Tag: gift ideas

Prezzee Personalised Digital eGift Card

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, secret santa, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Probably the easiest, and most personalised gift you will ever be able to send, Prezzee is a digital gift card which can be sent with a video message which you can record yourself.  With a price range of £5-£500, the Prezzee gift card can be converted into vouchers for over 200 stores including Apple, Argos, John Lewis, Dunelm or even for restaurant vouchers such as Cote, Five Guys or Pizza Express.

Using the Prezzee website at www.pressee.uk, after you create an account, click on the Buy Now button. You then choose whether you’re treating yourself or sending the card to someone else, the amount of money to add to the card and the design of your eGift card. This can include a Gif or a recorded video. Yes, you can record your own video on your phone and have it attached to the Prezzee eGift card when it’s sent, to make your present more memorable. Add the recipient’s details and whether you want to send it via email or SMS and click through to the preview and payment.

When your recipient opens the email or SMS, there is a link to the Prezzee website where they can open the eGift card and convert it to any of the stores affiliated with Prezzee. I chose Marks & Spencer, which takes you to a page where you can redeem your card and print out a pdf of the gift card to use either online or instore.

For Christmas, you can choose a festive greeting card and distance isn’t a problem with Prezzee when you’re just an email away from sending someone you love the perfect, personalised gift.

Create an account at: https://www.prezzee.uk/

Technics AZ100 Earbuds

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Mother's Day, Tech, travel

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

From the moment you lift the lid on the Technics AZ100 earbuds, they make an impression. The sleek, weighty charging case feels every bit as premium as you’d hope, while the neatly laid out set of ear tip sizes hints at just how much thought has gone into comfort and fit. And the experience doesn’t stop there, the Technics Audio Connect app helps guide you to the right ear tips size to give a snug secure fit that blocks out unwanted noise.  

These earbuds are clearly designed for people who really care about sound and it shows. With Hi-Res Audio Wireless support and Dolby Atmos optimisation, the AZ100s deliver an immersive high fidelity experience that’s hard to match in the wireless earbuds category. But what really sets them apart is the inclusion of magnetic fluid drivers, a high-end feature that coaxes out deep, textured bass with astonishing control. The result? Warm, full sound that feels balanced and easy to listen to.

For those who love to fine-tune their sound, the Technics app offers a range of pre-set EQ modes plus custom settings, allowing you to customise your audio experience so whether you’re into classical, rock or podcasts, the AZ100’s will make your content sound its best.

The touch controls on the AZ100 earbuds are nice and simple to use, especially as they  can be customised to your own preference by using the Technics Audio Connect app. I found it really easy to assign functions like play/pause, skip tracks, volume control, switching noise-cancelling modes, or answering calls to either earbud and you can also choose the number of taps to each function making them work in a way that suits you best.   

The noise cancelling on the AZ100 earbuds is seriously impressive. While other earbuds can struggle when your surroundings change, these ones automatically adjust to what’s going on around you. So whether you’re on a noisy train or walking through a quiet park, they block out just the right amount of background sound to keep your listening experience clear and consistent.

The battery life is equally impressive – with up to 10 hours listening time on a single charge, with the case adding an additional 28 hours which is perfect if you’re off on holiday this summer. USB-C charging and Qi wireless support make it easy to top up the charge wherever you are.

Connectivity, too, is another area where the AZ100 excels. With multipoint pairing for up to three devices, switching between your phone, laptop, and tablet is seamless, a real boon for multitaskers who don’t want to fiddle with settings every time they change tasks.

I’m really enjoying the Technics AZ100 earbuds, they fit comfortably, sound fantastic, offer excellent battery life, and come with an easy-to-use app that enhances the whole experience. Whether you’re after crisp detail, deep bass, or just a reliable pair of earbuds that perform across the board, these deliver on every front.

RRP £259 available in silver, black or champagne gold.

Available from Amazon here

Tolpa Dermo Face Sebio+ Face Wash Gel, 4-Molecule Serum and CICA Correcting Cream

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Ah, acne. I suffered greatly right into my 20s and now that I’m ‘that age’ it’s evident that I’m going to suffer again! Topla Dermo have a range of face products for those suffering from acne and associated scarring or inflammation so they offered to send me some to try in this hot weather.  

Tolpa Dermo products were a nice arrival a few weeks ago before the sunshine came, and now they’re invaluable as we battle the hot weather, air con and dehydration.  I was sent the Serbio+ Face Wash Gel, 4-Molecule Serum and CICA Correcting Cream, the latter two mainly for night time skin repair and the Face Wash Gel for daily use.  How have I been getting on with it?

Night time repair is essential to skin and this summer I’ve been using the combination of the 4-Molecule Serum and CICA Correcting Cream.  Before bed, I applied a few drops of the 4Molecule Serum and worked it into my skin. You don’t need much, but the serum is really light and takes minimal effort to massage into your face.  Next, I used the CICA Correcting Cream which is a slightly richer but not oily correcting cream. It works at night to minimise acne as its anti-bacterial, unclogs hair follicles and pores and smooths skin discolouration.

The Tolpa Dermo Face Sebio+ Face Wash Gel contains two acids; AHA and LHA for a deep cleanse and exfoliation without feeling tight. It works with the skin to reduce active acne legions and acne prone skin and can be used daily. I put this in the shower to use when I’m conditioning my hair but it’s gentle enough that you can use it more often. My skin was clean afterwards, but not tight and the use of the 4-Molecule Serum helped rehydrate my skin even more after I came out of the shower.

The combination of all the Topla Dermo Face products together was having a clean, hydrated face that repaired at night. The CICA Correcting Cream was particularly good at smoothing out blemishes that arise during the day and the overall texture of my skin has improved despite the hot weather! Even today, I can feel the effect of the Tolpa Dermo Face products in how smooth and soft my skin is.

Available online from Boots:

https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-sebio-wash-gel-195ml-10342614
https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-max-effect-4-molecule-serum-20ml-10342615
https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-sebio-cica-cream-night-40ml-10342613

Sensse Beauty Elite LED Face Mask

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, health, Tech, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

I was very excited to be offered a red light mask by Sensse, having seen them on social media but knowing that I didn’t want to buy one without trying it out first.  Sensse actually sent me their Elite LED mask though, which is not only a red light mask but also contains all the other colours of the spectrum which brings with it the different healing properties. So when it arrived, I was super excited!

