The Weekly Edit

It’s official! Christmas has arrived and we are now winding down from 2024!

I think for many of us it has been a year of highs and lows, navigating the unexpected and pivoting towards new ideas. There is a lot to be said for undertaking a thorough ‘review your year’ exercise but for now I think it is all about enjoying the season, family togetherness and creating memories.

This week we explore introducing colour, a lovely client reveal and a sneaky wee strawberry Santa recipe so you can bring all the festive vibes to your next gathering. Merry Christmas!

1. Colour? Yes Please!

Many of our wonderful clients have been loving colour this year and we are here for it!!

Our favourite ways to introduce colour into your home is with wallpaper, cushions and rugs. Easy and effective!

Wallpaper is a fun way to add colour through bold patterns as well as coloured textures. We often use wallpaper to highlight a wall or alcove in a smaller space but love to paper walls (and even the ceiling) for maximum effect.

Combining cushions in various colours, patterns and textures creates a layered and dynamic effect and often ties interior schemes together. Cushions are super easy to swap out and change if you want a refresh.

Finally, a statement rug can anchor a room and tie different elements together. Have fun!

2. Gratitude Challenge

At this time of year we can feel tired, hassled and overwhelmed. Research has shown that gratitude changes our brain’s molecular structure resulting in greater happiness. Gratitude also decreases anxiety and stress because our brains can only respond to one emotional state.

Real gratitude is not a superficial self-care or journaling trend; it’s a superpower.

Gratitude is also not about toxic positivity or foregoing goals; you can feel gratitude for the glass half-full while being intentionally aware of the empty space, too.

So, the goal? To end the month feeling more mindful, connected, and happier. Your life doesn’t have to be perfect to feel gratitude—gratitude is something you build like a muscle. Get listing!! Note as many specific reasons you can think of to be in love with your life and things you are thankful for.

 3. Strawberry Santas

Want to keep the kids or grandkids entertained? Make these super easy Santas together.

INGREDIENTS

20 medium/large strawberries,

100g light cream cheese,

6 teaspoons icing sugar,

40 mini dark chocolate chips

METHOD

Slice the bottom of the strawberries so they sit flat.

Cut the top third of each strawberry off too and set aside (these will be the Santa hats!)

Make the cream filling by mixing cream cheese and icing sugar until smooth and creamy.

Pipe or spoon 1 teaspoon cream onto flat berry tops. Place reserved berry tops on top.

Use the smallest piping nozzle to pipe mixture onto the tip of each strawberry ‘hat’ (pompom) and onto ‘chest’ (button).

Use tweezers to place the chocolate buttons onto the cream cheese face as 'eyes'.

Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

4. Katy's Mini Edit

Loving for 2024

Christmas Movies!! I am a sucker for a Christmas movie and love to tuck up and watch a movie whilst wrapping presents. It is the season for all things Christmas after all!

Design Tip

Guest coming over? At this time of year the garden is full of lilies, roses and fresh green foliage. Quickly snip a few stems and bring them indoors, add a fun vase and voila! Instant prettiness.

Excited About...

Having all the family home. Both Edward, my husband, and William, my eldest son, work (and live) away from home during the week. It will be so nice to have all the clan together again!! Noisy dinners and lots of laughter - just the best!