PREGNANCY MUST-HAVE’S // THE PREGNANCY PILLOW

I asked the question – Can you recommend a brilliant pregnancy pillow please? – to my IG stories following. The top three answers were:

BB HugMe Pillow – RRP £138

 

 

Image result for dream genii white
DreamGenii – RRP £50
ClevaMama Pillow – RRP £90

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

I wanted to wait until post-12 week scan to order, because I still had pregnancy anxiety. After a lot of further research, and although the most expensive of the pillows we looked at, post-12 weeks we ordered the BBHugMe Pillow in the luscious Dusky Pink colourway. (The pillow also comes in several additional colours – there are also additional spare colours available too – I’ve added these all to my SHOP. CLICK HERE). We felt there was more than enough evidence to suggest it was the best one for me – plus it could be used post-partum with the babe being able to relax on it/Eli being able to relax on it/us being able to relax on it, as well as a support whilst feeding.

bbhugme makes mums and babies happier, through a simple idea: a pillow for support to sit, lie and sleep comfortably throughout pregnancy and early childhood.

 

We managed to get quite a good deal on the pillow by going via Topcashback and then had a promotional code for Jo Jo Maman Bebe itself! The pillow looks great in the bedroom, it really doesn’t look out of place aesthetically – like my old one did – it looks like its just a luxury additional pillow! It also looks smashing on the sofa, where I have been using it more frequently when laying watching TV (when I’m not swaying on my Yoga ball of course).

 

I’m now 30 weeks pregnant and I can quite honestly say that this pillow has changed my life. Nay, it’s changed the life of Eli and indeed, James too! We all absolutely love it.

 

At 30 weeks, I’m currently up once in the night for a toilet trip – by this point with Eli, I was up several times. I’m not saying this scientifically, but from my experience, I’m going to put my excellent (current) bladder routine down to the BBHUGME Pillow. The way it supports my bump and pelvis MUST be working alongside in support of my bladder too.

And whats even better is, I get so comfortable, so easily and quickly, that I’m drifting off to sleep in a much more relaxed way too. I’ve often had to read/watch TV/listen to music to fall asleep – I’ve always need distractions to ease me off – but not now! I can happily and proudly say, I fall straight to sleep, on my own, no distractions necessary!  I can see this pillow in bed with me for the long run… sorry James!

SO, to surmise, I’d say so far, this is the best pregnancy item that we’ve ever bought. Yes, its more pricey, but you cannot put a price on the comfort, support and peaceful slumber I’ve been able to get from the pillow this time. This pillow can be adjusted to just how you like it as the beads inside are flexible – this means the pillow will grow with all shapes and sizes throughout pregnancy and beyond. It comes with a carry bag if you’re travelling about – and guess what else? The cover is machine washable – praise be!

I cannot recommend this product enough! Currently pregnant? GO GET A BBHUGME NOW!

For product details, information on the design of this product and the experts behind the BBHUGME pillow, please read below.

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MORE ABOUT THE BBHUGME PILLOW

Developed by natural and medical health professionals

Bbhugme was created by three chiropractors from Norway, Hilde, Ann Kristin and Elisabeth, who shared a deep interest in chiropractic care of pregnant women, moms and babies. They saw many teary, sleep-deprived women who were suffering from pelvic and back pain before, during and after pregnancy. The three realised that the women needed even more support and care – a long-lasting, take-home solution that could support them beyond the care they get at clinics. This was the origin of the bbhugme pillow.

A better pillow

The three chiropractors got together with designers to make a unique pillow that mothers could count on for support. The pillow comes from focus on the details that mapper. The right shape, filled with a specific size and type of mirco-beads, gives sturdy, but flexible support for every body type. The pillow fabric is elastic, yet strong enough to avoid being ripped when used. Allergy- and eco-friendliness are also important. For nursing the baby, it helps if the pillow can be strapped around the body. Zippers and velcro aren’t soft enough, so we use a tie that allows mothers to remove and wash the outer sleeve.

The hard work that went into the design process was recognized in 2015, when bbhugme won “Best Design Award” from The Norwegian Centre for Design and Architecture.

Serving mothers around the world

From serving Norwegian customers, the company has grown and is now expanding into Europe and the USA. Sales through retailers, chiropractors and online are growing quickly. What remains the same is that we’re a company driven by professionalism, passion and care for the pregnant women and mothers that we created bbhugme for. It’s their stories of relaxation, contentment and comfort that have made this project worth it.

