.

pan con tomate

Pan con Tomate is a small starter type dish and for something with so few ingredients – just toasted bread slices, tomatoes, garlic, salt and loads of olive oil – it’s absolutely delicious and so easy to make at home.

Gambas al Ajillo

Gambas al Ajillo - Another quick and easy dish that you can have made in minutes and will be a great success with your guests. The key ingredients here are prawns, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper and chilli flakes. The combination of all these flavours are to die for! I would simply serve them alone with some fresh crusty bread.

seafood paella

Last but not least, the real star of the show, we have Paella, which is perhaps one of the most famous Spanish foods in the world. It's definitely one of the first that would come to mind when thinking about Spanish cuisine. I opted to make a Seafood version with prawns, squid and mussels, but you could probably use any meat, fish or vegetables that you prefer. I also added chorizo, garlic, onions, peppers, peas, sweetcorn and green beans to make this dish super colourful. This type of dish is perfect for a dinner party as it's great to make in bulk and can allow all your guests to dig in to one big pan of food!

la chinata smoked paprika

This distinctive sweet Smoked Paprika* was the perfect addition whilst making my delicious Seafood Paella. Introducing rich colour and flavour to the paella, as well as adding a warm smoky heat which really complemented the chorizo in the dish.

What are your favourite Spanish recipes? Have you heard about Sous Chef before?

ad* | items marked with a * have been gifted by Sous Chef for review purposes
14:22 1 comments
AD| The COVID-19 outbreak has completely changed and dramatically complicated the dating game for the foreseeable future. If you’re single and dating, you’re no doubt facing special challenges during the current crisis when it comes to starting new relationships. Dating during these times has gone online and dating apps or websites have made it easier than ever for singles to get 'out' there and meet new people. Social distancing doesn’t have to mean disconnecting. Video chats are in. Small talk is out.

social distancing

As we see the UK and other countries easing out of lockdown, and slowly bringing about changes to the current social distancing measure put in place by the government. These measures allow you to meet others new people out in public whilst adhering to the rules. As there currently isn't any go ahead for going into other peoples homes and being more intimate with partners or new lovers, casual outdoor dates maybe the best option during the current coronavirus pandemic. From picnics in the local park, bike rides in the countryside and sunset beach walks to name a few, there is a never ending list of spontaneous yet romantic ideas for a socially distant outdoors date.

With social media growing faster than ever, single people are turning to dating apps for social connection and to find ways to continue to date during the current global crisis. Dating apps and free dating sites have been seeing staggering amounts of users registering more than ever during the lockdown phases. From Tinder, to Bumble, we love dates, and Hinge, to name a few, becoming more popular, these platforms have given people the chance to connect with people from all around the world, as well as their local area. 

online dating coronavirus

Dating sites and apps are increasingly helping long distance couples to 'meet' safely via video calling or voice calling, helping you to grow closer and connect more with your partner. Couples are now more likely to form a relationship through online, where they can talk and virtually 'hang out' at any time and any place. With the coronavirus lockdowns, many single people now have more time to spend really getting to know someone on a more deeper level, rather than just focusing on what they look like in real life. 

The idea of virtual dates can really help bring new couples closer together and help form a more emotional bond, instead of a physical one. Whether you order the same takeaway or cook the same new recipe from the comfort of your own homes. Netflix and Chill? Why not! You can video call each other, watch the same Netflix show from your own homes and have a relaxing, comfortable night in knowing that you're both doing the same thing. If that's not really your vibe, there are plenty of other virtual date ideas to choose from and you can get as creative as you like. There's definitely less pressure when using dating sites, especially for those who get nervous easily or feel self conscious, as these methods of dating allow you to feel relaxed in your own home and allow you to be yourself, whilst talking to potential love interests.