Red light has healing properties for the skin which includes reducing fine lines and therefore slows aging. However, the other light frequencies have properties too such as cyan light for calming and white light for revitalisation. The Sensse How To Guide that comes with the mask explains the different lights and their properties, as well as showing you a pictorial of what the lights are and which modes to use.

Before using the mask, you have to set up the Velcro straps and controller which is plugged in with the included cable.  There’s a tiny bit of charge already in the mask but it’s best to charge it fully and the How To Guide tells you how to charge it from a USB-C point and how to know when it’s fully charged.  There’s also instructions of how to test the LED lights on your forearm just in case you’re allergic or have a reaction to the lights. The timetable builds up your resistance to the light but if you do have a reaction, stop using it and contact Sensse!

After setting up and reading the instructions (they’re not complicated so don’t worry) I had a test of 5 minutes with the NIR mode. This is Mode 8 on the controller. It is above the white light range and contains all the colours so it was a good test of my skin sensitivity.  The controller sits in your pocket and makes a sound when the time is up (it defaults to 10 minutes but you can adjust it the first few times to 5 minutes). Success! No reaction, so I can leave it a few days to try the other colours for 5 minutes.

2 days later, I tried the red light (mode 2). This is the famous anti-aging frequency which over time should slow the aging of your skin. Again, I tried it for 5 minutes. Not only would I suggest shorter amounts of time to test light sensitivity, but I found this time I had to adjust the straps so that the mask fitted properly on my face. This also affected how I held my head (tip: don’t try and work on a laptop with the mask on!) and I could feel a headache coming on from the weight.  Sitting back or lying down is preferable which is what I was doing the first time, so I shall be doing that most of the time I’m wearing the mask until I get used to the weight. It’s not that the mask is heavy, it’s that my head, neck and shoulders aren’t used to the forward weight or the straps around my head, which is why I had to keep adjusting it.

Wearing it around the house was easy though, and it’s not uncomfortable (the Velcro straps are easy to adjust even when you’re wearing it). The light isn’t too bright, although you shouldn’t aim the light directly into your eyes, and it doesn’t get hot or sweaty at all, even in the hot weather. I would suggest using the 10 minutes of light time to relax though, as it’s a good reminder to slow down whilst your skin rejuvenates.

This is a beauty tool which you can keep using for months in different ways. Not only the red light, but in time you’ll find the yellow light helps brighten your skin and with lymphatic drainage, blue light helps improve rough uneven skin texture and purple improves dullness, hydration and resilience. From using the red light this week, it feels nurturing even thought I won’t be able to see any long term affects for a while.

I have only been using the Sensse Elite LED Face Mask for just over a week, so long term improvements will take a while.  However, after just one session of red light, I went to meet a friend who commented that my skin looked glowing, and the only reason I can put it down to is the Sensse Elite LED Face Mask! I am also aware that this is summer and the LED mask will come into its own in the autumn and winter when the natural light starts to wane and we rely on other methods to get light therapy.  The versatility of this mask and the fact there are so many lights and it’s so easy to charge the mask, it makes a great companion whilst working from home or trying to relax. I can feel comfortable whilst wearing it, which is part of the process, and I’m looking forward to the long-term effects.

Available from £229.99 at: https://senssebeauty.com/products/elite-led-face-mask

Warmies Yellow Flower Pot

Children, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home & Garden, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Toys, Valentine's Day Gifts, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

At first glance this adorable Warmies Yellow Flower Pot looks like a cheerful soft toy, but this little beauty has a soothing secret! Filled with natural grains and gently scented with real French lavender, it’s designed to help you relax, unwind and even drift off to sleep. Simply pop it in the microwave -for 60 seconds if your microwave is 600–800W, or just 45 seconds for 850–1000W and the comforting warmth releases the most calming lavender scent. Perfect for those nights when you need a bit of help winding down.

And here’s a clever twist for summer: it’s just as effective cooled! Pop it in the freezer for a little while and it becomes a refreshing cold compress, ideal for warm evenings, little bumps, or even giving a spot of relief from menopausal hot flushes.

I’ve been using mine instead of a traditional heat pad, and it’s worked wonders for cramps and aches. The little ones have totally fallen for it too, cuddling up it at bedtime, and it’s really helped them settle quicker and sleep more soundly.

There are three gorgeous colours to choose from, yellow, blue, and orange and the bright, happy flowers look fantastic on a shelf. Plus, no watering required!

Whether you’re after a sweet bedtime soother or a cute, cooling cuddle buddy for the warmer months, this lovely little flower pot is a total summer must-have.

RRP £24.99

FIGGI Beauty products

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The team at FIGGI Beauty have sent us a whole hamper of lovely beauty products to try from their FIGGI range. So many products in fact, that I have had a hard time keeping up with all that there is to try!  FIGGI Beauty is rooted in a philosophy that skincare should be gentle, effective and rooted in self-care. The range is produced by Jeanne, who turned her life around after a diagnosis and decided to create her own skincare range based on her favourite product – South African Rooibos!

The first set of products is the FIGGI Beauty Purify The Goddess Makeup Dissolving Balm-to-Oil Cleanser for dry/sensitive skin and Refresh The Goddess Gentle Gel Cleanser for dry/sensitive skin.  Both bottles, used together, are 100ml pumps that remove make up and daily dirt. Purify The Goddess starts off as a balm and then melts into the skin nicely, to be able to wipe away make up. It’s not heavy at all but it does have the properties of an oil to be able to glide over the skin. It also dissolves any make up that it encounters! The second stage is Refresh The Goddess which is a gel. This doesn’t melt as much, and it seems more hydrating so it seems fitting that the two of them work together to combat dry skin. The lack of alcohol in these two products means your skin doesn’t dry out when they’re used and they do really work to dissolve make up effectively. I haven’t had any reactions to the products either. 

Nourish The Goddess Evening Rescue Cream (also made with Rooibos) is a great follow-up to the cleansers. It’s light, with no fragrance and absorbs easily. A night cream doesn’t have to have a heavy SPF so Nourish The Goddess hydrates the skin, leaving it with that subtle dewy look.  It’s certainly hydrating and doesn’t clog pores at night allowing your skin to renew.

Nurture the Goddess Antioxidant Enriched Day Cream managed to hydrate even my tough skin and although it’s fragrance-free too, it did seem to have a lovely ‘aura’ about it when I put it on. This Goddess Day Cream strengthens the barrier of the skin and defends against daily environmental factors. I used this throughout the day at my desk to hydrate my face in the ridiculously hot weather. Unlike the Evening Rescue Cream, Nurture The Goddess doesn’t leave a shininess to the skin. Instead, it’s a matt finish which allows you to wear make up on top of it.  I like how light this cream is, and it goes a long way so you don’t need much. I can highly recommend leaving it on your desk to use frequently too!