Meet the experts

bbhugme® products are tested and quality approved by out panel of specialists in health, motherhood and design. They know a lot about caring for women and new families. They’re also curious and caring, always out to learn more – and share what they know.

DR. HILDE TAVARES

DR. HILDE TAVARES

FOUNDER | CHIROPRACTOR

Hilde is an innovator, instructor, speaker, entrepreneur – and mother to three lively children. She’s practiced family wellness care in Norway since 2002 and has an advanced degree in musculoskeletal health in pregnancy and paediatrics.

“I’m passionate about supporting and caring for women and their partners through pregnancy, birth and infancy.”

ANN KRISTIN HOMDRUM

ANN KRISTIN HOMDRUM

FOUNDER | CHIROPRACTOR

Ann Kristin is a chiropractor, author, speaker and entrepreneur, who has dedicated her life to learning and teaching about conscious health decisions. She specializes in chiropractic care for pregnant women and children and breastfeeding support.

“I believe in enjoying family life to the fullest, through a natural and healthy lifestyle.”

TINE FJELDSTAD

TINE FJELDSTAD

PSYCHOLOGIST | PSYCHOTHERAPIST

Tine is a specialist in neurology and cognition for the female brain with hormonal influence. She runs a clinic in Oslo, offering

therapy for individuals and families, in partnership with other experts in pregnancy, yoga and holistic medicine.

“I’m dedicated to supporting and preparing pregnant women and new families for a new phase in their lives.”

ÅSA LIND MELIN

ÅSA LIND MELIN

MIDWIFE

In 25 years, Åsa’s nearly done it all, in midwifery, birth, pregnancy care, and women’s health.

She’s trained in baby massage and Shiatsu massage for pregnant women, worked in delivery wards, managed a private practice and operated her own midwifery practice, and counselled clients on pregnancy and birth.

“I help prepare families for the rollercoaster that starts with a new baby arriving in the home.”

 

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For clarity, this is not a sponsored or paid post – but does contain some Affiliate links.

I only shout about items that I genuinely believe in however, so be safe in the knowledge that I’m in love with this product!

BRAND IN FOCUS // COWSHED x SCAMP & DUDE

 

If you know us, you know how house is filled with Cowshed products – in every single room! Yep, we’ve been avid Cowshed aficionados since circa 2009 when we first visited Shoreditch House and had our first whiff of Cow Pat.  Ahhhh dreamy.

As you might notice, I’m always interested in brand collaborations, so when I saw the latest collab from Cowshed, I was pretty overjoyed!

I’m a little bit in love with Scamp & Dude. Founded by the wonderful Jo Tutchener-Sharp, Scamp & Dude is a truly beautiful brand with such an amazing back story…. With a long history in the world of fashion and beauty, Jo directed PR campaigns and arranged events for high profile individuals and brands such as Tom Ford, Matthew Williamson, Dolce & Gabbana, Vogue, Estee Lauder, Topshop, NARS and The BRIT Awards. In October 2015 Jo’s life took a difficult turn when she suffered a brain haemorrhage. She had to leave her children for a lengthy stay in hospital to undergo life threatening brain surgery. Every parent understands the feeling you get when you have to leave your child, whether it be a business trip or first day at school. That knot in the stomach and the ache in the heart. It was this moment that inspired Jo to create a brand that helps children feel more secure when apart from their loved ones, and Scamp & Dude was born.

From something dark came something light*

The Scamp & Dude slogan (and ethos, if you will) is  ‘a superhero has my back’, which tells children that someone is watching over them, even when they can’t see you. I also take this into my own adult heart too.

Jo says:

“I love everything about Cowshed, its ethos, heritage, the spas (especially Babington House which is one of my favourite places on earth!) and of course the products, so Cowshed seemed like the obvious partner to create a Superpower Spray with.”**

 

If this isn’t the backbone for a brilliant brand partnership, then I don’t know what is. So what does the collaboration consist of I hear you ask – well, take a look below at the three items that have now been released.

 

Image result for scamp dude cowshed candle

Cowshed x Scamp & Dude Good Luck Candle

£38.00 – CLICK TO BUY


Cowshed and Scamp & Dude created this limited edition version of the invigorating Wild Cow room candle. With an unstoppable mix of energising Lemongrass, invigorating Ginger and reviving Rosemary essential oils, this bracing blend of essential oils will create a fresh atmosphere to stimulate the senses and help focus your thoughts.

