Hair Refresh

I feel that we have all been there.. Making that one hair decision that we always wish we had never done. Whether it be trying a new cut, styling it differently or being brave and trying a new colour. Back when I was in year 10 at school, I had my first lot of highlights. I loved them! A nice subtle blonde running through the length of my hair. I loved it so much so that I decided next time I went back to the salon, to add a little bit more blonde. I did the same the next time that I went.. Until I was pretty much bleach blonde. 

Now being that age, looking back, I definitely did not look after my hair at all. I would wake up at 6am every morning, to wash it and style it before heading off to school for the day. That being said, the amount of product I would put into my hair was horrendous! It was so dry, it could have literally just been hay used to make a birds nest. Not a good look.. 

As you can guess, it didn't last for very long. Maybe a couple of weeks at max. She was back dying it to be a brunette once more. Even more damage to my hair.. It took years to grow out the bleach underneath the home box dyes, under the semi permanent dyes done at the salon. It was such a long process. The colour never stuck to my hair due to the bleach stripping back any sort of colour or pigment. Of course, there was nothing for the dye to cling too! I always remember being wary of being out in the direct sun as you could see how my roots were growing through. 

Since then, I have always been a bit against doing anything with my hair that's different. Other than minimising the amount of product used on my hair.. After seeing the balayage trend coming in, where colour was added to look natural, or the opposite if you fancied, I was obsessed! After umming and arring, I took the plunge and decided to go for something super natural, with no colour anywhere near my roots. I wanted that look of natural highlights from spending time in the sun. 

I have been over the moon with it! Even a month on from having it done, I still wish that I had done it sooner. Don't get me wrong, I am not going to go back as blonde as my school days (I am not going to insert any photos, to save myself the embarrassment haha), but I am in love with it!

Do you have any hair regrets?

Amber X

Flower Therapy

So, my not posting for a week has turned accidently into not posting for a good 4 months.. Oops. I feel sad that I have neglected my tiny corner of the internet! Here's to hoping (but not promising) that I am now back. Not going to lie, lockdown had me feeling really unmotivated and not sure about what to post on here. Let's hope this is the end of that. She's back! 

One experience that I wanted to document here on my blog, was one that involved the spring sun and picking tulips. Who doesn't see photos of the tulip fields in Holland and swoon over their beauty?! After seeing an email come through from the farm which we visited back in the autumn to pick pumpkins, about the fields of tulips that they had planted for visitors to pick, I quickly jumped onto their website and booked 2 tickets for Sam and I to go.

We were so lucky with the weather. It had been raining all week and wasn't looking promising the morning of. Just as we left, the sun came out and stayed out the whole time we were there. Of course, this wasn't quite on the same scale or level of the Holland tulip fields, but it was more than good enough for me. Something felt so refreshing being under the spring sun, surrounded by fields of cows, and casually strolling between rows of beautiful flowers. 

It was a Sunday morning well spent. Do you plan to go to any pick your owns?

Amber X

New Home Additions

Clear outs and re-arranging have been in full force this lockdown. With tidying and clearing out, comes room for new things. I wanted to add some new touches to certain corners and I found some lovely pieces that I cannot wait to make the most out of. 

Starting with these gorgeous tea light holders. I can remember having seen some floating around on Instagram before Christmas and not thinking too much about them. We visited a garden centre in the run up to Christmas and I saw some there and have never regretted not picking them up so much. Since then, I have searched high and low on the internet to try and track some down. When I finally found some that I liked, they were sold out. A couple of months on, and I have finally got some. The >small< houses were £2.50!!! What a bargain. The >larger< being only £4, I just couldn't say no. Thank you Wilko for fulfilling my need for ceramic house tea light holders. 

Another addition have been these cute little bunny tails. I seem to have a love for dried flowers and pampas grass after having seen pretty vases filled with the most beautiful arrangements. But until I have my own house and space for such vases, I opted for something slightly smaller. The wine bottle vase is only temporary, until I find a vase that I like, or, I was thinking of potentially purchasing some spray paint that has a pebble or stone effect and covering the bottle. I am yet to decide. Don't you worry - the glue on the bottle annoys me as much as it does you. I found >these< beauties on Etsy. They came super quickly and were packaged beautifully. I was a little worried that they may have turned up bent or broken, but I was very happy that they arrived just as I had imagined. 