The Slow Glow Gentle Retinol Renewal Serum for Dry/Sensitive Skin provides a gentle base to your FIGGI skincare. Worn under the Nourish The Goddess Evening Rescue Cream, Slow Glow needs to be used 1-3 times a week and then built up over time until it is used nightly. This is because retinol is a powerful ingredient but works with the Night Cream to make your skin more luminous. I have used this a few times but not every night so far (I’m building up to it!) and it does give a lovely base and I can feel my skin more hydrated.

Finally, FIGGI Miracle Mist is a Rooibos infused Toner-Mist which is also aimed at dry or sensitive skin. It’s also fragrance free and Essential Oil Free.  This 120ml spray was a life saver during the hot weather, and I highly recommend leaving this on your desk too! The refreshing spray hydrates the skin but I also found during the heatwave that the evaporation helped loads especially in the evening. It’s no wonder that Miracle Mist won silver in the Universal Beauty Awards 2025 with the duel hydrating and antioxidant properties.  It’s a great addition to your skincare bundle.

The whole FIGGI range is available to buy at: https://www.figgibeautyuk.com/collections/all with some products already in bundles. Postage is free when you spend over £30.

Yankee Candle Bayside Cedar Large Jar Candle

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Father's Day, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Home, Home & Garden, Mother's Day, Winter

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review, but as always, all thoughts and opinions are our own!

When it comes to Father’s Day, most of us tend to fall back on the usual gifts – chocolate, gadgets and beer. They’re safe bets, sure… but maybe just a little predictable. So, here’s a thought – have you ever considered buying him a candle?

It might not be the first thing that springs to mind, after all, candles have traditionally been seen as something aimed at women. But times have changed, these days, candles aren’t just for bubble baths and spa days (though let’s be honest, those are lovely too). They’re about setting a mood, creating a space that feels calm, warm, and a touch luxurious. And yes – men enjoy that too.

In fact, plenty of candle brands now cater specifically to more masculine scent preferences. Think earthy sandalwood, rich leather, smoky cedar, or even tobacco and oak. These fragrances are deep, grounding, and a far cry from anything overly sweet or floral.

One of my go-to candle brands is Yankee Candle, and their Bayside Cedar Large Jar Candle is perfect for the men in your life. It’s described as “a walk along the forest path right after the rain,” with refreshing notes of grapefruit, mandarin blossoms, and warm amber filling the air. It features top notes of bergamot, green pear and grapefruit, mid notes of mandarin blossom and water lily, and finishes with base notes of amber, cedarwood and musk. With two wicks and a premium soy-wax blend, it creates a beautiful ambiance and at 567g, it offers 65 to 80 hours of burn time.

Candles also hit the spot when it comes to dads who are hard to buy for. He might already have all the tools, ties, and tech he needs, but chances are, he hasn’t splurged on a really good candle. That’s what makes it such a thoughtful gift, it’s very unexpected, totally personal, and shows you’ve made an effort.

So this Father’s Day, maybe skip the beer multipack and pick up a candle instead. For your dad, stepdad, grandad or father figure, it could be just the gift he never knew he wanted.

Because let’s be honest — who doesn’t love a home that smells amazing? Even dads.

RRP £29.99 available here

Ed’s Stuff Cheeky Father’s Day Gifts

Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Father's Day, Gifts for Him, REUSABLE, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

If you don’t know what to get Dad for Father’s Day, have a look at https://edsstuff.co.uk for some fun ideas. There’s everything there from artwork and sculptures, aprons and tea towels to greetings cards and wrapping paper. We were sent one of their jolly tote bags and some wrapping paper to show what there is available.

The Sea Dog Tote bag (£15) is an original design on cotton fabric, measuring 40cm by 32cm with a gusset and both long and short handles. It’s remarkable how much you can carry with just one bag, and the gusset of 12cm makes it easier to load it with shopping, or even books as it has the strength to carry a lot more.  If you buy more than one tote bag, there’s a £5 discount too!

The wacky wrapping paper comes in 9 different designs including these; Helmets and Fiat 500. They measure 500mm by 700mm and are sold on a per sheet basis but if you buy 3 sheets or more you get one sheet free! 

Each of Ed’s items on the Ed’s Stuff online store is a unique design, and there’s often an explanation behind how each of the designs came about.  The website also evolves with more stock coming on and special collections available, so if you like Ed’s slightly quirky style, keep watching!

Wrapping Paper starts at £2 a sheet: https://edsstuff.co.uk/collections/wrapping-paper

Sea Dog Tote Bag £15: https://edsstuff.co.uk/collections/tote-bags/products/sea-dog-tote-bag

Luxeclarity Radiant Neck & Décolletage Elixir and Nightcalm Soothing Restore Night Cream

beauty, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Along with the delicious Mangoscience and Hydroboost, I have also been testing Harley Street Skin’s Luxeclarity and Nightcalm.  Perfect for bedtime and therefore easily tied with Nightcream, Luxeclarity is a neck and décolletage elixir. It’s incredibly rich cream help restores youthfulness when massaged in, and although I used it at night, it can be used by day as well, especially under make-up. You only need a small amount though as it’s very rich!

I liked using this as part of a wind-down skin cleanse and moisturiser before bed, and I don’t normally moisturise my neck and décolletage so this is a real treat.  It’s lightly fragranced but not overpowering and leaves skin with more hydration that it had before. 

I also slathered my face in Nightcalm every night to restore my skin whilst I slept. I enjoyed letting Nightcalm work its magic thanks to the enzymes, Niacinamide, Bakuchiol and Albatrellus Confluens among other ingredients that leads to a less flushed appearance. It also cleans skin and the massaging effect is really soothing too. I felt my skin relax down into the night routine before I slept with hydration and no tightness. In the morning, my face was still moisturised and plump, which was great with the Hydroboost too. Every morning it feels like I’ve had a facial before bedtime!

Luxeclarity Radiant Neck & Décolletage Elixir available for £95: https://www.harleystreetskinclinic.com/shop/brand/harley-street-skin-care/luxeclarity-radiant-neck-decolletage-elixir-100ml/

Nightcalm Soothing Restore Night Cream available for £55: https://www.harleystreetskinclinic.com/shop/brand/harley-street-skin-care/nightcalm-soothing-restore-night-cream-30ml/

Harley Street Skin Mangoscience and Hydraboost Replenishing Serum

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The lovely team at Harley Street Skin have sent us this box of gorgeous skincare products to try this summer so we’ve set about looking our best as the weather gets warmer!