• Invigorating light, oriental fragrance with lemongrass, Ginger and Rosemary essential oils

• 100% natural soy wax and Egyptian cotton wick

• Free from GMM, pesticides and herbicides and suitable for vegetarians

• Approximate burn time: 60 hours

 

 

Image result for scamp dude cowshed spray

 

Cowshed x Scamp & Dude Superpower Spray

£16.00 – CLICK TO BUY


Limited edition, all natural Superpower Spray will help little Superheroes sleep and provide a burst of superpowers when required. The light, floral fragrance features Mandarin, Neroli, a splash of Chamomile and Lavender in a gentle Bitter Orange flower water base with absolutely no nasties. Spray on your little one’s sheets, clothes, their favourite teddy or blanket to help them feel calm and secure both at home and when they’re out in the world.

• Mandarin, neroli, chamomile, lavender and aloe vera

• Gentle Bitter Orange flower water base

• Spray on bedding, clothing and soft toys to evoke a feeling of calm

• Great for travelling

 

Image result for scamp dude cowshed candle

Cowshed x Scamp & Dude Courage Candle

£38.00 – CLICK TO BUY


Cowshed and Scamp & Dude created this limited edition version of the uplifting Grumpy Cow room candle. With its invigorating, refreshing blend of Mandarin and Grapefruit essential oils, this zesty citrus fragrance is perfect for lengthening a short fuse, or as a wakeup call. Mandarin can help soothe the nervous system while Grapefruit is a known anti-depressant and both smell delicious, making this candle the perfect pick-me-up.

• Uplifting citrus fragrance with Mandarin and Grapefruit essential oils

• 100% natural soy wax and Egyptian cotton wick

• Free from GMM, pesticides and herbicides and suitable for vegetarians

• Approximate burn time: 60 hours

 

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This is such a lovely brand partnership and I do hope there is more to come from Cowshed x Scamp & Dude; but for now, I will admire them from the laptop until I can get my hands on the products and give them a good sniff in real life!

C
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*Words from My Story, at ScampandDude.com
** Words from Introducing Scamp & Dude, blog post, at Cowshed.com

 


For clarity, this is not a sponsored or paid post – but does contain Affiliate links to Cowshed.com. I only promote items that I genuinely like however, so be safe in the knowledge that I’m in love with this brand collaboration.

NEVER CONCISE HOME // LIVING ROOM // Mid-Season Update

MID-SEASON LIVING ROOM UPDATE

As we’re now in September (HOW, seriously, HOW?),  and Eli is back to school, I can finally get round to tidying up the house. I have a rather large wish-list of items I’d love for our home, of which I am continually adding to! Having rented for the 15 years we’ve been together, it sometimes feels like our home isn’t ‘home’ as we can’t ever rip up the carpets, or decorate with paints or paper, or add extensions or knock down walls etc. But by using accessories and furniture, we can certainly make the blank canvas that we currently call home a bit more like our own.

INSTAGRAM RUG - AFAR BERBER RUG - LA REDOUTE
LA REDOUTE // “THE INSTAGRAM RUG” // Afaw Berber Rug
£99.00
LA REDOUTE // WATFORD SHELF (SET OF 2) //
£76.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rugs are a great way to add texture, warmth and of course, personality to a room. I still adore the ‘Instagram Rug‘ from La Redoute.  The Afaw Berber style rug is off white, which is flattering to any colour scheme, but also hides a multitude of sins when you have kids running about – pristine white is a bit of a no-go in our house, that’s for sure!

LA REDOUTE // HIBA MAGAZINE RACK //
£65.00
habitat coralie side table
HABITAT // CORALIE // Side Table //
WAS: £150.00 – NOW: £75.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We have a few leather and natural wood accents in our home. I made the coffee table we currently use from an older butchers block with black Dansette legs. So this Habitat side table would sit really nicely next to that.

COX & COX // SCANDI LOVE SEAT // Blush Pink Velvet
COX & COX // SCANDI LOVE SEAT // Blush Pink
£1,295.00

Can you ever go wrong with a bit of blush pink? We currently only really have blush pink accents in our main bedroom. But I love this COX & COX Love Seat so much, it would have to be in the living room!

made.com bex round circle mirror in black
MADE.COM // BEX MIRROR // Black
£99.00
made.com essentials clock black morley
MADE.COM // MORLEY CLOCK // Black
£10.00

 

 

How much of a bargain is this Made.com Clock? At just £10, this is a great  timepiece for the wall with a minimalist aesthetic, reminiscent of the beautiful Swiss railway clocks.