The frame with the dried flowers in, I created myself last year. I thought it made a lovely addition next to the two new pieces. I'm sure I'll forever be switching up how this looks, but I am happy with it for now.

Have you brought any new decorative pieces for your home? Are you a pampas grass lover too?

Amber X

Winter Styling Edit

If you have been reading my blog for a while, you'll know that I'm not great when it comes to buying clothes. I'm never one to quickly add an item to my basket or to walk into a shop, find something and go straight to pay. I always end up deliberating over whether I will actually get wear out of the item, and if it will go with the very few clothing pieces that I have in my wardrobe. Yes, I am a nightmare when it comes to buying new clothes haha. Dressing for Winter is definitely my favourite if I had to choose between all seasons. Give me some pointy boots, an oversized jumper and a pair of jeans, and I'm ready for the day. There have been a few items of clothing that I have been loving and I cannot wait to wear them out and about when the time comes.

>This< jumper has been one of my favourite buys. I have been trying to add a couple more knitted jumpers to my wardrobe as they are a piece that goes with everything.. Jeans, work trousers. skirts, and leggings. The quality itself is lovely and it goes so nicely with a thick scarf, on a cold day. The cable knit design always makes a jumper look super cosy and this one is no exception. It's also currently discounted!

I have wanted a pair of leather look leggings for a while, but couldn't seem to find any with a quality that would last. I used to have a pair of leather look jeans from Topshop, but can remember putting them in the wash and the waxed, leather look, just disappeared. I ordered from BecauseOfAlice when Alice first launched collection number 1 and fell in love with the light wash mom jeans. She released >these< leather look leggings and my dreams were finally answered. They're not flimsy in their fabric and don't cling to the legs. They fit just right and the high rise design is beautiful. 

Lastly, the most incredible pair of biker boots you have ever seen. Boots are a love of mine, and >this< pair are just beautiful. Another item that I think will be so versatile - they could be worn with my pair of leather leggings, jeans, skirts, and dresses.. I cannot wait to be able to wear these out properly!

What fashion pieces have you been loving lately?

Amber X

Nars Blush Palette - A Review

It's been a while. I know, I know. Apologies for the lack of posts over the last month or so. I think with all that is currently going on, motivation was lost along the way. I'm sure that many have felt this way through one lockdown to another. I won't carry on, I know we are all in this together. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed that we will return to some form of normality sometime soon. 

Ever since starting this blog, I can remember lusting over Nars blush palette posts. Seeing these blog posts, with gorgeous flat lay's showcasing the packaging and the product, made me fall in love. I can remember adding it to my wish list right away, and thinking that one day I may treat myself to one of these beautiful palettes. My dreams came true this Christmas after finding this beauty in my stocking (thank you so much Sam).

Firstly, how pretty is the pink metallic outer packaging?! It's so striking and reflects the light at all angles. The compact itself is slightly weighty, and contains a perfectly sized mirror which will come in handy on the go and when travelling makes a return. The palette contains 6 shades, 3 blusher shades - Let It Burn, Get Lost and Body Talk, with 3 highlighting shades - Tied Up, Deep Down and Drift. I have loved mixing the blush shades together and creating different variations that I can wear on my cheeks. Similarly, the highlighting shades also make such pretty eye lid eyeshadow shades.

The pigmentation of each of these shades is just out of this world. The highlights are so creamy in their texture. If the kind of highlighter you like to wear is more on the blinding side, these shades may not be for you. They're very natural looking on the skin, almost a your skin but better kind of vibe. But I love them for that reason. It's lovely to have the option to wear something more subtle on the daily, but they are definitely buildable, making them more reflective when the light hits the high points of your face. With the blushers, a little goes a long way which is amazing. 

Since opening this on Christmas Day, I haven't put it down. Nars is slowly becoming one of my favourite higher end make up brands. I can 100% see this palette becoming one of my staple make up items in my routine.

Have you tried any Nars products? What are your recommendations?

Amber X

Makeup Picks For Sitting In Your Christmas Jumper

Let me be honest, I intend to spend my Christmas Day doing nothing but eating and sitting around in my Christmas jumper. For those of you who also plan on doing the same and taking in all of the Christmas TV that is planned to be showing, I thought to share some of my makeup picks to add a little bit more glam to sitting on the sofa. 