I’ve started by looking at the Hydraboost – Ultrahydrate Replenishing Serum and Mangoscience – Mango & Papaya Mousse Exfoliant. If they leave your mouth watering then I don’t blame you! I’m sitting next to them here loving every second of testing them out and have been for the past week now!

Starting with the Mangoscience, you know you’re going to enjoy it when you open the jar to a fabulous aroma of mango and fruit fragrances.  The Mangoscience is a light mousse exfoliator which can be used up to 3 times a week to wick away dead skin cells and brighten your skin. Containing 6 different natural exfoliating agents including both mango and papaya fruit extracts and pumpkin enzyme. Silica an bamboo stem powder give the mousse its gentle exfoliant and blackcurrant extract nourishes the skin with vitamins and antioxidants. It sounds delicious – but it is not for eating!

I used Mangoscience after a run and when I was in the bath, letting the mousse work for a few minutes before washing off gently. It exfoliates gently with no tightness when cleaned away and left my skin soft and clear.

In conjunction with Mangoscience, I used the Hydraboost Replenishing Serum. This pipette and very light serum is rich enough that you don’t need much of it to cover your skin, so I added some to my neck and decolletage as well. It provides lasting hydration from the immediate time you use it and over time has a more permanent effect. It absorbs beautifully too, and is great to use after Mangoscience so that the exfoliation and hydration work together to give a lovely skin base before make up. I can certainly recommend using both of them, one after the other.

I have also used Hydraboost at night, once I’ve taken my make up off and cleansed my face. It’s great for working at night whilst you sleep and your skin repairs and in the morning I can still feel that my skin is supple. I do add moisturiser too though, and the Hydraboost works very well under it, keeping my skin hydrated literally all day!

Hydraboost Serum £69: https://www.harleystreetskinclinic.com/shop/brand/harley-street-skin-care/hydraboost-ultrahydrate-replenishing-serum-50ml/

Darn Tough Hiking Socks

Birthday Gifts, camping, Easter, Family Life, Fashion, Fitness, Gifts for Her, National Walking Month, Summer, Women

Disclaimer: We received these socks free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Easter Sunday has always been about more than just chocolate in our house. We love to get outside, go for a walk, and roll our Easter eggs down a hill – it’s a great family tradition that everyone looks forward to. This year, I’m be upping the fashion stakes and hopping along in my Critter Club Micro Crew Lightweight socks from my favourite sock brand – Darn Tough!

With their cute little bunny design, the Eclipse socks are the perfect choice for Easter. But they’re not just cute though, they’re unbelievably comfortable and once you’ve tried a pair of Darn Tough socks you’ll be hooked!  Made in the USA from merino wool, they’re seam-free, breathable, and the most comfortable hiking socks I’ve ever worn – and I’ve tried many over the years! What really sets them apart though is their durability and  Darn Tough are so confident in their quality that they offer a lifetime guarantee. If your socks wear out, simply send them back for a free replacement, no receipt needed, no questions asked.

There are four fun designs in the Women’s Critter Club Micro Crew Lightweight hiking sock range: Eclipse (bunnies), Bark (for dog lovers), Canyon (with a mountain goat), and Moss with a cheeky raccoon. Available in small, medium, and large, they’ll fit feet from size 2.5 to 9. Sitting just above the ankle they’re perfect for walking shoes, boots and trainers.

What I love most, aside from how cute they are, is how well they fit. The ribbed cuff stays up without being tight, and they don’t slide down when you’re walking. They feel soft against my feet and even after several wears and washes, they’ve held their shape and still feel comfortable.

So, if you’re looking for a fun and practical Easter gift, why not treat someone to socks that are made for adventure? They’re perfect for spring time strolls, Easter egg rolling, and everything in between.

RRP £28

Bespoke London Woman Jasmine & Chocolate Berries Fragrance

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Easter, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Easter’s just around the corner and the shops are currently full of Easter eggs. I’m a big fan of chocolate eggs, there’s something about the shape that makes the chocolate taste so much better! But let’s face it, they don’t last long – one minute you’re unwrapping it, and the next, it’s gone – leaving you with a sugar rush and maybe a tiny bit of guilt! This year, I’m trying to be good, so I was delighted to discover Bespoke London’s Jasmine & Chocolate Berries Eau de Parfum, the perfect way to enjoy that indulgent, chocolatey note without a single calorie!

The fragrance opens with lovely, bright top notes of mandarin, bergamot, and pink pepper, before blending beautifully into sweet jasmine and red berries followed by base notes of vanilla, sandalwood, tonka bean and a hint of dark chocolate. The jasmine adds a touch of elegance, while the chocolate berries bring a hint of indulgence. And unlike an Easter egg that vanishes in a flash this fragrance will last long after Easter.

So, why not spoil yourself or treat someone special this Easter and at just £6.99, it won’t break the bank!

Available from Superdrug

Wade Fish Jug

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Home & Garden, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Who had a Wade Fish Jug when they were growing up? They’re one of those nostalgic pieces that instantly add a bit of character to any home. These jugs have been around for over 150 years, and I recall lots of my friends having one in their homes when we were growing up. Mum has a pale green one that she still uses as a vase, and I have one that belonged to my grandma, so it is nice to see that they are still just as popular.

The jugs are made from high quality earthenware at the Wade factory in Stoke-on-Trent, and the iconic fish-shaped jugs are also known as Gluggle Jugs – thanks to the gurgling noise they make when you pour the liquid out. It’s such a quirky feature and a guaranteed conversation starter!

One of the first things that really caught my eye with this particular jug is the colour. The shade of cobalt blue is absolutely gorgeous – deep, rich, and instantly reminiscent of the sea. The fish shape is fun and quirky, yet it manages to look elegant and sophisticated too. It looks fabulous in all kinds of interiors, it will really stand out in a minimalist setting, where the bold colour takes centre stage, or sit just as comfortably in a more traditional home. Whether you fill it with fresh flowers or display it on a shelf as a decorative piece, it offers endless styling possibilities.

What I also love is how sturdy and well-made it feels and the opening is wide enough to hold anything from delicate spring flowers to larger floral displays.

The Wade Fish Jug is available in two sizes, medium (0.6L) and large (1.2L) and there are  six fabulous colours to choose from – White, Sage Green, French Grey, Cobalt Blue, Forest Green, and Teal so there’s one to suit every home.