How has dating during coronavirus changed for you? What other changes can we see?
19:46 No comments
AD| Looking for a place to start designing your perfect invite for your upcoming party? You obviously want your party invitations to stand out and feature unique designs that command attention, encourage RSVPs, and ultimately get guests to attend your party. The invitation style should reflect the occasion, and take into account the age and backgrounds of the guests. The internet has a huge selection of images and fonts to use to help you design the best party invites for whatever special occasion you have coming up. 

Whether it's a birthday party, end of summer party or just a special occasion, there's simply no need to hire in the professionals or graphic designers. DIY invitations are more affordable, personable and allows you to be creative. You can tailor your party invites to suit the occasion and your own personal tastes, and they can be ready in no time at all with a little help from a few tips I have. 

party invitation

First of all, the design and layout of your party invitation is probably one of the hardest things to get right. You want to make the invitation bold, colourful and eye-catching, whilst keeping to the theme of the party. Using the right amount of images to text can really help you in creating the perfect invitation- too much text can make it boring, too many images can overcrowd the invite and not let you have pace for all the necessary information for your party. By making DIY party invitations, they’ll see that you took the time to make an invitation only for them. That will really help them to get excited about the upcoming event and show the effort you made to create the invite. Below I have created some simple template headers for party invites using some simple images and fonts, which give such perfect visual layout to the invite design.

Party InvitesParty Invites

A font can make or break an invitation design. When I'm browsing for free fonts, I like to use the Font Bundles website as they have so many styles and designs to choose from. I generally prefer to use handwritten, calligraphy style script fonts. I find that they help to create a bold, eye catching design, that would be perfect for your party invites. I really like the brush stroke or handwritten style of joined up lettering, as I feel it gives off a very simple, yet classic and sophisticated style to any text. 

Party InvitesParty Invites

Colour plays a major role when creating your party invites. The colours you choose for both the images and text, can help set the mood, theme and visual look of your invitation, as well as reflecting the type of celebration you are planning for. Bright, bold and vibrant colours could be used for a younger audience, and more muted, subtle colours could be used for a more formal party. There's no rules to follow when making your own party invitations, use the pictures and font styles you love, and get creative!

What are your tips for creating the best images and text for party invites? Have you used Font Bundles?
21:20 No comments
AD| In the current times of uncertainty during the global COVID-19 pandemic, and the UK still facing some lockdown rules and restrictions, many single people are increasingly feeling lonely. From missing out on social interaction and finding it hard to talk to new people, but dating during these times and whilst observing social distancing shouldn't be too hard and there are plenty of ways to get your love life back on track with a few simple ideas.

social media dating

Social media usage is one of the most popular online activities, and a great invention to use if you're stuck at home during the lockdown period. You can do so many things at just a few clicks of the mouse, it's a perfect way to date when observing social distancing.

Something that is a perfect way to interact with your dates, or new-found relationships is through Facetime and video calls. These features are allowing users to interact without ever having to meet, and such calls can be made from any place at any time, making them increasingly convenient during the current circumstances. A video call before meeting in real life could be very helpful for many, especially for those lacking in confidence or those wanting to make sure they have picked the right person.

 Another creative idea on dating during times of social distancing includes virtual dates. Whether you watch the same Netflix show together at the same time, cook the same meal over video, or even order each other your favourite takeaway and send it to the other one house. There are so many ways social media can help keep the spark alive during lockdown, what other ways can you think of?

Dating apps and websites have also been a helpful tool for those who find it hard and lack confidence with meeting people. Places like Tinder, Bumble, Aberdeen dating site, and Hinge, to name a few, have really helped single people to make new friends during this lockdown period. These dating apps and websites are usually free and very quick to set up, places like www.dateaberdeensingles.co.uk can be set up in minutes, making it even quicker to meet your match!

Following a recent speech from PM Boris Johnson, lockdown measures are slowly being loosened to the point where individuals are now allowed to meet up with one person outside of their household. This could be a great opportunity for single people to go on a social distancing date, respecting the 2-metre rule of distancing in public places set out by the government. 