Huda Beatuty Matte Lipstick

How gorgeous is this shade?! Nothing speaks Christmas like wearing a red lip and I am so glad that I have come across this one. I wore this yesterday whilst we went on a walk to watch the Christmas lights being switched on, and I didn't reapply it all day. It didn't budge, it didn't bleed which I find that so many red lipstick shades can. The formula was so comfortable to wear - it didn't dry out my lips or go all clunky around the edges. It was truly gorgeous. If you feel like a festive treat, the shade of this matte lipstick is 'El Cinco de Mayo'. I cannot wait to carry on wearing this through the festive season.

Mac Soft and Gentle

An all time favourite of mine. I love the sheen this highlighter gives to my skin. It is definitely not on the subtle side of highlighters but it doesn't contain chunky glitters either and I love it for that reason. It melts into the skin and gives such a healthy looking glow. Definitely a way to add a bit of sparkle in your makeup routine for Christmas.

Too Faced Natural Nudes Palette

One of my makeup favourites of this year has to be this one. I have used it every day since I bought it back in the summer. The matte shades are so pigmented, and similarly, as are the shimmer shades. There are so many looks which can be created with this palette - subtle natural looks, but also put together, night out type looks. If there is one palette which you want to treat yourself too, I would 10000% recommend this one. It's so beautiful. 

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer

If you're looking for a concealer that blends really well, brightens up your under eyes and has a high coverage, this one is for you. A firm favourite for many, there are reasons why this is a top pick of mine. It's super brightening and lasts all day. I also find that this concealer doesn't sit in any fine lines underneath the eyes either. It's just a win win. 

What make up products will you be using to create your Christmas day makeup?

Amber X

The Christmas Bedding Edit

Seeing as a lot of our usual festivities may be cancelled this year, or have already been cancelled, I have been thinking of ways to bring the Christmas joy, home. I love decorating my home surroundings as much as the next person. Nothing makes me happier than throwing Christmas at every shelf, bed frame, or banister that I see. There is something so magical and special about seeing the twinkling of lights and the glittering of festive additions. One way that I personally love to bring a splash of Christmas, is with Christmas bedding. There are so many different places that have some gorgeous pillow and duvet cases available at the moment, that I just had to share them. I feel there are options for everyone - whether you want subtlety or full on garish Christmas goodness. 

M&S

A personal favourite of mine to look for Christmas bedding. There are some really beautiful options which I have been so tempted by. I love the simplicity with this >one<. It would be such a nice way to get a bit of colour into the bedroom during the festive season. I have recently brought the PJ's for Sam of >this< print, and he bought me the same matching ones for my birthday. Part of me wants this bedding to go with them.. It's just so cute! >One< for all the plant lovers out there. This could be used easily all year around in my opinion. Love the foliage. 

H&M

H&M home have some really gorgeous things, I am sure that a lot of you will agree with me here. I have had my eye on the little acorn fitted sheet, but it has been out of stock. Although, they have >this< foliage and berries fitted sheet that would be great for getting in the Christmas spirit. Flannel brings a traditional feel to decorating for Christmas, and >this< red flannel duvet set would be a perfect addition to the bedroom if your festive decoration choices are more of the traditional kind.

Zara Home

>This< pine tree print duvet set is right up my street, plus the colour is just gorgeous. You'd definitely be feeling in the Christmas mood with this set on, and a pine scented candle burning on the bed side table - heaven. I recently purchased a tartan print fleecey throw, and >this< Christmas themed one is so gorgeous too. These are great for making your bed look more festive if you want more subtlety. They also great for snuggling up on the sofa with..

John Lewis

Another >one< if you're a fan of the festive subtlety. The gorgeous trees and individuals on their Christmas walk is similar to the one photographed above which was from M&S back in 2018. I am a massive fan. >This< cute penguin set would be perfect for the little ones.

There are so many other options to choose from - why not try Etsy, Asda, or Amazon? The list goes on.

Which bedding set is your favourite? Will you be treating yourself to any festive bedding this year?

Amber X

Turning 24

Friday just gone, was my 24th birthday. Never would I have thought that another national lockdown would have been announced and put into place the day before my birthday, but hey it's 2020. We never know what is around the corner, do we? Nethertheless, having a chilled and relaxing day at home was just what I needed. Every year I always like to get something planned in to celebrate, and although this year was the complete opposite, I thoroughly enjoyed it for that reason. Don't get me wrong, I am looking forward to seeing the whole family and my close friends, but if there is anything that this lockdown birthday has made me, is grateful. 