So if you’re after something that little bit different that combines history, craftsmanship, and good old-fashioned British charm, you really can’t go wrong with one of these beauties.

RRP 0.6l £34.99 and 1.2l £44.99

Wade Blue Floral Pasta Bowl Set

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Home & Garden, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your mum just how much she means to you, and what better way to do so than by treating her to something as beautiful and practical as the Wade Blue Floral Pasta Bowl Set? Whether she loves hosting dinner parties or simply enjoys a beautiful set of crockery for family meals, she is sure to adore this elegant collection.

The bowls are a really good shape with a wide, flat base and gently curved sides, making them the perfect cross between a plate and bowl. They are the ideal shape  for twirling spaghetti, tossing a salad, or even serving crisps and the 22.5cm bowls offer ample space for even the heartiest of appetites.

Inspired by vintage floral illustrations from the Wade archive, the soft blue tones lend a contemporary twist to a classic design, enhancing the beauty of natural blooms. Each bowl has a unique floral motif, creating a sense of individuality while still working together as a set.  Whether they are used for a casual family supper or a more formal dinner party, these bowls have a timeless design that will look equally at home in both a traditional and modern decor.

The bowls are made in Stoke-on-Trent, the heart of British pottery, from high-quality English earthenware, ensuring durability and longevity. Practical as well as beautiful, the bowls are dishwasher and microwave safe, though it is recommended that the bowls are handwashed to prevent the pattern fading over time.

This set of bowls would make a fantastic gift for anyone who enjoys cooking, entertaining, or simply appreciates beautiful tableware.

RRP £59.99

Carmen Rechargeable Hot Water Bottle & Heated Wearable Blanket

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Let’s be honest, spring can be a bit all over the place, can’t it? One minute, the sun’s shining, the birds are singing, and you’re convinced summer’s arrived early. The next, you’re huddled under a blanket, nursing a cuppa and wondering if you should cave in and pop the heating on. That’s why the Carmen Heated Wearable Blanket and Rechargeable Hot Water Bottle have been absolute lifesavers for me this week when the temperature plummeted.

The Rechargeable Hot Water Bottle ( RRP £14.99) is fantastic invention, no more filling a rubber bottle with hot water from the kettle – simply attach the bottle to its charging rack, place it on a level surface, and let it heat up for 10 to 15 minutes. The indicator light switches on while charging and turns off automatically once it reaches 50°C. A full charge gives between two to five hours of warmth, making it perfect for a cosy night in.

Safety is a huge plus with this hot water bottle. Since it’s completely sealed, there’s no risk of leaks should it fall off your lap or onto the floor. Plus, you never have to deal with scalding water, making it ideal for older relatives or anyone who tends to be a bit accident-prone. The bottle is covered in a soft fleecy fabric and is available in three different colours – pink, grey, or purple, and it even has a built-in pouch to keep your hands warm. There’s no need to worry about it overheating as there’s a thermostat that cuts off when it reaches optimal temperature, which is between 70-75°C.

Beyond just warming you up, it doubles as a heat pad to soothe joint or muscle aches. And the best part? It costs as little as 12p to fully charge (based on 24p per kWh).

The Heated Wearable Blanket (RRP £49.99) is made from the softest 260gsm flannel fleece, and it’s really warm and cosy. It’s got long sleeves, so your arms stay warm whilst your hands are free and it covers you right from your neck down to your toes. I’m 6’ tall, and it even trails on the floor when I stand up! What surprised me, though, is that the whole blanket isn’t heated, it’s only the front pocket so when your hands are in there, they are lovely and toasty, but it doesn’t warm the rest of your body in quite the same way which was a little disappointing.

To turn the heat on there’s a simple controller with an on/off button and three heat settings – green for low, yellow for medium, and red for high. It’s got a 90-minute automatic timer, so you can nod off in front of the telly without worrying about it overheating. You do need to plug the blanket in and the lead isn’t overly long so you’ll have to sit fairly close to a socket if you want to use the heat.

The controller is detachable, which means you can machine wash the blanket – but Carmen recommends limiting this to just three times over its lifetime. They recommend spot cleaning with a damp cloth which isn’t the best way to clean a blanket, but considering it only heats your hands and middle, I’d be willing to chance a wash if it got really dirty. Worst case scenario, if it stops working, you’re still left with a super cosy blanket – just without the heated bit.

If you’re looking for ways to stay warm without cranking up the heating, these two are definitely worth considering and with Mother’s Day just around the corner, they’d make ideal gifts for your Mum. Whether it’s for relaxing evenings or just staying toasty on those unpredictable spring nights, these cosy essentials are sure to be a hit.

Valerino Aromas Candle Care Gift Bundle

Birthday Gifts, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, Home & Garden, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

Mothering Sunday, or as most of us know it, Mother’s Day, is the perfect time to show our mums just how much we love and appreciate them. It falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent, meaning the date changes each year, so if you’re not careful, it can sneak up on you before you know it! This year, it’s on the 30th of March, so don’t worry – there’s still time to find that perfect gift.

If you’re scratching your head for ideas, let me introduce you to Valerino Aromas – a brand that really knows how to make a house feel like a home. They create the most delightful scents, all lovingly handcrafted with the finest ingredients. Whether it’s their hand-poured soy wax candles, rich wax melts, or stylish fragrance accessories, each product is made to bring a touch of luxury and warmth to everyday life. What’s more, their use of designer-inspired perfume scents will add a touch of sophistication to any home.

They kindly sent me one of their natural soy wax candles, and let me tell you – what a treat! When I opened the box, I was greeted by the most beautifully presented candle, tucked inside a soft fabric gift bag and tied with a golden ribbon. It felt so luxurious and thoughtful – the kind of gift that would make any mum feel extra special.

Of course, the real magic is in the scent. Before I even lit it, the beautiful fragrance filled the room. And once the wick was glowing, the air was instantly transformed. The English Pear and Freesia scent, inspired by Jo Malone, is perfectly balanced – noticeable but never overpowering. Plus, the stylish white glass jar with elegant gold lettering makes it look as good as it smells.

If you’re looking for an extra special gift then the Candle Care Gift Bundle is the one to go for. You get a regular 30cl hand-poured candle in your choice of scent, a sleek candle trimmer and snuffer and a rechargeable USB lighter – a safe and sustainable way to light your candles. You can even choose the trimmer and snuffer set in gold, silver, or black. It’s classy, practical, and makes a gorgeous display.

