Sleep Divorces: Better Sleep for Better Relationships?

AD* | The 'sleep divorce' concept - where couples sleep in separate beds or rooms to improve their sleep quality - has recently gained popularity among celebs and everyday couples alike. While it may seem like an easy fix to address issues like snoring, mismatched schedules, or tossing and turning, the long-term impact of sleeping apart can quietly erode a relationship's foundation. 

Sharing a bed isn’t just about rest; it’s about intimacy, connection, and bonding. Some argue it also plays a critical role in maintaining emotional closeness and strengthening your relationship. Instead of opting for separate spaces, addressing sleep challenges as a team can foster deeper intimacy, better communication, and a stronger partnership.

5 Ways to Improve Your Postpartum Mental Health

AD* | Looking after your mental health is so important, but it can be all too easy to let your usual self-care routine slide when you're caught up in parenthood. However, with all the fluctuating hormones and sleepless nights, the postpartum period is a time when you need to take care of your mental health more than ever. If you're a new parent struggling with your mental health, these tips might just help you out.

Review: Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket

*AD | Simba is at the forefront of sleep technology innovation and enhancing sleep quality. Their Orbit weighted blanket lives up to this reputation, providing a sleep experience that's both comfortable and luxurious.

Read on for my review of the blanket and all the reasons why it's sure to be a great addition to your sleep routine.

Why You Should Enrich Your Life with Music Lessons

AD* | I've always been a firm believer in the power of music and the benefits that it can bring. From the instant mood lift you get after listening to your favourite song to the rush when you finally nail a particularly tricky piece of music, the universal language of music is one that is firmly rooted in our hearts.

The Symbolism of Hummingbirds: Why They Make the Perfect Gift for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day offers a unique opportunity to express love and appreciation to our partners and loved ones. Many search for the perfect gift that reflects their feelings and shows the importance of their relationship on this special day. 

One symbolic option that is meaningful but often overlooked is the hummingbird. They bring beauty and joy to our lives and have a rich symbolic meaning that makes them the perfect gift for Valentine's Day. Let's explore the symbolism of hummingbirds and discover why hummingbird-themed items make great gifts for Valentine's Day.

2022: My Year in Review

Image credit: Lindsey Arber Photography

2022 has absolutely flown by - how is it almost 2023 already? Honestly, I can't believe how quickly this year has gone. Surely it was 2021 only yesterday?

This year has definitely been a busy one for me, with lots of planning and prep, a big life event, and of course, plenty of fun and games along the way too. 

But what were my highlights of 2022? Read on to find out!

Coming to Terms With Losing My Maiden Name

Let's talk about names. Do you like yours? 

My wedding day is getting closer and closer, and as the months slip by, I've found myself reflecting on my name. Specifically, changing my surname to my fiancé's when we marry, and coming to terms with losing my maiden name. 

Aura Print: Wedding Stationery Samples

AD* | When you're in the process of planning a wedding, nobody tells you just how much there is to plan. Sure, you know you need to pick a date, book the venue, and find the perfect dress, but let me tell you - if you want to plan a wedding, your organisational skills need to be on point! 

As regular readers will doubtless know by now, my fiancé and I are currently in the process of planning our own wedding. With time ticking down (I can finally say that we get married this year, eek!), the amount of "wedmin" we need to do has never been higher. 

All this means that I'm constantly on the lookout for easy ways to tick things off in my wedding planner - and this post is all about how you can check your wedding stationery off your own to-do list!

2021: My Year in Review

I can't believe it's the end of another year already! It seems like only yesterday that I was sitting down to write my 2020 wrap-up post, and all of a sudden it's nearly 2022. Where does the time go?

2021 was definitely a more positive year overall, with the Covid vaccine rollout well underway, and the gradual easing of restrictions. Of course, we haven't seen the last of the pandemic yet, but it's important to try and stay positive.

How to Celebrate Christmas With Your Cat

Christmas is a favourite time of year for many people, but as with all big events, plenty of planning and preparation goes into the big day. For those with cats, however, it can be hard to know how to include your furry friend in the celebrations.

Celebrating Christmas with a cat needn't be a difficult task, but it's important to make sure that your pet is happy, safe, and comfortable during the festive season. 

Read on for my top tips and tricks around how to celebrate Christmas with your cat!

Why We Need to Stop Asking Personal Questions

We are bombarded with personal questions throughout our lives. When was the last time someone asked you when you're getting married, having a baby, or getting a new job? Of course, personal questions like these are necessary for some situations, but in most cases, they definitely are not. 

Being asked personal questions can be unwanted, unnecessary, and uncalled for - even if it's someone close to you who is asking. You should always remember that no one ever truly knows what someone else is feeling, thinking, or going through, and your seemingly harmless question could cause them a lot of pain, stress, or negative emotions. 

Above all else, though, why is it any of their business? Everyone lives their lives in a different way, and the path they follow or the choices they make might differ from your own. And that's okay - we are all individuals capable of making our own way through life. 

Therefore, applying your own beliefs, experiences, expectations, or even prejudices to someone else's life is just wrong. Let them lead their lives as they see fit; they have no need to answer to you. 

Here's why my personal life is none of your business!

5 Top Tips for Updating Your Digital Branding

AD* | Fed up with the way your website looks or just wanting to give it a refresh? This is often the time of year when we start to consider not just spring cleaning, but sprucing up our lives too - and, of course, that applies to our digital spaces as well!