Grateful for who I do have in my life and grateful that I was lucky enough to spend my birthday with those very same people. Here's to 24 years. May this be the year that a dog is potentially on the cards, and that things go back to normal, whatever our new normal may be.

Have you had a lockdown birthday? How did you celebrate?

Amber X

Autumnal Spiced Biscuits

Doing a little autumnal bake is something that I have always wanted to do, but never got around to it. After all of the rainy day weekends, I thought it the perfect time to whip out the cookie cutters and make something that pairs gorgeously with a cup of tea. After a little Amazon search, we found >these< cute autumn themed cutters. I thought they were so sweet! Pumpkins, leaves, acorns, a hedgehog, an owl, and a fox amongst other things. These biscuits were lovely, but didn't last long enough.  I found the recipe >here<. 

What you will need:

140g butter

60g caster sugar

190g plain flour

1tsp cinnamon

1tsp mixed spice (we used a bit of ginger and nutmeg)

1. Mix the soft butter with caster sugar until you have a smooth paste. Preheat the oven to 190 degrees.

2. Sprinkle in the flour, cinnamon, and other spices. Stir until you have crumbs.

3. Next, work with your hands until you have a dough.

4. Roll out onto a floured service, about 1cm thick, and then cut with your cookie cutters.

5. Place on a baking tray and sprinkle with a little more sugar.

6. Bake for 15 minutes or until nice and golden.

7. Enjoy!

What a perfect rainy day treat and a super simple recipe to follow with minimal ingredients. Stick on a cosy film or tv series that you're enjoying. Light all the candles, and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

What have you been baking recently? 

Amber X

An Autumnal To Do List

There are so many things to get out and do when this time of the year comes around. Similarly, there are so many things to do inside when this time of year comes around. I want to enjoy it all, and therefore, I thought to compile a list to ensure that nothing gets missed off. So grab yourself a cup of tea, cosy up and have a read. 

Pumpkin Picking - I have never gone to a patch and picked the pumpkins myself. It was always pop to the supermarket closest to us and pick one from there. I want to change that! Nothing felt more autumnal than picking which pumpkins to take home from a field full of them. 100% going to make this a yearly thing. Even in the rain, it was so much fun. I also haven't carved a pumpkin for some time, and we also have that too look forward too. 

Autumnal Baking - Sam recently ordered some autumnal cookie cutters, owls, leaves, pumpkin's etc, and I cannot wait to make some biscuits with them. I'm thinking something with mixed spice and that goes down perfectly with a big cup of tea. Mmm. 

Finish Autumnal Decorating - I have accumulated some new bits recently from places that we have visited and I need to find a home for them! I also am on the hunt for some new autumnal candles - my last few trips to TKMaxx and Homesense have been disappointing. Is it just me or were there next to no autumn items this year?! I managed to stock up on Christmas scents, but want to find cosy autumnal scents, as I have now burnt through them all. 

Make A List Of Films - I want to make a list of films to get through before the Christmas films become my first choice. I haven't ever really been one for watching Halloween films and I am not a fan of a horror film. We have watched so far, The Nightmare Before Christmas and Corpse Bride. If you have any recommendations for any Halloween-esque films, please do let me know.

Plan In As Many Autumnal Walks As Possible - Westonbirt Arboretum is my happy place. I love wandering around underneath the canopy of the trees. The ever changing colours of the woods is breath taking, and nothing will make you feel more autumnal. Can't wait to wrap up warm and grab a hot chocolate there too. 

I am very much looking forward to ticking all of these activities off my list. This truly is the best time of the year.

What is on your autumnal to do list?

Amber X

Let's Talk: Couch to 5k

Running was something that I always loved to do. Albeit that first run in a while, when you have ruined your usual running routine. That run is never fun. I used to break up my revision in university with exercise, and usually my first choice would be to go for a run. I love the excuse to go out and get some fresh air and to test yourself. I had lost my way with it since finishing university and then it was straight into full time work, which did make it all the more difficult. 

Then I thought, why not try the Couch to 5K app? For those of you who don't know what this app is, it's basically a weekly plan including different lengths of runs, which build you up over time, therefore, you will eventually end up running for longer if you complete 3 runs within the week. You start with running for 1 minute, and then a 2 minute walk for example, and on the last week of the training, you run for a full 30 minutes no walk. I think you get the idea. Essentially, having a personal trainer (ish) in your ear for the duration of your run, telling you when to start running and when you can have a walking break. 