With a burn time of over 25 hours, the candle promises plenty of cosy evenings surrounded by beautiful aromas. And here’s the best bit – it only costs £23, and if you spend over £30, delivery is free. So why not treat Mum and yourself at the same time?

Valerino Aromas is the perfect way to show some love this Mother’s Day. Trust me, it’ll be a gift she won’t forget!

Candle Care Gift Bundle RRP £45

Tolpa Dermo Face Skincare

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, health, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream

Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream

Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream

Boots are now stocking a new skincare range called Topla, aimed at improving the condition of skin with conditions such as acne, rosacea and dehydration.  Hailed from Poland, the new range combines minimalist skin treatments in a new collection termed ‘Skinimalism’ which has been recognised by dermatologists as a new approach to tackle skin conditions by reducing the number of products used.

In order to treat acne, rosacea and dehydration, all of which can affect anyone and are conditions that are very noticeable, Tolpa have created just 10 products. There’s no need for lengthy skin routines, just these 10 are all you need for cleansing, day cream, night cream and eye cream.  We were sent two products from the Rosacal range (for rosacea) and the Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream.

The Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream works best on sensitive skin, and helps strengthen the capillaries over time, where the red capillaries at the surface is the noticeable sign of rosacea.  It also helps to moisturise the skin and calm down any allergies or redness. This is a very light cream, worn in the day and also has a SFP 10.

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream is a night cream, which also reduces redness of rosacea and strengthens the skin, helping to even out the colour which might be affected by the rosacea capillaries.  This cream is heavier, which is what you’d expect at night and also has a freshness to it that makes it soothing to put on.

The Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream massively increases the hydration of skin and can moisturise for up to 24 hours. It’s a day cream but it’s incredibly rich, and takes a while to rub in but does leave skin feeling soft and hydrated. It works particularly well when you apply it straight out of the shower and skin is still damp. I like this as a day cream because it’s so nourishing and rich, and it improves the texture of my skin before I put on make-up, which always helps!

I have been using these Skinimalism creams now for a few days so the long term effects won’t be seen and I’m not a sufferer of rosacea although I do have acne.  I’m loving how rich the creams are and how easily they are absorbed and the fact that they are not complicated or over engineered but instead are a pleasure to wear!

Rosacal Strengthening Regenerating Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-rosacal-strengthening-regenerating-cream-night-40ml-10342619

Rosacal Strengthening Soothing Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-rosacal-strengthening-soothing-spf-10-cream-day-40ml-10342618

Lipidrio Nourishing Regenerating Cream available at Boots for £12.99: https://www.boots.com/tolpa-dermo-face-lipidrio-nourishing-regenerating-cream-day-40ml-10342620

Edifier W260NC Active Noise Cancellation Earbuds

Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Tech

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Everyone needs headphones nowadays and especially headphones which you can travel with, whether it’s for gaming, watching TV on the go or even sports. Edifier have these wireless W260NC headphones which are both noise cancelling and Bluetooth v5.3 and fit into this neat little box which is also used for charging.

The sound quality is excellent and with a latency of 0.08 seconds you can use them to watch TV or a movie, and equally brilliant for gaming.  Gaming with wireless headphones is much easier and I find social media when you’re on public transport is so much easier with wireless earbuds, especially when they’re this small and fit into their box and then your pocket so easily.

Technically, these headphones are advanced. There’s 6 microphones on them for taking phone calls or recording video and there’s -45dB noise cancelling.  They really do shut out a lot of noise and when you’re on noisy transport or someone else in the room is watching TV or gaming, you can’t hear a thing! There are up to 8 hours of playback per charge and I really like the wearing detection so that if you fall asleep, need to run or walk fast or are knocked on public transport, the headphones stop playing until you put the earbuds in again. The 6mm and 10mm duel drives give a richer sound too.

Make sure you have the up to date software or phone for the Bluetooth v5.3 otherwise the earbuds won’t connect, and the Edifier Connex app has more controls to let you play with the sound quality. 

The all-round Edifier W260NC Earbuds make a great gift this Christmas for anyone who enjoys their music, gaming or just getting some quiet time.

Available from £62.66 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-W260NC-Cancellation-Microphones-Dual-Dynamic-Dark-Blue/dp/B0CTJL37R9?th=1

Edifier X3 Lite Wireless Bluetooth Ear Buds

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Tech

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Christmas present alert!  Edifier have these brilliant Wireless Bluetooth Ear Buds for just £29.99 and they’re perfect for the gym, commuting or even as stocking fillers for children. We’re always losing headphones so who can turn their nose up at another pair?

The Edifier X3 Lite (here in ivory colour) have 24 hour battery life when fully charged. They come with their own case which doubles as a charging unit and the Type-C charging cable in included so you can charge it from your laptop or any USB socket whilst you’re on the go. When the red light is blinking, it’s still charging – no red light means fully charged and ready to go! The earbuds connect to your phone with Bluetooth, which is done by tapping the touch panel on each earbud 5 times to be in pairing mode. Depending on your phone (or other Bluetooth device), follow the instructions to pair with the earbuds. 

The earbuds have touch control so you don’t need to fumble for your phone each time. Each ear bud (left and right) has similar controls such as tap three times on the left to skip back a track, or three times on the right to go forward. You can also use the touch controls to answer and hang up on calls, or hold down for 2 seconds to reject a call.

As well as being Bluetooth 5.3, they are noise cancelling but with human voice ambient sound. The box also contains spare silicone buds which I believe are a different size to the ones fitted – perfect for children to use. They’re not waterproof but they are water resistant which means they don’t get affected by sweat or light rain.  They feel really, really light in your ears and the case is light and easy to put in a pocket if you’re out and about.

Available from £29.99 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Edifier-Lite-Cancellation-Microphones-Customization/dp/B0CG8L288V/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=20JGZ3QFG56PE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QR_2YJTQr4DXW2MZcbdIDOpCanFqVLxhSzBO6caxz83B8BOh7_HxQ6R-WWtuZTY7zRvMsYUnsSZhuBTO8u3a3pHoov-G-dskI7KyM_97GI04JgvJTugzyj85h3fDLsWBvJmXPhjyfK-Y-3v7aFn9TYulS37_jsi2oYzVYjJkYbEzkgwC6SrIKN9dSvL3fsCSGE0lT3Uor3OLSZ-cC5t64hmrYSmu_xOdVf7cdMCctmk.C9gjZqPDxe7FuMyQnJDcWOwwOGns-DHmhmKIfnEP2XY&dib_tag=se&keywords=edifier+x3+lite&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1729008161&sprefix=edifier+X3+Lite%2Caps%2C73&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

Opies Preserved Fruits

Christmas, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

For Christmas, there is a certain set of rules that doesn’t apply at any time of year, and that is especially true with food. Opies Preserved Fruits are the type of treat you would never ever think of buying for yourself at any other time of year, nor would it be a gift for someone else unless it was something they particularly asked for! Perhaps that’s why Opies only release these preserved fruits at Christmas – so that you look forward to buying and consuming the luxurious preserves a family, or because you know the perfect recipient for the Kilner jarred delicacies, perhaps as part of a hamper?