Social Distance Dating

A few good suggestions would be scenic park walks and indulgent picnics. This could be a very good first date opportunity as being outside can be very relaxing and calming for some, as well as dining on some really nice picnic snacks, what could possibly go wrong? Or for the more sporty of the singletons, a nice bike ride in the countryside could also be a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air, as well as getting in some exercise and bonding time with your date.

What other creative ways have you tried or know about with dating whilst observing social distancing rules?
16:21 No comments
When it comes to skincare, I like to keep my routines as basic as possible to make sure I don't overload my skin and apply too many products. I recently shared my winter skincare favourites, which included some amazing and affordable products that have helped keep my skin healthy and happy. 

If you have seen this post, then you would have noted that I spoke about the Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster - a super lightweight formula facial moisturiser designed to reverse 5 signs of dehydration: dryness, roughness, feelings of tightness, dullness and dehydration lines. As I really enjoyed using this product from the Simple x Little Mix collection, I wanted to branch out and test out a few more items, (I picked up 4 items in total) see how they compared and see if they improved my skin.

Simple x Little Mix Face Wash

The first product I decided I wanted to test is the Moisturising Facial Wash. Formulated for a gentle cleanse - it helps remove dirt, oil and makeup that can clog pores, without leaving skin feeling dry or tight. Enriched with vitamin B5, known to actively restore, soften, and smooth skin, this cleansing wash is especially good for dry or sensitive skin. I've been using this simply with some warm water and a face cloth for a gentle cleanse on an everyday basis, or with my facial cleansing brush for a more deep cleanse - once or twice a week when necessary.

Simple x Little Mix Rich Moisture Sheet Mask

If you're looking for something that really gives your skin that boost of hydration, the Rich Moisture Sheet Mask is what you need to try. Packed with rose extract, agave extract and natural fibres, this sheet mask is formulated to give your skin "16 days worth of moisturiser in just one application" - just what you need when the cold winter air has really dried out your skin! I tend to reach for sheet masks a couple of times a month, when needed, or when my normal skincare routine just isn't enough and I need extra moisture and nourishment.

Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster

I've previously mentioned the Hydrating Booster on my blog in another post, so I won't talk about it for too long. This has been such a great product to use before my moisturiser, as I am able to target the drier areas of my skin. It absorbs into the skin really quickly, and doesn't leave the skin feeling greasy or tacky. This is a product I generally use when I think my skin needs some extra hydration - mainly around my cheeks and nose.

Simple x Little Mix Under-Eye Hydrogel Mask

The Under-Eye Hydrogel Mask is perfect for those who suffer with puffy eyes and dark circles. If you're struggling with getting enough sleep, these are definitely the magic product to use to mask any eye problems and give an illusion of a brighter, smoother and more radiant under eye. Made with natural fruit enzymes, including lemon extract and pomegranate extract, as well as vitamin b3, these help to brighten the skin and radiate that healthy glow, for a more awake and refreshed complexion. I like to use these as a skin treat once a week to help keep my under eyes hydrated and bright. Simple peel the masks off and apply to the under eye area and leave for 5 minutes. How easy could it be? 

The range features the following 6 products; 
Simple x Little Mix Moisturising Facial Wash 150ml 
Simple x Little Mix Rich Moisture Sheet Mask 
Simple x Little Mix Hydrating Booster 25ml 
Simple x Little Mix Under-Eye Mask 
Simple x Little Mix Biodegradable Face Wipes 20 PC 
Simple x Little Mix Micellar Water 400ml 

"At Simple we believe in being kind to skin, the planet and people, and that’s why we have created this Limited Edition range of Simple packs in partnership with Little Mix. In the UK, nearly 1 in 3 teens have experienced bullying online so together with Little Mix and our charity partner Ditch the Label, we are making a stand. Covered with kind words, this pack celebrates and inspires others to wipe away unkind words and instead #ChooseKindness. "

Have you tested out the Simple x Little Mix skincare collaboration? What is your favourite product?
10:00 No comments
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