 DYLAN BASE habitat walnut lamp standard floor lamp stand
HABITAT // DYLAN LAMP BASE // Walnut //
£95.00
Buy Cowshed Limited Edition 20th Anniversary Double Wick Candle , 400g Online at johnlewis.com
COWSHED // 20TH ANNIVERSARY CANDLE // 400G £65.00
Uyova Amulet-Shaped Metal Mirror - LA REDOUTE
LA REDOUTE // UYOVA AMULET-SHAPED MIRROR // Metal //
£27.00
Cushion cover - Beige/Patterned - Home All | H&M GB 1
H&M HOME // CUSHION // Beige //
£19.99
Buy Umbra Trigg Small Wall Planters, White, Set of 2 Online at johnlewis.com
UMBRA // SMALL WALL PLANTERS // White //
£25.00

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cement Style Tall Planter next
NEXT // TALL PLANTER // Cement //
£55.00

I’m currently in love with Danish planters and I love the modern twist of Cement with these from NEXT (!!!! I KNOW!).

LA REDOUTE // TREBLA BASKET // Small //
£27.00
COX & COX // BOOT RACK // Black //
£65.00
Luxe Round Bamboo Drinks Trolley
OLIVER BONAS // DRINKS TROLLEY // Bamboo //
£395.00

 

Ahhh the beautiful bar cart of dreams from Oliver Bonas! I have a feeling this will be on my wishlist for a loooooooong time. This bar cart (well, initially the stunning vintage carts and trolleys of Soho House…) inspired me to make my very own bar cart – you can see my blog post on the DIY for this > HERE!

Abstract Framed Print
NEXT // ABSTRACT PRINT // Framed //
£35.00
Jett 6 Light Fitting
NEXT // JETT LIGHT FITTING // Black Metal //
£110.00
Florbella Scalloped Ceramic Vase
OLIVER BONAS // SCALLOPED VASE // Ceramic //
£27.00

 

 

 

 

Marble Ball Incense Holder
OLIVER BONAS // INCENSE HOLDER // Marble //
£19.00

 

BuyJohn Lewis & Partners Chunky Knit Throw, Natural Online at johnlewis.com
JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS // THROW // Chunky Knit //
£65.00
Hush Linen & Room Spray | hush
HUSH HOMEWEAR // ROOM SPRAY // Linen //
£19.00

 

The Monet foot stool - Att Pynta
ATT PYNTA // FOOT STOOL // Rattan //
£245.00
Handmade Stoneware glazed plant hanger with bead detail
ATT PYNTA // STONEWARE HANGER // Handmade //
£35.00

 

 

IKEA FEJKA artificial potted plant
IKEA // FEJKA // Artificial Bamboo Plant //
£45.00

If you’re not so green-fingered, IKEA stock a brilliant range of artificial plants and flowers. I love this Bamboo, it looks really life-like in, er, real life.

Image result for Medium Fern in Crackle Pot marks
MARKS & SPENCER // FERN // Crackle Pot //
£49.50
Image result for Large Cactus in Crackle Pot marks - MARKS AND SPENCER - M&S
MARKS & SPENCER // CACTUC // IN CRACKLE POT
£49.50

 

OFFERS & PROMOTIONS

25% off everything code at La Redoute

25% off all home at La Redoute!
Code: SAVE25
Ends: 27th September 2018

CLICK TO SHOP

 

I like to move furniture about to give a fresh lease of life to a room – this is a a great way to change your perspective of a room without dipping into the bank. But if you had the cash at hand, what new Living Room items would you go for first? What are you lusting after?

#NeverKnowinglyConciseHOME

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FEATURES // PLEASE

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Now that my work/life balance is sorted I can shift my attention back to my website. It’s almost there and will soon have the addition of further “spotlight” spaces for simple advertising and The Shop.

For a bit of background, I have always been a champion of the Mama-brands, the Dad-preneurs and the family run. Focus is on Fashion (in the broadest of terms) along with Design & Lifestyle. I’m again, welcoming collaborations for features. So, if you’re a new or established brand, business, service, or heck – just a Mama gang of one (!!) with something that’s important to you to shout about, then I’d love you to get in touch!