We were sent part of their 2024 range including the Black Cherrie, Baby Pears and Peaches. Each of the fruits are preserved in a different alcohol (so Granny might enjoy this but probably not one for the children!) which included Kirsch for the black cherries, Amoretto for the pears and 12 year old brandy for the peaches.  Packed by hand, the preserved fruits come in generous 500 gram plus sized portions and are now in fabulous Kilner jars, so when you’re finished with the fruit, you can use the jar again and again.

Starting with the Black Cherries, the label has various recipes inside, but for starters you can use these in trifles, Christmas or otherwise.  I like them on their own with some cream, or one year I made croissants and added cherries to the middle, which gave the croissants a festive red colouring as well!  The baby pears are great as statement pieces at a Christmas dessert, or sliced up with their Amoretto flavoured juices as a Tarte Tatin.  My favourites though are the Brandy peaches.  The recipes include Peach Melba, but imagine these sweet, soft peaches in a peach crumble with delicious custard or ice cream as an alternative to Christmas Pudding?

Opies have other hand packed preserved fruits available on their website; have a look to see who you’ll be buying for this year, or maybe treat yourself?

Available from £6.99

Lily O’Brien’s Christmas Chocolate Selections

Birthday Gifts, chocolate, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

We love Christmas chocolates and Lily O’Brien chocolates are no exception. Throughout the year there are selections of Lily O’Brien chocolates in the shops but at Christmas time, they bring out the special limited edition varieties to tempt you into the world of after dinner dessert chocolates. We were sent a box of dessert chocolates (which are already in the shops) and a box of Limited Edition Dessert Chocolates in time for the feasting to happen. We were not disappointed…

Made with only the best ingredients, we opened the 312 gram (11oz) big box of Christmas Dessert Chocolates first. These are a real treat because they contain 9 different flavours;

  • Crème Brulée
  • Banoffee Pie
  • Lemon Posset
  • Spiced Latte
  • Raspberry Infusion
  • Hazelnut Torte 
  • Dark Orange 
  • Berry Eton Mess
  • Tripe Chocolate Shot

These flavours are not what you would normally find in boxes but reflect the time of year with the seasonal addition of favourite desserts and indulgent chocolate.  I particularly liked the Berry Eton Bess with the dried berries, tiny meringue pieces and white chocolate in a milk chocolate cup, and the Dark Orange which is a ganache filling with pieces of dried orange. These were particularly reminiscent of Christmas with their specific spiced flavours and perfect for after dinner, or sitting down with a hot drink to catch up with friends.

The second box was the favourite Dessert Collection. This contains 6 flavours, some of which were found in the Christmas Limited Edition Box:

  • Lemon Posset
  • Banoffee Pie
  • Crème Brulée 
  • Raspberry Infusion
  • Key Lime Pie
  • Hazelnut Torte

My favourite here was the Key Lime Pie with the citrus lemon curd and lime infused truffle in dark chocolate, which has always been my best of chocolates. With both boxes, the chocolate is smooth and generous with the rich flavours being very overpowering, hence they work well as dessert chocolates and you may only need 1 or 2 after a meal to give you the chocolate sweetness or that dessert flavour you crave. This 210 gram box (7.4oz) is handy for stockings or Secret Santa as it’s a bit smaller and more affordable, but both of the boxes have such a mixture of flavours and different chocolates that anyone can dive in and enjoy them!

Lily O’Brien Dessert Chocolates from £7.50: https://groceries.morrisons.com/products/lily-o-briens-desserts-591089011

Lily O’Brien Limited Edition Christmas Dessert Chocolates available later in the year at £12 from Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Tesco.

Freshwater Pearl Necklace by Created By Carol

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Jewellery, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

This one is for the jewellery lovers who love the water, especially freshwater pearls. Created by Carol is a one-woman business in designing and making silver jewellery, based in Yorkshire UK.  Carol is a self-proclaiming pearl enthusiast and has won various TV competitions for her design and production of jewellery. Using real silver in the form of antique cutlery, buttons and anything else she can find, Carol is an advocate for those with disabilities and teaches metalworking, pearl knotting and stone setting. When she’s not working (which sounds like a lot of the time!) she’s repairing sentimental jewellery at her local repair shop.

Her website, Created by Carol, is a treasure trove of what you can buy an all of it unique. From spoons and buttons made into jewellery items or refashioned using their unique patterns, Carol has created a library of silver jewellery which you won’t find anywhere else.  Her love of pearls is also evident in the great body of work she has which includes rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. We were sent this absolutely gorgeous handmade solitaire pearl necklace to review, but you can see from her website that there is a whole host of jewellery for you to discover.

Pearls have been harvested long back in history, even in Roman times but especially for monarchs throughout time, and mentioned in the Bible. For anyone who works with chakras, the pearl is especially meaningful with the third eye due to its association with balance and wisdom and wearing it at your throat chakra (or heart chakra depending on the length of the necklace chain) can bring purity and diving feminine wisdom too. In fact, there are a lot of lovely properties of pearls that make them great gifts.

This timeless freshwater pearl necklace comes on a chain, ready to wear. You can see it’s a natural, freshwater pearl because of the slightly irregular shape and texture of it, but the iridescent reflective surface reminds you that it’s real and totally wearable with anything.  It’s exceptionally well made by Carol, as you’d imagine, with absolute precision and sympathetic to the beauty of the pearl. You don’t need more than just one pearl to make the statement as I found out as soon as I put it on! The silver fine chain and bar will never date and once you wear it, it’s so addictive to add more to your collection and have matching sets. The slight difference in pearl colour, sizes and textures make it almost a hobby in itself to hunt down the next piece for your collection.

In fact, you can’t go wrong with a pearl for a gift, and I am loving my first ever freshwater pearl necklace!