I thought this would be the best way to get back into the swing of it. This way I wouldn't go in all guns blazing for the first run, cause myself to be super stiff for the next week, and then decide I am going to pack it in again. I set myself the challenge.

I am currently on week 7 of 9 weeks and I can tell you, that I feel like it has truly got me to like running again. It's so nice to go for a run after working all day, to get outside and enjoy it, even if it is raining. It's also great to have a routine, and although I don't stick to the 'go for a run every other day' depending on the day I have had and how tired I am, but I am surprised that I have managed to make it a habit. I have been running for 7 weeks!!

If someone had told me that after 7 weeks of doing the Couch to 5K app, that I would be running quite happily for 25 minutes solid, with no break, I would have laughed. But I feel that breaking down the runs and starting small, really has had a great effect on my mind and body when it comes to running for longer. I hate the initial thought of going for a run, but I love the accomplishment that you feel when you're finally through it, and you know that you get that rest day the next day.

One thing I have also enjoyed, is trying new routes. Running in the wood was so pretty and an easy way to keep your mind off of the task at hand. After my 9 weeks, I am going to try and keep to a routine, even if it isn't a solid 30 minute run each time I go, I will be chuffed to say I actually completed the training on the app, haha. 

Have you tried Couch to 5k? What do you think of it? What's your favourite way to exercise?

Amber X

The Biscoff Milkshake

After having seen a fair few videos floating around Facebook of the Biscoff milkshake now available at Five Guys, I had to make my own version of it. I always remember one of my friends back in school making the most incredible Nutella milkshakes, and I thought that I could put a spin on that great recipe and bring a Biscoff version to the table. It was delicious! I'm never really one for measuring ingredients out, simply add more or less of the ingredients to suit your tastes. 

To make the Biscoff milkshake, you will need:

Blender

Mug of choice

Milk  (I went with Oat)

Vanilla ice cream 

Biscoff spread (Smooth or crunchy)

Biscoff biscuits (we had these yummy ones in the cupboard. They're filled with chocolate! If you haven't tried them, they're a must)

Whipped cream

Add the desired amount of milk into the bottom of the blender - take into consideration how many people you're making the drink for. Add a heaped teaspoon of Biscoff spread to the blender next. Scoop 3 generous scoops of ice cream and place in with the milk and Biscoff spread. Crumble up the desired amount of Biscoff biscuits in with the other ingredients. Blend together. If it isn't thick enough for your liking, add more ice cream. Serve in a mug of your choice (how cute is this owl mug?!) and top with whipped cream and more crushed biscuits. 

You could 100% change this up and try different spreads and biscuits.. I bet there are so many good combinations. Kinder Bueno, Milky Bar, Crunchie, Malteser, the options are endless..

What's your favourite drink at the moment?

Amber X

An Autumnal Wall Accessory With Photowall*

 *This post contains a gifted item*

As Autumn is officially upon us this week, I couldn't wait to get the Autumnal decorations plastered around my room. So when Photowall got in touch and kindly offered to gift me one of their products, my mind wondered to one thing, and one thing only.. Autumn. 

It was so hard to try and narrow down which print to choose as the Photowall website is filled with numerous gorgeous prints, for all tastes and for all spaces. Wallpapers, canvas prints, posters, framed prints, wall murals, you name it and I'm more than sure you can find it on Photowall. I opted for this simple, yet perfectly Autumnal pinecone canvas print. 

My print arrived within 2 days of ordering and was received beautifully packaged with instructions and all the items needed to easily assemble the canvas ready for hanging. I have never really been good with flat packed furniture or items and following instructions to assemble them. With that being said, within 10 minutes, the canvas was assembled. I can assure you, that if I can do it, then I am more than sure, anyone else will be able to do it too haha. The canvas itself is made from 100% cotton, is UV resistant and doesn't fade in sunlight, meaning it can be hung anywhere and will remain just as beautiful over time, as it did when it arrived. Amazing. All canvas prints are custom made to order, meaning that waste is minimised, and makes each order that much more special. 

I opted for propping the canvas up on the top of my ladder shelves for now - but I love that I can eventually hang it else where when the season changes. I don't have any wall hangings in my room other than 1 photo frame, but now having this canvas print, I can't wait to finally get redecorating (at some point) and add more prints to the walls. 