Use my Contact form or shoot me an email.

Can’t wait to hear from you!

✖️✖️✖️


#TheMemoirsofJudyPink

THURSDAY KIDS | Kids’ Style: 16/06

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• T H U R S D A Y. K I D S •
Feat some of my current faves:
✖️Bag // @tibaandmarl
✖️Tee // @nor_folk
✖️Hareems // @stitched_up_apparel
✖️Feet // @vans_europe

MM.

 

THE EDIT: Something For The Weekend | 03/06.

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I’m going to be curating a weekly ‘Top 8’, ahead of the weekend, looking mostly at online shops. This week I’ve looked at the New Arrivals of some of my favourite online shops. All products are available currently on the UK sites and are priced in GBP. It’s been a real mixed bag weather-wise, so this week’s Edit reflects that!

This week’s online shopping Edit:

1: HELMUT LANG: Oversized Cashmere Coat – £955.

2: MARKUS LUPFER: Embellished Sweatshirt – £250.

3: ASOS: Pintuck Blouse with tie detail – £36.

4: SAINT LAURENT: Leopard Lunchbox Bag – £1095.

5: ANNINA VOGEL: Horsehoe Necklace, 9ct Gold – £250.

6: TOPSHOP: Ruffled Peplum Top – £40.

7: TOPSHOP: Topshop Boutique Boyfriend Jean – £55.

8: TOPSHOP: FANG Flatform Sandal – £49.

#MoMSFTW 

MM.

BACK | TO | BLIGHTY.

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The first weekend back in England and we had a forage in our new back garden, where we found the most marvellous rhubarb! 

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…and just like that, we’re back in Blighty.

For me, our secondment to Berlin feels like such a whirlwind. A total blur. We were there 9 months, and for the most part, I loved it. Loved being at work, loved the people, the culture, the places to see and the things to do. Berlin was incredible for kids. Which I had never anticipated! Even restaurants will go out of their way for children. It’s a highly child-friendly City.

But the truth is, England is home. And in Essex, we’ve found a county that I’m not sure I could ever move away from again.

Also, just wanted to shout out to some new friends. I felt majorly disconnected and really quite lonely when we were living out in Berlin. Whilst this may, or may not, come as a surprise, I found the Insta-Community to be ERRRRRRRRYTHING. I can’t tell you how much the chatter and support helped me. Even if I wasn’t mustering the energies to join in – just keeping abreast of how everyone else was getting on, also helped. Never underestimate the power of a Digital-shoulder, and how it can impact on others! I look forward to meeting you all IRL soon.

It feels good to be back.

I have started writing a Things I Missed list, in true Mother Of All Lists (aka and/or Clemmie @Peckham_Mamma) style! Might be helpful for prospective/current Ex-Pat’s living in all different corners of this lovely globe of ours.

So here is to being back in Blighty. I’ve missed you, you gorgeous thing.

MM.

 

Brand In Focus | Tiba + Marl.

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FINALLY. Changing Bags Got Cool. No truer a word to say about Tiba + Marl. They’ve done it. And done it so, so well. T+M founders, (and mega-Mum Bosses) Lydia and Anna, have masterminded not only the coolest changing bags, but the most practical too.

It was last year that I came across Tiba+Marl, on Instagram, of course. I was shocked to find that the brand had only been around since 2015 itself. The collection was so considered. So strong. Perfect design for the modern parent. It was as though they’d been going for a heckuva lot longer!

When we found out I was pregnant with Eli, back in 2011, the first thing I wanted to buy was a changing bag! OF COURSE. I’m alllllll about the bags. We wanted something unisex – something functional – something cool. There wasn’t anything we liked. We literally searched for about 7 1/2 months. In the end, we went for a Mulberry Clipper holdall bag – that wasn’t even a changing bag at all! (See my blog post all the way back to 2012 about my changing bag woes, here!). We soon found out that it wasn’t big enough and was really awkward to get the things you did need in and out, quickly, and without everything falling out! It looked nice and was pretty waterproof (British weather, you do have a lot to answer for the majority of the year). But as soon as I could manage, I went back to using my old bags… and opted for my Longchamp Le Pliage bag until recently. Which obviously, ain’t so unisex. Or practical.

Enter Tiba+Marl.

A total gamechanger.