Available at £35.00 online: https://www.createdbycaroluk.com/product-page/pearl-solitaire-necklace

Alba Leather Belt from Pampeano

Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

It’s always difficult to know what to get someone for Christmas, but when it comes to luxury goods and something that’s functional, a beautiful leather belt can’t miss.

Pampeano, the Argentinian crafted leather company, have a range of gifts from belts to dog collars, bags, wallets, keyrings and bracelets. They sent us this beautiful leather belt in the Alba style, complete in a gift box as well so that you can wrap it or send it easily!

The belt is decorated by Argentinian craft workers by hand in the polo design that Pampeano is famous for.  The Alba design is inspired by the incredible sunrises over the pampas of Argentina. The Alba design incorporates navy jean, sky blue, light blue, cream, light orange and bright orange in a continuous pattern around the belt with a gorgeous brass buckle and Pampeano logo embossed on it too. The belt can be worn by men or women, with the bright colours able to match any outfit but I like wearing Pampeano belts with jeans to add a bit of cheerfulness to otherwise plain trousers.

I really like the quality of the Pampeano belt too. The leather is well crafted and there’s no faults in the stitching or the embroidered design nor do the threats or edges of the leather wear away easily.  The buckle is also hard wearing and beautifully crafted. There’s the option when you purchase the belt to have it personalised with a blind emboss of up to 3 characters – so the initials of someone you love, which makes it a perfect gift for Christmas.  If you’re not familiar with the whole range of Pampeano gifts, have a look online or choose a different pattern belt – there’s plenty to choose from!

Available from £79 at: https://www.pampeano.com/collections/classic-leather-belts/products/pampeano-belt-alba

Afternoon Tea Week at Brown’s Covent Garden

alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Days Out, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gluten Free, Restaurant, Summer, Vegetarian, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

As if we need an excuse for an Afternoon Tea, 12-18 August is Afternoon Tea Week across the UK and Browns Brasserie & Bar invited us to their Champagne Afternoon Tea at their luxurious Covent Garden restaurant to sample their new Moet & Chandon menu. Available now in all Browns Brasserie & Bars, the classic meal is enhanced by a glass of classic or pink Champagne courtesy of Moet & Chandon and set in the fabulous ex-courthouse building in Leicester Square.

Upon arriving, the Judge’s Court room is upstairs (staircase or lift, in case you’re wondering) which is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of downstairs and one of the busiest parts of London. There’s no noise and no passing trade to disturb you or your photos, but the decadent décor, the parquet flooring and almost complete inside of the court from when it was a working court is still there. There’s even the judge’s chair left at the front of the room and ‘TO THE CELLS’ sign on the door! It’s beautifully decorated with plenty of room and no rush to contend with.

The Afternoon Tea Menu is both traditional and delicious. Starting with the Moet & Chandon Champagne, we had a classic glass each, which was slightly dry but totally appropriate with an Afternoon Tea. The sandwiches include an open sandwich of rye bread and salmon pate, lobster brioche, salt beef and horse radish and a lovely mix of cheese, pickle and crunchy apple – a combination which I will be trying at home! Each of the sandwiches was so fresh and so delicious we wanted to have more, but Browns had other ideas, judging by the amount of cake that was also on the stand.

Each of us had a plain and a fruit scone for the second course, with cream and both strawberry and blackcurrant jam to accompany. The crumbly scones were obviously baked that morning and fresh on the plate, as were the four different cakes which we enjoyed. Starting with the Blackcurrant Victoria Sandwich which was light and fluffy and featured the fruity blackcurrant jam which featured with the scones, it was definitely the first one to try before the stronger flavours kicked in.  The Carrot Cake was also fresh and baked with cinnamon to give the tangy yet rich flavour which is so often found in Afternoon Teas.  The Brown’s Black Forest Chocolate Pot also requires a Highly Commended mention because this was the richest of all the rich desserts with a Black Forest centre, chocolate moat and a cream filling on top. This one was definitely one to be eaten slowly!  The final cake was a delicate lemon meringue tart with edible violet flower on top, to remind you that it’s still summer.

All of this was accompanied by a tea of your choice including loose leaf English Breakfast or Earl Grey and teabags of Green Tea, Elderflower & Pear or Ginger, Turmeric & Lemon.  The tea is endless with more pots being brought out whenever you ask for them and the jams and cream are bottomless too.

Browns Brasserie & Bar have put on a super Afternoon Tea this year and not only is it available throughout the summer but there are vegetarian and Gluten Free versions too.  Classic Afternoon tea starts at £30 with Moet & Chandon Champagne costing £40 and Pink champagne at £45. We certainly enjoyed our 2 hours stress free and were more than full from their Afternoon Tea! https://www.browns-restaurants.co.uk/afternoonteamenu#/

Cetraben Day and Night Facial Cream

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Family Life, Gifts for Her, health, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The misery of eczema prone skin is known to many, and is often a lifelong battle.  Cetraben have launched a new Day Cream and Night Cream which are dermatologically tested to replenish moisture in the skin, and help prevent skin from drying out.  We were sent some of both to try, which is not just for eczema prone skin but for anyone who has dry, itchy skin and looking for that extra relief.

The Cetraben Moisturising Facial Day Cream is a lightweight cream which can be used on the skin to cool the face daily. It can be applied as a preventative measure to keep skin hydrated during the day, or onto flaky, itchy skin which needs a hydrating boost.  Containing coconut oil and oat oil, Cetraben Moisturising Facial Day Cream also contains squalane and glycerine. Working together, these ingredients soften skin and sooth dry skin.

Working in conjunction with Cetraben’s Facial Day Cream, their Nourishing Facial Night Cream also boosts hydration but includes jojoba seed oil, castor oil and shea butter as well as squalene and glycerine. This power pack of ingredients boosts hydration whilst you sleep and your skin regenerates, and locks in the moisture to help alleviate dry skin and allowing your skin to heal overnight. Continued use will help eczema skin with its rich but lightweight formula.

Each of the Cetraben Face and Night Creams absorb easily into the skin, but you can tell that the Night Cream is heavier with the inclusion of jojoba seed oil, castor oil and shea butter to give a richer, deeper effect at night.  Both are lovely to the touch though and provide a great deal of hydration to the skin. I didn’t find I had to reapply the Cetraban Facial Day Cream a second time during the day either, I only needed one application during the morning and the Cetraben Facial Night Cream at night.

These Cetraben Day and Night Creams make great gifts or lovely treats for yourself, especially if your skin is dry and needs that extra moisture replenish.