Digital branding is important because it defines your appearance, approach, and messaging. Whether you are a freelancer, blogger, or small business owner, your online space is your chance to showcase your words, products, or services to the world. Plus, having a strong digital presence has never been more important. With the ongoing Covid restrictions, more and more people are moving online for their everyday essentials.

With this in mind, I've put together some top tips to help you refresh your digital branding and make the most of your online space this year.

5 Ways to Stay Entertained in Lockdown

It's almost been a year since the UK first went into lockdown in March 2020. However, despite the good news about vaccines, it seems as though little has really changed. Without the lovely summer weather to keep us feeling positive and enjoying the outdoors, it definitely feels as though lockdown has hit much harder this time around. 

If you're fed up of the latest lockdown fads or need a break from endless doomscrolling, I'm sharing some top tips to keep you busy - and entertained - during the lockdown.

Emerald Jewellery for Every Occasion

AD* | Emerald jewellery is bright, bold, and beautiful. There are many different varieties of emerald jewellery to choose from, but people can often feel unsure about when is the perfect time to wear which piece of emerald jewellery. Emeralds may be fabulous, but that doesn't mean that this gemstone should only be reserved for the most extravagant of occasions! 

You might be surprised how well you could work a piece of emerald jewellery into a casual outfit, to give your look an extra special twist. From weddings to work days, read on to find out what type of jewellery suits every occasion.  

Cosy Toes this Winter with Bedroom Athletics

AD* | With the ongoing pandemic and seemingly endless lockdowns, I've been working from home since March last year. I've spent more time in the house than ever before! Things were fine during the summer, with the warmer weather and sunshine streaming in through the windows, but it has become much more of a struggle since winter's arrival. 

I always find it difficult to stay warm and I'm always complaining about having cold hands and feet! This year, the problem has only been exacerbated further by sitting at my desk for long periods of time, huddled up with a blanket (and the cat) to try and stay warm.

So, when Bedroom Athletics got in touch and asked if I'd like to review some of their products, of course, I said yes!

2020: My Year in Review

Somehow it's December, and there are only a few days left of the year. It's safe to say that 2020 hasn't turned out the way any of us planned this time last year, but it's certainly been memorable and it won't be forgotten in a hurry! 

In amongst all the talk of COVID-19, Brexit, and social distancing, it has been difficult to find some semblance of normality to remind us of brighter times. However, despite all the doom and gloom, that thin thread of hope is still there, shining in the darkness and making sure we keep doing our best and working towards a time - hopefully in the not-too-distant future - where all this is just a bad memory.

Until then, though, I'm back with my annual round-up of the past year. 2020 was always going to be a difficult one thanks to the pandemic and everything else happening around the world right now, but I've done my best to pick out the flowers among the weeds from what has been a challenging year for us all. 

2019 was a pretty good year, but what positives did 2020 hold for me? 

9 Ways to Save Money When Buying Clothes for Your Family

Last Updated: 01 June 2024

AD* | If you’re looking for ways to save money when buying clothes for your family then don’t worry, you have definitely come to the right place. Whether you buy clothes regularly and you want to save money or you’re looking to replenish everyone’s wardrobes on a budget, it’s important that you are saving as much money as you can. Luckily, there are lots of ways in which you can do exactly that. From shopping in charity stores to looking at the different options you have online, you may be surprised at how easy it can be when it comes to saving money on clothes.

 

With that in mind, here are nine ways to save money when buying clothes for your family.

Review: Blue Tea Box

AD* | With the cooler weather we've been having recently, it definitely feels as though there's a chill in the air and autumn is on its way. Once the nights start to draw in and we all dig out our cosy jumpers again, there's nothing better than snuggling up on the sofa with a blanket and a mug of tea. 

I am a big tea lover and I'm always up for the opportunity to try different blends and types of tea. So, when the lovely people at Blue Tea Box contacted me and offered me the chance to try one of their tea subscription boxes, there was only ever going to be one answer!

How To Embrace Your Wild Side as an Adult

Last Updated: 01 June 2024

AD* | There comes a point in everyone’s life where they question the path that they are pursuing. Getting caught up in work, school, and regular life activities can lead to an uneasy existence where you’re not truly satisfied in life. Often, this is due to the natural phenomenon where you are left wondering whether the grass really is greener on the other side. However, sometimes it’s because you are not embracing certain aspects of life that you’re yearning for, deep down.

In many cases, overcoming this dissatisfaction is an easy fix. Small lifestyle changes can transform how you live, and in turn, perceive your life. For many people, this involves embracing their 'wild side'.

However, tuning into the wilder section of your personality doesn’t have to involve danger. Embracing your wild side involves getting to know yourself better, and opening yourself up to new and exciting adventures.

With this in mind, here are five ways to embrace your wild side as an adult.

5 Fabulous Upgrades You Can Make to Your Wardrobe

AD* | Everyone deserves a little treat once in a while, and what better way to treat yourself than by investing in a fresh piece for your wardrobe? Even if you aren't a big fashion lover, an item that you feel confident and look fabulous in could be a purchase that you will love for many years to come. 

So, what are some statement pieces that you could invest in? To give you some inspiration, here are five great wardrobe upgrades you can easily make!