A little bit about the collection. The current T+M collection (including the newly launched collection) features four key designs – The Elwood (Backpack), The Raf (Holdall), The Mabel (Tote) and The Etta (Changing Clutch). Design’s come in a number of print’s and textures. On top of these main bag styles, there are also *new* snack packs (so, so good! On my to buy list), changing mat’s, The Delphine Bum-Bag (MASSIVE SWOON), stroller clips and the fruity Al ‘Monster’ Keyring. The cutest thing ever though? Has to be the Mini Elwood backpacks – currently available in Floral print, Leopard print and *new* Sticker print.

We purchased the Black Elwood (Adult) and the Mini Elwood in Leopard print for Eli. Never have I been more excited for a child with a bag. Neither has he. Eli takes after me when it comes to bag’s. He loves a bag. But he was quite literally spinning with excitement at his new Leopard backpack! Although I haven’t technically “changed” Eli for a good long while now, the Elwood bag for me is more than a changing bag. I’ll outline this below!

Screen Shot 2016-05-01 at 22.13.15

SO. What are the finer details for each of my purchases?

ELWOOD_BLACK_02

Black ELWOOD – £120 – Click to purchase.

Stylish and practical, the ELWOOD is the ideal unisex choice and leaves you hands free for a busy day out-and-about. Crafted from tumbled black faux leather for a luxurious finish, this backpack is large enough to fit most laptops and doubles up perfectly as a work bag, gym bag or carry-on bag.

  • Luxury padded changing mat
  • Insulated bottle holder
  • Internal laptop pocket
  • Smart phone pocket
  • Removable wet clutch / cross body bag
  • Grab top handle
  • Padded lower back panel
  • Chunky metal zips with double pullers for easy access
  • Metal feet
  • Adjustable padded shoulder straps
  • Wipe clean lining

Composition
Outer – 100% PU / Faux leather
Inner – 100% Nylon with Faux leather trim

Dimensions
H: 42cm W: 32cm D: 18cm

MINI_ELWOOD_LEOPARD_01

Leopard Print MINI ELWOOD – £35. Click to purchase. 

The MINI ELWOOD is the ideal everyday choice for your little fashionista. Spacious and practical it features a zipped front pocket, adjustable straps, easy grab zip pulls and a top carry handle.

  • Water resistant & wipe clean inside & out
  • Zip front pocket
  • Adjustable padded straps
  • Padded back
  • Top grab handle

Composition
100% Nylon with Faux leather trim

Dimensions
H: 29cm W: 22cm D: 12cm

Top of the #MoMWishlist are:

DELPHINE_BUMBAG_01

DELPHINE Bum Bag – £45. Click to purchase.

ARLO_SNACK_PACK_STICKER_01

*NEW* Sticker Print ARLO Snack Pack – £22. Click here to purchase.

RAF_BLACK_02

RAF Holdall – £120. Click here to purchase.

TM3

So there you have it. Just wanted to finally add that both our purchases are of supreme, luxury quality. The adult ELWOOD is perfect for both me and my OH. It’s large and sturdy. I love the fact there are so many pockets, perfect for my laptop, phone, cosmetics, gym-kit (!!!), shopping and of course all the toddler wares we need to carry around. This backpack also includes a changing mat and wet bag (that you could totally use as a handbag on a night out!) and an ever so useful insulated bottle holder – that’s gotta be handy for the ever-present coffee that comes hand in hand with a toddler too, right? A must for parents-to-be, and parents to mega-kids too. Eli’s Leopard print MINI ELWOOD is a great size, soft and durable for toddler scuffage. Love the unisex leopard print, comfortable padded straps and chunky easy-to-pull zips.

I can’t wait to see what else these wonderful Mama’s come up with next! They’ve basically encouraged me to want more baba’s, just so I can utilise EVERYTHING they’re designing! Keep at it ladies, you’re bloody ace of base!

 

MM.

About TIBA + MARL. 

Tiba+Marl’s award winning contemporary collection redefines the staid tradition of baby bags by combining modern graphic prints, premium and high tech materials and stylish yet practical design.

The trend driven shapes including sports-luxe backpacks, stylish tote bags, modern satchels and chic holdalls mean the bags offer a life beyond the nappy changing bag.

#TibaandMarl & #changingbagsfinallygotcool 

*NB: This is in no way a sponsored post. I just wanted to big up a pair of  Mum Bosses who I think are frikkin amazing*. 

THE EDIT | The Black Shoulder Bag.

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APC Half Moon Bag | Image: Pinterest.