Not only do Photowall offer the above, there is also a feature to be able to create your own posters, wallpapers, canvas prints and more, which is such a lovely touch. You can even edit a print that is currently listed on their website, to make it the perfect fit for your space. What a great way to be able to personalise your walls. 

If you fancy treating your walls feel free to use the discount code "amberatlanta25" for 25% off any product on the Photowall website. 

Are you decorating for Autumn?

Amber X

*This item was kindly gifted to me by Photowall for review, but all opinions are 100% my own. For a full disclaimer, please visit my "about" page. Discount code lasts for 1 month*

What To Watch For A Little Pick Me Up

Now that nights are slowly getting darker earlier, it does seem more apparent that there is a running theme of needing a little pick me up. Going to work in the dark and getting home in the dark can leave you feeling a little bit deflated. Whether you're in need of some self care or a little pick me up, I thought to compile a short list of films that always cheer me up. So grab a cup of tea, snuggle up on the sofa, under all of the blankets/throws that you can find, light some autumnal candles and stick on one of the below.

Love, Rosie

Possibly my favourite film. If not, it's up there in the top 5. I love the story line of this film and how it elapses over time. You can't but help getting caught up in the relationship/friendship of Rosie and Alex. This is one of those films that makes you warm inside, and makes you think that everything does fall into place when it is meant too. It follows Alex and Rosie, who are best mates from school, throughout their lives into college and work. However, things aren't as simple as they should be for 2 friends, when one moves to Boston for college.

Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging

No question that this film was going to be on my list. One that I have watched a hundred times over and still never end up getting bored of. If anything, the more that it gets watched, the better that it is. If you didn't know what this film is about (where have you been!?), Georgia is longing to get to know Robbie, a new guy in town, who she learns has just moved to Eastbourne from London. Georgia tries many things to get realised by Robbie. Do they work? What gets in her way? I guess you'll have to watch to find out.

Patrick

Another film I have seen countless times. It's become a running joke in my family, that I love pugs. There is something ridiculously cute and endearing about their little mischievous personalities and their adorable faces. So there is no reason why this film wouldn't be on this list. I love the humour in this film too and there are a few actors that you may recognise. Sarah inherits Patrick when her grandma sadly passes away. She is due to start a new job teaching and she has no idea how she is going to balance her new lifestyle and a dog. 

Harry Potter

Espeically now that Autumn is around the corner, these are great films to get stuck into. Any of the collection is good to put on and switch off too. I don't feel that Harry Potter needs a brief description, as I would like to think that you have all seen the films..

What films do you watch when you need a little pick me up?

Amber X 

Autumnal Photo Props

We are officially in the -ber months of the year, aka, the best months of the year... I cannot wait for the long Autumnal walks when our surroundings are filled with reds, oranges, amber and brown shades. This time of the year is truly when I am at my happiest. Not only do I prefer my content most throughout the Autumn months, I also find myself more inspired to plan posts and focus on the outcome of my photos. 

To do that, as many other bloggers, I like to have a selection of items to hide in the background of photos, to fill the space and to also give that Autumnal vibe. I thought to share with you, some of my favourite items to capture what I consider the perfect photo. All of these items double up as seasonal décor - my favourite :-) 

Autumnal Leaf Garland

I brought >this< garland from Amazon last year. The different colours of the leaves, and the few little flowers that are wound around into it, make for such a pretty garland. The garland itself has wire wound around the middle, making it so easy to wrap around whatever you desire. This also comes in handy for taking photos as you can shape it however you so wish. 

Autumnal Leaves

>These< are great - you can sprinkle them everywhere and everywhere to give an autumnal feel. I ordered these ones last year, and they did take a rather long time to come. But at only £1.16, you can't go wrong. Just make sure that you order them a couple of months in advance haha.

Pinecones

Again, >these< were from Amazon. I ordered them for Christmas content, to attach to my Christmas Wreath DIY and to also put into bowls around the house to make each room a little more festive. They double up perfectly for Autumnal décor, I also made a garland out of these for my bed frame and I can't wait to see what else I can use them for this year. 

Candles

I am a lover of having candles in my room all year round, but there are no better scents than the cosy Autumnal and Winter scents. Theses are also perfect for hiding in the background of shots, especially when Bath and Body Works candles look as pretty as they do.

Ceramic Pumpkins

>These< cuties are a recent purchase of mine. After having seen them on The White Company website, I could not resist. I feel like these could go anywhere in the home and they are perfect for many of you, who don't want to go all out for seasonal décor, but want something subtle. They're so cute. 

Glitter Pumpkins

I brought these from Tesco last year. Supermarkets can have some really lovely seasonal décor bits! They came in a bag of 9. 3 orange, 3 green and 3 purple. I usually just use to orange ones and sit them on top of the leaf garland. When the light catches them, it makes the room sparkle. These were a bargain at only £1! I would stay away from them, if you're not a fan of cleaning up after glitter haha.

What are your favourite autumnal décor pieces? I am always after more!

Amber X

What To Do With Your August Bank Holiday

That's right. Another bank holiday weekend is upon us. I can't quite keep up with how quickly time is going at the moment. I'm sure you're all thinking of ways that you can enjoy your elongated weekend, here are some recommendations if you needed a little bit of inspo. 

Make a homemade cocktail and enjoy it in the garden.

Visit your local. 

Binge a new Netflix series.

Potter around the shops seeing if you can score any Bank Holiday deals.

Book your closest National Trust site and go for a walk.

Cook something new for tea. 

Get out and exercise (even in the rain).

Treat yourself to some new skincare.

Have a relaxing bath with some Lush products.

Book a new restaurant and support them using the Eat Out To Help Out Scheme.

Bake a new recipe that you haven't tried before. 

Get ready for Autumn and get all the candles lit.

Rewatch your favourite film series. 

Get creative - make some greetings cards, print photos for photo frames. 

Challenge yourself to try something new.

Visit the beach and go for a coastal walk.

Book a last minute staycation.

Plant some new flowers in the garden.

Have a clear out at home.

Start reading that book that you have been putting off.

Practise gratitude.

Go out for brunch.

Experiment with your make up routine.

What're your bank holiday plans?

Amber X

Staycation Staycation Staycation

- This post contains gifted items. Not obliged to post photos of the product. This post isn’t sponsored in any way -

I am sure that many of us are re-thinking our travel plans this year, and are deciding to stay closer to home, and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. This week, Sam and I had some holiday from work, and decided to stay clear of Cornwall, and to travel to Devon for a little staycation.

It was beautiful. We were so lucky with the weather, which I swear never happens in the UK. It reached 32 degrees! Not going to lie, I was a little apprehensive about staying away from home, just because it was something that we haven't done in such a long time. However, it was nothing to worry about at all. We visited Salcombe on Monday, wondered through the small streets with shops, caught a ferry onto the other side of the water, and chilled on the beach for the afternoon. It was so peaceful watching the boats go past, although it was rather amusing watching them bash into each other and hearing "starboard" shouted at the top of their lungs to move out of the way of an incoming boat. We also visited, Overbeck, a National Trust site which was beautiful and had the most incredible views over Salcombe. We stayed overnight in Brixham and enjoyed a fish and chips takeaway by the sea, before a sunset stroll. We also visited another beach on the coast the next day - nothing like relaxing by the sea.

 

If you're thinking of venturing out and staying somewhere close to home, here are some words of advice that I would pass onto you, after our stay away this week.

Book in advance

Whether it be for eating out, or visiting any tourist attraction, it is essential to book in advance. A lot of places now are only letting visitors in that have pre-booked (National Trust sites are a must book), and it is worth doing it as far in advance as you can. Restaurants are also getting booked up quickly, so if you do a little bit of research before going and have you heart set on going somewhere specific, book in advance!

Bring a packed lunch

Bringing snacks for a long journey is never a bad thing. However, I have noticed that wherever you tend to go, there are queues. If you're not a fan of waiting in line, take some snacks with you to avoid this! Water is also an essential, especially when the weather has been so hot (fingers crossed that it lasts!), so pack enough just in case you get stuck in traffic or, if you're going on a long walk. Waterdrop, a tasty way to drink more water, have kindly given me a discount code to share with you all to celebrate the relaunch of Love, so you can enjoy their microdrinks and beautiful accessories. Use code "GIVELOVE" at checkout to receive £5 off on purchases over £25 on their website, until the 31st of August. 

Bring your face covering

It goes without saying at the moment, that wherever you go, you should carry one of these with you. It may surprise you when you may need one! Always best to take it just in case.

Have you booked a staycation? What're you thoughts on travelling at the moment?

Amber X

- This post contains gifted items, sent to me for my consideration with no obligation to post, but this by no means, has changed my thoughts or opinions. Full disclaimer on my 'about' page -