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I recently came to the conclusion that I have a new wardrobe void. I’m “missing” a small-medium sized,  smart/casual black shoulder bag (with gold hardware). Having lost my phone, not once, but twice (and miraculously TWICE it was handed in by kind folk!) from my Chanel 2.55, I have decided I need a bag that will effectively contain my wares.

I’ve trawled through my favourites and here is my Edit of The Black Shoulder Bag – perfect for shopping to dinner to dancing, and back round the shops again.

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A.P.C – Half Moon Bag –  £280. Available at selected stockists.

118-2000644-367079C150J1000_BLACK_M

SAINT LAURENT Monogram université – £1,500.

221-3001525-3S1031944_BLACK_M

Chloé – Drew Bag – £1, 140.

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Céline- Trio Bag – Around £650. Available at selected stockists.

 

220-84023422-GWB00312AVLX030NO_BLACK_M
Valentino – Rock Stud Bag – £1, 240.

 

670-10082-E16SHARON_BLACK_M
Maje – Sharon Bag – £420.

 

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GUCCI – Soho Bag – £650.

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Mansur Gavriel – £395. Available at selected stockists.

 

I definitely have my eyes firmly fixed on the classic Céline Trio and the A.P.C Half Moon bag; with the A.P.C delight hitting the top of my #MoMWishlist! Which are your favourite(s)?

MM.

Brand In Focus | Southwood Stores.

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Southwood Stores is an online concept store by Hayley Southwood, where you will find handpicked, quirky, Scandinavian influenced gifts and homewares. Hayley believes passionately about empowering women and has recently launched her own in-house label GRAY, celebrating strong women.

I first came across Hayley and her online shop back in 2013. (I can’t believe it was 3 years ago?! Time sure does fly with a toddler in tow!) At that time, Hayley was the only UK stockist of Hello Apparel; and I went straight ahead and ordered a HELLO Jumper from her, along with one of our most loved prints that sat in Eli’s bedroom, The Mountain Print by Clare Nicholson. I always loved parcels from Hayley, with the attention to detail of packaging and customer care; with some treats even winging their way over to Berlin!

Watching Hayley, via Instagram, over the past few years has been wonderful. Seeing how her little shop has grown and expanded with wicked new products and new brands, through to the launch of her very own clothing label: GRAY By Southwood Stores.  The ethos of Hayley and her shop is to be brave and follow your dreams. And she’s definitely succeeding there – having now opened her very own Southwood Stores showroom – where you can not only have a cuppa with the lady herself, but from here she also offers Social Media / Branding services with sessions operating on-site.

Details of showroom opening times are as follows:

Monday 10am-2.30pm
Wednesday 10am-2.30pm
Friday 10am-2.30pm
First Saturday of the month 11am-2pm

I could buy everything that Southwood Stores have in stock, but here are some of my current favourites hitting the top of my #MoMWishlist:

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WIRE MESH MEMO-BOARD (BLUE) – £55.00

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VINTAGE SCHOOL CHAIRS – £60.00

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PALM LEAVES – £55.00

Back to GRAY By Southwood Stores. Hayley worked really hard to find the right garments for her label – high quality and responsibly made. The slogan graphic prints are also locally screen-printed by a “woman owned business”. I think it’s fantastic that Hayley has stuck to her local roots here too – there’s nothing better than championing your local business community and spreading the love even further afield.

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The sweatshirts are super soft, wash well and have a really flattering fit. I went for the WARRIOR sweatshirt. Because, well, we’re all WARRIORS. “The strongest people are not those who show strength in front of us, but those who win battles we know nothing about”. This is something that resonated deeply with me – and I do feel like a proper WARRIOR when I’m wearing my sweatshirt. It’s more than just words, isn’t it? It’s about how these things make you FEEL.

On top of alllllll this, Hayley is also hosting a series of Conversational Meet-Up’s, of like-minded Women. The recent one looked brilliant so look forward to the next Event’s being scheduled. You can find the latest details and tickets, here. 

Hayley is a true inspiration and I look forward to seeing how Southwood Stores continues to grow and evolve! (Oh, and I can’t wait to have a cuppa with her in person at the new showroom soon!). Keep doing what you’re doing Hayley, everything about your being is amazing. Just remember to BREATHE (and get the kettle on!).

 

MM.

*NB: This is in no way a sponsored post. I just wanted to big up a Mama who I think is frikkin amazing*.